Torah Commentary

Moses' sensitive rebuke of the Israelites teaches us that we can always return and renew our relationship with God and religion.

The laws of the Cities of Refuge emphasize the sacredness and infinite value of every human life.

The laws of vows teach that our words have the power to create holiness between us.

Pinchas' violent act raises questions about the extent of any leader's authority.

The transition in leadership from Moses to Joshua provides us with a model for contemporary changes in leadership.

God gives Pinchas a covenant of peace; God explains the apportionment of the Land of Israel; the daughters of Tzelophechad petition to inherit their father's portion; Moses appoints Joshua his successor.

Just as God advocated for the property rights of Zelophehad's daughters, we should work to create economic opportunities for those who have lacked them.

People who translate zeal for God into violence must normally possess the qualities and ethics worthy of a covenant of peace.

Only a passionate zealous act can respond adequately to sins and crimes of passion.

What are the consequences, or even the possibility, of separating ourselves from our communities, like Korach did?