This week’s Torah portion is Pinchas (פִינְחָס). It covers Adonai’s covenant of shalom with Pinchas and his descendants, another census before entering the promised land, appointing Joshua as Moshe’s successor, Halakha (i.e., the way to walk) regarding inheritance, and a compiled check list for appointed sacrifices.

This week's Torah portion is aptly named after Balak, the king of Moab. It describes the interaction between this king and a pagan diviner and prophet named Balaam and his donkey.

This week’s Torah portion is the beginning of the end of the wilderness wanderings.  We read about the death of Miriam (Num. 20:1) and Aaron (Num. 20:28).  We also read the story of Moses’ action which prohibited him from entering the land (Num. 20:2–12).

A recurring theme in the career of Moses as leader of Israel is his loyal love toward the Israelites. We read about his frustration and dissatisfaction, but also about his amazing intercession for the people.

This week, our Torah portion tells the story of the decision of the Israelites to rebel against the Lord and refuse to move forward to possess the land of Canaan.

Welcome to week seven of our Counting the Omer Bible reading journey. We have passed the back stretch and heading for home!