This week's portion begins with the story of the heroic Pinchas, who stopped a plague by killing a prince and a foreign woman who were openly fornicating in public. This is a disturbing episode, one that has always troubled me, because it appears to shroud sex, and love across boundaries, in shame. However, the real reason Pinchas was justified was that the couple was flaunting their private sex to mock those with different moral standards. Keep private things private.
The portion also outlines the division of the Land of Israel among the tribes, and the sacrifices to be brought on each holiday. It concludes with the story of the daughters of Zelafchad, who successfully argue for their own portion in Israel.
The latter is one of the most interesting -- and most "feminist" -- episodes in the Bible, one in which women collectively raise their voices to express a grievance -- and in which they are listened to, vindicated, and redeemed.
Today's episode is devoted to the second anniversary of the October 7 terror attacks. It was produced before the announcement of a ceasefire deal, yet remains current & relevant.
Please listen, and #bringthemhome.
SiriusXM Patriot 125, 7-10 p.m. ET (4-7 PT)
This week's portion is a beautiful poem, containing the Covenant between God and the people of Israel. But given the breaking news that Hamas may actually have agreed to release all of the Israeli hostages, I will devote my remarks to that.
One hopes it is true; if so, it makes this week's additional reading, from II Samuel 22, even more relevant: David's song of praise to the Lord for delivering him from the hand of his enemies.
"18 He rescued me from my powerful enemy,
from my foes, who were too strong for me.
19 They confronted me in the day of my disaster,
but the Lord was my support."
So much to focus on this week -- and much breaking news. A peace deal in the Middle East, perhaps? Eric Adams dropping out of the mayor's race? And a looming shutdown as Democrats push their demands beyond absurdity.
Special guests:
- Bradley Jaye - Breitbart News congressional correspondent, on the shutdown
- John Carney - Breitbart News financial editor, on the upcoming jobs report
- Jerome Hudson - Breitbart News entertainment editor, on the Kimmel fallout
- Frances Martel - Breitbart News foreign editor, on the UN and Gaza talks
- Matisyahu - award-winning reggae artist, on his new album, "Ancient Child"
Tune in: 7-10 p.m. ET, 4-7 p.m. PT
Call: 866-957-2874
