“Pinchas, the son of Elazar, the son of Aharon the priest, has turned my wrath away from the children of Yisrael, in that he was zealous for my sake among them” (Bamidbar 25:11)

The Gemara in Bava Basra (10a) poses a powerful question: Why does poverty exist? If Hashem cares so deeply for His creations, why doesn’t He provide them with financial stability rather than needing support from others? This question is one I’ve personally heard countless times, especially from those who argue that poverty must be Hashem’s will, and therefore they shouldn’t have to help those poor people.

The Gemara explains that the existence of poverty is intentional: Hashem created this reality to grant us the opportunity to sustain them. There is tremendous reward awaiting those who give tzedakah and support others. The Medrash states, “The poor person does more for the giver than the giver does for the poor person.” (Vayikra Raba 34:8).

At the beginning of this week’s parsha, Pinchas—who eventually becomes Eliyahu HaNavi—is granted a special blessing of the covenant of peace, “because he was zealous in My stead.” Rav Moshe Feinstein (1895-1986) explains that we see from this that those who actively carry out Hashem’s work bring a unique wholeness to the world, and are rewarded accordingly. This is reflected in the word Shalom (peace), which comes from the word Shalem (complete).

This explains beautifully why Eliyahu HaNavi attends every Bris Milah. One can ask that if Hashem wanted people to be circumcised, why didn’t He create them that way? The answer is similar to what was stated above: Hashem gave us to the opportunity, by fulfilling the Mitzva of bris, to actively partner with Him in completing Creation.

This principle applies to other mitzvos too, especially those that are often overlooked. Chazal teach that neglected mitzvos carry even greater rewards. While human nature draws us to popular or easy tasks, those who uphold Hashem’s commandments with conviction—especially when it’s challenging or unpopular—forge a deeper connection with Him and experience unique closeness to Hashem.

The lesson from Pinchas and Eliyahu—the Malach HaBris—is clear: Those who rise to the occasion, whether by giving charity or performing difficult mitzvos, become true soldiers of Hashem. Their actions earn not only spiritual rewards but also a heightened sense of Divine Providence in every facet of their lives.