New Testament Insights
Why does the tradition seem to be silent on the ending of Parasha Vayigash? Why does the Torah tell us about Joseph's interactions with the people of Egypt? Is there a Messianic hint in these passages for us to explore?
Torah
Many people have read Genesis believing that Adam and Eve were simply two individuals created in the Garden. This has created problems between religion and science, but what if this understanding was based on a misinterpretation? A closer look at the Hebrew reveals a profound nuance.
New Testament Insights
We explore the intriguing reference to Jannes and Jambres, and its implications, in Paul's second letter to Timothy (2 Timothy 3:8). These figures are notably absent from the Christian canonical Bible but appear throughout the Jewish midrashic and kabbalistic tradition.
New Testament Insights
In Jewish thought, the right-hand holds a special place in customs, rituals, and observances. This pattern is reflected in everyday activities from hand-washing, tying shoes, touching a Mezuzah, wrapping Tefillin and more.
New Testament Insights
One of the Gospel's most famous and well-known healing stories is of the healing of the woman and the young girl. What if this story was written as more of a Midrash, would there be a deeper message for us to glean?
New Testament Insights
Years ago, I heard a lecture by an Orthodox Rabbi who shared some deeper insights about the event known as the "Akeidah", the "Binding" of Isaac. I couldn't help but see an incredible amount of parallels to the Gospel narrative and what some Christians may refer to as the "Passion" narrative.
New Testament Insights
Often used as a proof-text for the abrogation of the Torah [commandments], in Matthew 5 we see Jesus citing a well-known Midrash to prove quite the opposite. Despite many modern (popular) interpretations, he forbids his audience from ever thinking of such an idea!
Mysticism and Spirituality
A particular passage in the Gospel of John has been difficult for many readers to understand for centuries. The text indicates that many in Jesus's day had a hard time with it too.
Mysticism and Spirituality
The Parable of the Bridesmaids is a timeless lesson of vigilance and preparation. When we overlay the themes of the rabbinic tradition, we see more information under the surface to help us prepare.
Mysticism and Spirituality
Jesus quotes a very deep midrash in the Gospel of John. Many readers miss this reference, but his audience did not. Journey with us as we unpack these metaphors and seek understanding.
New Testament Insights
This parable exemplifies how Jesus often co-opts Rabbinic Midrash to illustrate a point. In this, he uses many metaphoric elements of the Jewish oral tradition, teaching the surprising spiritual dynamics of repentance.
Mysticism and Spirituality
Does G_D rule the world through a Divine Council of supernal angels? For many, this may be a new idea, however, deep within the Rabbinic tradition, this is quite ancient.