A Message from Rabbi Bellows

July 13, 2025 /17 Tammuz 5785 

Dear Beth Am Friends,

In this week’s Torah portion, we read about the daughters of Zelophehad, who courageously speak up for their inheritance rights. Until then, women had no rights of inheritance, and the daughters of Zelophechad came to Moses and pleaded their case before him. Should their father’s name be forgotten in the next generation, and all his land and possessions be delivered to another household only because he left no male inheritors? The daughters fought hard for their rights, and Moses, unable to address them, consulted with God.  

God hears their case, and the laws of inheritance are forever changed to this very day. We note that Moses listened and did not dismiss them; God heard them, and justice prevailed. Justice evolves when we listen, when we advocate with integrity, and when our leaders are humble enough to respond.

Parashat Pinchas invites us to act boldly and to seek justice. To speak up, but also to listen. In a world torn by conflict, may we be inspired to channel our passion toward healing, justice, and Shalom.

In Peace,