Topical Encyclopedia Phinehas, a significant figure in the Old Testament, is primarily known for his zealous actions in upholding the covenant between God and Israel. He was the son of Eleazar and the grandson of Aaron, the first high priest of Israel. His lineage placed him in the priestly line, and he played a crucial role in maintaining the sanctity and purity of Israel's worship.Zeal for God's Covenant Phinehas is most famously remembered for his decisive action during the incident at Peor, as recorded in Numbers 25. The Israelites had begun to engage in idolatry and immorality with the Moabite women, leading to God's anger and a subsequent plague. In a bold act of zeal for the Lord, Phinehas took a spear and killed an Israelite man and a Midianite woman who were flagrantly defying God's commandments. This act stopped the plague that had claimed the lives of 24,000 Israelites. The Lord commended Phinehas for his zeal, saying, "Phinehas son of Eleazar, the son of Aaron the priest, has turned My wrath away from the Israelites, for he was zealous for My sake among them, so that I did not consume the Israelites in My zeal" (Numbers 25:11). As a result, God made a covenant of peace with him, promising that his descendants would have a lasting priesthood (Numbers 25:12-13). Role in the Conquest of Canaan Phinehas also played a significant role during the conquest of Canaan. He was sent as a leader among the Israelites to ensure the proper execution of God's commands. In Joshua 22, when a potential conflict arose between the tribes of Israel over an altar built by the tribes of Reuben, Gad, and the half-tribe of Manasseh, Phinehas was sent to mediate. His diplomatic skills and commitment to God's law helped to avert a civil war, as he discerned that the altar was not for idolatry but a witness to the unity of the tribes in worshiping the Lord. Judges and Later Life Phinehas continued to serve as a priest during the period of the Judges. In Judges 20, he is mentioned as ministering before the Ark of the Covenant during the conflict between the Israelites and the tribe of Benjamin. His presence and leadership during this tumultuous time underscore his enduring influence and dedication to God's service. Legacy Phinehas's legacy is one of fervent devotion to God and His commandments. His actions exemplify the importance of upholding the holiness and purity of worship, and his life serves as a testament to the blessings that come from zealously defending God's honor. His covenant of peace with God ensured that his descendants would continue to serve in the priestly line, highlighting the enduring impact of his faithfulness. Nave's Topical Index Joshua 22:13-32And the children of Israel sent to the children of Reuben, and to the children of Gad, and to the half tribe of Manasseh, into the land of Gilead, Phinehas the son of Eleazar the priest, Nave's Topical Index Library Exile: Appeals for a Phinehas, and a Jehu: 1554 Is God in the Camp? How David Brought under the Philistines, and the Moabites, and the ... Faithlessness and Defeat Numbers Appendix viii. Rabbinic Traditions About Elijah, the Forerunner of ... After Prayer Jesus Selects Twelve Apostles. Of the Birth of John, and of his Alleged Identity with Elijah. Of ... There have Come to Me Ransomers from among the Saints, but None ... Letter Lv. To Amandus. Resources Who was Eli in the Bible? | GotQuestions.orgWhy was the altar in Joshua 22:10 34 such a big deal? | GotQuestions.org Why did Jacob give Joseph a coat of many colors? | GotQuestions.org Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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