Numbers 25:11Meaning & Commentary from the Church Fathers

After Hazvi was killed in the wilderness, the women of Midian became frightened by such a fate, dismantled their tents, and escaped. The Israelites were no longer able to transgress, as the traps evaded their intended target, to prevent it from ensnaring the prey. The spear that pierced Zamzummim and Hazvi ended the fury that justice had unleashed upon the people, instilling fear and dread among the entire army and stirring sorrow in the kin of the fallen. In response, Moses turned to prayer, seeking solace from the anguish brought on by the sight of the corpses.

The individual who has put an end to wickedness receives honor from the priesthood, akin to one who exemplifies proper conduct in warfare. For the Lord has honored him who rightly defied Him, and through the act of killing two men, he brought iniquity to a halt.