Deuteronomy is the final book of Torah. In Hebrew, Deuteronomy is D’varim and means ‘words.’ D’varim records Moshe’s last words to the Israelites before they enter the Promised Land. He reviews their historic journey through the wilderness, their struggles and challenges along with the instructions Adonai gave them as the nation of Isra’el.
Parashah 43: Masa’ei (Stages)
There were 42 encampments or in Hebrew letters mem and bet –– מב –– meaning ‘mighty house’ in Hebrew Word Pictures. Forty-two has been associated with persecution, judgment, and death as well as redemption and salvation. There were 42 young men who made fun of Elisha’s bald head and were torn to pieces by two bears (2 Kings 2:23-24). There are 42 months for the gentiles to trample Jerusalem and the beast to speak blasphemies (Revelation 11:2, 13:5). After 42 camps, before entering the Promised Land, the Israelites are reminded of the lessons they should have learned through each stage of spiritual growth.
Parashah 42: Mattot (Tribes)
The last battle that Moshe oversees is with the Midianites. Elohim wants the people of Isra’el to carry out His vengeance. ‘Vengeance’ is defined as ‘punishment inflicted or retribution exacted for an injury or wrong.’ Adonai says when His people are wronged, He will repay. He will take vengeance because when anyone messes with the ‘apple of His eye,’ they are messing with Him and become His enemy. Elohim makes it very clear that He alone takes vengeance; it is not our responsibility (Zechariah 2:8).
Parashah 41: Pinchas (Phineas)
In Hebrew, Pinchas may mean ‘the mouth of the serpent’ derived from the fiery serpent that Moshe made out of bronze. Though he was Aaron’s grandson, he was never anointed high priest over Isra’el. However, Pinchas was zealous for Adonai and received a priesthood forever. The word ‘zealous’ in Hebrew is quinah and also means ‘jealous.’ It is used to describe Simon in Mark 3:18, Luke 6:15 and Acts 1:13. The favor upon the priestly lineage of Pinchas began when he served before the Ark of the Covenant at Beit-el.