Midrash - The Hidden Orchard Project (Page 2)

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Midrash

A collection of 33 posts

The Cursing of the Fig Tree

New Testament Insights

The Cursing of the Fig Tree

There is a bizarre story that seems to be out of place in the hagiographical flow of the Gospels. It is the story in which Jesus takes his vengeance out upon a random fig tree on the side of the road. This story concludes with many rightfully scratching their heads,

From Water to Wine

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New Testament Insights

From Water to Wine

Among the most well-known stories in the Gospels, Jesus turning 'water to wine' is arguably one of the most commonly known. While some see a story that highlights mastery over the physical elements, the Rabbinic metaphors indicate that there is more to this story than meets the eye.

The Last Seder

Many in the church see the "Last Supper" as the Biblical grounds for what is called "Communion. In light of this, I explained how "The Last Supper" features many elements of an early Passover Seder. As it turned out, this was completely new to him, and we never got to discuss the original topic.

Parable of the Talents

Mysticism and Spirituality

Parable of the Talents

In the Zohar, there is a discussion based upon the Torah commandment to 'pay a laborer his wages the same day he works for them'¹. In the Peshat/plain meaning, this is great model of mercy, ensuring a person has what they need to survive and feed their family.

The Evil Inclination - Yetzer Hara

The Evil Inclination - Yetzer Hara

No matter how old you are, or with how much zeal you pursue spiritual development, every one of us has an inner battle that we are engaged in on a daily basis. Believe it or not, the human experience has been more or less designed this way.

Misunderstanding Paul's Message in Romans 11

New Testament Insights

Misunderstanding Paul's Message in Romans 11

In Romans 11, Paul leverages a few Midrashic themes from the Rabbinic tradition that many readers may not be aware of. When understood, these further affirm the Jewish people's selection and enduring covenantal place with G_D.

Heaven Has Suffered Violence

New Testament Insights

Heaven Has Suffered Violence

Over the years, I have heard many different explanations of this passage. So diverse, it is tough to really tell which one is the traditional interpretation. One common theme is that this is somehow a departure from Judaism to the new revelation, Christianity.

What is Midrash?

Midrash Featured

What is Midrash?

Many times, Jesus (aka Yeshua), is recorded telling a story that has its parallel in the midrashic tradition. In truth, it is a brilliant way to connect to established themes and set the stage for the lesson he wants to teach.