Developing the Soul - Mussar Series. Part 3 ▶
In this study session, we look at an often-overlooked presupposition that we must consider when we begin spiritual development. In this, we look at the issue of impurity that stems from the sin of Adam.
New Testament Insights
180 posts
Insights and new perspectives on the New Testament
Unexpected Encounters: Jesus and the Canaanite Woman
Jesus is surrounded by his students while teaching when a woman suddenly interrupts, asking him to heal her daughter. We naturally expect him to immediately heal a child with care and compassion. However, his response is an unexpected curveball.
Developing the Soul - Mussar Series. Part 2 ▶
In this session, we look at the concept of Derech Eretz, also known as "Decency" or customs and manners. Derech Eretz is defined as, then ancient Jewish principle that refers to the decorum, dignified behavior, and gentlemanly conduct that should characterize a Jew at all times.
What Is A "Baptism of Fire?"
What did John [the Baptist] mean when he said Jesus would 'baptize with fire'? The answer can be found in the Kabbalah, and is surprisingly practical for understanding some more complex metaphors in the Bible.
The First Adam and Second Adam: Adam Kadmon and the Logos
With this article, we will start to cover some of the more complex concepts that are featured in the New Testament. Hopefully, we'll lay a foundation to understand ideas many see as controversial and/or a major departure from Jewish thought.
The Pharisees Who Wash the Outside of Cups
Though it can lead to flawed conclusions, reading the Gospels and Epistles without understanding the complicated and technical discussions of Jewish law behind them is simple. We should know that these knowledge gaps are not inconsequential and can result in oversimplified interpretations.
Paul's Eagerness to Celebrate Shavuot
Did you know that Paul was adamant about keeping the festival of Shavuot at the Temple in Jerusalem? If not, it is likely because many English translations have obscured this account.
Book Available on Amazon - Into the Orchard.
"Into the Orchard" is a book that is designed to fast-track the learnings and correct the misunderstandings one may encounter when trying to understand the Jewish context of the New Testament.
Messiah
Much of the New Testament relies on a reader's pre-knowledge of the Jewish Oral Torah, often referred to as the "Mesorah". From this, we derive ubiquitous concepts like, Messiah, the World to Come, Sin, heaven and Hell.
Casting Their Nets
Using various Rabbinic metaphors we've uncovered, we're going to see how these help us reconstruct a familiar passage in the chapter of John.
A Lamp Under a Basket
Understanding Biblical metaphors and multi-faceted imagery is vital to unlocking the hidden dimensions of interpretation. In this article, we will unpack a few layers to reveal a deeper message in a familiar passage from what is called, "the Sermon on the Mount".
New Wine in Old Wineskins
At first glance, the popular interpretation of these passages has become so entrenched, the heading of this section is called, “The Superiority of the New”. The translators are preemptively telling us that what is “new” is better.