Parshat Pinchas presents one of the Torah’s most remarkable moments of moral leadership, when the foundations of the emerging nation are tested for justice and compassion. How fitting that this story is read during a week that marks significant milestones for both Israel and the United States.

After the Torah outlines how the Land of Israel will be divided, the five daughters of Zelophehad approach Moshe and the nation’s leaders to request an inheritance, since their father left no sons. Their claim is so just that, as Rashi notes, God affirms it from on high. In contrast to the complaints and rebellions that precede their story, these women become champions of change rooted in devotion to Torah, respect for tradition, and the wisdom to recognize when renewal is needed. The rabbis bestow upon them their highest praise, calling them darshaniyot (interpreters), tzidkaniyot (righteous), and chachmaniyot (wise). They understood that correcting an injustice would strengthen not only their own future, but the future of the entire nation.

This week marks two significant milestones. The United States celebrates 250 years since the Declaration of Independence, while Israel has now passed 1,000 days since October 7 – a period of unimaginable loss, courage, and resilience. Both are moments to reflect on founding ideals: America’s vision of liberty, opportunity, and self-government, and Israel’s realization of the 2,000-year-old Zionist dream of a sovereign Jewish homeland. 

America at 250 and Israel after 1,000 difficult days are, each in their own way, unfinished stories. Like the daughters of Zelophehad, may we honor our roots while renewing the covenant that binds us together – building societies that remain faithful to their founding ideals while growing ever more just, compassionate, and inclusive for generations to come. Shabbat Shalom -Karen Miller Jackson