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Series: Shadows of the Messiah thru Scriptures. Beginning with Genesis.

Spoiler alert: The entirety of scripture really is about the Messiah, Yeshua all up & through.

“Then beginning with Moshe (Torah), and all the prophets, He (Christ) explained to them (disciples) all things concerning Himself in all the scriptures. Luke 24.27. “Search the scriptures…. they testify of Me; If you believed Moshe, you would believe Me also, for Moshe wrote about Me”. John 5.39, 46.

Beginning Midrash (torah/bible study) series: Shadows of the Messiah thru scriptures. Torah, also known as the Pentateuch, contains the first 5 books of Hebrew scriptures: Genesis, Exodus, Leviticus, Numbers, Deuteronomy.

We shall begin with the first book of the Torah known in Hebrew as Bereishit (“In the Beginning”).

Here's an introductory highlight of the account of Genesis. In subsequent posts, we shall dive in deep, dissect and analyze scriptures to extract gems, gold and eternal truths & mysteries contained therein.

In the beginning............

# The creation, the fall, the great flood & the tower of babel.

Yahweh speaks the world into existence ex-nihilo (out of nothing) within six days and rests on the seventh. Adam and Eve are fashioned on day number six, housed in the Garden of Eden, but they sin by eating of the tree of knowledge of good and evil; they are expelled from the garden. Adam & Eve births 2 sons: Cain and Abel. Cain kills his younger brother Abel. Ten generations later, Yahweh deems the created world too corrupt and wicked; and sends a great flood to destroy all living things. But first, Noah, the only righteous individual in his time, is commanded to build an ark to save himself, his family and a pair of each species of animal. The great flood comes and destroys all save for Noah and his family and a pair of each creatures. After the flood, Noah’s descendants repopulate and rebuild. Soon, humans decide to build a tower to reach heaven. Hashem knocks down the tower of Babel and sends confusion by causing them to speak different languages. Humans could no longer understand each other, thus disperses in various geographical locations.

# The Patriarchs: Avraham; Ishmael & Yitzhak; Esev & Yaakov.

Then comes Abraham, 10 generations from Noah, whom HaShem calls out of his father’s land at age of 95 to a land of Canaan promised to his future descendants and his seed multiplied; and he will be the father of a great nation and of many nations. However Sarah, Abraham’s wife is barren. Sarah suggests that Abraham marry her maid, Hagar, who bears him a son, Ishmael. After Ishmael is born, Sarah out of jealousy convinces Avraham to send Hagan and Ishmael away; and haShem agrees for Ishmael is not the child of promise. Year before Issac is born, Abraham as instructed by HaShem circumcise himself (and household) as sign of covenant, and he and Sarah are blessed with a son, Isaac, at the ages of 100 and 90, respectively. When Yitzhak is but in his teen years, HaShem commands Avraham to sacrifice his son on an altar. Avraham obeys, but haShem stops him just in time from sacrificing his son.

# Yaakov, the deceiver tricks Yitzhak and secures Esev’s blessings; is renamed Israel.

At age 40, Yitzhak marries Revkah, and after 20 years of barrenness, they are blessed with twin boys, Esev and Yakov. Yakov is a “tent dweller,” and Esev is a hunter. In his old age, Yitzhak desires to bless his firstborn as is customary. Revkah hears and coaches Yaakov to impersonate his brother to trick their father so that Yaakov is blessed instead. Yaakov heeds his mother’s counsel and thereby deceiving their father Yitzhak who blesses him instead of Esau. Esev finds out, and seeks to slay Yaakov. Yaakov then flees to his uncle Laban to escape his brother’s wrath for taking his blessings. In Laban’s household, Yaakov marries Laban’s two daughters, Rachel and Leah; grows prosperous; and has twelve sons. Upon Yahweh’s instruction, he returns to his father’s land to reconcile with Esau. En route back home, he wrestles with an angel and prevails; he is renamed “Israel”.

# Yosef the favoured one; jealous brothers sell him out into slavery. Becomes 2nd in command in Egypt in the time of famine.

Of Yaakov’s 12 sons, Joseph emerges his favorite. Yosef tells of his dreams which angers his brethren. The jealous brothers sell him to slave traders, Ishmaelites, and he ends up in Pharaoh’s house in Egypt. Joseph is wildly successful there, but is thrown into jail after he refuses the temptation of his master’s wife. Joseph is taken out of prison to interpret Pharaoh’s dreams, predicting years of plenty followed by a famine. Pharaoh is impressed and appoints Yosef governor and charges him with preparing for the famine. When famine sets in, people come from all over to purchase food from Joseph—including his own siblings. Joseph recognizes his brothers and interrogates them. One of his brethren, Simeon is held hostage in Egypt as the rest return to their father Yaakov, with instruction to return back to Egypt with the youngest Benjamin, the only brother with whom Yosef shares both father and mother. With much hesitance and sorrow, Yaakov finally releases Benjamin to return with them to Egypt.

# Yosef reconciles with his brothers; Israel encamps in Goshen, Egypt to survive famine.

The brethren return with Benjamin. Yosef sees Benjamin and is unable to contain himself and reveals his identity to his brothers. He invites the brothers to dinner and to go and bring back their father, Jacob and the rest to dwell in Egypt. Yaakov lives the last and happy 17 years of his life in Egypt having recovered from the long sorrowful years of absence of Yosef. Before his death, Yaakov gives blessings to 12 sons, along with Yosef’s 2 sons Manasseh & Ephraim; and instructs them to take his bones back to Canaan and bury him in the same sepulcher as his parents and grandparents in Hebron. The brothers carry out their fathers request. They ask for forgiveness of Yosef. Yosef tells them ‘what you meant for evil, haShem meant for good’. Yosef and his brethren and descendants live long and prosperous in Goshen, Egypt for all the days of their lives. Until another Pharaoh who did not know Yosef arises setting the stage for Hebrews 400+ years enslavement and subsequent exodus as recorded in the book of Exodus.

Next on Midrash. Shadows of the Messiah thru scriptures: Genesis chapters 1 thru 6.

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A. Today on Torah studies: Bereishit (Genesis) 1 thru 6.8; Part 1 of 4.

In the beginning, YHVH spoke and there came: 1. Time; 2. Space; 3. Matter. The rest are details.

**Summary of week of creation: Day 1. The universe: includes the galaxies, the planets including earth. Earth dark and covered by water without form and void (empty), light appears; 2. Water that covered earth separated into 2 by a firmament (the sky, the clouds above earth which then holds the other water that often falls as rain/flood); 3. Water below gathered as sea, and dry land appears, plus the plants in ‘seed’ form; 4. sun, moon and stars to define times and seasons; 5. Water creatures, air creatures; 6. Land creatures and man, then woman; 7. YHVH rested from creation.

*Note for brevity sake I use EL = Elohim= Yahweh = YHVH=haShem= LORD = Yeshua = Christ. Different Names, ONE person.

#1. The intricate & complex creation Ex-Nihilo (out of nothing). Creation requires creator; a design requires a designer.

Ever stopped to wonder that Yahweh first conceived in HIS mind before HE spoke the universe into existence. And when Yahweh spoke the *heavens into existence, every component of the universe came into place: time, space, matter; air, fire, water; all the physical laws that govern the universe like gravity; and spiritual beings (angels (or demons), principalities, & powers). Note here, the *heavens include the galaxies, planets (earth included) & all the physical laws that govern them. Then earth was singled out, zoomed in on as specially made habitable for life. *And the LORD declared HIS creation ‘good’. Have you considered that an entire universe and life came about by the power of spoken words. Words create Worlds. No wonder scriptures says, ‘life and death is in the power of tongue’. [/b]Or James the apostle said, tongue as small as it is can set forest ablaze with fire. This doesn’t mean we can create out of nothing, but this does mean our words have potential. It is not really that the power lies with our words in itself, but that words released can function as magnets that can attract the spiritual realm (angels or demons); and these invisible realm (beings) can possibly put our words into action to make things happen for good or for evil; life or destruction. Wow. Be mindful of your words. *Selah.

#2. Darkness is absence of the glory of Yahweh.

The earth was void and dark. Darkness is default and is simply absence of “light” of EL’s presence in the void. [b]EL is the unapproachable light. HIS illumination is the first light in the ‘let there be light’. When HE spoke, HIS presence illuminated the hollow darkness of earth. Before the sun/moon on 4th day, the initial separation of darkness from light is HaShem (the unapproachable light) separating HIMSELF from the universe. On day 4, the sun/moon/stars are made to govern seasons, time, day and night. Science tells us rotation of earth round its axis gives day and night, so earth started spinning right from after creation in the beginning to give day 1. The Sun is mostly stationary in its little path, and the earth rotates round the sun, as earth rotates away from sun, it becomes night for that region of the world that lack of light of sun; and it becomes day for the region that faces sun. Since the celestials were not created till day 4, YHVH was the sole source of light in which the earth spun to and away from in its axis from day 1 to 3. It takes the earth 365 days to rotate round the sun (= 1 year). It takes 30 days for moon to rotate round the earth (= 1 month). Night is governed by moon and stars which illuminates the heavens. Moon itself is a hollow rock and has no light in itself; but merely reflects light of sun. When it is ‘dark’ (side of earth away from sun), the light of sun that moon reflects lights up the night sky. The light of stars are only visible when it is dark.

#3. Yeshua , the first light of the world; our ‘son-light’, and the church the ‘moon’ light or starlight reflecting the ‘SON-light’.

When it was spoken, ‘Let there be light’ , Yeshua is that light of the world who was there right at the start, was concealed until this light came into the world and became flesh and dwelt among us (John 1.1-5). The light that lights up every life of believer. The church ought to reflect this light as the moon or as stars that blaze in the darkness of the world; and each individual shine our brightest when it is the darkest. What a lovely metaphor. Scripture note that post millennial reign of Christ, in the new heaven and new earth, there will no longer be sun, moon, stars, the glory of Yahweh becomes the sole source of light as it were in the beginning (Rev. 21.23). Scripture also mention there will still be Sabbath, and new moon (Isaiah 66.22-24); which means that there will be some type of time keeping even then. This is not too difficult to envision since as we see here in the beginning, there was no sun, nor moon until 4th day. There was some element or type of time keeping from day 1 thru 3 before sun and moon were created on day 4. It was most likely the “kavod” (glory) of HaShem that functioned as the light around which the earth rotated.

#4. The earth & the 2 body of waters above and below. Fun fact: The earth is 70% water and 30% land.

Earth was formless, void, dark and covered with water. So right here tells us, formless, void, darkness and water were default setting of planet earth when it was first created. In the beginning water covered the whole earth before being separated into 2 parts by the firmament (the clouds). There is then another body of water above the clouds. This body of water is atmospheric; held by the cloud as sponge soaks up water; and science confirms this. . This atmospheric water is the origin of the waters of the great flood of Noah; and what is meant when scripture speaks of ‘windows of heaven opening’ and rain falling in torrential downpour. The other half of water is then the ocean/ seas here on earth which was gathered together into one location revealing the dry land. haShem in HIS power still holds the boundaries of water that it does not overflow and flood the entire planet as we see potential of this in rain storms and Tsunamis. Note that this ‘firmament’ aka ‘heaven’ (= the visible sky) is entirely different from the ‘heavens’ of the ‘universe’ in Genesis1:1. Heavens of Genesis 1.1 speaks of the entire universe of galaxies, planets, stars and its constellations rather. There often aren’t English equivalent for many Hebrew words. So, one must glean meanings of certain words from immediate context or similar usages in scripture.

#5. Plants first created in seed form before plant growth. Development, growth & success is a process.

Plants (in seed form) created on 3rd day, then water creatures, air creatures on the 5th day, then land creatures on the 6th day. Is Genesis 1.27 vs 2.22-23 a contradiction? There is misunderstanding in order here, Is it plants before man, or man before plants?. It is definitely plants before man as established in chapter 1. What chapter 2 depicts is that plants were created day 3 in seed form, but nothing grew because there was no rain and no man to tend the garden. And also, clearly the sun needed for photosynthesis (plant growth) was made on day 4. Then, HaShem sends rain, and sunlight and plants sprout and then makes Adam to tend the gardens. It is thought garden Eden was also made same day as plants. There’s a spiritual significance to plants made in seed form first on 3rd day; before sunlight on 4th day; and then watered to sprout along with man to tend the sprouted plants on 6th day. Truly every great thing that develops is first conceived in seed form, then via an ordered process, it is to be nurtured for it to develop and grow.

C. *Questions & Answers:

#1. Where is the throne of Yahweh then and now? And when was hell, hades, Gehenna made? The throne of Yahweh is clearly not the created ‘heavens’ of Genesis 1.1. The actual throne of EL was most likely preexisting before creation and in entirely separate realm/plane than the ‘heaven’ of Gen. 1.1. Hell/ Hades/ Gehenna were likely created once Lucifer and his angels were expelled from heaven. Though scripture says, satan was given this physical realm as playground until time of his destruction in the end.

#2. When were the angels created? And when did Lucifer, and 1/3rd angels rebel, and were consequently discharged from heaven? Some say angels preexisted before creation and the ‘us’ in ‘let us make man’ were likely angels; and Lucifer’s rebellion occurred just before the creation week. Others say angels were created when ‘heavens’ were created and the fall of lucifer occurred sometime in the creation week just before creation of man on 6th day. Some do think the creation week is not literal week, but could be ‘thousand years’ gap between day 1 and 2; and that is when the rebellion occurred. This theory is dubious and highly unlikely. My own take is that since angels aren’t part of this earthly realm, nor can they be numbered among non-human creations; they most likely existed before the 6 week creation time; and that Lucifer’s rebellion occurred at some point before the creation week. Why? Because if we take the 6 day week literally as is written, then it is highly unlikely that the events that precipitated the rebellion, the rebellion itself and the consequences thereof all occurred just within few hours or even within a day or so out of the creation week.

#3. But, if EL called creation ‘good’, how then did we end up with harmful organisms such as viruses, bacteria and all the natural disasters? Beyond the ‘curses’ outlined in Genesis 3, there were obviously other impact of Adam & Eve’s disobedience and fall on creation. You see, the fall initiated sequences of curses on all of creation. Many animals became ferocious towards humans and towards other animals; certain organisms ‘evolved’ into toxic and deadly in nature such as certain bacteria, viruses, parasites (hence HIV, Coronavirus, Measles, Meningitis etc). Along with natural disasters such as volcanoes, earthquakes, storms, wild fires. Man also began to physically age biologically, and body systems began accelerated decay, malfunction & genetic mutations all leading to disease states, illness and to an eventual physical death.

E. *Answers to objections from evolutionists and naturalists.

#1. But, science & evolution says you can’t prove biblical account of creation, and no evidence of creator.

Two simple words, “Irreducible complexity. You can’t prove the theory of evolution either; which requires even greater leaps of faith. To believe the intricate design and complexity of life and universe are product of random chance; which need not an intelligent creator or designer is in itself an incredulous absurdity; and hence equally a statement of faith; which makes atheism also a religious belief. On the other hand, common sense, logic & reality dictate, a highly ordered design necessitates an intelligent designer. The law of ‘Irreducible complexity’ shows that the intricate complexity of the universe could not have emerged by chance nor by gradual process even if given billions of years according to known scientific laws (for example: law of thermodynamics & entropy. It is impossible for the universe, and all living organisms to have ‘evolved’ from simple primordial soup to complex and intricate machine that it is today. In other words, all parts of the functioning system (or machine) needed to have been ‘there’ in the beginning for life to exist, survive & thrive in the first place.

Nature shows biochemical processes, biological structures cannot be reduced into its simple parts. All cellular organisms both micro and macro level could not have ‘evolved’ gradually from simple to complex organisms. In other words, all living organisms had to have come fully packaged and functioning as they are presently to have produced the complex life that we see. A primordial soup could not have evolved to man even if given gazillion years as this is scientifically impossible. It defines all laws of nature including common sense and logic. Man, all living organisms as well as the inorganic universe had to have been made fully assembled at the first onset; at the very beginning; at day 1.

F. *Prayer*: LORD, truly all of creation bears testimony of your marvelous works of wonder. Of your power, majesty and glory, who can fathom. You who dwell in unapproachable lights made near in Christ. Help us to be mindful of our words which should not be used to bless and not curse people you made in your image. Let us be obedient to keep the Sabbath rest, but mostly thankful for the spiritual sabbath rest in Yeshua. Open blind eyes, unstop blocked ears, soften hardened hearts, melt stubborn fattened hearts that they may see you in ALL of your creation; your existence clearly evident in created things and display of your power, proclaiming praise day in and out. That they may believe in you who dwelt amongst us many moons ago and offered to bridge the communion with you that our first parents severed. Amen.

Next on Midrash: Bereshis 1 thru 6.8 Part 2.

Shalom, patient readers,

It appears the website's bot antispam whatever is targeting part 2 of this series. I am yet to determine the cause of this barrier in posting the innocuous Spirit inspired piece.

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Till then, may the LORD preserve your soul and keep you from lion's mouth.



Seraphina.

“Abraham rejoiced to see My day….Before Abraham was, I AM…..David called me LORD…..Moshe wrote of me... Then beginning with Moshe (Torah), and all the prophets, He (Christ) explained to them (disciples) all things concerning Himself in all the scriptures. Luke 24.27. “Search the scriptures…..they testify of Me; If you believed Moshe, you would believe Me also, for Moshe wrote about Me”. John 5.39, 46; 8.56; Matt 22.45.

Midrash (bible study). Today on Torah studies: Bereishit (Genesis) 1 thru 6; Part 2 of 4.

#6. Yeshua, is the first breath of Life.

Genesis 2: 7 “and the LORD formed man of the dust and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life and man became a living soul”. At death, the body returns to dust; and spirit returns back to the LORD (Eccl 12.7, Psalm 104:29-30).The soul/spirit lives on.

#7. Both Adam & Eve made in YHVH’s image= equal. Eve from Adam's side = equal. ALL peoples from one man/blood = equal.

Genesis 1.27 , 2.22: “and EL created man in his own image; male and female in HIS image; and gave them dominion over earth. Notice: man and woman given dominion over created things, not over each other nor other people. Adam as the first man created sinned and by him judgement passed to all man; and in Christ, the 2nd Adam, in HIS obedience righteousness extended to many (Rom. 5.19). More than mere gender roles, the ‘maleness’ of Adam represented Christ, and the ‘femaleness of Eve’ represented the church, the bride of Christ (Eph.5.26-32

#8. Yeshua is the ultimate Sabbath (spiritual) rest.

Genesis 2.1-3: “and the LORD rested on the 7th day from all HIS work”. Let us keep the Sabbath day of the LORD as commanded. Yet, Christ is the essence and the ultimate spiritual sabbath from bondage of sin & works of flesh (Heb 4.9-11).

#9. Yeshua is the tree of life and the river of living water.

-Genesis 2.10-14; 3.24: -The river that flows out of Eden with 4 streams represent Yeshua, the living water that flows into 4 corners of the world. The tree of life represent Yeshua who indeed is the tree of everlasting life, and we the branches (John 15.5, Prov 3.18, Rev 2.7). And whoever eats and drinks of him shall never hunger, and thirst and rivers of living water shall flow from this one (John 4.14; 6.35; 7.38).

-Today, Yeshua offers us place of spiritual rest and salvation in HIM, the way of the tree of life. When we obey and abide by HIM in this “garden” with HIM as the tree of life, and we as branches; HE gives His ministering angels and His spirit (flaming sword- of the spirit) to preserve us and to keep in the way of Yeshua-the way, the truth and the everlasting life (Heb 1.14). Amen. This literal tree of life and the river of life would also be revealed towards end of messianic reign where river goes forth and fruits for the healing of the nation’s according to John in Revelation 22.1-2, 14, Ezekiel 47.10-12 and Zechariah 14.8.

*Prayer: LORD, draw the weary, the burdened, the tired that they may gain rest for their souls. Let us abide in you as branches, lest we wither and die; prune us that we may become more fruitful. Water us with your living Word that we may become rivers of life giving water to those around us; let your light shine upon us as we reflect you in the darkness around us. Amen.

Next on Midrash: Bereishit (Genesis) 1 thru 6.8 part 3.

A Midrash (bible study): Shadows of the Messiah in Bereishit (Genesis) 1- 6.8 Part 3 of 4.

#10. The fall. The origin of free will & choice. Enters sin, sickness, decay, disease & death.

-The tree of knowledge of good and evil represented EL presenting man with freedom to choose to obey (life) or disobey (death); to have free moral agency. EL didn’t set out to make ‘automatons’. *Satan cloaks himself as ‘serpent’ beguiling the woman, yet one wonders why serpent? According to scripture, serpent was the most cunning (and wise) of all creation. But what does this mean? That serpent had a choice to be used of satan? Yes, exactly. This is why serpent was also cursed to crawl on belly. First trick of devil was to question and twist what EL said: “did EL say….but surely you will not die.” Beware. Satan still uses this oldest trick today by the various false doctrines that has crept in the church. For example: “did EL really say you must endure to end, or be holy to see HIM, surely you cannot lose your salvation?. OR surely, a loving God cannot punish eternally in hell” Or “did Christ really say you will suffer the great tribulation, surely, God will not bruise and batter HIS bride”.

-Adam & Eve were given the first law, Eve disobeyed, and Adam follow suit. And so spiritual and physical death came into the world and passed down to humanity thereafter. Beyond the ‘curses’ outlined in Genesis 3, there were obviously other impact of Adam & Eve’s disobedience initiated sequences of curses on all of creation. Many animals became ferocious towards humans and towards other animals; certain organisms ‘evolved’ into toxic and deadly in nature such as certain bacteria, viruses, parasites (hence HIV, Coronavirus, Measles, Meningitis etc). Along with natural disasters such as volcanoes, earthquakes, storms, wild fires. Man also began to physically age biologically, and body systems began accelerated decay, malfunction & genetic mutations all leading to disease states, illness and to an eventual physical death. In the millennial reign of Christ, there is restoration to the ideal state; and ‘they shall no longer destroy nor harm on my holy mountain’. The lion and the lamb will lie together (Isa 11.6-10). Humans will acquire glorified bodies; that even an 100 years old person is still a babe. Isa 65.20-25.).

- Adam blames on the woman; and the woman blames the serpent. Neither took responsibility of guilt. Adam is as much to blame as Eve, yet women are castigated for being easily deceived. Perhaps if Adam didn’t partake, he could have redeemed Eve and humanity from its curses. Adam and Eve died that day- spiritual death was instant, that is cut off from Yahweh; but then physical death was set in motion though they did not die right at the moment; aging began. Does this mean men were never meant to die? Or was it that that lifespan was cut short? It seems it was rather the longevity that was cut short such that rather than living to be 1000 years, we now barely live 100.

-Serpent tricks her “surely you will not die, eat and your eye shall be opened and be like gods.” Pride and arrogance still the prime way serpent tricks today. Pride is what got Satan thrown out of heaven; it is what he uses today to destroy peoples. Desiring to be like gods, to be wise, Eve ate and gave to Adam. The scale of innocence fell off their eyes as sin and death both physically and spiritually ensued and passed down to humanity. Notice how both enjoyed freely the communion with Yahweh and heard HIs audible voice…until they disobeyed. The intimate communion was severed; and the barrier between realms thickened.

#11. The origin of sin & the etiology of humankind’s woes: patriarchy, supremacy, subjugation, slavery etc. And, Yes, Satan tells truth, but not the whole truth.

-The curse of satan “enmity between man and her seed” implies this is the start of adversarial nature of satan and man. So, EL covers up their shame with clothes made of animal skin, drove them out of garden to go fend for themselves. Much same as HE drove Israel out of promised land for polluting HIS land. Because of Adam and Eve’s wrong choices, Sin is inherent in our nature (chet Kadmon). After eating of the tree, their eyes were opened, they did become aware of good and evil, and indeed did become like ‘gods’ though not as satan implied or the way Eve thought. So, the serpent told some truth but hid the other truth; that is the consequences thereof; of death, pain, chaos, strife- in fact the evil and woes of humanity- the chet kadmon (original sin) or yetzer hara (evil inclination) passed down to humanity. “Who told you were naked,” as their innocence had vanished by their actions. They both ate and shame entered, afraid and naked- result of fallen nature.

-One can say the knowledge of right and evil now imbedded in every man’s conscience. The curses that ensue were the origin of all of societal woes namely: patriarchy, supremacy, subjugation, slavery; woman’s labour pains & man’s general laboring; domination of woman by man, incessant obsession & pressure for women to marry and procreate, and alas, the adversarial nature between man and the devil. As a result, serpent cursed to crawl, and eat dust, bite man and be crushed by man (which ultimately pointed to Yeshua who gave satan a crushing blow in HIS death and resurrection); woman cursed to pain in childbirth, man indirectly cursed to eat by sweat of brow because of the cursed land till death.

#12. Yeshua, the 2nd Adam is the ultimate seed of the woman who crushes serpents head.

The curse of satan “enmity between man and her seed” implies this is the start of adversarial nature of satan and man. This passage also speaks ultimately of Yeshua being the seed of the woman whom by HIS death (satan bruising HIS heels), destroyed power of sin and death (=crushed satan’s head). Even now, as EL declares the end from beginning, HE is saying, in these last days, it is the seed of a woman that shall crush serpents head. It’s a woman that began the downfall of man by allowing satan to trick her. In these last days, Eve shall redeem women (hence Jeremiah 31:21-22: return backsliding woman), for HaShem shall use women to crush satan’s head; and once again turn men around back to salvation- which is the new thing spoken of in Jeremiah for it certainly is a different order. This same woman is spoken of symbolically in Revelation who also brings forth man child that is taken up into heaven and that will shepherd the nations. I sense there’s something behind this ‘seed of woman’ and ‘her children’ and ‘end times’. Though I am well aware this speaks of Yeshua clearly as elucidated in Heb 2.9-14. But inasmuch as scripture ultimately points to Yeshua does not mean the events and stories didn’t have other applications and multi-fulfilment which clearly they did; and yet can have applications for the future.

Next on Midrash: Shadows of the Messiah in Bereishit (Genesis) 1- 6.8. Part 4 of 4.

A Midrash (bible study): Shadows of the Messiah in Bereishit (Genesis) 1- 6.8 Part 4 of 4.

#13. The first sibling rivalry & the first murder. Abel = type of Christ. Cain = an anti-Christ spirit.

-Kayin (Cain) comes from “have acquired”. Havel (Abel) means “breath.” Cain aptly named ‘have acquired’ and as tiller of ground represents ‘acquired’ by works of flesh and solely by labour of man. Havel (Abel) aptly named breath is a shepherd and represents breath given to man by the Ruach. Havel also means vanity, suggests the transitory fleeting nature of life and toils of man under the son. Here, displayed in their names, HaShem was establishing right from the start HIS pattern: that man works and chooses after flesh; but Yahweh works after the Ruach. Cain out of jealousy murders Abel. Cain here foreshadowed the adversary, the spirit of antichrist, satan who was murder from the beginning (John 8.44). The ‘way of Cain’ mentioned in the epistle of Jude and by Peter describes a murderous anti-Christ spirit present in Cain at the beginning and continues to infect humankind. Abel foreshadows Christ, the better sacrifice (Heb. 12.24); And as alluded in Heb 12.24, ‘the blood of Havel still cries out today whenever the righteous are murdered for righteousness sake by the wicked. The blood of Havel still cries out in the gospel of salvation, of repentance from sin, works of flesh and of vanity of life.

- In Abel’s offering, we see Christ, the Lamb of Yahweh; Christ begin the sacrifice of a better covenant (Heb. 7.22). Here, right at the start, we are informed the importance of blood; for the life is in the blood. This idea was further codified in the law of Moses in the book of Leveticus. Modern science reveal certain amount of loss of blood is incompatible with life. It is established here the principle of life for life; blood is shed for atonement of sin; hence the death of Christ as sacrifice for our sins. Abel offers animal sacrifices while Cain offer produce of vegetables. Interestingly, hundreds of years later, as the TORAH was given to Moshe, animal & grain sacrifices are approved by EL, but not vegetables. Cain banished to wander earth, but first EL marks him so that he is not murdered by spirit of vengeance. That Cain was the one who cries out to be protected from being killed out of vengeance and EL complying foreshadows gentiles who in repentance receives Yeshua’s salvation marked by HIS blood and protected from penalty of sin, which is death.

-It’s really the same principle in shown in the feast of Passover whereby blood of lamb is ‘marked’ on the door post of the Hebrews (and converted gentiles) such that the angel of death ‘passes over’ the marked. We see this pattern repeated in Ezekiel 9, where EL instructs a mark on forehead of those who grieve for the abominations, that they be not taken by the incoming judgement. In the book of Revelation, the 144 thousand of Israelite tribes are marked that the wrath of EL does not touch them. I have no doubt that Yahweh repeats and will repeat this pattern today and in the future judgement coming to try all men.

#14. The law of the seconds. Man chooses the 1st (after the flesh); and Yahweh chooses the 2nd (after the spirit).

-Illustrated here is the beginning of another pattern further elucidated in scripture, the law of the 2nd. In that, though Cain was the first born, Yahweh preferred Abel. This is also seen in Yitzchak chosen over Ishmael; Yaakov over Esev; Ephraim over Manassaeh; Peretz over Zerach; the 2nd Adam (Christ) over the 1st Adam; the church (spiritual Isreal) over ethnic Israel; the priesthood of Christ over the priesthood of Levi; the 2nd covenant over 1st covenant; the new heaven/earth over the first. In line with this, Yahweh will once again revisit this pattern and choose women, the 2nd in order of creation to lead the end time harvest of souls. Despite haShem’s preference for the 2nd in order, it is worth to note that later on in the law of Moses, Yahweh establishes the primogeniture; that inheritance of a man belongs to the first born and not the 2nd son.

#15. Toldot (genelogy) of mankind from Adam (via Seth & Cain) to Noach.

Adam begat Seth at age 800, and died 930 years and fathered many more sons and daughters. Adam—Seth (died 912)—Enos (dies 950)—Cainan (died 910)—Mahalalel (dies 895)—Jared (dies 962) —-Enoch (Enoch lived only 365 yrs., and EL took him. Did not die)—Methuselah (died 965 yrs. as the oldest) —-Lamech (died 777)—Noach—Cham, Shem, Yephet. Adam-Kayin-Enoch-Mathushael-Lamech. Notice the two descendants (Seth & Kayin) share names (Enoch & Lamech). Kayin’s Enoch (hb:Chanokh- disciplined) is different than the Enoch from Seth (hb: Shet- appointed), Adam’s third son. Shet was appointed to replace Havel whom kayin slew. Also one can even say, appointed at this time spoke of the Messiah to come, who is appointed to ‘save’, ‘redeem’ and ‘mend’ broken relationship between man and EL initiated by Adam and Eve. Shet was appointed to be that bearer of the Messiah to come.

-Adam’s third son, Shet was ‘appointed’ to replace Havel whom Kayin slew. Appointed to be of the patriarchal lineage of the Messiah to come, who is appointed to save and restore mankind’s fallen nature. Even their names tell a story. The ancients did not just name for naming sake. Names carried meanings and often times can even determine, project future. The names together Adam (hb: Adamah -man) & Eve (hb chavah-life); Kayin (acquired), Havel (breathe) & Shet (appointed) together proclaim a message: Adam the ‘man’ and Eve, ‘the mother of all living’, have ‘acquired’ ‘breath’; and are ‘appointed’…….(seed to bear life, reproduce, restore).


- The Enoch from Seth was the righteous man; but then the Enoch from Kayin is the less righteous equivalent- reminds of “Balaam” being prophet of the gentile as equivalent of Moshe; which is also dichotomy between Messiah vs. Anti-Messiah types being foreshadowed. Methusaleh’s name is prophetic; which meant ‘when he dies, He will comes. It is thought that the great flood began shortly after Methusaleh died. Lamech 183 yo when begat Noach. Noach 500 yo when he begat sons Yephet, Shem, Cham. And Hashem decides, His Spirit shall not always strive with man, and cuts shot lifespan to 120 years; and that man’s heart is just continually wicked and evil, and a determination is made to destroy all creatures and begin again. But first, Noach along with 7 family members are chosen as the righteous ones to be spared. Noach is instructed to build ark to save himself and family from the incoming destructive flood.

B. Questions & Answers.

#1. Why ever did satan chose to manifest physically as ‘snake’ out of other more magnificent creatures? And why was the actual creature snake cursed to crawl on belly and eat dust? Did the snake have a choice to be used as tool of satan in this matter? Simple answer: the nature of snake before the fall. We are told in Genesis 3.1, ‘the snake was more subtle (crafty, deceitful) above all other creatures’. It is as if we are being informed that animals or at least the snake had certain awareness that enables them to participate or refrain. In other words, the serpent knew exactly what satan was offering and yet chose to corporate. Is this so shocking? Not really. Consider or observe domesticated animals such as dogs or cats, or observe elephants, dolphins, monkey/chimps, you know animals do have certain level of consciousness or awareness that allows them to freely choose to do something or refrain; though as advanced as humans. Perhaps this animal awareness was more developed pre-fall and post-fall was down-graded. How can I verify this biblically? In the matter of Balaam and his donkey. The donkey was aware of the angel and refused to proceed further. We are told in the book of Ecclesiastes, that animals have souls. (Psalm 104:29-30, Eccl. 12.7), thus having soul implies certain free agency even if limited compared to human soul.

#2. *Why did Yahweh allow evil? Evil is result of human choices; free to love, obey or not. Why didn’t Yahweh destroy satan right away? Again, the simplest answer to this is this: EL preferred humans as free moral agents, to love, obey freely not out of fear, obligation or compulsory. If satan the adversary was eliminated, the choice of evil vs good is thus eliminated as well = automaton & robots; which isn't what Yahweh desired. Yahweh wants people to freely choose to believe, worship, obey and love HIM.

#3. *But where did Cain get his wife? Adam & Eve obviously had many more children including females. Thus, Cain married his one of sisters. Obviously they had to marry their siblings even for to populate the earth at first. However, later when the law of Moses was given, there were prohibitions given against marrying ones close siblings.

Next on Midrash: Genesis 6.9 thru 11.32. 1 of 4.

You are just super imposing things that are not there into the Torah. Because you are looking at them with the Jesus lense. And coming from a Christian background.
I took my time to read them again afresh, when I left Christianity, I discovered all the lies Christians tell.
The snake is just a snake.....where did you get the info it was Satan.
The revelation story is different . That is about Marduk and Tiamat. The dragon that Marduk slew and used her body to create the heavens and the earth...Enuma Elish(which more than a thousand years older than the Torah)

Re: sonmvayina, the poster above.

All of scripture makes it clear that satan was the same serpent present from of old.

ALL of scripture makes it clear Yeshua was there in the beginning and HE was really the basis of the Law and was revealed in various characters through out Israel's history. "....and HE began from the Torah and the prophets and the Psalms showing the disciples all things written concerning HIM". Luke 24.27.

I do not really consider myself 'Christian' by today's semantics, understanding and practices.

I follow THE WAY. Yeshua is the WAY. Yeshua is the living TORAH. Yeshua said so HIMSELF.



The adversarial nature of Israel and her natural enemies was foreshadowing the spiritual Israel (the church) and her spiritual enemies (the devil). The 1st covenant initiated by Moses foreshadowed Christ and was entirely physical rituals, animal sacrifices and laws written on stone. The 2nd covenant initiated by Christ brought better covenant of HIS own blood, with modified laws, yet the same laws now being written in hearts of flesh.

Even now, much of prophetic scriptures wrote about two main things: 1. the 1st coming of Christ as ethnic Israel's deliverer. 2. the 2nd coming of Christ as ALL Israel's deliverer (all believers in Christ are today's Israel).

I do not blame you for NOT seeing Christ in these types and shadows. THIS is only something the Spirit of Yahweh reveals and illuminates.

I pray that Yahweh touch your heart and that you return to the right path in HIM.

SeraphEl:
Re: sonmvayina, the poster above.

All of scripture makes it clear that satan was the same serpent present from of old.

ALL of scripture makes it clear Yeshua was there in the beginning and HE was really the basis of the Law and was revealed in various characters through out Israel's history. "....and HE began from the Torah and the prophets and the Psalms showing the disciples all things written concerning HIM". Luke 24.27.

I do not really consider myself 'Christian' by today's semantics, understanding and practices.

I follow THE WAY. Yeshua is the WAY. Yeshua is the living TORAH. Yeshua said so HIMSELF.



The adversarial nature of Israel and her natural enemies was foreshadowing the spiritual Israel (the church) and her spiritual enemies (the devil). The 1st covenant initiated by Moses foreshadowed Christ and was entirely physical rituals, animal sacrifices and laws written on stone. The 2nd covenant initiated by Christ brought better covenant of HIS own blood, with modified laws, yet the same laws now being written in hearts of flesh.

Even now, much of prophetic scriptures wrote about two main things: 1. the 1st coming of Christ as ethnic Israel's deliverer. 2. the 2nd coming of Christ as ALL Israel's deliverer (all believers in Christ are today's Israel).

I do not blame you for NOT seeing Christ in these types and shadows. THIS is only something the Spirit of Yahweh reveals and illuminates.

I pray that Yahweh touch your heart and that you return to the right path in HIM.

All you posted are all your opinions. I don't need them. Give me scriptural references.
I don't want to hear your opinion. Give me scriptures.....to read. Let me read them. I want scriptures from the Torah or Tanakh.....not the Christian propaganda. Thank you

Abel has a father and a mother.. but the story says Jesus only has a mother is father is a god.

Only Greek and Romans mythology have that kind of stories, not the Jews. So Jesus is a Greek/Roman creation. He never existed in this physical realm......
Nobody is coming from anywhere to save or rapture you. Your life is your responsibility, the only thing the Torah does is to teach us to make better choices and make us better human beings, by so doing bring heaven to earth. If you really understand it, you won't link the J-man to it.

sonmvayina:
Abel has a father and a mother.. but the story says Jesus only has a mother is father is a god.

Only Greek and Romans mythology have that kind of stories, not the Jews. So Jesus is a Greek/Roman creation. He never existed in this physical realm......
Nobody is coming from anywhere to save or rapture you. Your life is your responsibility, the only thing the Torah does is to teach us to make better choices and make us better human beings, by so doing bring heaven to earth. If you really understand it, you won't link the J-man to it.

.

Ok. If you say so. Your choice entirely. Will not argue with you on existence of Christ which by the way has solid numerous historical validity both of secular and of Jewish sources.

Listen, Read and move along then unless you have question on particular content of post. At least on judgement day, you cannot say "you did not know".

I can only answer to Yahweh for my part in being obedient to post what I have been given. You are solely responsible for your response to what I post.

sonmvayina:
All you posted are all your opinions. I don't need them. Give me scriptural references.
I don't want to hear your opinion. Give me scriptures.....to read. Let me read them. I want scriptures from the Torah or Tanakh.....not the Christian propaganda. Thank you

Did you actually read anything I have been posting? Luke 24.27 Christ plainly tells you the entire scripture from Genesis is about HIM.

You asking for passages highly reveal you haven't actually read the bible at all. Else you will not be asking for references.

Listen, move along. Tell the devilish spirit worrying you that I do not want argument on this post. Please don't derail this thread. Thank you.

SeraphEl:
Did you actually read anything I have been posting? Luke 24.27 Christ plainly tells you the entire scripture from Genesis is about HIM.

You asking for passages highly reveal you haven't actually read the bible at all. Else you will not be asking for references.

Listen, move along. Tell the devilish spirit worrying you that I do not want argument on this post. Please don't derail this thread. Thank you.

Ok in not more than two paragraphs show me how the Tanakh points to Jesus, with passages .you can't just through statements with reckless abandon.

SeraphEl:
.

Ok. If you say so. Your choice entirely. Will not argue with you on existence of Christ which by the way has solid numerous historical validity both of secular and of Jewish sources.

Listen, Read and move along then unless you have question on particular content of post. At least on judgement day, you cannot say "you did not know".

I can only answer to Yahweh for my part in being obedient to post what I have been given. You are solely responsible for your response to what I post.

You were indoctrinated with a lie and you think it is the truth? You really think if there was really power in the name of Jesus, the Europeans will give it to you?
The Jews have a covenant with God. And it does not involve a human sacrifice or a demi god. Read the Torah and keep your creators commandments.....stop the idolatry.

Midrash: Shadows of the Messiah in Genesis chapters 6.9 thru 11. 32. Part 1 of 4.

*Key point*: contrary to common pre-rapture supporters, In the days of Noah’s great flood: the Ark was refuge for the righteous; the righteous were “left behind” in the ark. It was the wicked who were 'taken out' by the great flood.

#1. The great wickedness and evil of man brings the great flood.

-In the antediluvian times, there were non-human ‘god-like’ entities (angelic beings; aka ‘sons of EL’), who exercised their free will; descended on earth in human form and corrupted themselves by interacting inappropriately with humans. They mated with human females giving rise to defiled offsprings called Nephilim. According to the book of Jasher, these corrupted angelic beings also revealed all sorts of forbidden information to man which spurred great evil, wickedness & violence. HaShem saw all the great evil and decided enough is enough. HaShem seeing only the righteous Noach decides to preserve a remnant by saving Noah and his family. But first, Noach is given task to build a great Ark, which is a message of warning and repentance to those who heed. The Hebrew word for Ark is Tevah; however the deeper (‘nistar’- hidden/esoteric) meaning of Tevah is also ‘Word’. In this Yahweh was revealing Yeshua as the Ark -the Word and our salvation. When the flood waters of life overflow, enter into the Ark of HIS Word; hide yourself in HIS Word for safety and refuge. How brilliant. How marvelous the genius of YHVH.

#2. The great deluge (great flood) is a type of last days judgement. The ark = type of Christ (salvation). The raven= demonic spirit. The dove = the Holy Spirit.

-Notice how Yahweh first warned Noach of the deluge that is coming, yet HE didn’t tell Noah specifics such as when. Notice, how Yahweh did not say ‘in 120 years, I shall send the great flood of judgement. However, note also that HaShem did tell Noah 1 week before the flood with specific instruction to begin to enter into the ark. The lesson here is that Prophecies need not be specific or detailed. Same with Avraham when he was promised a son. HaShem did not tell him ‘in 25 years, I shall give you a son’. No wonder why both Noah and Avraham were listed in Paul the apostle’s great hall of faith in Hebrews 11. haShem is not in the details and specifics, though sometimes HE chooses to be specific, but these are rather rare contrary to popular beliefs that prophecy must be specific and detailed. haShem magnifies faith and obedience; this is that which is written ‘obedience is better than sacrifice…..and without faith, it is impossible to please Yahweh….’. The same faith principle is applicable in uttering and grasping uttered prophecies. The purpose of prophecies isn’t just to predict, but to declare the Words of the LORD with the intent that people might have the chance and the choice to respond appropriately.

-Noach was 500 years when he gave birth to 3 sons plus commanded to build ark. Noach was 600 or so years when the great flood came. First, his 3 sons would have been in their 100s or thereabouts. Wow. And roughly took 100-120 years to build ark before the great flood. But imagine that Noach sustained efforts to build and warn people of the coming flood for over 100 years. Can you imagine the ridicule when it rained after rain, and yet there wasn’t this ‘great flood’ that would supposedly be terrible and deadly. And yet year and year, not a single convert. Wow. One wonders if at some point, Noah ever thought he was delusional and silly in what he was doing. No wonder why Noah was counted in the great hall of heroes of faith by Paul in the book of Hebrews. And while they had more of a tangible evidence of EL’s voice (and surer word of His instructions), it is not recorded that EL told Noach how long before the great flood. So a great amount of faith was still required. Then 7 days prior to the great flood, EL warns Noah to start entering the Ark. Notice how the pair of animals came to the ark by themselves. If you build it, the LORD will bring them. Amen.

-It rained heavily nonstop for 40 days (1 month 10 days). It then continued raining for total of 150 days (~ 5 months= 6 months thus far). Ark must have floated on water looking for landing terrain for another 40 days (1 month 10 days=7.5 months thus far). Then, finally on the 7th month (~7.5), the ark rests on Mt. Ararat. For the next 3 months, the water starts receding up till the 10th month (~10.5 months). Then, Noach sends ravens, then doves to check for dry ground and that took another 40 days (+ another 1 month 10 days =11.5 months thus far). Then in the approximately 12th month (not a precise science), Noach and family left the ark. Other extrabiblical sources’ calculations have the entire great flood lasting for 1 year and 10 days.

- Noah sends out raven which circles the surface of waters and does not return to ark. The raven represents the evil spirit, the god of this age that broods over the earth’s terrain (waters of earth = peoples of earth). As satan was cast down from heavens and traverses this earthly plain unable to return to his former abode now prowls about on earth as the god of this world and prince of the power of air seeking whom to devour (Job 1.6-7; 1 Pet 5.8. The dove is of the Holy Spirit. The same Spirit that hovered above earth on creation week; and the same dove that descended upon Yeshua’s head at His baptism. The dove hovered and returned twice finding no rest on account of flood of waters; signifying the Spirit and the glory of EL being unable to find rest on sons of man on account of our evil and wickedness and so returns to HIS throne. The dove however brought olive branch in his 2nd return back to ark indicating Christ mission on earth and making peace between man and HaShem and the olive leaf (peace offering) was received by Yahweh. On the 3rd time, the dove does not return indicating when in the millennial reign of Christ, HE shall finally establish HIS throne among men, brings peace on earth and return no more to heaven.

-Notice the first mention of number 40 which seems a pattern in scripture. Moshe was 40 when he fled after killing Egyptians. Moshe also spent 40 days and nights in the mount Sinai receiving and penning the law. Yeshua in the desert for 40 days and nights. The Hebrew’s time in Egypt was in the span of 400s; their journey in wilderness after exodus of Egypt is 40 years; the judges of Israel spanned 400 years before the establishing of the monarchs. Both kings Saul and David each ruled for 40 years. The monarchs of Israel ruled about 400+ years before the final destruction and dispersion of both kingdoms of Israel. Jonah gave Nineveh 40 days to repent or be destroyed. There were 400+ years between the last biblical writings of the prophets (Malachi) and the birth of John the Baptist in the New Testament. Yeshua also after the resurrection, HE spent 40 days on earth before the ascension. The number 40 obviously signifies transition period of sorts marking both end or completion of one stage and beginning of another stage of life, purpose etc. Other numbers repeated frequently in scripture were numbers 7, 10 and 12 which also hold similar symbolic meanings. haShem certainly does have preferences even in persons, just as we humans created in HIS image have favorites. However, being perfect and righteous, EL is entirely justified in HIS favorites and preferences; but we wicked, and evil are another matter altogether.

#3. Noah & the ark as types & shadows of Christ. Noah redeemer; Christ the redeemer.

- HaShem chose Noach as a remnant to preserve mankind. Noach would then be a type and shadow of a redeemer, foreshadowing Christ. Enoch was also one of the few righteous (disciplined) men in his day whom the people went to hear the judgements of EL. Just as ark saved Noah and family from destruction, the Ark stood for a type of Christ who saves from judgement to come. “Come to me all burdened and wearied, you will find rest’. Noah’s name means ‘comfort’ alluding to the Messiah Yeshua who is our comforter & salvation. Noach really acted as prophet, as he preached repentance & righteousness to the people for over 100 years before the great flood of judgement (2 Peter 2 .4-5). We know now, the next end of the world will not come as flood but as scorching fire (2 Peter 3. 6-7). The Hebrew word for ark, teivah, also means “word”. “Come into the word”, says haShem, enter with prayer and studying the Word. Here you will find a sanctuary, wisdom, safety, refuge amidst the raging seas and waves and flood waters of life.

#4. As in the days of Noah, so shall it be in the last days: Business as usual & the return of the Nephilims. The righteous are those ‘left behind’.

-Yeshua said in latter times, it will be “as in the days of Noach”. In alluding to the days of Noah, Yeshua was signaling that the conditions and events that existed just before the great flood in the days of Noah will recur just before HIS 2nd coming and judgment of the end of days. What were the conditions? We know from scripture that there was rampant evil, wickedness, violence and such. People ignored signs and warnings and were going about business as usual: marrying, eating, drinking etc., yet trouble was afoot. What of the existence of Nephilim like creatures?. Perhaps this explains Daniel’s “they will intermingle with seed of man” as the return of spirits of ancient Nephilim breeds with humans. It is entirely possible since Nephilims are likely fallen angels who still roam around earth as epistle of Jude alludes to. And with all these alien tales abounding, genetic engineering, AI technological and scientific breakthroughs, perhaps it is not farfetched an idea of alien (demonic) life forms breeding with man to give rise to certain super humans with super human traits in the latter end of time.

-Concerning those ‘left behind’ in the days of Noah as Yeshua alludes to in Matt 24:40-41. This is often used to support the pre-tribulation rapture. But if you examine carefully, you will notice that those left behind on earth were Noah and his family refuging in the ark. The wicked were taken away by the great flood.. Thus contrary to popular teaching, those taken away (“rapture”) are the wicked; the righteous are left behind in the ark. The disciples ask, ‘taken where’, and Yeshua responds, ‘where vultures gather, there the corpses are’. In other words, the bodies of those taken away are deposited in a location where birds feed on them; invoking a prophetic apocalyptic writing of the prophets such as Isaiah and John the revelator (Eze 29.5; 39.17, Jer 7.33, Isa 56.9, Rev. 19.17-18, 21) Somehow, someone dangerously misinterpreted this to justify pretribulation rapture; thus misleading many. No wonder why EL tells us for Lack of knowledge, many will perish.

-Notice how in the toledot (genealogies), they had longer life spans in those days, which got significantly cut short after the flood (maximum of 120 years). In the millennial reign, all resurrected saints who survive great tribulation will have modified bodies and will coexist with regular remnant humans who survived the battle of Megiddo. The book of Revelation shows that there will be remnant nations (unbelievers) especially of the beast armies who will survive the Great Tribulation. Post millennial reign, satan is unleashed again to deceive these remnant nations that survived great tribulation once more; and then will their final destruction take place (Rev. 20.7-10)

# Question & Answer.

-Who are these ‘sons of god’ who mated with earth women? They are likely same as mentioned in (Job 1.6); and are likely fallen angels; that is, when Lucifer rebelled against Elohim and was expelled from heaven, he took 1/3rd of angels with him, who are now known as demons as Lucifer became ‘satan’. So, it is not far-fetched that fallen angels (demons) would seek to corrupt EL’s creation as another act of rebellion especially after having being expelled from heaven. There’s also a theory that some of the esoteric knowledge especially of weapons were knowledge revealed by these fallen angels. This the basis of ‘EL made man upright but he has sought many evil inventions’ in Eccl 7.29. An example: the sophisticated technologies such as atomic bombs, nuclear bombs, and many weaponry in man’s arsenal that can literally obliterate humanity by fire within seconds just as EL would. What if such knowledge came from other worldly sources like fallen angels? Yes, this does mean satan can impart wisdom and knowledge. Satan who was once an enlightened cherub encircling Yahweh’s throne possessed not only power, but was given a measure of intelligence; which he retained upon his expulsion from Yahweh’s abode.

-For over 100 years Noach preached repentance, and none other than 7 of his family members entered ark and were spared? Correct. It seems incredulous, but remember that in those days the population was not more than a million if not less than that. But, yet still incredible that not one nonfamily member converted upon Noah’s preaching. It is still not that farfetched to believe when you consider the cold heartedness of today’s generation towards the gospel that has gone out for 2000 years and yet too many still do not believe. Thus, today’s unbelievers are not all too different than in Noah’s days.

-How is it the beasts in Noah’s ark didn’t devour themselves? How did they even survive for whole year without access to food and water? Honestly, the whole story was miraculous- and such is the nature of many biblical stories. I will take the Occam’s razor to explain this. In that, the simple answer suffices. The whole story was an miraculous feat. HaShem preserved these creatures. Anyone who believes in a Being that created out of nothing in 6 days ought to have no difficulty accepting the story of Noah, the ark and the great flood.

-Noah sends out both raven and dove which represents activities of the evil spirits and the Holy Spirit respectively. If Noach was a type of Christ, does this mean haShem sends out evil spirits? Precisely, albeit many times indirectly as satan must obtain permission from EL on certain occasions and EL allows evil as HE deems fit. Isaiah the prophet wrote: “I AM the LORD, I create the light, and make darkness….I create both evil and good”. Was not the lying spirit in Ahab’s prophets not sent by Yahweh?

Next: Shadows of the Messiah in Genesis chapters 6.9 through 11. 32. Part 2 of 4

Shadows of the Messiah in Genesis chapters 6.9 through 11. 32. Part 2 of 4

#5. The first post flood Altar (=temple). The first ‘universal’ moral law: do not eat blood; do not murder another man (=no shedding innocent blood).

-Noah builds an altar and brings offerings “of every pure beast and of every pure bird” (of which he had been commanded to bring 7 of pure birds into the ark). It is purported that the site of this altar was also the site where Avraham almost offered Issac as Sacrifice at Mt. Moriah; and coincidentally, also the site of the physical of temple of Solomon was built in Jerusalem (the temple mount). Today, we, the collective global church, each individual believers are the temple of the Spirit, and our individual hearts as the altar of YHVH, and our lives as the sacrifice of sweet-smelling savor. Today, we do not seek to build physical altars, but Hashem seeks those who worship in spirit and in truth and whose hearts are pure towards HIM; and are as altars of a temple, HIS dwelling place.

-HaShem vows never to totally destroy all flesh by flood again. For as long as the earth remains, seed time and harvest, cold and heat, summer and winter, day and night shall not cease. YHVH blesses Noah and his sons that they “be fruitful and multiply and fill the earth” along with instructions on how to live morally and ethically. Man is allowed to kill animals and plants for food. Man is however forbidden to eat blood; for life is in the blood (Leviticus 17.11). It is interesting that in Genesis 1.29, man is instructed to eat plant, but no mention of meat. However as result of the fall, and post flood, now flesh (meat) is included in foods man can consume. Does this mean we were all created as vegetarians, and that eating meat was not the original intention just as man’s subjugation of woman was never the original intention but as direct consequence of the curse of the fall? It certainly appears we were meant to be vegetarians and not meat eaters. Why? Because in the millennial reign of Christ, we will return to vegetarianism as there will be no more destruction in HIS holy mountain and man will rest alongside ferocious beasts (Isa 11.6-9). But for now, meat is sanctioned and permitted by YHVH and in fact, 1 Tim 4 tells us that in the end days, some will be preaching return to vegetarianism as a form of spirituality and holiness, or as if eating meat is a grievous sin which of course is heresy; at least for now.

-Though it is allowed for man to kill other beasts for food, HaShem declares all human life is sacred, and taking of another life (shedding blood) in premeditated fashion is murder and punishable by death. And if a human court fails to punish the murderer, YHVH will establish justice. “At the hand of every man’s brother, will I demand the life of man. Who so sheds man’s blood by man shall his blood be shed; for in the image of G-d made He man.” This here tells us murder, or taking of another life is forbidden by the Divine universal law; that is, it is inherent in our conscience along with other universal laws of morality/ethics that even atheists and evolutionists are unable to explain away. To date there will never been a satisfactory answer to why humans evolved a conscience with a moral and ethical code of conduct. Just as Hashem asked in the garden, who told you were naked’? No one told Adam and Eve that they were naked, but they instinctively knew. In the same token ‘who told humans murder is wrong’? The simplest answer using the language familiar to this technologically advanced age, if humans were machines built by an engineer, moral and ethical conscience is a factory default setting. Pure and simple. The end. Now, some people have learnt to override and ignore this ‘default setting’, to their own eventual demise; nevertheless, that inbuilt programmed default setting is there.

#6. The first covenant established with Noach and signed (sealed) with a rainbow.

HaShem establishes covenant with Noah and every living creature and ‘all that came out of the ark . . . that never shall all flesh be cut off any more by the waters of the flood; neither shall there ever again be a flood to destroy the earth. . . . I have set My rainbow in the cloud, and it shall be a sign of a covenant between me and the earth. It shall come to pass, I will look upon it, that I may remember the everlasting covenant..” Here we see the first of covenants HaShem makes with man. HaShem is a covenant making (and keeping) Being; really, it’s a way of establishing a relationship with HIS creation; which HE did not have to do. HE is a relational being, and when YHVH makes a pact, HE often signs (seals) it. The giving of a rainbow is a sign for all mankind, both of good sign but also that of warning. First, rainbow serves as remembrance of the wickedness of man, the judgement of the flood, as well as the mercy, redeeming nature, sovereignty and the glory of YHVH (Ezekiel 1.28; Rev 4.3).

-The appearance of rainbows in the sky attests to Yahweh’s faithfulness in preserving a righteous remnant and in promise of rebuilding after destruction. And ultimately, the rainbow points to the atoning work of Christ on the cross, whom in HIS death and resurrection becomes a ‘new covenant’ sign in the heavenlies that HaShem will never destroy a soul who is redeemed in Christ. Yet, on the other hand, the rainbow serves to remind and to warn us that though Yahweh will never destroy earth again with water, yet HE would bring about destruction by scorching fire and brimstone both the earth and all living soul who do not believe in Christ; whom HE sent as sign of new covenant (2 Pet. 3-4).

#7. Noah, the first recorded drunk. The works of the flesh vs. the spirit. A word to “ministry” of exposing church corruption.

-Noah became ‘man of the earth’, plants a vineyard, becomes drunk of the wine of the vine and his carelessness exposes his unclothedness. Ham (in his perversion) sees his father’s unclothedness and calls on his brothers to join him look; but his brothers Shem and Japheth cover their father instead being careful not to look at their father’s unclothedness. Post flood, Noah quickly produces vineyards, symbolic of works of carnality (flesh). And the result? Noah gets drunk and exposes his unclothedness. Spiritually this warns us that works of flesh and of carnal mind will always lead astray by spirit of drunkenness which quickly leaves one vulnerable, exposes one’s unclothedness (vulnerabilities and weakness); which the enemy could quickly take advantage of as Ham did. Canaan’s, son of Ham is cursed by Noah. It’s interesting how Canaan became the thorn in the flesh for Hebrews, which was really YHVH exposing Isreal’s weakness and vulnerabilities when they deviated from HIS perfect laws (today laws of the Spirit). The prophets spoke of false prophets being as drunk in their vomit as they deceive and mislead the people. Paul and the apostles speak greatly about fleeing from works of flesh, and drunkenness but to be sober in the spirit to avoid being a victim of the adversary, the devil.

-What can we learn from this story? When you see your brethren’s shame and unclothedness or vulnerabilities exposed as a result of their own sins, assist in covering them not in further exposing or gloating over their shame and downfall lest you too incur the wrath (the curse) of EL and great misfortune come upon you. NO, I am not saying to not expose sins; however, it is in the spirit (the heart), the manner and frequency upon which such so called 'exposing falsehoods in the church' occur. Certainly, do not make a ministry out of exposing faults and sins of others. [/b]This is a key warning especially for those in so called ministries who specialize in exposing corruption in the church and her leaders. I understand that there’s a place for exposing sins, however, there is a way that seems right (exposing corruption and sin), yet the end is death and destruction. The end does not always justify the means. Ultimately, it is the heart that EL looks upon. [b]Don’t be like Ham who stared gleefully at his father’s shame and incurred a curse Some of these church critics, doctrinal watchdogs, and heresy hunters, especially those who find some type of sick twisted ‘fun’ in exposing church leaders who fall into disrepute etc. These sadistic characters, like Ham, are incurring the curse of Yahweh. I reckon if you closely examine their personal lives, they are living under some type of curses (which may manifest in various ways) and worse part of it, they do not realize the root of their problems- that they are under a divine curse.

#8. Noah’s blessings of the sons of Japheth and Shem; and the curse of children of Canaan. Yes, generational blessings and curses are real & biblical. However, generational curses need not apply to you individually with the power of choice

-Noah blesses his 2 sons, Shem and Japheth; but seems to pronounce ‘curse’ on Canaan, son of Ham. The order of birth: Japhet is oldest, Shem middle child and Cham the youngest. Shem means ‘name’; Japheth means expansion; and apparently ‘Ham’ means dark. Take a read at the blessings of Noah upon his 3 sons. Along with the names of Noah’s sons, the blessings of Noah were prophetic. Here me out. Could the blessings of Noach upon Shem and Japheth be prophetic and foreshadows of Yahweh’s covenant with Israel? Could this be why Shem was chosen as Avraham’s antecedent? And why sons of Japhet (Europeans) are currently dwelling in the land of Israel? . Clearly blessings are serious and effective through generations as are curses. But why were the descendants of Canaan cursed rather than Ham? As scripture interprets scripture, I suspect that this is the saying ‘The sins of the father visited on the son’ being carried out here. In the sense that, as Ham may have erred out of immaturity and likely repented, his very sins of perversion may be familial and passed down much like certain disease, mental illness, lifestyle issues (addiction, violence, divorce) can become generational. Yahweh then gives descendants chances to make different choices and not follow their antecedent’s footsteps. This implies generational blessings and curses are real, but they are not necessarily inevitable, especially if they are factors within one’s power of control and choices.. This is where the power of individual choice comes into play. Just because your familial pattern is to certain maladies does not mean you are powerless to stop it or follow an alternative path.

Next: Shadows of the Messiah in Genesis chapters 6.9 through 11. 32. Part 3 of 4

Shadows of the Messiah in Genesis chapters 6.9 through 11. 32. Part 3 of 4

*Key point: The concept of race is unscientifically verifiable and not biblically supported. The term race is a misnomer. What humans discriminate against should be appropriately termed skin colourism or ‘tonism’. External features (skin shade/tone especially) are really the root issue and the basis for so called classification of ‘races. Its hierarchical system meant to establish superior race vs inferior race. It’s demonic in origin and in nature.

#9. Noah’s blessings & curses upon the Semitic people (Arabs & Hebrews) & the European Jews. Kenan (Canaanites) was cursed, NOT Cush (Africans).

-The generations of Noah’s 3 sons are enumerated for a total of 70 (or 72 depending on source); founders of 70 (72) nations. In 9.26-27, Noah blesses Shem saying, ‘bless the EL of Shem’…and Japheth is enlarged and dwell in the tents of Shem’, and Ham their servants. Notice, Noah says ‘the Elohim of Shem’, later on Shem’s descendants (via Yitzchak) would be the ‘chosen’ people. It is implied; Shem is the chosen one in whom the ‘tent’ (of Yahweh) is given. This tent came to be the land of Canaan (and Jerusalem), which was given to Avraham and his descendants. Japheth was to be ‘enlarged and dwell in the tents of Shem’ (9.27). The question is: in what way did the children of Japheth ‘dwell in the tents of Shem’? Could this be interpreted as saying, Japheth shares in with Shem’s inheritance in the land of Canaan? Was it saying that Japheth will dwell with Shem in the land of Canaan? I have no doubt that historically, the descendants of Japheth lived in the land of Israel. And ample biblical passages show that when ethnic Israel was expelled from the land for disobedience, certain other non-Israelite groups occupied the area; and assimilated with Israelite worship of Yahweh albeit syncretistic (2 Kings 17).

-What if this is true today and why current inhabitants of Israel are mostly of European Jews (sons of Japheth who converted to Judaism) . Numerous historical (& biblical evidence) has shown that the current dwellers in Israel are sons of Japhet who converted to Judaism. Could this be the prophecies of Noah in play? I think so. Additionally, Noah’s prophecy could also explain why sons of Japhet, whose name means ‘expansion’, the father of Europeans had/have long history of being ‘expansionists’; in their pillaging, enslaving, dominating and overly territorial group of people; which is evident in their exploitative and hostile takeovers of various territorial lands, and most egregiously seen in history of slavery; especially of Africans and Native Americans/indigenous and aboriginal peoples.

-What of the curse on Kenan’s descendants (of Ham). It was said that Kenan, son of Ham, shall be servants to both sons of Shem and Japhet. Ham’s name supposedly means ‘dark’ and could explain his perverse behavior; but also, may imply that he was the ancestor of darker skin people groups. Ham fathered Cush (Babylonians, Ethiopians), Kenan (Canaanites), Mizrahim (Egyptians, Philistines), Phut (Libyans). The curse of Noah was upon Kenan (Canaanites) not Cush (Ethiopians/Africans), thus it should not have been used to justify the African slave trade. Canaanites were next door neighbors of ancient Israelites whose land Yahweh gave to Israelite. The curse of Canaan was the root cause of the animosity that existed between the Hebrews and Canaanites. When Israelites conquered the land of Canaan, they subjected the remnant Canaanites to servanthood (read the book of Joshua)- this was the fulfilment of Noah’s curse upon Kenan. The Canaanites would only rebel and become thorns when Israelites disobeyed Yahweh, as Yahweh allows Canaanites to be as ‘thorn in the Hebrews sides.

-Since Yahweh buries deeper revelatory knowledge and spiritual implications in these biblical events and stories, we are to extract a deeper truth in them. That is, prophetically, the inclusion of Japhet in the tents of Shem foreshadowed Yeshua’s inclusion of gentiles into the promise and inheritance of Israel (Shem). So, then while Japhet spiritually represents gentiles; Canaanites (Ham) spiritually represents unbelievers, apostate believers and all unrepentant sinners. This is the highest and purest form of spiritual truth we can extract from this story: the inclusion of gentiles into the commonwealth (tents) of Israel (Shem).

#10. There’s only ONE human origin. Genes + Environment = Physical features. The idea of different races is unscriptural and unscientific.

-Biblically, there is only ONE race: Human. Yahweh made ALL man from the same (one) content- dust of earth. Earth is brown in colour. Pre flood, all groups of humans arose from just 2 people- Adam & Eve. Post flood, all human groups arose from Noah’s 3 sons: Ham, Shem and Japhet. Race is a social construct, not scriptural and there is no scientific evidence for ‘race’. What bible affirms is ethnos (ethnicities, nationalities and languages). Biologically (genetically), all humans and people groups share 99.999% genetic content testifying to biblical creation account of being made from the same dust of earth, and from same 2 people. Even the 0.1% difference is what generates the physical characteristics that we see amongst people groups as a Racial categorization as we today are not a biblically derived concept. The shocking thing is that there is more variation in gene pool between same group of people (Africans) than there are between An African vs European. Race is a social construct entirely designed to divide and separate people; whereby certain groups view themselves at the top and superior to others.

-The phenotypical (physical) differences that we see today in various groups of people are due to environmental impact and natural selection of genotypes (genetic pool). It’s called Natural Selection. In other words, the environmental conditions interact with genes to naturally select and favour certain genes, which in turn enable certain individuals to survive in the terrain. For example: after the flood and the scattering of the tower of babel, the groups of people who migrated downwards below the equator had to survive the harsh sun. The sun enabled production of more melanin (which turned them dark) which in turn enabled them to survive that extreme sun environment. The same applies to hair texture. The people group that migrated towards the north where there was less sun, did not need melanin and so the genes to produce melanin were repressed and passed down. The same applies to other physical features seen Europeans vs Asians vs Africans vs other less common people groups. The genetic changes produced by the environment became permanent over thousands of years and are thus propagated to progenitors and thus inherited by subsequent generations. This same principle applies in gene mutations and certain genetic diseases that are inherited.

#11 Adam & Eve were brown toned. Differences in skin tones = different shades of the SAME natural brown colour spectrum. No such thing as racism, it is colourism.

- Thus, Adam and Eve were brown people with mixed physical features that blended into the various people groups. In other words, Adam & Eve were brown (not dark, not light), with hair not too straight, not wooly; and nose not elevated, not depressed. Adam & Eve’s genetic pool had to contain all the necessary information needed to give rise to various phenotypes (physical features) seen in people groups. Skin colour is due to melanin (brown) pigment that ALL humans have. The varying degrees of shades of brown (skin tones), the various spectrum of skin tones we see are based on the quantity of melanin producing cells one has, which is determined by genetics. So, the darker your skin tone, the more melanin you have; the lighter your skin tone, the less melanin you have. ALL humans are people of colour (same colour brown). Adam & Eve were brown people (NOT fair and not dark); they had to be to produce offsprings of varying shades.

- When people say racism, they mean ‘colorism’ because that’s really what’s all about- skin tone. Discrimination and prejudice are based on mere external skin tone. Yes, skin tone, not skin colour. All humans are all different shades of the same colour brown. Calling all those with superiority complex based on your physical features, you are dirt/mud too and should be naturally brown if you were to get more sun. When Christians buy into this ‘race’ based categorization, they in effect are rejecting Yahweh’s creation and buying into satan’s divisiveness and lies. Affirming ‘race’ and ‘racism’, you are also supporting the satanic idea of hierarchy in human evolution; and that certain people are superior. Feeling superior and wanting to dominate and control others is an attribute of satan; It is what got him expelled from heaven. All man is created equally and viewed equally by the Creator with no preference to any one’s physical characteristics.

-Unfortunately, the church has done more in promoting discrimination based on skin tone than even in the secular world. Or at least, they have followed the worldly pattern and have done less to ameliorate discrimination and prejudice. The evidence is found in churches of America. It is once said, Sunday is the most segregated time of the week. It is quite sad because the Kingdom of Yahweh will most likely retain its physical diversity assortments we see today. the afterlife will include diversity; and most likely we will retain our diversity in the kingdom of Yahweh. And so will kingdom of Satan retain and have diversity. It is high time Anglo-Saxon Americans (and Europeans) start accepting and celebrating diversity of human nature. Worship the LORD as One of diversity; it is HIS handiwork. Colorism is of the devil and it’s despising Yahweh’s diverse nature and hating those created in HIS image. You cannot love Yahweh whom you have not met when you hate your fellow man for their physical differences. No one who hates will enter the kingdom of Yahweh. However, the hater will still end up in a diverse hell.

Next: Shadows of the Messiah in Genesis chapters 6.9 through 11. 32. Part 4 of 4

Shadows of the Messiah in Genesis chapters 6.9 through 11. 32. Part 4 of 4

#12. The tower of babel: the start of rebellious anti-god spirit. Tower of Babel dispersion: the beginning of diversity of peoples and languages.

-And the people said, let us build a city, a tower to reach heaven; and we shall make a name for ourselves (11.4). HaShem does not approve and scatters them into 72 different geographical areas around the globe. Why was this idea to build a tower so heinous to EL that HE would not only destroy but confuse and scatter the people? The answer is in the phrase let us build & make a name for ourselves’. It was a direct afront and rebellion towards the Creator. It was like saying, ‘we can do better than the Almighty creator and we can reach heaven and plant our flags there and claim to be god’. This idea of building a name was akin to wanting to ascend to become like god; and thus, the very same thing Lucifer that got him ejected from heaven (Isaiah 14). The people were inspired by the antichrist spirit, the spirit of pride, arrogance, rebellion towards Yahweh. The same antichrist spirit is still powerfully active and animating many today even more so within the church. And today, humans are still striving to reach heaven and make a name for themselves. Man has succeeded in defying gravity and reaching moon as haShem allowed. There are other feats that humans have not been able to accomplish as haShem has denied them access and ability. For one, no one has created life de novo ex nihilo (new and out of nothing). Some innovations have benefited man; others have harmed man greatly.

-Notice that when humans spoke one language (11.1), they were united and powerful. They could accomplish much. The scattering led to disunity seen today in both personal, interpersonal conflicts, even wars between nations. As a result of the dispersion, various Languages and diversity resulted, but so did confusion lead to misunderstandings & disagreements, and inevitably strife and wars. We celebrate the diversity and richness of various cultures and languages, yet clearly diversity of language and its associated complexities in human interactions was a result of punishment from EL. We see the fallout today in interpersonal miscommunication; as they say most human related disasters, conflicts even deadly ones can be attributed to some form of miscommunication. This is even evident in Christianity with its many divisions and denominations and sects. Yet in Christ, we are admonished to exercise love and the bond of unity and to live in peace as far as it depends on us (Eph. 4.3; Rom 12.18). Interestingly, Babel (Shinar) also known as Babylon means confusion. How apt. Confusion abounds in every Babylonian style churches today; and where there is confusion, there every evil work and haShem does not about in confusion (James 3.16; 1 Cor 14.13).

-The implications of the dispersion and scattering of man into various geographical regions of the world would explain how various physical characteristics developed that marks the physical differences in humans- the so wrongly called ‘races’ which is a thoroughly social construct. Biologically, all humans are closely related and express less than 1% appreciable differences. Race and all racial categories are a product of social hierarchical system of man NOT based on actual science and not biblically supported. All man descended from Adam & Eve, and from sons of Noah. This divine dispersion and scattering were reversed by the Spirit of Yahweh in the day of Pentecost as men of different languages heard and understood the disciples speaking in their native tongues. And many souls were gathered into the kingdom. Hallelujah. In the Tower of Babel (false antichrist kingdom), people were scattered with many languages. In the day of Pentecost, men of different tongues were gathered in the Kingdom of Yahweh. Amen. In the Messianic era, Yeshua will gather HIS people once again to reign with HIM in HIS earthly kingdom. Amen. The destruction of tower of babel foreshadows the end of world destruction of all humanistic systems opposing Christ and HIS kingdom.

#13. Nimrod, founder of city of Babylon: the first archetype, prototype and shadow of antichrist spirit and system.

-If the Messiah is foreshadowed; the most logical deduction is that anti-Messiah is also foreshadowed. Scripture from Genesis is replete with Messiah types and shadows. While Yeshua is the main character and the protagonist in Scripture. We know every good film plot has both the protagonist and villain (s) side by side. Thus, whenever a Messianic type is apparent in scripture, we must look for the anti-Messiah type right next. Abel was a Messiah type; Cain was anti-Messiah. Pre flood, Noah was also the Messiah type. Post-flood, we are introduced to Nimrod, the anti-Messiah type. Nimrod is first son of Cush, descendant of Ham, a mighty hunter. His name means ‘let us rebel’. Nimrod becomes the founder of the primitive ancient city of ‘Babylon’, the first recorded man’s attempt at civilization. Yep, the same city in the book of Revelation that returns in both spiritual sense and the powerhouse of antichrist in the last days. In fact, the spirit of Nimrod’s Babylon is alive and active today. The ancient city of Babylon was the first of ancient civilizations and paved the way for innovations to come. When the scattering occurred, Nimrod and his clan migrated north to Assyria and built up the city.

-Assyria, along with the Canaanites became the enemy to the Hebrews. Wow. Right here then we are being introduced to the first antichrist spirit working in the sons of man; setting itself up first against the Almighty and HIS chosen (2 Thes 2.3-4). Both Nimrod and the ancient city of Babylon is a type and shadow of antichrist system that existed thru scripture. The same city that took Hebrew captive which began the time of the gentiles. The same physical city of Babylon met its destruction as prophet Jeremiah prophesied. However, while the city of Babylon fell, its ultimate destruction is for the latter end of days. In the book of Revelation, it is clear Babylon will be alive and active in the world (and is now to some extent). But rather than just the actual physical city, the now Babylon and the Babylon that will coalesce in the end times will also be spiritual; of an antichrist spirit that will be satanic opposition of the nature of Christ; who will also meet its final fall and destruction at the 2nd coming of Christ. This time though, as Yeshua destroys and scatters antichrist and his kingdom, Yeshua will be re-gathering believers together in HIS kingdom in unity- a reversal of what occurred in the Tower of Babel incident.

#14. The genealogy of the Hebrews. From Seth to Shem to Terah; from Terah to Avraham.

-Chapter 11.10, gives Hebrew’s lineage from Adam thru Seth: Adam-> Seth-- Noah->Shem—Arphachshad--Shelach---Ever (+Peleg)—Nacho--Terach->Avram (+ Nahor & Haran). Haran’s children: Sarai, Lot, Milcah. Avraham marries niece Sarai. Shelach fathers Ever. The Hebrews are named after the patriarch Ever (of line of Seth and Shem). Hebrews is anglicized form of the word ‘Ivri’ which means ‘from the other side’. Ever fathers Peleg & Yoktan. Peleg means division for it is in his days that the earth was divided which according to the book of Jasher, was thought to occur when the tower of Babel was destroyed with subsequent dispersion and division of humanity into nations. Could this ‘division’ also explain the continental tectonic plate shifts that resulted in 7 different ‘continents? Science claims earth was once united in a single continental state known as ‘Pangea’ before tectonic plates shifted/broke up into 7 different continents. Most likely, the division in the days of P

-Peleg was when the continental drift occurred, that led to separation of people into regions of the world. Certainly, it seems when Eber gave birth to 2 sons (Joktan and Peleg), those 2 sons marked a prophetic timeline and a shift in the division of groups of people into nations separated by continental divide. But even more so, this division resulted in more than mere physical divide but spiritual divide. Joktan with his 10 sons diverged both spiritually and physically from Peleg. While Joktan and his 10 sons (nations) followed other gods; Peleg was chosen to become the forefather of the Hebrews (the worshippers of Yahweh-the One True Elohim).

-Nachor was the father of Terach. Terah had three sons: Haran the oldest, Nachor and Avram the youngest. Haran fathers Lot, Sarah and Milcah. Haran dies in Ur before the Terach departed from Ur of Kasdim with Haran’s surviving children Sarai, Milcah and Lot. Haran has a son, Lot, and two daughters: Milkah, who becomes the wife of her uncle Nachor, and Sarai (also called Yiskah), who also wed a younger brother of her father’s, Abraham. From Adam to Noach is 9 generations; to Ever is 13 generations; to Avraham is 19 generations. Also, Shem’s lineage was fewest in number compared to Japheth and Cham’s descendants. The 7 nations of Canaanites (Kena’an) that Israel conquered were sons of Cham. Philistines from Mitzrayim (from Ham’s (grand) son). Apparently, Cush gave rise to the Ethiopians; Phut became Libya and Mitzrayim to the nation of Egypt, and the Philistines. Amaleks came from Eliphaz; Eliphaz must have been one of the sons of Esev or one of 6 sons of Avraham’s concubine. Sons of Esev became the Edomites and dwelt in Mt. Seir, ruled by monarch before Israel).

#15. Avraham prophesied of greatness threatens Nimrod’s kingdom. Terah flees with his family from Nimrod to avoid Avraham being killed.

-In 11.31, we read of Terach leaving Ur of Kasdim with his family: Avraham, Lot, Sarah and Milcah. There is an interesting back story that explains why Terach left with his family towards land of Canaan that scripture does not elaborate on. According to deuterocanonical books, when the child Avraham was born, he was prophesied to be a great child of a great nation. Nimrod being the dominant power at the time was threatened just as Pharaoh was threatened by Moses birth, and Herod by Christ’s birth. This is the same murdering antichrist spirit working still right from the start. Upon this present danger of Nimrod’s wrath, Terah takes his family (Avraham, Sarai, Lot and his sons) and fled from Nimrod in the land of Ur of Kasdim (Babylon) to Haran towards the land of Canaan (11.31). At Haran, Terach, Abraham’s father dies at the age of 205. At some point in time, HaShem instructs Avraham to head towards land of Canaan (Chapter 12).

-Notice the rapid decline of life span post flood. Shem lived to 600 years, meanwhile Terach died at 205 years. The curse of the fall, and of post flood changes in both physical world and the biological systems accelerated the aging process. Note, since ancient Hebrew only recognizes father, son and daughter relationship, several chapters later, Avraham calls Sarah his sister; and they were truly sisters and brother since they both share same (grand) father Terach. Also, Yitzchak calls Rachel’s sister; and they truly are as they shared same grandfather Terach. Going by same principle, then we are all brethren from Adam and Eve.

#16. A note on the genealogy of the Hebrews & the genealogy of the Messiah. The divinity and the humanity of Yeshua.


-Scripture focuses on the genealogy of the Hebrews via Avraham because through his seed, the nations will be blessed. Well, that seed through whom the world will be blessed was ultimately fulfilled in Yeshua. Some people want to idolize the ethnic Israel (or rather the inhabitants of current land of Israel) as being the blessing or think the blessing spoken of is material. No, the blessing is spiritual and fulfilled in Christ. For as far as Yahweh is concerned, the true Israel are those by faith and by circumcision of the heart. There are some demonic doctrines that deny the divinity of Christ pointing to Yeshua having been born of Humans and with human lineage. However, many prophetic writings, the book of John and many other apostolic writings make it quite clear that Yeshua is 100% divine. Neither Joseph nor Mary contributed their genetic content in making the Messiah as human embryo in utero. HE was not born of flesh, nor by human agent but of the will of the LORD; and is the incarnate of the invisible Yahweh says John & Paul; Yahweh with us was what prophet Isaiah wrote.

-Why then the extensive human lineage? Yeshua was given a human lineage (beginning with Seth, son of Adam) for the sake of HIS Messianic kingship on earth via Seth, Shem and Avraham and David. Truly, if Yahweh were to walk upon the earth as a human, HE had to come in a human vessel, and with human history. Yeshua was given a human narrative when HaShem picked Seth, Shem and Avraham……. Then king David, and down to Mary and Joseph, who were just respectively the incubator and caretaker of the Divine in human form. Yeshua was 100% Divine Spirit in 100% human vessel (form). It's comparable to when scripture speaks of Yahweh's eyes, ears, heart or arms. Yet we know, Yahweh is a Spirit and has no physical bodies to speak of; but the anthropomorphic (human) characteristics is just metaphor to indicate that Yahweh that speaks, hears, feels and works. In fact, humans are spirits first encased in a physical body. The spiritual realm is far more real and critical than the natural physical world we behold with our natural senses. We are spiritual beings in physical bodies. When one dies, the body returns to dust and the spirit remains eternal- either in the kingdom of Yahweh or in the everlasting torment in the place established for satan and his angels.

Next: Genesis chapters 1 thru 10 summary, lessons and Q/A’s.

Shadows of the Messiah in Genesis chapters 6.9 through 11. 32.

# Summary: The creation, the great flood & the tower of babel.

Yahweh speaks the world into existence ex-nihilo (out of nothing) within six days and rests on the seventh. Adam and Eve are fashioned on day number six, housed in the Garden of Eden, but they sin by eating of the tree of knowledge of good and evil; they are expelled from the garden. Adam & Eve birth to 2 sons: Cain and Abel. Cain kills his younger brother Abel. Ten generations later, Yahweh deems the created world too corrupt and wicked; and sends a great flood to destroy all living things. But first, Noah, the only righteous individual in his time, is commanded to build an ark to save himself, his family and a pair of each species of animal. The great flood comes and destroys all save for Noah and his family and a pair of each creature. After the flood, Noah’s descendants repopulated and rebuilt. Soon, humans decide to build a tower to reach heaven. Hashem knocks down the tower of Babel and sends confusion by causing them to speak different languages. Humans could no longer understand each other, thus dispersing in various geographical locations.

# Key lessons: wickedness of man precipitates judgement (justice) of Yahweh; restoration proceeds judgement.

-The story of Noah’s ark and the judgement of the great flood; the event of the tower of babel are key imperative lessons for us concerning the truth of YHVH that is still applicable today. The first spiritual principle is that with every increase in evil, rebellion & wickedness, judgement must follow. This is the spiritual principle inherent in spiritual law that governs the universe. It is the balancing act of mercy & judgement of Yahweh; are 2 sides of same coin and the foundations of HIS throne (Jer. 9.23-24; Psalm 89.14). It is critical that believers understand this: Yahweh’s mercy, righteousness and long suffering eventually reaches certain threshold limit after which judgment must occur, which is necessary to maintain balance, correct course, recalibrate and reestablish spiritual order. The second principle being that HaShem almost always warns before issuing judgement. This is where apostles and prophets or those with keen spiritual discernment whose senses have been trained to discern what the LORD is doing and saying in the events of history.

-The problem that Christians have today is twofold: 1. Unable to distinguish or discern true prophetic voices sending out authentic warning. 2. Confusion in the cacophony of so-called false prophetic voices, which drowns out the true prophets. This is where satan sows massive tares in confusion, falsehoods, divisions, derailing, deceiving and destroying lives. Question remains, will humanity recognize the warning of Yahweh in the events of our times and how will we respond? Mind you, the unbelievers may not see these signs and warnings, thus, it is up to believers to discern certain events as signs, warnings of sorts and respond accordingly. Judgement upon a nation is almost always first directed to the believers in those nations. HaShem holds Christians responsible first. Judgement must thus begin with those who call themselves believers; those called to be preserving the salt of the world, and light unto darkness. What happens when the light becomes dark? It must then be judged with the rest in the darkness. Paul says it clearly in 1 Corinthians 11 when he admonished the church at Corinth to mind their ways, else they too will be condemned in the judgment of the LORD.

- The third spiritual principle at play in the genesis account of the flood and the tower of babel is that after EL must tears down, uproots and destroy, HE always leaves a remnant and rebuilds, restores, and replants. This is the summary of the spiritual laws governing the universe: first come wickedness reaching threshold, then comes judgement and destruction, then comes restoration and repair. We see this concept repeatedly in scripture; and we thus expect to see this principle operating in our days and times in various ways; and will continue to see this pattern until the final destruction and restoration. Not all acts of natural disasters we random acts of nature. Hashem controls nature, ALL natural disasters are a message in of itself.

-At last, in this age of heightened ethnic tensions, violence and hate filled rhetorics, it is important to highlight humanity’s common origin from 2 peoples created from dust of earth; dust/mud/earth is reddish brown; this is corroborated by science which shows all humans carry a brown pigment called Melanin, which gives humans its brownish colour. Therefore, all men are genetically brown in color. The various shades seen across spectrum from very pale skin to very dark skin are varying shades of the same brown color spectrum depending on the quantity of the Melanin pigment that genetic imbues you. Light skin people have few melanocytes (cell that makes Melanin pigment) and dark skin people have more melanocytes. The variations seen in phenotypes (physical features) are due to natural selection: an interplay between genetics and environment. This phenotypical allotment was made possible in the event of the scattering of the tower of babel, when people groups were scattered to various regions of the world (environment) giving rise to varieties of physical features, as well as language diversities.


# Question & Answer: Noah’s flood, diversity of man & Avraham’s call.

-Yahweh could have miraculously protected Noah and family somehow, why then did HE instruct Noah to spend over 100 years building an ark? It’s basically EL giving the people 100+ years to repent before the judgment. Same way HE sent prophets to warn Israel for hundreds of years before their final dispersion. It is evident in the book of prophets that EL is known to instruct prophets to act out their message, so that Noah building an ark was a message to his generation. It’s such that in 120 years of building an ark for a coming great flood, people would ask him, “Why are you doing this?” and Noah would take the opportunity to tell them that EL is bringing a flood upon the world. Perhaps, this would cause them to repent. In the same token, there’s a coming final judgement by fire, EL has being sending warning of repentance and the message of the gospel for couple of thousand years now, yet without much repentance occurring.

-Why didn’t Noah intercede to Hashem to spare mankind as Moses & subsequent prophets had done on behalf of Israel? There comes a time when sentence of judgment is determined, and no amount of intercession will avert judgement. This is evident in the scripture. After hundreds of years of sending prophets with message of warning and repentance, Israel was destroyed eventually and dispersed. In the same way, the judgment to come will not be averted indefinitely. HaShem may grant repentance here and there, a little while and for a while, but HE does eventually bring about utter destruction. In other words, Noah’s generation was close to 120 years, and they didn’t change, thus, the great flood was inevitable. Who knows, perhaps the great flood could have occurred sooner but EL delayed for over 100 years. It is a lesson for us today. Judgement cannot be forever averted and that the mercy of EL must meet judgement of EL as its balance.

-How is it that 100 to 120 years of preaching repentance and warning of incoming flood, not one single person other than Noah’s family repented and was saved? That indeed is the million-dollar question. And I don’t have a long retort for this one. It’s a baffling enigma. But then, in a way, it isn’t so shocking especially when you compare Noah’s population to today’s population. When you do math, it most likely comes out to be the same probability. That is given that in Noah’s time, the population was much less (600,000 people, less than a million) than today’s 8 billion souls. Consider that if today’s population is 8 billion ( vs half a million in Noah’s time), the ratio comes out to be not radically greater than Noah’s time. In other words, if global catastrophic judgement were to occur and EL were to spare some, it would be a shockingly small number of people (same statistical ratio) comparable to Noah’s days when only 7 people were spared in a population of half a million. Think about it. So, no, it’s so shocking that only 7 people were saved in Noah’s days of a mere half a million people.

-Even if Adam & Eve’s skin colour were brown, how is it possible they can give rise to very light skin people and very dark skin people? Simple. Let’s consider using a genetic tool called Punnett square to simplify things. This analogy is comparable to how blood types are determined genetically. So, If AB is gene coding for brown skin, then Adam is AB and Eve is AB. So, how does 2 brown skin people give rise to a light skin and a dark skin. This is how: if you cross AB and AB (or mathematically multiply AB * AB), you will get 4 outcomes with 3 different combinations: AA, AB, AB, BB. If AB is brown, then AA is very light skin; BB is very dark skin. This means, Adam and Eve would produce 4 children with 3 different kinds of shades of skin colour: 1 child would be AA = light skin; 2 children would be AB = brown skin; 1 child would be dark skin. This same genetic principle/law governs virtually other human features such as gender, blood types, height, eye color, and various inherited genetic diseases.

-What was the first lingua franca (common language) spoken by the first humans before scattering? Archeological references and ancient writings point to Aramean or Syriac as the first language spoken in the creation of the world. Though Hebrew can be thought of as later derivative of Aramean and share many commonalities, Hebrew is not the first spoken language as the Hebrews as a people did not come about until the covenant with Abraham, even until to Yaakov were the Israelites then became known properly as Hebrews. Hebrews is derived from "Ivrim" meaning "called out". Avraham was "called out" of his family on the side of the flood (post flood). All believers today in Christ are Hebrews (called out of heathen world).

-So then the tower of babel shows humans began with 72 nations and languages which then evolved into many thousands today? Affirmatively, even scientists show that up to today even established languages are constantly evolving and developing. Subset of humans’ form and establish their own communication, words, culture etc., which eventually either is incorporated or is lost. Yes, languages can become extinct if its people either go extinct or by allowing it. For instance, today, though Latin is pervasive and the root in many languages, it is all too often considered archaic and even dead language.

-Was Avraham called out of Ur of Kasdim before Terach departed from Ur with his family including Avraham? It seems at first, Terach embarked on a journey towards the land of Canaan with his family, but en route settled in Haran rather (11.31). However, as we shall read in chapter 12, while in Haran, YHVH calls out Avraham from Terach (his father) towards a land to be inherited by his descendants, the land of Canaan. It was then that Lot followed Avraham before they separated at some point in the journey. Lot went towards Sodom and Gomorrah and Avraham stayed on the path towards the land of Canaan.

Next on Shadows of the Messiah: Genesis chapters 12.1 to 17.27.

On the series, Shadows of the Messiah in the Torah. Genesis chapters 12.1 to 17.27. Part 1 of 2.

To re-orient, it’s been circa 2000 BCE years of human history since the creation (Genesis 1-6) to great flood, Noach & his sons (Genesis 6-11).

Today’s Parshah (portion) of Torah reading is termed ‘Lech Lecha’, meaning ‘go forth’ in Hebrew (Gen. 12.1).

# Avraham = a type of Christ. Nimrod = a type of Anti-Christ. Nimrod seeks to slay Avraham; Terach flees with his family to Haran.

- Though the scripture does not elaborate on the back story, reputable extrabiblical sources shed some light and insight as to why Terach fled with his family from Babylon. Nimrod, the mighty hunter, the king of the Mesopotamia world, learns about the destiny of Avraham from his soothsayers, that he is to be of a great nation. Nimrod is threatened and sought to exterminate Avraham’s life, just as Pharaoh sought to slay child Moses; and Herod sought to kill child Christ. However, Avraham’s brother Haran (Lot’s father) is mistakenly killed by Nimrod. Terach afraid, took the rest of his family and fled towards city of Haran.

-After they settle in Haran, Hashem calls out Avraham to leave his father Terach; and to a land to be given to his own descendants. The same patterns of greatness threatening established antichrist systems have repeated through history. The prophets of old were threats to the corrupt leaders of ancient Israel. Yeshua’s death was by the Jewish religious leaders who were threatened by Christ and HIS teachings. Many prophets and apostles’ have suffered martyrdom because of this. The same repeats today in various ways. In short, anyone who lives a godly righteous life and preaches against the popular trend, the mainstream institutionalized systems, be it religious or political, should expect to be a threat to the kingdom of darkness. Going against the established norm and culture, swimming against the tide of the current carries great risk, takes courage and incurs the wrath of those who benefit from that corrupt system. If that is you, rejoice, you are among the company of great ones; and the LORD shall reward.

# Avraham is ‘called out’ (=Ivirim = Hebrew). The promise of land of Canaan. Avraham’s first journey to Egypt for food foretells same for Israelites.

-At age 75, EL reveals HIMSELF to Avraham and calls him to leave his father and “go from your land” to the land of Canaan, promised to his seed. Contrary to popular misconception, Avraham was technically not a Jew; but he was the first Hebrew proper. The word Hebrew is “Ivrim” and means ‘called out’; and is said to have originated from Ever (Eber, of the 2 sons of Shet, when the ‘earth’ divided into two). Avraham himself was a sojourner who moved from tent to tent; and wherever he pitched tent, he also dedicated an altar of worship to Yahweh displaying his steadfastness, devotion to YHVH. Avraham’s 1st altar to YHVH was at Shechem, Canaan; and he built 3 more altars in the surrounding areas where he settled.

# Famine ensues in Canaan and Avraham and Sarah journeys down to Egypt for subsistence, foreshadowing Israelites own time in Egypt.

-After some time, famine ensues, and Avraham and Sarah leaves for Egypt in search of food. In Egypt, Pharaoh takes in Sarah not knowing she is Avraham’s wife. But EL sends plagues after Pharaoh and he releases Sarah and pleads that both depart Egypt along with gifts from Pharaoh. So, Avraham and Sarah leaves Egypt wealthy having many livestock and servants, and golds and silver. This whole event in Egypt proves to be prophetic of sorts because 250+ years later, Avram’s descendants (Yaakov and the 12 Patriarchs) would journey down to Egypt once again due to famine. . HaShem would also send plague against Egypt as HE did here when the Egyptian Pharaoh took Sarai. What we learn here is that haShem works in patterns, types and shadows. Truly “what is, what will be, already has been; EL visits the past” as Proverb tells us. Avraham seem to have known that Egyptians would want his wife; they must have been notoriously known for this. So out of fear both agree to call Sara his sister rather. Later, the same thing repeats with Yitzchak calling Revkah sister, which indeed they were as they all shared same (grand) father, Terach.

# What made Avraham so special to be called out by YHVH? Why did YHVH choose him out of many people?

Extrabiblical sources write that in the time of Nimrod & Avraham, there was rampant idolatry and polytheism. But for some very special and odd reason, Abraham was the only one who innately recognized that there must be just ONE supreme deity. All the different conflicting gods couldn’t possibly be all correct. And that there’s one supreme being who created all. Avraham wondered why people were worship images of gods made of wood and metals and works of man’s hand (Joshua 24.2). And he diligently inquired and sought for to know this ONE Elohim. Out of many people of the time, Avraham was the only one who actively sought out for the truth. This he did for many years presumably until one day, YHVH revealed HIMSELF as the One and True Elohim, the one who stretched out heavens and formed the earth; and the giver of life and the spirit of man. What made Avraham stand out? Avraham not only believed in a Deity he had not known, but he feared that unapproachable Elohim. Even without direct evidence, ye he went about teaching monotheism and challenging his people that there’s only ONE true Elohim though he could not prove it by personal revelation.

# In the new covenant, the Ekklesia is the ‘called out’ ones out of Babylonian heathenism (=most churches today).

Today, YHVH is still calling out HIS chosen ones, the elect and the remnant out of the worldly church and religious systems. There is huge significance of Avraham’s calling out from his ‘eretz’ (land) into unknown uncharted territory. In Hebrews, the word ‘eretz’ is etymologically linked to ‘ratzon’, the Hebrew word for ‘will’. The ‘will’ here indicates more than just one’s birthplace, but the sum of a person’s physical, emotional and spiritual identity. Today, HaShem is still calling people out of the Babylon of mainstream Churchianity to come away to another ‘eretz’; leaving your church identity and pet doctrines that you grew up with; your comfort zone into another ‘eretz’, a place of flowing with milk and honey, of HIS presence and delight. The story of Avraham finding the ONE true Elohim amid nation of polytheism teaches that truly when an individual genuinely seeks after HaShem, HE will be found for HE is not too far from each of us (Acts 17.27). The problem is that most people choose their ignorance, cling on to man’s traditions and pet doctrines; preferring their blindness and darkness; they’d rather not know the light, because it convicts and challenges. Most people hate the light of truth lest their works of darkness and delusional beliefs be exposed (John 3.20).

# The blessings of Avraham were fulfilled in the Messiah Yeshua. In Yeshua, gentiles are partakers of blessings of Avraham.

-El says to Avraham, “I will make you a great nation; and make your name great. I will bless those who bless you and curse those who curse you. In your seed will all the families of the earth be blessed. To your descendants I will give this land”. In the seed of Avraham is the Messiah of the entire world. This is what was meant by EL, in you shall the nations be blessed’. Avraham is chosen to bear the lineage of Messiah 3000+ years before the Messiah came on earth. These promises are given to Avraham in Genesis 12 and his seed and nations are fulfilled in the Messiah (Gal. 3. 8,16, 29; 2 Cor. 1.2; Romans 15.8, 29). The blessings of Avraham extended to gentiles for In Christ, even gentiles are children of Avraham by faith and by circumcision of heart. They are Jews in the spirit. (Gal 3.14, Rom 4.12). In ancient times, Avraham and the patriarchs were blessed materially above all nations of the earth; and HaShem fought their battels early in the nation’s history. Today in Christ, the blessings of Avraham are more spiritual than materials. We are blessed in Christ, and we in turn bless others who hate and persecute us. We are no longer warring in the natural, but in the spiritual as our enemies aren’t flesh and blood but powers in high places.

Avraham and Lot part ways. Lot heads to Sodom & Gomorrah. The War of the 5 kings- a prophetic foreshadow of the antichrist, great tribulation and the war final war of Armageddon. Lot + his 2 daughters give rise to 2 nations (Moab and Ammon).

-At first, Lot travels with Avraham until they both became enlarged with substance and space becomes too tight. Lot having had a righteous way to him (1 Peter 2.7-8 looks with natural eyes towards a fertile region in Sodom and Gomorrah even knowing what wicked and depraved people lived there. Later, we learn that Sodom and Gomorrah is destroyed. The 2 daughters of Lot sleeps with their father to give rise to 2 sons, who become 2 nations (Ammon and Moab). These 2 nations later become persistent rivals and foes of Israelites.

-A regional war ensues in the land of Canaan and of the regions of Sodom and Gomorrah were Lot and his family were encamped. Extrabiblical sources purported that about 25 years before Avraham settled in Canaan, an alliance of four kings captained by Chedorlaomer, the king of Eilam conquered five cities of the Sodom region. After twelve years of being under subjugation and paying tribute, the 5 cities rebelled until Chedorlaomer, and his allies decided to squelch the rebellion years later. The four kings led by Chedorlaomer with their armies marched to the Sodom Valley defeating several kings and they took captives. Among the captives was Lot, Avraham’s nephew. When Abram hears he gathers hundreds of his servants after them and recovers all the property, also his kinsman, Lot, and the women and the people.

-This story foreshadows several biblical themes. It portrays Israelite’s fight to conquer and possess Canaan, and even the endless battle to defend the land after their conquest of Canaan. In the new covenant, it portrays the antichrist system which will subjugate and persecute the true believers, but also the deliverance in Yeshua’s 2nd coming. But ultimately foreshadows the war at the end of days in which Yeshua would fight HIS enemies to conquer (Rev. 19.15). Avraham represents the Messiah type. Lot and the rest of Gomorrah represent Israel and the church; and the Chedorlaomer and the 4 gentile kings represent the physical enemies of Israel, of the spiritual enemies of the church and ultimately represent antichrist and his armies. Wow.

-Again, HaShem works in patterns, types and shadows. As is written, there is nothing new under the sun’; as the LORD declares the end from the beginning. These stories are all written that we may learn and know the ways and the works of the LORD, for our edification, comfort and preparation. Unfortunately, most so-called believers don’t learn the lessons in scriptures. They prefer to skim, skip, cherry pick, and read into scripture what they prefer and then extract what they want, rather than glean what scripture actually teaches. Tragic.

Next on the series, Shadows of the Messiah in the Torah: Genesis chapters 12.1 to 17.27. Part 2 of 2

On the series, Shadows of the Messiah in the Torah. Genesis chapters 12.1 to 17.27. Part 2 of 2

Key points: The promise given to Avraham's and his seed being a blessing to the nations was fulfilled in Christ; it was a spiritual blessing NOT in tangible material wealth. All those who believe in Christ by faith are children of Avraham by Sarah, children of the promise by faith; are the real Jews today. In the new covenant of Messiah's heavenly priesthood, the primary focus is no longer about ethnic or religious Jews, but of spiritual Jews- believers in Christ. It's not about the inhabitants of land of Isreal, but all of Isreal by faith within the global church. Amen. No, it's not dispensationalist. It's thoroughly biblical.

#. The King of Salem, Melchizedek, foreshadows Yeshua’s priesthood, a different order than Levi priesthood.

-Melchizedek king of Salem, a local human king is amongst them that Avraham rescues; offers rewards and provisions and blesses Abraham. Melki-Tzedek means King (Melki) of Righteousness (Tzedek). Salem (also Jevusi), the former name for Jerusalem (Mt. Zion), is shalom and means peace. So, this king is a king of righteousness and peace. Is this not prophetic? Clearly this speaks of Yeshua. Yeshua is known as king of righteousness and peace all through the prophetic scriptures and the psalms of David (Isaiah 32.1; Isaiah 9.6; Jeremiah 23.5, Psalm 110.4, Zech. 6.14; Heb. 4.14; 25). This title Melki-Tzedek was likely not a personal name but more of a functional and honorific title akin to ‘Abimelech’ (Father of a king) or in more modern understanding as ‘Pharaoh’ or ‘Ceasar’ or ‘prime minister’.

-Clearly this mysterious king of Salem in Genesis 14 foreshadowed the Messiah, the ultimate king of righteousness and Shalom. Yeshua is said to have come in a different order of priesthood, of Melki-Tzedek (Hebrews 5.10; 6.20; 7.3). King of Salem, Melki-Tzedek then represents the Messianic reign of the Messiah as King of righteousness and peace. It is imperative to understand the gravity of Yeshua being a priest of a different order. For there are those in Christian circles who teach of Yeshua’s priesthood abolishing and annulling the priesthood of Levites and its functions. This is a hugely mistaken concept. Yeshua functions in a different order of priesthood, and in a temple not made with human hands and not of this earthly realm and by HIS blood not of animal blood. This is why the law of Levitical priesthood, and its blood sacrifices and rituals will be reinstated in the millennial reign of Christ.

-Avraham is blessed by this king of Salem and the king receives tribute (tithe) from Avraham. It was this that Paul the apostle referenced when he spoke of the Levites paying tribute (reverence) to the priesthood of the Messiah, of the order of Melki-Tzedek for Levi was still in the loins of Avraham when he offered tribute to this great king of Salem. Paul also declared this mysterious king of Salem as having no lineage, of mother or father or known genealogy (Hebrews 7.3). So, was this king of Salem in Genesis 14 a real person or he appeared via a phenomenon known as theosophy? That is angelic or spiritual beings appearing in the form of man. Possibly. However, the scripture does not explicitly state that he was not human. We could surmise that this character was much like Enoch, though Enoch clearly had a clearly stated lineage. Perhaps Paul’s statement was a mere comparison between the Levites priesthood and the priesthood of the coming Messiah; and in that, much like this mysterious king of Salem whom no one knows a thing about, Messiah’s priesthood was as such- having no genealogy, no earthly father nor mother.

- Some argue that this mysterious king of Salem in Genesis 14 was preincarnate Yeshua (a theosophy). However, Yeshua is said to be of order of Melki Tzedek NOT that HE was this Melki Tzedek person (Heb 7.15); implying that unlike the priesthood of Levi based on ancestry, Yeshua’s priesthood was of endless life, not based on lineage since Yeshua is of Judah firstly, and by Law only those of Levi lineage are permitted the priesthood. And, from the events in Genesis 14, it appears this mysterious character was ruling a real city of Salem; yet he foreshadowed the Messiah, the ultimate king and priest of Righteousness and peace who will rule Salem, Jerusalem, Mt. Zion in the future kingdom. And just as scripture foreshadows the Messiah in types and patterns and events; logic has it that scripture also foreshadows the anti-Messiah in types and shadows. Here in this story of King of Salem, the other 4 kings of Sodom foreshadow the anti-Messiah. If the king of Salem is a type of Christ, then the kings of Sodom are types of anti-Christ.

#. Hebrews 400 years exile in Egypt foretold. Hagar begets Ishmael. Avraham and Sarah’s name change.

- Once again, YHVH appears to Avraham to remind him of the covenant. “I am YHVH who brought you out,” seems to be how Hashem introduces self. HaShem gives prophesy for Avraham’s seeds (the Hebrews): the captivity in Egypt x400 years, will return to the promised land and dwell in the land of Canaan. When they first fled from Nimrod in Ur, they initially set forth for land of Canaan, however, they settled in Haran first. Ur of Kasdims, became Babylon in ancient Mesopotamia, today’s modern-day Iraq. Perhaps today, we would say Avraham was really an Iraqi Arab before YHVH ‘called him out’ (=Ivirim = Hebrew).

-Sarah becomes impatient and convinces Avraham to bear a child and fulfil the promise via a seed of Hagar. Avraham obliges and Hagar is pregnant with Ishmael. Now, whyever did Avraham agree to this seemingly absurd request from Sarah despite having had a crystal-clear message from EL concerning a progeny of his with Sarah? They got impatient waiting and thinking they could help move things along; this ended up causing animosity, strife and chaos between the two brethren (Ishmael and Israel). Wait on the LORD; I say, wait on the LORD. It is good to wait upon the LORD. HIS own timing is best and perfect. In Galatians 4.21-31, Paul the apostle expounds the deeper significance of this story. In that, Sarai represented the law of grace, and the freedom found in grace which is the covenant Christ brought (John 1.17). Hagar represented the bondage of law, which only brought sin and death (Romans 7.10-25; 8.2). If you are in Christ, you are a son or daughter of the free woman, and not of bondage.

# The 25 years lengthy timeline from prophecy given to promise fulfilled: a test of faith, patience, faith and obedience; a lesson in humility.

- Avraham is at 75 years old when YHVH first appears to him and tells him to leave with his family to go to a land, HE will show him. Now, at the age of 86, Ishmael is born. So, it was 11 years from the first promise of seed via Sarah to birth of Ishmael through Hagar who was not the promised child. Right after the birth of Ishmael is the 2nd time HM appeared to tell Avraham of the prophecy of his future seeds to be blessed but through Sarai and not Hagar. EL instructs what to offer and gives him vision of his future descendant’s sojourn in Egypt. Here HaShem is ‘calling those things that be not as if though they are; and declaring the end from the beginning (Rom 4.17; Isa 46.10).

-At age 99 (13 years later), The 3rd time EL appears to remind Avraham of covenant once again and to ratify that by changing their names. The name Avram means ‘father’, or ‘exalted’ one; and Sarai means ‘my princess’. Hashem changes their names from Avram to Avraham (father of many nations) and Sarai to Sarah (princess of many). Also, the covenant of circumcision is established as a sign of declaration of covenant; of the promise through Sarah though she remains childless. All male of Avraham’s household were required to participate in circumcision. Later, in the law of Moses, circumcision became necessary for any Israelite (or stranger) to enter the temple of Yahweh. Again, HM calling those things that are not as if are, declaring the end from the beginning. So, at this point, it has been 24 years from the age of 75 when he was first called, to age 99 years old when Ishamel was born + covenant of circumcision given.

#. The (old) covenant of circumcision (of foreskin) vs. the new covenant of circumcision of heart.

-The promise with Avraham that through his seed all the nations of the earth shall be blessed was signed with circumcision (hb: brit milah). This promise of course was ultimately fulfilled in Christ. In the new covenant, all believers in Christ are children of Avraham by faith; and our uncircumcision in flesh is counted as righteousness by faith. Today, rather, it is circumcision of the heart that Yahweh looks upon as seal and evidence of our righteousness; for this one is a Jew not in flesh, but in the spirit (Romans 2.28-29; Col 2.11; Phil 3.3). But wait, why did Yahweh choose cutting of foreskin of male part as sign of covenant? The answer lies in what that part of male organ represented and the role of foreskin. This part of the male organ is symbol of virility and masculinity.

-Foreskin is an extra fold of skin that covers the and protect that vulnerable tip of that male part. Removing the foreskin leaves the tip exposed and vulnerable, hence the spiritual metaphor of circumcision. Circumcision becomes an act of surrendering, making oneself vulnerable and sensitive to the LORD. The spiritual equivalence is in the admonition to ‘circumcise foreskin of heart’; meaning, to trim the excess layer of barriers around one’s heart (really spirit); to expose the sensitive and vulnerable layer and for the word of the LORD to penetrate deeply and more meaningfully. The Old Testament laws focused on physical rituals yet shrouded within were spiritual implications. So, Hashem picked this male organ to symbolize certain spiritual truths. Today, in the new covenant, Hashem looks for circumcision of heart and of inner spirit.

# Ishmael was circumcised, why then were Ishmaelites (the Arabs) not considered Hebrews or Jews today?

-But wait, since Ishmael was circumcised does that mean that Ishmaelites can claim the Hebrew lineage per this covenant by circumcision? According to the law of Moses, every male who wishes to become an “Israelite” & participate in the feast of Passover and enter the tabernacle of congregation of Israel had to be circumcised (Exodus 12.48-49). The covenant was made specifically via Sarah’s seed; and later certified (or ratified) in the receiving of the Torah on Sinai; which was Israel’s oath to keep the covenant. Therefore, the descendants of Ishamel would not truly be considered ‘Hebrews’ since they did not enter into covenant with HaShem on Mt. Sinai when the law was given and received. Today, the new covenant believers are not those who perform religious rituals (=circumcision of flesh) but are those who abide by the new covenant laws of the spirit in Christ; the Torah written[b] by the Spirit of the living YHVH on human hearts (=circumcision of heart)[/b] Amen.

-The covenant is that through Avraham’s seed with Sarah, the nations of the earth will be blessed. The promised seed was ultimately the messiah. And if the messiah is from the seed of Yitzchak, and so then Yishma’el became somewhat of adversarial as the “rejected” son. This is another reason why the antichrist could hail from Ishmael’s descendant or an Arab, or at least of mixed heritage. Again, we are seeing the types and shadows of the Messiah and the anti-Messiah. And certainly, the adversarial nature of Yitzchak and Yishmael was evident even in their childhood, hence why Sarah wanted Hagar and Ishmael sent away.

-Note how at 99 and 89 years old respectively, Avraham and Sarah are now considered “old”. It’s interesting how much has changed since the pre fall when men lived hundreds of years and still fertile. Some theories state that the change in atmospheric conditions post-flood such as changes in ozone layers which in turn allowed more direct sun rays etc; which in turn facilitated the rapid aging and degeneration process of the earth, man and all living things. While, the scientific theories are plausible, however, I posit also a spiritual side: that this was part of YHVH’s directive ‘man shall only live to 120 years’, and in YHVH withdrawing HIS protective shield upon the earth which then initiated the rapid aging process of all living things.

#8. Avraham’s faith counted as righteousness. Yahweh seek such faithful remnants like Father Avraham.

-Avraham believed, and it was counted unto him as righteousness. The righteous live by faith (Habakkuk 2.4), for without faith it is impossible to please EL; for anyone who comes must believe that HE is and a rewarder of them that diligently seek HIM (Heb 11.1). For this reason, Avraham is listed on the wall of heroes of faith in Hebrews 11. He was said to have dwelt tent to tent, a sojourner searching for the land of promise. Though he did not live to see this land of promise, he believed in faith and welcomed it from afar. For he was really looking for a city and a place whose builder was EL (Hebrews 11.10, 13). T[b]he promise to Avraham that in him will all nations be blessed[/b]; to make him a great nation and of his seed as numerous as stars of heaven and dust of earth was fulfilled in the promise of Messiah whom by HIS atonement grafted gentiles into the common wealth of blessings of Avraham and Issac and Yaakov (Israel)- indeed all nations were granted spiritual blessings in Christ by faith, and the gentile believers being the numerous spiritual sons and daughters of Avraham as dust of earth and stars of heaven. Amen. As Avraham was called out of the other side of the flood of the ancient Babylonian world, today, Yahweh still calls out people out of the Babylonian systems of the world (and church), to worship HIM in truth and in spirit and by faith. And all those who believe in the promise of Avraham in Christ by faith, and are circumcised by heart are the true Hebrews, the real Israelites and main Jews of today.

Next on the series: Shadows of the Messiah in the Torah. Genesis chapters 18.1-22.24.

On the series, Shadows of the Messiah in the Torah. Genesis chapters 18.1-22.24. Part 1 of 2

Today’s parshah is Vayeira meaning ‘and HE ( HaShem) appeared’ found in Genesis 18.1.

#1 Angelic visitation to announce birth of Issac. Sara hears and laughs (= hb: Yitzhak’). Be careful how you treat strangers, might be angel(s).

-Avinu Avraham was 75 years old when first called and given the promise by EL; 86 years old when Ishmael was born; 99 when name changed, covenant of circumcision given and circumcised. Avraham, at 99 years old, has just finished with circumcision 3 days prior and HaShem appears to him as he sits under an oak tree. Avraham sees 3 strangers coming and excuses himself from his communion with Hashem to welcome the 3 men. These 3 men who were really angels (hb malach= messenger) appear to drop the tidings that in 1 year the promise of son will come (=Yitzhak is conceived). Notice that these angelic creatures came in the visage (form) of human; this is called ‘theophany’. And scripture has many instances of angels appearing in form of men. Sometimes these angels are interchangeably called ‘the LORD’ in scripture. For example, in the case of the call of Gideon in the book of Judges in chapter 6 when the angel of the LORD was also known as LORD, appeared to Gideon to appoint him to deliver Isreal from oppression from their enemies.

-These angelic visits or rather angelic figures in human form are thought to be preincarnate Yeshua. Either way, Avraham credited for his hospitality welcomed these angels whom he thought were just random men passing by. This is what Paul the apostle meant when he admonished to be careful how you treat people, showing hospitality to strangers and treating all men with kindness and respect for you may be entertaining angels unaware (Hebrews 13.2). Avraham feeds the strangers and washes their feet. These are the deeds of Avraham spoken of by Yeshua in the book of John, when HE washed the disciples’ feet. Here Avraham was really foreshadowing the works of Yeshua in washing the feet of his disciples. We too are commanded to go and do likewise in servant leadership modelled by Yeshua.

#2 Sarah hears of the angelic prophecy of bearing a son in a year, she laughs (hb: Yitzhak).

- Sarai overhears and laughs (hence Yitzhak means “he will laugh”). Sarah’s laugh (18.12), was this sarcastic remark on the part of Sarah? Did she mean to laugh? Was it a result of lack of faith and unbelief? I would reckon a little bit of all the above. To Sarah, having a child at old age was ridiculous. The long years of barrenness has dissipated any real hope coupled with the biological impossibility at her post-menopausal age. Sarah’s laughing about the ‘promised child’s coming represents several things, both positively and negatively. First, Avraham and Sarah will laugh at those who mocked them for their barrenness as tears of Joy. In Christ, Hashem laughs at Satan having defeated sin and death. Negatively, Sarah’s laugh in disbelief represents certain people today who laugh and mock at the thought of the promised 2nd coming of Messiah, especially after 2.000 years have gone by (2 Peter 3.3-4).

-Yitzchak is birthed at an appointed time of the LORD (18.14). Never mind that Sarah was barren in the natural, Yitzchak had to come at an appointed time. Appointed time implies at predestined, predetermined timing of the LORD, which is quite different from chronological timing. Notice how the time between when the promise of a seed to the conception of a seed was 25 years. And Yahweh did not tell Avraham it would take 25 years; but then a year before the promise, angels appear to announce the news that ‘about this time in the next year….’. As in the days of Noah, Yahweh didn’t tell him it would take 120 years before the flood, yet a week before flood, Yahweh did announce it was time to enter ark. Let us all take great comfort in knowing that Yahweh will not leave us in the dark about HIS appointed times. Yet, while there are times and hours unknown to us that HE has put in HIS power to allow us to exercise some measure of faith, yet HE will give us hints of hope just in time lest we faint in our waiting. HaShem reminded Avraham of HIS covenant for a seed multiple times such that Avraham had hope though it was long in seeing it come to fruition. We take great comfort in this. Amen. This also assures us that though Yeshua said, ‘in the hour or time of HIS return, no man knows’, that truly HE will give us signs of the nearness of HIS arrival; that we do not let darkness overtake us nor become stupor. Amen.

#3 Avraham intercedes for Sodom & Gomorrah. Lot’s wife turns into salt. Lot’s daughters give birth to 2 nations (Ammon & Moab).

-Hashem decides to annihilate the cities of Sodom and Gomorrah for their heinous wickedness, evil and for their iniquity has reached HIS nostrils. But first Hashem asks, ‘should I hide what I am about to do to Avraham…’ (18.17). Amos 3.3-8 tells us Hashem reveals certain ‘sod’ (counsel) to certain of HIS servants. So, haShem picks Avraham as a closest confidant and friend, and later calls him prophet. Oh, that we might be deemed ‘friends of the LORD’ that HE may share HIS secrets with us. Herein the intercessory role of a prophet is shown. Avraham intercedes on behalf of Sodom and Gomorrah on account that his nephew Lot and his family reside there. So, Avraham continues his bargaining that if EL should find these many righteous, perhaps HE can spare the people. EL agrees. However, it seems EL didn’t find any righteous people in the city save for Lot and family, Avraham’s relatives. On account of Avraham, haShem decides to save Lot and his family. -

-The angels are sent on a mission to save Lot, his 2 daughters and wife; for them to flee from Sodom and Gomorrah to nearby town because destruction is coming. Lot’s wife turns back and becomes a pillar of salt instantly, and the statue of salt is memorial and a sign through all generations of her disobedience. The 2 surviving daughters get their father drunk, lie with him and bear 2 sons: Ammon and Moab, the antecedents of the people of Ammonites and Moabites (19.36). We will learn much later that Moabites and Ammonites are 2 of the 3 nations (the other being descendants of Esev- the Edomites) that HaShem gave inheritance portion of land surrounding the land of Canaan; and told Israel not to fight against or meddle with them for certain lands are given to them as their own inheritance.

- Yahweh commends Avraham as one whom the LORD ‘knows’ as a man of righteousness and justice, and who will instruct his children of right and proper way of the LORD (18.19). It is good that one should be trusted and be regarded ever so highly by the LORD of the universe. Notice that this commendation came before the giving of the decalogue. So, this naturally infers that the LORD knew Avraham would keep HIS ways because Avraham already showed signs of such, hence the reason he was picked. There was something different about him amongst his people. An apocryphal book writes that he was a monotheist or rather had a sense of there being just ONE deity even though he did not have full knowledge of this One Deity. Everyone else worshipped many gods, but Avraham refrained because he knew better. Was it that EL was wooing him or was he just that way by nature? Either way, he resisted being influenced just like Moses resisted Egyptian influence. This indeed reveals so much about what attracts YHVH and the kind or type of people He prefers to employ. Avraham was not perfect, but his heart was in the right place. Neither was Moshe, nor David perfect yet, it is the heart that attracts haShem for man looks outwardly, but haShem looks at the heart.

#4 The redemption of Lot and family, the judgement on Sodom and Gomorra= type of salvation & redemption by Christ and destruction of last days.

-The judgement on Sodom and Gomorrah represents a type of judgement of last days. Yeshua compared HIS coming as the day of Sodom and Gomorrah (Luke 17.29-30). Concerning HIS kingdom and of the last days saying, Yeshua said “those who put their hand to the plow and look back are not fit to enter into His kingdom”, and to “remember Lot’s wife” (Lk 17.32). This also reinforces what the apostles wrote concerning those who apostatize and return to their old ways after having tasted the goodness; that they are without repentance and as dog returning to his vomit; and are re-crucifying Christ (Heb. 6). In this was the reason why Esau too could no longer find forgiveness when he had sold his birthright. King Saul died in his sins after repeated disobedience and rebellion against the LORD. Judas Iscariot never found forgiveness and hung himself after betraying the innocent.

-Lot’s wife was ‘saved’ out of a Sodom and Gomorrah but she “looked back” (=apostasy), that is equivalent to being saved and then revert (apostatize) and to former ways. Lot’s wife longed for her old life, what she left behind. There was a reason they were instructed not to look back. It was symbolic and speaks volume for us today. Their being saved from Sodom and Gomorrah was a type of salvation (much like Isreal’s exodus from Egypt), and her redemption was to look forward to a new destination. She preferred her old life and looked back. This is akin to apostasy after having been ‘saved’ from bondage of sin and the world. Friends, there is such a thing as falling from grace & not finishing well (Gal 5.4).

-Avraham’s intercession did not avert destruction of Sodom and Gomorrah, but HaShem did spare Abraham’s nephew, the family of Lot. Was Lot saved for his own righteousness or for Avraham’s righteousness? I believe it is both. Lot most likely erred in choosing to head to materially wealthy Sodom and Gomorrah. However, it seems he redeemed himself by his own righteous act of hospitality towards the 2 angels disguised as men. He had not let Sodom and Gomorrah’s wicked ways influence him. Rather, Lot chose hospitality after the manner of Avraham, his nephew. Demonstrated in this story is the pattern that HaShem always leaves a righteous remnant after destruction. Just as Noach was spared, Lot and his 2 daughters survived to rebuild. The daughters attempt to maintain their gene pool by lying with their father who had passed out drunken. They each give birth to 2 sons: Ammon and Moab from which came the people Ammonites and Moabites.

#5 The LORD redeems imperfect stories and peoples. Avraham is called prophet. Unbelievers too can receive divine dreams and revelation.

- In the story of Lot and his 2 sons (Ammon & Moab) by his 2 daughters, we see how Yahweh redeems unsavory stories; we are given a foreshadow of how Yahweh planned to weave in (graft in) gentiles into commonwealth of Israel even from the beginning. This is that: “I AM the LORD, declaring the end from the beginning” (Isa 46.10). This also reminds me of Ruth (in the book of Ruth) who was a Moabite who later married into the tribe of Judah; from where the Messiah of mankind came from. There is also Tamar, the matriarch of the Messiah, who also begot sons unto Judah by unsavory ways (she tricked and prostituted herself to Judah).

- Abraham relocates to the city of Gerar in Philistine. Abimelech, the king of the Philistines took Sarah thinking her Abraham's sister. This was an agreement Avraham and Sarah had in previous chapters to call her his sister to spare their lives. HaShem afflicts the members of Abimelech's palace with a terrible sore disease. In a dream, HaShem appears to Abimelech warning him to return Sarah to her husband, Abraham for he is a prophet. Abimelech obeys, and gifts Abraham and Sarah with gifts, and he and his household are healed; and their wombs open to bear children. Note, Avraham is first referred to as prophet here (20.7).

-You see, this story teaches us that HaShem can speak to all peoples in a dream. Even unbelievers can receive a true divine message in a dream. It doesn’t take a prophet or super spiritual person or even a believer to hear from YHVH. This gentile king received message from EL and is not the last gentile king to hear from YHVH. Nebuchadnezzar of Babylon received a divine message in a dream in which Daniel interpreted for him. Cyrus of Persia did receive divine guidance in which haShem had inspired him to free the Jews from captivity to return to Jerusalem to re-build temple in Jerusalem. You know what this teaches us? YHVH can speak to ANYONE and that unrighteous, wicked, evil and unbelievers can speak truth of YHVH and Yet, it doesn’t mean they are true prophets nor approved by YHVH. This is how and why many Christians fall prey to falsehoods. Because they think anyone who speaks some truth must be a true prophet or even approved by YHVH. This is why we are admonished to ‘test spirits’, ‘hang on to what is good’; focus on the message and not necessarily the person. Judge the message first and foremost, then the messenger.

# HaShem still calls people “OUT” of false religious systems; to be separate from the ‘common’ and the ‘secular/worldly. The Ecclesia = the true church = called out believers.

- The biggest lesson of today’s Parshah is that haShem is in the business of redeeming the imperfect, from tests to testimonies, turning messes into messages. Amen. In the story of Avraham’s being called out of Ur of Kasdims, and later we see the Hebrews being the ‘called out’ people out of Egyptian bondage and the heathens of the lands surrounding them. This pattern runs thick through scripture beginning with Enoch, Noah, then Avraham. The prophets called Isreal to come out of heathen influence. Yochana admonishes ‘come out of Babylon’ to last day peoples. Babylon represents all things anti-Christ and syncretistic. Today, we see still haShem’s pattern of calling out a people to HIMSELF.

-The true church (ecclesia) is the called-out ones who serve the LORD in truth and in spirit, not church buildings and pew warmers but without genuine heart transformation nor real fruits of spirit and good works. Yeshua, before HIS ascension gave us the great commission to ‘go forth’ and make disciples of all nations- as Avraham was called to ‘go forth’; and as Yeshua was called to ‘go forth’ in HIS mission. We too are called to ‘go forth’ in the same spirit of disseminating the good news of the promise of Avraham- that through HIS seed, the Messiah, all nations are blessed and partake in his eternal inheritance; and that in Christ, there is no longer need for Isreal by blood or ethnicity, nor gentiles, but all are children of Avraham by faith.

On the series, Shadows of the Messiah in the Torah. Genesis chapters 18.1-22.24. Part 2 of 2.

On the series, Shadows of the Messiah in the Torah. Genesis chapters 18.1-22.24. Part 2 of 2.

To re-cap: Avraham was 75 years old when he was first called and given promise by EL; 86 years old when Ishmael was born; 99 years old when his name was changed, and the covenant of circumcision was given & circumcision occurred for males of Avraham’s household. He was100 years old when Yitzhak was born. So, 25 years lapsed from the first appearance of Yahweh to Avram, and the covenantal promise of seed given. He was 75 years old (and 65 for Sarah) when given, and 100 years old (Sarah at 90) when promise was fulfilled in the birth of Yitzhak. So, this simple chronology would place the birth of Yitzchak 14 years after Ishmael was born, which then places Ishmael then at roughly 13-14 years old.

Today’s parshah is Vayeira ‘and HaShem appeared’ (Genesis 18.1).

#6 Sarah laughs again at the birth of Yitzchak (hb: ‘will laugh’). A word for those in barrenness, you too will laugh. HalleluYah.

- So, finally after the long-awaited promise, Avraham at 100 years of age, and Sarah at age 90 gives birth to a son, who is named Yitzhak (hb: ‘will laugh’). According to the commands of Yahweh, Abraham circumcises Isaac when at eight days old (20.4). At the birth of Yitzchak, Sarah laughs again saying ‘HaShem has made me laugh, for everyone who hears will laugh with me’ (21.6). From cynical laughter a year ago to joyful laughter a year later. As Yeshua said, “Blessed are you who mourn and weep now, you shall be comforted” (Luke 6.21). For those of us who weep now due to travails of life, the tears of sorrow will turn to tears of joy when the Messiah returns.

-Here then Sarah’s laughter after her ordeal of bareness is a great lesson for those in various bareness, wilderness and destitute of life. You too shall have the last laugh. Amen. Lest we forget, Sarah, the great matriarch is the first of several barren women of scripture who were destined for greatness. Bareness and wilderness seem to be a pattern in scripture that indicates that HaShem has purposed an individual for greatness. The miraculous conception of Yitzchak is one comparable to the virgin Miryam in the birth of the Messiah.

- Notice the covenant of circumcision was enacted just before the child of promise came; Avram was 99 when circumcised and 100 at birth of Yitzchak. Often, the time it takes when EL gives an initial promise or covenant to when it happens can be significantly long- a trial and test of faith, endurance and patience. In Avraham and Sarah’s case, it was 24 years. And for his descendants the Hebrews, it took 400+ years for the promise of Canaan to be realized. And another 3,000+ years for the ultimate promise (Yeshua) to come. And now, 2000 years later, we are still awaiting HIS promised 2nd return.

#7 Hagar & Ishmael banished to life in the desert son. YHVH appears, provides & blesses Ishmael as father of many nations (12 princes)

-Yitzhak grows older, and Sarah notices that Ishmael, Isaac's older brother from another mother, was a potentially negative influence on her young child. She demands that Abraham expel Ishmael and his mother Hagar from the household. This request displeases Avraham, but HaShem instructs him to listen to Sarah and yet HE will make Ishmael a great nation (21.18). Hagar and Ishmael languish in the desert for lack of water and food and as they wander the heat of desert sun, eventually run out of water. Ishmael is about to perish from thirst when an angel shows her a well of water. She cries unto the LORD and the LORD ‘opens her eyes and she sees a well of water’ (21.19). Wow. Just like that, the ‘LORD opened her eyes….and she saw…’. Was that well always there and she didn’t see it for heaviness of heart and great sorrow? Or did the well appear miraculously? Both.

- And so, the LORD was with the child Ishmael; he grows up in the desert and becomes a skilled archer and marries an Egyptian wife. Paul the apostle referenced this story here in Gala 4.29 when he spoke about believers being of the children of the free woman (Sarah) and not of bondswoman (Hagar). Clearly this reference was of Yeshua being of the ultimate seed of the free woman, of Sarah; and believers in Christ are the children of Avraham by faith.

-Avraham gets into dispute over wells with Abimelech; but they devise a solution that works, and both part amicably with an oath in which Avraham gifts Avimelech with 7 lambs and as witness that the well was dug by him. And they call the well Beer-sheva (hb: well of 7 oaths). This very well/location later becomes a site of pilgrimage (and consequently seat of idolatry) particularly for the northern kingdom of split Isreal (the house of Ephraim).

#8 Hagar & Ishmael in the desert: a tale of miraculous provision of water from the well? Or a tale of Hagar seeing the well but cannot perceive? The answer is right in front of you, just ask the LORD to open your "spiritual" eyes.

-You see, it is entirely possible that the well was always there, but she did not see because, first, she was so distraught and in great despair that she could not immediately think it possible for a solution out here in the desert. Her mind was consumed on the dismal fate that faces her and her Ishamel. See, if you are not looking for an answer you miss the answer right under your nose. And many times, when people are in a pit of despair, they cannot see the solution, the answer in front of them. This is entirely human. It took another to open her eyes, to draw her attention to the answer in front of her. This is why when one is at despair and hopeless, it is beneficial to seek out counsel of others. And surely, praying to the LORD for assistance will also facilitate that guidance, which may come in the form of another person, perspective outside of your own. But why do you suppose the LORD ‘opened her eyes rather than saying, and the LORD made a well of water appear. Hm. There’s a deeper truth and lesson there for us all. According to the sages, the well was there all the time. Hagar just assumed there would not be any water in the desert and had therefore made no effort to search.

-We would be remiss if we didn’t also point out the first simplest answer, that it was a miraculous intervention and that haShem made the well appear right then and there. This story reminds of that one scene where Elisha and his servants encountered an army of Syrians coming against Israel. And Elisha prays that EL opens the eyes of one of the servants to see that ‘they with us are more than they are with them’; and the LORD opened the servants’ eyes, and he saw ‘chariots on mountains.’ Amazing, isn’t it? The lesson and the question for us today is: what are we missing then that we can perceive with our spiritual eyes only if we look? What is that unseen thing that can only be seen with spiritual eyes that want to perceive. Some of us see, but we do not perceive. Seeing and perceiving are not synonymous. Many of us see with physical eyes, but we to perceive takes tapping into that which transcends the natural senses. Some may call it intuition, discernment or 6th sense. May the LORD open our eyes that we may see the unseen the untapped potential, the solution, that answer…the angelic forces with us, for us and fighting for us. Amen.

#9 Avraham is tested. The binding (akeda) of Yitzchak: he was a grown man who complied NOT a child forced to be sacrificed.

-Chapter 22 begins with HaShem testing Avraham’s faith, loyalty and obedience. In 22.2, Hashem calls Yitzchak the only begotten son of Avraham though he was really the 2nd son; this is because he was the son of the promise. To HaShem, Issac was Avraham’s only begotten son (see also Hebrew 11.17-18); since he was foreshadowing Messiah, the only begotten son of EL (John 1.18; 3.16). The story of Yitzchak’s mirrors that of Yeshua especially in his binding (akedah) and near sacrifice being the only son. Both Yizhack and Yeshua are known as ‘only begotten sons’, both born supernaturally after long awaited fulfilment of prophecy of their conception and birth; and both rescued from death. According to some Jewish sages, the soul of Yitzchak left him for a moment as he saw the knife come down to him. Yahweh objected to his slaying, his soul returned. Though Yitzchak did not physically die, a ram was provided in his place. Yeshua however did die yet was rescued from pits of hell (resurrected).

-Contrary to certain (mis)interpretation, Yitzchak was not a young lad when he was almost sacrificed. Careful studying of related scripture & chronology suggest otherwise. The term used here was ‘na’ar’ in Hebrew, which is equivalent of young man, or an unmarried man of marriageable age. Many Jewish writings hold that Yitzchak was in near his mid-30s. Also, one can deduce his most likely age using Sarah’s death in Genesis 23, which occurred shortly after the sacrifice/Akeda. If Sarah died at 127 years old and she was 90 when Yitzchak was born, assuming no huge time discrepancies between chapters 22 and 23, then Yitzchak’s age is deduced to be 36-37 years of age at the time of his binding for sacrifice offering. This would be most befitting seeing that Yeshua was 30 when HE began His ministry and was crucified a little over 3 years later, which would make HIM 33 or so at the time of HIS own ‘Akeda’ and crucifixion. Yes, this does imply that Yitzchak was not a helpless little boy; he knew what was happening and yet willingly allowed Avraham to bind him on the altar. Surely in mid-30s, Yitzchak would have resisted and fought from being slain successfully. [b]But Yitzchak willingness to undergo akeda was meant to foreshadow Yeshua as fully grown who willingly sacrificially ‘laid down HIS life’ [/b]and would not call ‘legions of angel nor have HIS disciples to prevent HIS death’. (Matt 26.53; John 10.17-18).

#10 On why the LORD tested Avraham & why YHVH tests us today even thou HE is all-knowing; and knows us and the outcome.

-The Hebrew word here for ‘testing’ is ‘nissah’, or ‘nisayon’ meaning to ‘prove quality of something AND avoid wrong course of action’. The test isn’t for the LORD to know you or find out what you are about. The test is for you to find out what you are made of, prove yourself, your faith and sort yourself out if you fall short of the standard. In this case, the standard is the will, the word and the way of YHVH. Nisayon’s (testing of the LORD) objective is with the goal to pass the test. We know haShem cannot tempt people. A test given to set someone up to fail is properly called temptation. The LORD gives tests with the goal, intent and objective for us to pass. The LORD gives test knowing the person has capacity to pass the test. Yet just because the LORD gives test knowing you have ability to pass, it does not eliminate free choice and free will of the person. You must still choose to ‘accept’ the test in obedience AND willfully choose the right course of action to pass the test. This means you will know how to pass the test; but the choice remains yours to decide correctly.

#11 Yitzchak’s near sacrifice on Mount Moriah becomes the site of the future physical temple of the LORD (built by King Solomon).

-Hashem gives Avraham instructions to head to a ‘place’ along with Yitzchak for the sacrifice. Avraham lifted his eyes and saw “the place” (later became Mt. Moriah). What place did he see? Some posit the future city; the temple building and foreshadows the ‘Messianic kingdom’. Amen. Book of Hebrews tell us; Avraham was a tent dweller and moved from place to place in search of a city whose foundation and builder was Yahweh…though he did not get there yet welcomed it from afar. (Hebrews 11.10-13). The place becomes known as Mount Moriah which happens to be the same exact location upon which the physical Temple of YHVH was built upon, which was completed by king Solomon (2 Chronicles 3.1).

-It would also follow that Yitzchak near offering as sacrifice would foreshadow the temple sacrifices which were later enacted in the law of Moses. According to the book of Hebrews, the temple services on earth were pattern for the heavenly temple and services; upon which Yeshua in HIS death, and blood atonement made eternal sacrifices for humanity. All the other types of offerings burnt offering, sin offering, guilt offering, peace offering, bread offering, drink offering all were symbolic representation of Yeshua’s own sacrificial offering. The donkey that Avraham rode (22.3) on foreshadowed Yeshua’s riding on the donkey in the triumphant entry into Jerusalem (Zech. 9.9). Notice also that the binding and near sacrifice of Yitzhak occurred on the 3rd day (22.4), thereby mirroring the resurrection of Yeshua on the third day as both Jonah and Hosea the prophets alluded to (Hosea 6.2).

#11 If you are wandering in the wilderness according to the will of the LORD, you are not lost.

-There’s a somber lesson from Avraham’s story for us. Not all who wander are lost. You have a vision, a promise from the LORD, yet you find yourself wondering about in the wilderness. BUT, if you are in a wilderness, or on barren land, or a sojourner according to will of the LORD, you are NOT lost. Even if it means you do not apprehend this destination, vision or promise from the LORD until death or HIS 2nd coming, YET you will not be found lacking or wanting. Why? Because you were ‘wandering the wilderness’ according to HIS will, and according to HIS purpose. It is those who do the will of the LORD that enter the kingdom according to our eternal Master, the great King and Almighty. Amen. But take heart, you are not wandering aimlessly. And LORD willing, you live and not die to declare the Glory of the LORD. Amen. Amen.

#12 Yitzhack’s binding, near sacrifice = Yeshua’s own crucifixion, sacrifice and resurrection.

-In 22.6 ‘Avraham places the wood of burnt offering upon Yitzchak’s’. This clearly paints a picture similar and symbolic to Yeshua’s carrying HIS cross en route to crucifixion. ‘And the 2 of them walked together…father and son {22.6-8} paints the picture of father and son relationship just like Yeshua and the father Yahweh (John 10.30; Luke 22.42). There’s a picture of both father and son being ‘one’ or ‘united’ as the word ‘yachdav’ suggests the togetherness as ‘being made one and united’ in purpose. We see here the picture of Yeshua and Yahweh united in mission and purpose. In 22.8, Yitzhak asks about the lamb for offering, and Avraham replies ‘Yahweh will provide’. Yet the word used there is ‘Yireh’ and literally means ‘see’ so that the most correct translation is ‘Yahweh will see for Himself the lamb for the burnt offering (Heb 5.5-10). Yeshua was called the seh haElohim, the Lamb of Yahweh (1 Cor 5.7; John 1.23, 29, 36; John 19.17-18; Rev 13.8} Some extrabiblical sources suggest that at point towards end of 3-day journey, Avraham had to finally tell Yitzchak that he was the sacrifice, and Yitzchak accepted that fate of being offered to the LORD. This would fit with Yeshua having accepted willingly HIS sacrifice for the sins of the world.

-Extrabiblical sources also suggest the other 2 people on the journey with them are Ishmael and Eliezar, one of Avraham’s servants. At some point, satan enters Ishmael to tempt both Avraham and Yitzchak to deter them from fulfilling the mission. Again, this would agree with Yeshua’s own temptation in the wilderness before HIS mission began. When they arrive on Mt. Moriah, Avraham builds an altar (22.9) at the same exact place where the Holy Temple would be erected by king Solomon 400 years later. According to some Jewish texts, this Mt. Moriah was also the same site where Abel built the first altar of sacrifice, and Noach also built altar post flood. In 22.13, haShem provides a ram (hb: achar) caught in a thicket by the horns. Here, we substitute the Messiah for the ram. ‘And Avraham lifted up his eyes and behold, the ram caught in a crown of thorns….’; just as Yeshua wore a crown of thorns. Then Avraham calls the place ‘Adonai Yireh’, the LORD will see (& provide). Some suggest Yerushalayim (Jerusalem) is a composite of both Yireh and Shalom meaning ‘Peace will be seen’. Yet, we know there will never be enduring peace in Jerusalem as it were today until the Messiah returns and reigns supreme.

On the series, Shadows of the Messiah in the Torah. Genesis chapters 23.1-25.18. Part 1 of 2.

On the series, Shadows of the Messiah in the Torah. Genesis 23.1–25.18.

Today’s Parshah is Chayei Sarah (חַיֵּי שָׂרָה‎) (life of Sarah) found in Genesis 23.1. Part 1 of 2

A recap of events: Avraham was 75 years old when first called out of Ur of Kasdim and given promise of Canaan by YHVH. He was 86 years old when Ishmael was born (with Hagar); 99 years old when his name was changed, the covenant of circumcision given and he was circumcised. He was 100 and Sarah 90 when Yitzhak was born. Now Avraham at 137 years old, & Sarah dies at 127 years old.

This portion of Torah is aptly given the name ‘life of Sarah’ despite it about her death; it’s to recognize, give honor to recognize the life she lived as the grand matriarch. Chayah means ‘to be’. Life truly is all about ‘being’ NOT ‘doing’. Amen. In a way, the life of Avraham and Sarah is one of redemption and salvation. Adam & Havah (Eve), the first natural parents after the flesh brought death. Avraham and Sarah, the spiritual parents (for all who believe by faith) brought us the promise of Messiah, the source of eternal life.

# So, Avraham nearly sacrificed his son. Why did he not plead with YHVH for his son’s life as he pleaded for Sodom and Gomorrah?

-In the case of Sodom and Gomorrah, Avraham bargains (or ‘argues’) with HaShem that if certain number of righteous people are found that HE spares Sodom and Gomorrah. However, in the case of his son Yitzchak’s binding and sacrifice, it is not recorded that Avraham raised a single objection to YHVH. HaShem’s firm directive instructions was to ‘please take your son….’ (22.2). Notice the use of the word ‘please’. In this case, Avraham understood that this was not an invitation to bargain, reason, argue or intercede, but to just do it. Think of a father instructing his son to ‘please take out the trash’…. Most people would not see the statement ‘please take out the trash’, as an invitation to argue but a direct instruction to perform a task. Not only in the way it was phrased, but the tone matters. In many cases in scripture, we are not privy to the ‘tone’ of the text and other non-verbal methods, which can communicate quite a lot. We modern readers miss a lot in historical, cultural and social context as well as in non-verbal communication, which is a whole LOT missed out for effective communication.

-Avraham did not bargain or argue in the case of his son because he knew the directive was not meant as such. There are times when prayer, intercession matter; and yet there are other times when we must accept things as they are or as Yahweh has deemed fit. How will one know when to intercede and when to accept situations? This is a case-by-case thing; and one who is in tune with the Ruach, the Spirit of the Living Father, will have a deep knowing- a soul (neshamah) knowing; which is also how one determines the correct course of action. That is: whether to intercede for a thing, when to stop interceding and to just accept the will of the LORD.

# Avram and Yitzchak return from Mt. Moriah discovers Sarah’s departure from this life.

-So, Avraham and Yitzchak return from Mt. Moriah to learn the news that Sarah has died. The Jewish oral traditional Jewish tells us that Sarah’s death was out of both grief and joy when she learned the truth that Avraham has taken Yitzchak to be offered up as sacrifice to YHVH. Her soul leapt out of her for the reason of her deep grief because Yitzchak was her only son; and all the same joy for she found it an honor that YHVH would consider her son worthy; but her son has been spared from sacrifice. It appears the emotions overwhelmed her and her soul leapt out of her (and she died). In 23.2-4, Avraham mourns Sarah’ s death; and acknowledges in his solemnity that that he is a mere stranger in this world, a sojourner on pilgrimage passing thru this world. He moved from tent to tent looking for a place not of this world (Heb. 11.9).

-We too are to emulate Avraham avinu in that we are also strangers in this world, canvasing and passing through. It does not mean we live carelessly, but we endeavor to make life better (tikkum olam). Yet we realize we are spiritual beings encased in a physical body and this physical world is passing and not the finality. If we saw ourselves as strangers in this material ephemeral world passing thru, how would live differently? How would that change how we live, think and act? Would we be more charitable? compassionate? hospitable? Less anxious & stressed? Would we take Yeshua's counsel in Mathew 6 to worry less about issues of this life and seek first the matters of the eternal kingdom first?

# Avraham purchases a burial place for Sarah at a premium price. Becomes burial ground for the patriarchs.

-In 23.16, 19: Abraham purchases the cave of Machpelah for Sarah’s burial. This burial site becomes one of the three places in scripture in which no one can say the Hebrews stole. Along with the cave of Machpelah, the second spot was the threshing floor of Ornan purchased by from the Jevusi; the same became Jerusalem and same exact location where the temple of the LORD was built Solomon (2 Sam 24.18-25, 1 Chronicles 21.20-25). The third site was the tomb of Joseph at Shechem which Yitzchak bought as well (Genesis 33.19). Notice Avraham paid the full premium price; same as David when he purchased the threshing floor of Ornan. But why was Avraham dead set on the Machpelah cave?

-According to Midrash Rabbah tells how Avraham got a glimpse of the cave as the gateway to paradise, garden Eden and was also the tomb of Adam and Eve. As Adam and Eve brought death; Sarah the mother of the promise who gave spiritual life (in Christ) along with Avraham would be buried in this cave too as symbol of redemption of mankind from the sins of Adam and Eve. As Yeshua said, haShem is not the Elohim of the dead, but of the living. As Yahweh is the Elohim of Avraham, Yitzchak and Yaakov, it is a befitting scene to substitute life for death by Avraham and Sarah being buried in the same cave as Adam and Eve. In this same cave, the other patriarchs and matriarch Yitzchak, Yaakov, and Leah were also buried. Since Rachel died en route from Padna-Haran to Canaan, she was buried by the roadside; a site which later bequeathed to one of her children, Ben-oni (Ben-yamin).

# Blessed in every way because of the 'son'. The mission of finding wife for Yitzchak: finding the bride of Christ.

-24.1 says that ‘Avraham is blessed in every way (or in all things)’. According to Rashi (Rabbinic commentator), ‘in every way’ is Hebrew for “haKol”, which has numerical value of 52, which is coincidentally the same as ‘ben’ (son). Therefore, Avraham is blessed in every way possible because of his son Yitzchak. We too are blessed in every way because of Yeshua, the only begotten son of the invisible Father above. We are blessed not necessarily materially but in every spiritual way (Ephesians 1.3) because of the Messiah that came in the blessing of Avraham (Galatians 3.14). The LORD has promised us that in HIM, we have everything we need to live life of godliness and holiness; and that HE will supply all our needs according to HIS riches and glory in Christ. We need only ‘seek first the kingdom and ALL things (the necessities of life) will be ours. We pray ‘give us today our daily bread’ for the LORD is the shepherd, therefore you shall not lack’. Amen.

-In 24.14: Avraham’s servant, Eliezer is tasked with finding wife for Yitzchak from Avraham’s own people in Charan. As Avraham’s servants sets out on this mission laden with gifts, he asks for specific signs and that the one who fulfils these signs shall be taken as confirmation to be wife for Yitzchak. He asks that when he asks for water that the woman who provides water be the wife of Yitzchak. And so, as the company approaches their destination, they meet Revkah as she is tending flocks in the field. She becomes the one who fulfils the exact signs. And the story ends with Avraham’s servant meeting Revkah’s folks. They exchange pleasantries as they express their mission and wishes for the marriage union interest between Rivkah and Yitzchak. Revkah’s parents and Revkah agree, and everyone is on the same page. The story progresses with Revkah leaving her family to go unite with her husband Yitzchak. She and Yitzchak meet in the field and sparks fly. Yitzchak with tears of joy is much comforted in Revkah, especially after her mother, Sarah’s death. What a beautiful image of the Ruach and the mission of Yeshua in searching out, wooing HIS bride, the Church? Amen.

# Asking for a confirmatory sign: Yes, it’s perfectly biblical to ask for confirmatory signs from the LORD. . Be careful, satan can give signs.

-Yes, we can ask Yahweh for signs or confirmation for guidance, instructions etc; this quite biblical and numerous examples abound. Yahweh can indeed honor requests for sign. The key is the motive and the spirit behind asking for signs. Asking in humility, and in genuine need, and not out of doubt, fear, unbelief. In the book of Judges, Gideon asked for a sign. Yahweh asked Ahab, king of Judah to ask for a sign. Many prophets & apostles received signs from heaven confirming their messages: Moses, Elijah, Elisha, Yeshua, Peter, Paul. Yeshua Himself confirmed HIS message with signs, miracles, wonders. It is true that Yeshua tells us a generation who asks for signs that are evil, wicked and will get none save for the signs of Yonah. Yet, that is part of the story. We can ask for signs; it is the heart posture, the intent, the motive that is crucial determinant key. It’s the heart that YHVH responds to.

-For example: Atheists and unbelievers who pray for signs (out of arrogant heart) for God to prove Himself will most likely not get any sign whether positive or negative. These types of cynical unbelief requests for signs are what Yeshua spoke against. However, the ones who out of humbly submitted heart, truly genuinely seeking for HIS will or presence and will respond accordingly, are more likely to receive one. In the illustration of the story of the poor man and rich man, the lessons show that even if the dead were to come alive to warn people, they still won’t believe. This is why Yeshua did not perform many signs, miracles and wonders in HIS own town, because of unbelief.

-The caveat though: be careful of deception for Satan can grant signs as well. And the natural mind can produce or see signs where there are none (confirmatory bias). Therefore, relying on external signs can be equally deceptive and dangerous. How does one go about discerning which or when signs are truly from YHVH? Specificity of the request (and specificity of answer ) may be key to ascertaining true signs from Yahweh or not. Overall, it’s best not to rely on external signs alone in making major life decisions. In the multitude of counsel, there is safety. Seek wise counsel. Lean into the inner prompting of the Spirit, presence or lack of peace and other favorable (or unfavorable) circumstances.

On the series, Shadows of the Messiah in the Torah. Genesis chapters 23.1-25.18. Part 2 of 2.

On the series, Shadows of the Messiah in the Torah. Genesis 23.1–25.18.

Today’s Parshah: Genesis 23.1–25.18. Chayai Sarah which means ‘life of Sarah’ (Genesis 23.1). Part 2 of 2

# Yaakov + Revkah’s marriage match made in heaven: importance of maintaining spiritual heritage & legacy NOT ‘biological’ purity.

Remember, Revkah is not entirely a stranger, she & Yitzchak share common patriarch Terach and are cousins. Avraham specifically wanted Yitzchak to marry from his people close to home, not as Esev who married women from foreign peoples (Hittites & Ishmaelites) to the dismay of his parents. Certain people have twisted things as to mean that it was about preserving genetic purity. However, this selectiveness as we glean from whole counsel of scripture is for the purpose of preserving spiritual purity and legacy, not necessarily for ethnic or biological selection. For YHVH, the commandments to not marry foreign peoples has always been about preserving spiritual heritage so that they are not led into idolatry (Deut 7.3-4; 1 Kings 11.1-4; Ezra 9.1-14). It has never been about preserving a bloodline. As Shaul the apostle continues this principle when he admonished the new covenant believers to endeavor not to be yoked with unbelievers for what concord has light with dark? (1 Cor, 7.39; 2 Cor 6.14).

-That said, how is Yitzchak and Rivkah related? Rivkah is daughter of Betuel. Betuel is son of Milcah. Milcah is son of Nahor. Nahor is Avraham’s brother. So, yes that makes Yitzchak and Rivkah cousins. Just as Sarah is Avraham’s niece. So, when Avraham (& later Yitzchak) would say Sarah (or Rivkah) is sister, it’s not a lie. All of them at this point share the same father, Terach. In scripture, there’s no such thing as half-siblings, step siblings, cousins, stepchildren or grandparents. So, it’s either sister, brother, son or daughter, mother or father. According to scripture, for example, your grandparents are still just your father & mother. This is why Yeshua is called the son of David when Yeshua is 28 generations removed from David.

# Avraham bequeaths both his material inheritance & spiritual legacy (of Messiah) to Yitzhak.

- Avraham bequeaths his material inheritance (& spiritual lineage of the Messiah) to Yitzhak rather than Yishmael the eldest. Typically, in those days, family heritage went to the eldest son; and this is later codified in the law of Moses in Devarim 21 (the firstborn right must go to the firstborn). This is not the first time Yahweh would skip the eldest son to choose the 2nd son. The first of things often symbolize works of flesh; and the subsequent (often the 2nd) represent the work of the Spirit. Yahweh does not pick or choose or call as man does. Remember, it’s not the rich, nor the mighty nor the wise that are called to be rich in inheritance of the things of EL, but of the lowly, the meek and the poor’. For the LORD choses the weak things, the foolish and things not to confound the strong, the wise, it’s so that HE gets the glory (1 Cor 1.27). Yeshua came to preach the good news to the poor, the downtrodden, the forgotten, the mourners, the imprisoned, the blind and the lost. And the common people heard HIM gladly (Mark 12.37), but the Pharisees did not but for their own self-righteousness rejected the message of both Yochanan the Baptist and Yeshua (Luke 7.30). For this reason, Yeshua said, the harlots and publicans will enter heaven before the Pharisees religious leaders (Matt 21.31).

# Yitzchak and Revkah: Symbolism of Christ & the Church. Revkah= type of ‘church’ as the bride. Yitzchak= ‘type of Christ’, as groom.

-24.67: Issac marries at 40 years of age. Some writers place his marriage 3-4 years after Sarah’s death. It is thought Sarah died shortly after Isaac’s near sacrifice at Mt. Moriah. Therefore, this is more reason why Issac was not a young lad in his teens or even 20s when he was almost sacrificed. He was in his mid-30s or thereabout. Isaac brought Revkah into the tent of Sarah (their home) ….and he is much comforted in his new wife after his mother’s death; in effect Revkah has become the successor of the great matriarchs. What an honor to ‘dwell in the tent of Sarah’ especially one who endured years of barrenness, just as Revkah would come to endure bareness too. Yeshayahu references this when he prophesied ‘sing o barren woman, you who did not labor, for more shall the children of the desolate…shall HE who causes to conceive, shut the womb or not bring to birth? Of the children wish I shall cause the birth; they shall be blessed and taught of the LORD’ (Isa 54.1; 66.9-11).

-This story of Issac and Rebekkah represents the Christ and the church as the bride, with Eliezer the servant as an Ruach sent on apostolic mission. And the ‘tent of Sarah’ represents the kingdom of EL. Rivkah in betrothing Issac, willingly accepts saying ‘I will go…’ (24.58). And she is given jewelry to seal this union. Wow. What a rich image of Christ who betroths HIS bride, the church, gives us ‘gifts of Spirit’ and has granted us access to heavenly treasures and opened communion with the Father. Rivkah, in marrying Yitzchak is automatically counted as an inheritor of Avraham’s blessings. As we too are richly blessed in every good thing; and all that our heavenly Father offer is ours in Christ. The LORD is returning for a spotless bride, prepared and made ready for the groom, and to participate in the supper of the Lamb (Eph 5.26-27, Rev 19.6-9). Amen. The great tribulation also is for the process of prepare a virgin donned with clean linen, purified and awaiting the bridegroom. Therefore, brethren, as we await the groom, let us not fail like the 5 foolish virgin who sleep and without sufficient oil in the lamp, while the groom returns unawares and they are shut out of the banquet hall. Let us be like the 5 wise virgins who are awakened and oil and lamp burning brightly. Amen. And as Rivkah waited for Issac, we await the coming of our LORD and Savior as we hasten in righteousness and holy living (2 Peter 3.10-18).

# Avraham re-marries & has many more children. Avraham dies at 175. Yishmael and Yitzchak meet at Avraham’s burial.

-25.1: Avraham remarries a woman named Keturah, a non-Hebrew woman. His 6 additional sons with Keturah are recounted. Now, Avraham who remarried to a non-Israelite is quite prophetic foreshadowing of sorts. For one, this is in fulfilling the prophecy of Avraham fathering many nations (physically) and in his seed will gentiles be blessed (spiritually). Not only are the blessings in material or physical nature, but in spiritual blessings. Avraham’s marrying Keturah foreshadows Yeshua’s work in grafting gentiles to commonwealth of Israel. The grand patriarch dies at 147, having lived 37 years past Sarah’s death. Both Yitzchak and Yishmael bury their father in the cave of Machpelah (25.9). Yitzchak though is the sole heir of Avraham’s inheritance (25.5) though he gives portions to his other sons. It is important to note that HaShem blesses the descendants of Yishmael, yet Yitzchak is the chosen one to continue the Name (‘Shem’) of Yahweh; to father the Israelites, for the purpose of bringing light (the Messiah) to the gentiles. Messiah, Yeshua is the spiritual blessings bequeathed by Avraham, not necessarily materially as some would hold today.

-Today, some people think ‘Israel’ as a nation are blessed materially; are smart/intelligent, wealthy and run the financial capita of the world etc. But this is grave mistake and gross misunderstanding. The true blessings of Avraham and of his seed was/is in Christ {Gal 3.7, 29; Rom 4.11; 9.6-8}. It was/is spiritual not physical. Moreover, the true Jews and Israel today as far as HaShem is concerned are those who are of the Spirit; those who are by faith in Christ and are circumcised of hearts; and not of flesh. The true children of Avraham and of YHVH today are those who believe by faith the promise of Avraham and Sarah, fulfilled in Yeshua. Today, these true Jews in the spirit are the rightful heir to the inheritance of the Kingdom. Amen.

-# Descendants of Yishma’el. The tale of 2 brothers: Yishma’el & Yitzchak- metaphor for the duality of life.

-25.18: the genealogy of Ishmael is recounted. Out of Ishmael came 12 princes (12 nations) who were given domain from the southernmost region (Havila-Shur, Egypt) to northernmost (Arabian Peninsula, Syria). According to extra biblical sources, Ishmael fathered the nation of Arabs. Ishmael’s first son is Nebaioth, which some say is from where the word ‘Arab’ is etymologically’ derived. And the 2nd son of Ishmael Kedar is thought to be the antecedent of Muhammed, according to some Muslim oral traditions and writings. The story of Yitzchak and Yishmael presents duality of life: two brothers of the same father but different mothers. Yitzchak, the favored one, inherits all the kingdom of his father. Yishma’el, the banished (rejected) one is sent out into the wilderness.

-But what was the root cause of this sibling rivalry? Was the envy towards Yitzchak by Yishmael due to perceived favorableness by their father. Or was Yishmael innately envious? OR was it designed that way? [/b] Why did Sarah want Hagar and Yishmael to be banished? Was Sarah threatened by Yishmael? Was physical or spiritual life of Yitzchak threatened by Yishmael's influence? Was Sarah envious of Hagar and her son being first of Avraham’s strength and might? Perhaps that the inheritance would pass to Ismael? Or was something much deeper going on that we were not privy of?

# Sarah feared the negative (spiritual) influence of Yishma'el upon Yitzchak.

-According to some extra biblical sources, Sarah was deeply concerned about Ishmael’s negative influence of Issac causing her to take such drastic action. But what were those behavioral characteristics of Yishmael that Sarah was threatened of? These are things scripture does not elaborate on, and with good reason no doubt. This might also explain why YHVH agreed with Sarah’s counsel and encouraged Avraham to send the pair away. So, is it fair then to say that all things occur according to the will of the LORD? All of history is in HIS hands; HE is the writer, director and producer; and we are mere actors who play a part in this story called life? And if all happens according to the providence of YHVH, then how much of man’s free agency plays role in the turnout of events of history? Later, scripture notes that Yishmael married an Egyptian and then a Canaanite woman much to Avraham’s disliking. But notice how these two brothers followed widely different paths in life: resulting in descendants with 2 different cultural and religious belief systems. Extra biblical sources say that the descendants of Ishmael and the descendants of the sons of Keturah with Avraham dwelt together towards the east and the north merging to give rise to the Arab nations.

On the series, Shadows of the Messiah in the Torah. Genesis chapters 25.19-28.9

Shadows of the Messiah in Torah. Genesis chapters 25.19-28.9. Part 1 of 2.

Today’s Parshah (Torah reading): Genesis 25.19-28.9 is named “Toldot” (Generations), found in 25.19.

# Toldot (genealogy) of Yitzhak = genealogy of the Messiah. The Matriarchs of the Messiah & their imperfect past.

-Gen 25.19: Toledot is Hebrew word that means records or stories of generations. It is derived from the word ‘yalad’ which means to ‘give birth’ or ‘bear offspring’ and thus Toldot can also mean ‘descendants’ or ‘progeny’. The generation of Yitzhak is listed here in his two progenies: Yaakov and Esev. Yaakov’s toldot becomes the record of the genealogy of the Messiah, Yeshua: the son of David, the son of Yitzhak, the son of Avraham, the son of Seth, the son of Adam, the son of YHVH (Matt 1). Thus, In Yeshua, the seed that was promised to Avraham was ultimately fulfilled. The maternal genealogy of the Messiah also matters; and included few gentile women such as Tamar, Rahab, Ruth and possibly Bathsheva. Notice the scandalous history of Yeshua’s matrilineal line. Rahav was a Canaanite prostitute, Ruth was a Moabite who abandoned her own people. And as we will learn later, Leah, who was the least favoured wife was tricked into marrying Yaakov, and yet she ended up being the direct mother of Judah (direct line of Christ).

-Then there’s Tamar who posed as a prostitute to conceive with Judah; and Bathsheva who had an affair with David through whom the direct line of the Messiah came. These were all intentional on YHVH’s sovereign plan and purpose. In these stories, we see the interplay woven between Divine providence and free will of man. Not only were these women in Messiah’s linage, but their imperfect stories were to illustrate the LORD’s plan to graft in gentiles and the outcasts of Isreal into HIS redemptive story. Here, these women represent symbolically the gentile church as the imperfect along with redeemed of the remnant Isreal merging as one bride of Christ.

# Revkah’s twins struggle in the womb = 2 nations fighting in the womb (Israelites = Yaakov; & Edomites = Esev).

-Gen 25.21-24: Yitzchak and Rivkah suffer barrenness for 20 years; and Yitzchak supplicates to YHVH on behalf of Rivkah. And the LORD hears and opens her womb, and she conceives twins. The twins struggle in the womb which makes for a rather difficult pregnancy for Rivkah. When she inquires, the LORD tells her that she is carrying two nations who are fighting in her womb. The two nations were Israelites (Yaakov) and Edomites (Esev). Two things to note here: Yitzchak interceded for Rivkah meanwhile it’s not said of such for Avraham with Sarah. I wonder why? It's because while each patriarch, while they had their own personalities, were each foreshadowing and representing various aspects of YHVH’s character . Yitzchak and Rivkah had learnt from the past and avoided the mistakes of their predecessors; in that Rivkah didn’t attempt to give her handmaid to Yitzchak to have children as Sarah did with Hagar and Avraham. Yet still even the twins Yaakov & Esev who share same mother and father are already two opposing peoples right from the womb.

-Note also, both Sarah and Rivkah share the issue of bareness. It appears to be a pattern that the great matriarchs were often barren. The truth is that it was a case of divine providence and plan. Barrenness in the natural does not imply barrenness in the spiritual. As these women were meant for greatness, the timing of the LORD was of utmost importance in when they conceived. They weren’t really ‘barren’ as it were, they were just awaiting divine timing. It is apparent in scripture, barrenness and wilderness are tools YHVH uses to shape divine destines of greatness.

-The animosity and strife between these two nations (Israelites & Edomites) begin right from the womb. This is similar to the sibling rivalry seen in Yishmael and Yitzchak except that here both Esev and Yaakov share same mother and father. The twins are two distinct nations representing two opposing forces: the kingdom of darkness of this world vs the kingdom of the light of YHVH; the dichotomy between this current worldly system and the future world to come. The twins also represent two dualities of human nature: on one side are those who seek spiritual things; and on the other hand, are those who pursue materialism. Esev represented man’s pursuit of material world, power, conquest and domination. Esev grew up to be a mighty hunter much like Nimrod. He found his passion in chasing after the worldly offers, the pride of life and lust of his eyes.

-Yaakov on the other hand was more of a home body and had softer qualities to him; peaceful (a pacifist) and spent much of his days inside and within his father’s compound and by his mother’s side (25.27). The sages say that Yaakov was a homebody because he sat in the tent learning and studying Torah. Yitzhak, their father, took a particular liking to Esev the eldest, because he was manly, strong, wild and outgoing. However, YHVH picked Yaakov the youngest. This is pattern with haShem as HE generally does not pick as man does. Man picks after the flesh and outer appearance. YHVH looks at the heart and after the spirit. The twins’ personality differences give context to the sentiments later proclaimed by YHVH in Malachi 1 ‘Esev I hate, Yaakov I love’.

# Yaakov the heel grabber, tricks Esev into selling his birthright for pot of stew (25.27-34).

-Gen 25.26-34: interestingly, Yaakov comes out of the womb while grabbing onto Esev’s heels. Yaakov’s name is ‘Akev’ in Hebrew, which means ‘heel’. So, Yaakov means heel grabber, supplanter or deceiver. Esev means grass of the field; and as the father of Edom (hb: red). The backstory for why Esev's descendants become known as Edom (red) is because Esev came out of the womb reddish in skin tone. As the heel represents vulnerability; and so, in grabbing the heel of Esev, Yaakov's penchant for tricking and deceiving which is to explore ones' vulnerability shows up early at birth. Esev comes back one day famished and Yakov tricks him into selling his birthright by bringing him pot of stew. Esev has spent all day in the field and is famished. Yaakov exploits this vulnerability and gets Esev to sell his primogeniture. But what was this birth right then? What was so significant about him selling out for soup? We know this story is more than a bowl of soup or even material inheritance. The birthright would be the spiritual legacy and inheritance of Avraham, the promise of great nation, the land of Canaan, the ultimate seed that is the Messiah and the kingdom to come. THIS is what Esev willfully gave up for soup.

-Some extrabiblical sources claim that when Avraham died, Esev somehow concluded that the hope of Avraham, his legacy and his promise of great nation had perished with him. Esev no longer believed and shunned his inheritance and primogeniture. He went out on a manic rampage committing heinous crimes killing and all manner of idolatrous transgressions. It was after his last dalliance that he came back from famished when Yaakov (YHVH) presented him with a choice, an opportunity to hand over the birthright which he had despised. When this physical transaction occurred, a spiritual equivalent followed in which the spiritual legacy and the promise of Avraham along with the Messianic covenant to come transferred from Edom to Isreal. Esev had already displayed disrespect and disregard for continuing the spiritual legacy of his father. However, YHVH in HIS infinite wisdom saw that Yaakov would be great candidate. All things including Yaakov's deception occurred according to YHVH's providence. Lesson being that even apparent deceptive actions with the right heart intention can be deemed 'good' overall.

# The prophetic links for new covenant: Rivkah’s dueling twins, the great tribulation and the 2nd coming of the Messiah.

-Yitzhak was 40 years old when he married, and age 60 years old when he and Rivkah conceived twins. According to some Jewish sages, Yeshua was born in the beginning of the 4th millennium (early 4000 BCE) corresponding to Yitzhak’s 4th decade of life; but it’s been 2000 years since Yeshua’s departure from earth corresponding to the 20 years barrenness of Yitzhak and Rivkah. And now, the world is near 6th millennium (6000 years) which corresponds to Yitzhak’s 6th decade of life, we now approach the return of the Messiah and the birth of the Messianic era which corresponds to Yaakov’s birth in the 6th decade (60 years of age) of Yitzchak’s life. Rivkah’s struggle with barrenness represent spiritual exile and bareness of the Jews, or rather of the church today. The difficult pregnancy with twins struggling in the womb denotes the great tribulation; a tug of war between the children of light brought upon by the kingdom of darkness. Just as Esev is firstborn before Yaakov, which symbolizes the darkness that permeates and rules for a time before the 2nd coming of Yeshua and establishment of HIS kingdom of light and of true peace.

-In the days of Roman hegemony, the Jews cryptically called the Romans ‘Edomites’ because of the link between Edom and destruction of Jerusalem (Tehillim 137.7). The Roman empire represented a counterfeit kingdom known as ‘pax Romana’ (peaceful Rome); and then demanded tribute from all over the world just as in the peaceful millennial reign of Christ all nations will be required to bring offerings to worship the LORD. Just as it were then, so it will be in the last days when the antichrist of the last day will seek to enjoin religions under the guise of ‘peace’ (false peace) and establish one world religious system. And interestingly, the Roman catholic church being the religious scion of that ‘pax Romana’ era will be at the forefront of this one world religious system of the beast of last days.

# Yaakov & Esev = 2 types of believers’ nature: the stark contrast between true spirituality (Yaakov) and materialism (Esev).

-Yaakov and Esev represent two conflicting kingdoms: of light and dark. But on the individual level, it is great metaphor for the duality of the nature of Christian life. Some believers are after the material world; their energy is in the pursuit of fortune and fame. Sure, they cloak themselves (falsely) in religious garb. Most of them even pastors, prophets, evangelists, bishop or whatever ostentatious title they self-impose. But all these are just camouflage; they hide behind pulpit, the bible and claim the Name of the LORD meanwhile deep down, they are unscrupulous businessmen and women out for their own. Even well versed in scripture, all they do is to build up the kingdom of this world. But everything they do is for show; and it’s for to make a name for themselves; to gather followers and to make fortune. They are building their own empires as if they will live forever and/or take the wealth with them at death.

- The nature of Esev is visibly active in the prosperity gospel, the name it and claim it, decree and declare propaganda machine. It’s the undergirding principle in the Christian nationalism, the MAGA movement and the & 7 mountains domain theology. These are all Esev in nature, the materialistic ones who are after worldly comfort and success. These are the ones Yeshua warned in HIS parables of the Sower of the seed that fell on thorny ground. These are the ones who are choked out due to their care and concern for this world. And these are the ones who will say, but ‘LORD I did x, y and z’ in your Name; and they will hear ‘depart from me you workers of lawlessness’. These laugh now, eat now, enjoy the fame now, but in the last days, they will weep, hunger, and be cast out to a place of gnashing of teeth.

-On the other hand, are the Yaakov type believers. These are the ones who work behind the scenes tending, shepherding the flock of Christ. They are building up the kingdom of HaShem without the limelight, without fame and fortune. They are the ones who take the words of Yeshua seriously when HE said, seek first the kingdom, and all the necessities of life will be added to you. These do not seek wealth and comfort of this world. The LORD provides them with the daily bread needed. They need not beg for money to preach the gospel or minister because they know the LORD provides sufficient for them. And it is entirely possible that they might suffer lack, hunger/thirst, homeless, naked, tired and cold, just as Paul the apostle noted in the trials of apostolic missions. YET, the LORD and the work of the kingdom are their food, their strength, their protection, their shelter, and warmth. These are the ones whom the LORD will welcome and gives the highest seat in HIS kingdom, and they shall hear ‘welcome, my good and faithful servant’.

Shadows of the Messiah in the Torah. Genesis chapters 25.19-28.9. Part 2 of 2.