In the ninth weekly biblical portion, Matot (30:2-32:42), in chapter 31, the Israelites take vengeance against the nation of Midian for their attempt, described in the previous portion, to destroy the Israelites.

In 31:6, “Moses sent a thousand from each (of the twelve) tribes together with Pinchas the son of Eleazar the priest to the war.”

Ever sensitive to the Torah wording, Arnold Ehrlich notes that 31:6 appears to refer to Eleazar as a priest, whereas 25:7 and 11 do not. They state, “Pinchas, the son of Eleazar, the son of Aaron the priest.”

He explains that (1) the term “priest” here does not refer to the temple duty, (2) the translation “to the war” is incorrect, and (3) the correct translation should be, “Eleazer the priest for the war,” which is what is called today a military chaplain. He points out that the Israelites had military chaplains in Deuteronomy 20:2, where one of his functions is described, and in other wars.

He adds that 31:6 continues, stating that the Israelite army went to war also with the ark, the golden plate with the divine name, to inspire and encourage the soldiers, and trumpets for alarms.

Verses 31:7 and 8 state that the Israelites fought “and they slew every male,” the five kings of Midian, and Balaam the seer.

The brilliant Bible commentator Arnold Ehrlich interprets........

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