Topical Encyclopedia Phinehas, a prominent figure in the Old Testament, is often remembered for his zealous actions in defense of God's holiness and covenant. He was the son of Eleazar and the grandson of Aaron, the first high priest of Israel. His account is primarily found in the Book of Numbers, where his fervent commitment to God's commands is vividly illustrated.Biblical Account The most notable account of Phinehas is found in Numbers 25. During Israel's wilderness journey, the people began to engage in idolatry and immorality with the Moabite women, leading to the worship of Baal of Peor. This provoked the LORD's anger, resulting in a devastating plague among the Israelites. In the midst of this crisis, an Israelite man named Zimri brought a Midianite woman, Cozbi, into the camp in blatant defiance of God's commands. Phinehas, witnessing this act, was filled with righteous indignation. He took a spear and went after the man and the woman, killing them both. This decisive action halted the plague that had already claimed the lives of 24,000 Israelites. The LORD commended Phinehas for his zeal, declaring, "Phinehas son of Eleazar, the son of Aaron the priest, has turned My wrath away from the Israelites, for he was zealous for My zeal among them, so that I did not consume the Israelites in My zeal" (Numbers 25:11). Covenant of Peace In recognition of Phinehas's zeal, God established a "covenant of peace" with him, promising that his descendants would have a lasting priesthood. This covenant underscored the importance of zeal for God's holiness and the seriousness with which God regards idolatry and immorality. "It will be a covenant of perpetual priesthood for him and his descendants, because he was zealous for his God and made atonement for the Israelites" (Numbers 25:13). Legacy and Influence Phinehas's actions set a precedent for religious zeal in the service of God. His account is a powerful reminder of the need for unwavering commitment to God's standards and the courage to act decisively in the face of sin. His legacy continued through his descendants, who served as priests in Israel, maintaining the covenant relationship between God and His people. Phinehas is also mentioned in other parts of the Old Testament, including Joshua 22, where he plays a key role in resolving a potential conflict between the tribes of Israel, and in Judges 20, where he serves as a priest during a time of national crisis. His life exemplifies the balance of zeal and wisdom, demonstrating that true religious fervor is rooted in a deep love for God and His commandments. Theological Significance Phinehas's zeal is often cited as an example of righteous indignation and the importance of upholding God's holiness. His actions illustrate the biblical principle that zeal for God must be accompanied by a commitment to His truth and righteousness. In the New Testament, believers are encouraged to be zealous for good works (Titus 2:14) and to maintain a fervent spirit in serving the Lord (Romans 12:11). Phinehas's account serves as a timeless reminder of the call to be zealous for God's glory, to stand firm against sin, and to uphold the sanctity of the covenant relationship with the Almighty. Nave's Topical Index Numbers 25:7-13And when Phinehas, the son of Eleazar, the son of Aaron the priest, saw it, he rose up from among the congregation, and took a javelin in his hand; Nave's Topical Index Psalm 106:30 Library Religious Zeal. Numbers Tendencies of Religious Thought in England, 1688-1750. To the Presbyter Renatus. Acts 17:16-17. Athens. The General Conference of 1836 The Story of the Baptist, from his Last Testimony to Jesus to his ... Covenanting Enforced by the Grant of Covenant Signs and Seals. The Puritan Conflict. The Form and Spirit of Religion Resources Should wine or grape juice be used for communion? | GotQuestions.orgWho was Paul in the Bible? | GotQuestions.org How many times did Jesus cleanse the temple? Why did He cleanse the temple? | GotQuestions.org Zeal: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus Subtopics Religious Zeal in Punishing Evil People: David Religious Zeal in Punishing Evil People: Elijah Religious Zeal in Punishing Evil People: Israelites Religious Zeal in Punishing Evil People: Jehoiada Religious Zeal in Punishing Evil People: Jehu Religious Zeal in Punishing Evil People: Josiah Religious Zeal in Punishing Evil People: Moses and Levites Religious Zeal in Punishing Evil People: Phinehas Religious Zeal in Punishing Evil People: Samuel Religious Zeal without Knowledge Religious Zeal: Andrew and Philip Religious Zeal: Exemplified by Paul Religious Zeal: General Scriptures Concerning Religious Zeal: Paul and Barnabas Religious Zeal: Peter Rebuking Jesus Religious Zeal: The Healed Deaf-Mute Man Religious Zeal: The Restored Leper Religious Zeal: Two Blind Men Proclaiming the Miracle of Healing Zeal: Provokes Others to do Good Zeal: should be Exhibited for the Glory of God Zeal: should be Exhibited for the Welfare of Saints Zeal: should be Exhibited in Contending for the Faith Zeal: should be Exhibited in Desiring the Salvation of Others Zeal: should be Exhibited in Missionary Labours Zeal: should be Exhibited in Spirit Zeal: should be Exhibited in Well-Doing Zeal: should be Exhibited: Against Idolatry Zeal: Sometimes not According to Knowledge Zeal: Sometimes Wrongly Directed Zeal: Ungodly Men Sometimes Pretend To Related Terms |
    |