The Eighth portion in the Chumash of Bamidbar (Numbers) opens with the account of how G-d installed Moses’ great-nephew Pinchas into the priesthood. It continues with the final census in the desert, the laws of inheritance, the transfer of leadership from Moses to Joshua, and the daily and festival sacrifices.

G-d said regarding Pinchas, “I hereby give him…the eternal covenant of priesthood.” (12:13)

The fact that Pinchas was much younger than Moses did not prevent him from acting in his presence, once it became clear that Moses had forgotten what needed to be done. Similarly, we should not be intimidated when we see that those of greater stature are not putting right something wrong that must be addressed.

It could well be as in the case of Pinchas, that Divine providence is keeping them silent in order that a “less qualified” individual can seize the moment and answer destiny’s call to greatness. When Divine providence presents us with an opportunity to right some wrong in the world, we must pursue it with total self-sacrifice, as did Pinchas.

Wishing you a successful week and a meaningful Shabbat to follow.

With prayers for the success of our IDF heroes, the long-term security of the people of Israel, with an everlasting peace, and the immediate return of our hostages to their families embrace.