Numbers 25:10
And the LORD spake unto Moses, saying,
Original Language Analysis
וַיְדַבֵּ֥ר
spake
H1696
וַיְדַבֵּ֥ר
spake
Strong's:
H1696
Word #:
1 of 5
perhaps properly, to arrange; but used figuratively (of words), to speak; rarely (in a destructive sense) to subdue
יְהוָ֖ה
And the LORD
H3068
יְהוָ֖ה
And the LORD
Strong's:
H3068
Word #:
2 of 5
(the) self-existent or eternal; jeho-vah, jewish national name of god
Historical Context
The covenant of peace and perpetual priesthood given to Phinehas (verses 12-13) made his line prominent in subsequent history (1 Chronicles 6:4-15). His grandson would judge Israel (1 Samuel 1:3). This demonstrates that God honors and exalts those who honor Him, even when their actions are costly or controversial.
Questions for Reflection
- What does godly zeal look like in New Covenant context where church discipline replaces physical judgment?
- How do you maintain courage to defend God's honor when facing potential misunderstanding or criticism?
Related Resources
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Analysis & Commentary
The LORD commended Phinehas: 'he was zealous for my sake... and turned my wrath away.' God's approval vindicated Phinehas's action. True zeal prioritizes God's honor over human comfort or approval. This doesn't license violence but establishes principle: God's holiness must be defended even at personal cost. Phinehas risked being condemned as extremist or murderer, yet God rewarded his courage.