Pinhas and the Generation Entering the Land

Though we have mentioned the idea that the generation entering the Land demonstrated a new maturity lacking in the previous generation, the Sin of Baal Pe'or is perplexing. Have they really changed?

Pinhas’s action, in contrast to the Levites in the Sin of the Golden Calf, is an action that is independent of Moshe. It is not at Moshe’s behest – it is of his own volition. This too, can serve as an example of the new generation’s maturing into a role of greater responsibility and initiative. Bnei Yisrael might continue to sin, but they also begin to solve their own problems with new leaders who will lead them as they continue into the Land.