Short Thoughts on Pinchas - Zeal

Parashat Pinchas opens with the bracha given by God to Pinchas for his zealotry on behalf of God. What is the definition of kanaut - zeal - in the Torah? We examine the challenge posed by Zimri, which Pinchas thwarted. We gain insight into the meaning of the "covenant of peace" and the difference between zeal and people involved in court activities.

Then we look at another zealot, one who says “I have been zealous for God”- Eliyahu. Hazal associates this non-normative trait with Pinhas.and view them as exemplifying two sides of zealotry. We examine the  similarities and differences  berween Eliyahu and Pinhas and consider the better and worse aspects of zeal.