Rashi attributes the weeping to the fact that Moshe “forgot” the law regarding a “boel aramis.” This law states that one who publicly cohabits with a gentile may be slayed by kanaim, true zealots. Hashem caused Moshe to forget, so that Pinchas could react and merit the blessing he received. Pinchas reminded Moshe of the law, but Moshe told him to take action, claiming that the one who made the law known should execute it. Horav Simcha Zissel Broide, Shlita, comments on the remarkable lesson to be derived from this pasuk. If Hashem decrees that a person should attain a certain position, achieve a specific goal, accomplish a definite objective, it will happen, regardless of the overwhelming obstacles he must overcome. Moshe Rabbeinu, the Rabbon Shel Kol Yisrael, was the quintessential teacher of our People. He was the man who transcended this world and was welcomed in Heaven, who stood up to fiery angels during Kabolas HaTorah. It is incredible that the man who resisted Klal Yisrael during the sin of the Golden Calf and then entreated Hashem on their behalf should forget halachah. Moshe would only forget a halachah with Hashem’s specific intervention. This occurred so that Pinchas would remember, take action, and receive his reward.
Let us turn to look at ourselves and others who devise strategies, go to great lengths to follow them through and take significant risks. At times, we risk our health and welfare and — by inference — that of our families, in pursuit of our goals. Do we ever stop to think that Hashem “also” has a plan, one that will reach fruition regardless of our own manipulation? It would be wise to trust in Him, rather than work against Him. Everyone receives that which he deserves. If we keep this in mind, we might cause less harm to ourselves and to those around us.
