Num 25:10-13 | TNotes | STEP | Summary for Num 25:10-13: 25:10-13 Israel’s identity as the Lord’s people was severely threatened by their unfaithfulness on this occasion. Phinehas was as zealous as God in his pursuit of holiness and justice. As a result, Phinehas and his descendants were granted a special status; God made a special covenant of peace with Phinehas, and qualified men in his family inherited a permanent right to the priesthood (cp. Mal 2:5 ). This unconditional covenant was similar to that extended to David (see Jer 33:19-22 ).

a25:10-13►

bMal 2:5►

cJer 33:19-22►

‏ Numbers 25:10-13

Summary for Num 25:10-13: 25:10-13 ^a Israel’s identity as the Lord’s people was severely threatened by their unfaithfulness on this occasion. Phinehas was as zealous as God in his pursuit of holiness and justice. As a result, Phinehas and his descendants were granted a special status; God made a special covenant of peace with Phinehas, and qualified men in his family inherited a permanent right to the priesthood (cp. Mal 2:5 ^b). This unconditional covenant was similar to that extended to David (see Jer 33:19-22 ^c).
25:13 ^d The deaths of Zimri and Cozbi helped to purify Israel from its sin; Phinehas’s act had atoning value (see study note on Lev 1:4).