Introduction:
Baal of Peor worship refers to the idolatrous practices associated with the Moabite deity Baal, specifically at the location of Peor. This form of worship is notably mentioned in the Old Testament, where it becomes a significant point of apostasy for the Israelites during their wilderness journey. The incident is recorded in the Book of Numbers and serves as a cautionary tale against idolatry and immorality.

Biblical Account:
The primary account of Baal of Peor worship is found in Numbers 25:1-3 : "While Israel was staying in Shittim, the men began to indulge in sexual immorality with the Moabite women, who invited them to the sacrifices for their gods. And the people ate and bowed down to these gods. So Israel joined in worshiping Baal of Peor, and the LORD’s anger burned against them."

This passage highlights the Israelites' involvement in both sexual immorality and idolatry, which were central to the worship of Baal of Peor. The Moabite women seduced the Israelite men, leading them to participate in pagan rituals and sacrifices, thus violating their covenant with Yahweh.

Divine Judgment:
The LORD's response to this apostasy was swift and severe. Numbers 25:4-5 states: "The LORD said to Moses, 'Take all the leaders of the people and execute them in broad daylight before the LORD, so that His fierce anger may turn away from Israel.' So Moses told the judges of Israel, 'Each of you must kill any of your men who have joined in worshiping Baal of Peor.'"

This divine command underscores the seriousness of the sin and the necessity of purging the community of its corrupting influence. The execution of the leaders who participated in the idolatry was intended to restore the holiness of the Israelite camp and avert further divine wrath.

Phinehas' Zeal:
A notable figure in this narrative is Phinehas, the grandson of Aaron, who took decisive action to stop the plague that had broken out as a result of the sin. Numbers 25:7-8 recounts: "When Phinehas son of Eleazar, the son of Aaron the priest, saw this, he left the assembly, took a spear in his hand, followed the Israelite into the tent, and drove the spear through both of them—through the Israelite and the woman. So the plague against the Israelites was halted."

Phinehas' act of zeal is commended by God, and it is credited with turning away His wrath from the Israelites. As a result, God makes a covenant of peace with Phinehas, promising him a lasting priesthood (Numbers 25:11-13).

Theological Implications:
The incident at Peor serves as a stark reminder of the dangers of syncretism and the seductive nature of idolatry. It illustrates the importance of faithfulness to God's commandments and the consequences of turning away from Him. The narrative also highlights the role of righteous zeal in defending the holiness of God's people and the necessity of decisive action against sin.

Later References:
The worship of Baal of Peor is referenced in later biblical texts as a symbol of Israel's unfaithfulness. Psalm 106:28-29 reflects on this event: "They yoked themselves to Baal of Peor and ate sacrifices offered to lifeless gods. They provoked the LORD to anger by their deeds, and a plague broke out among them."

This historical reflection serves as a warning to future generations about the perils of idolatry and the importance of remaining true to the covenant with God.

Conclusion:
While the narrative of Baal of Peor worship is a specific historical event, its lessons are timeless, emphasizing the need for vigilance against idolatry and the importance of maintaining purity in worship and conduct.