Messianic Issues

A Voice is Heard in Ramah Part I

Posted on October 26, 2023 by K. Gallagher

Thus says Adonai: “A voice is heard in Ramah—lamentation and bitter weeping—Rachel weeping for her children, refusing to be comforted for her children, because they are no more.” (Jeremiah 31:15, TLV)

Today, Cheshvan 11th, is the yahrtzeit (remembrance of the day of one’s passing) of the matriarch Rachel. Whether or not Rachel actually passed on this date, the prophetic significance that Rachel represents is deeply tied into the themes of the eighth month, often dubbed the Month for Messiah. The eighth month is the only one that doesn’t have any Biblical or traditional holidays, but the new beginning significance of the number eight alludes to a future time when Messiah will inaugurate the third Temple. The first Temple was completed in the eighth month (1 Kings 6:38), but King Solomon waited almost an entire year later to dedicate it in the seventh month alongside the festival of Sukkot (1 Kings 8).

The Tabernacle and the Temple represent the indwelling Presence of Adonai, His people, and the Messiah – God tabernacling among, with, and in His people.[1] Jewish commentators glean this truth from Exodus 25:8,“And let them make a sanctuary for Me, that I may dwell in their midst. (LITV)” They see the eighth month as being reserved for the time of Messiah and His dedication of the third Temple. The exile will finally be over when Mashiach returns and restores all things (Acts 3:21). But what does any of this have to do with Rachel?

Joseph is arguably the most notable son of Jacob, as he was chosen to save the entire family (and future) of Israel, which prophetically figured the future salvation work of Yeshua. In fact, there numerous parallels between the lives of Joseph and Yeshua. Because of this, there is a common belief in Judaism that there is a Messiah ben (son of) Joseph and a Messiah ben David, the former coming as a suffering servant, and the latter as a conquering king. Christians have a similar understanding in the first and second coming of Messiah.

Rachel’s first born son Joseph was mockingly called the Ba’al HaChalomot, Master of Dreams, by his brothers. And due to their jealous animosity, Joseph became the first exile of Israel. This little nugget is important to remember. When Joseph was a young man, God gave him two dreams foretelling how in the future, he would rule over his brothers. In the first dream, Joseph and his brothers were symbolized by sheaves of wheat. When Joseph recounted the dream to his brothers, it ticked them off because they understood clearly what the dream meant. In his second dream, the sun, moon, and eleven stars bowed down to Joseph. Jacob understood that he was the sun, Rachel was the moon, and Joseph’s brothers were the stars. These dreams were part of the reason his brothers were envious of him. Soon afterwards, Jacob sent Joseph to check on his brothers while they were out shepherding sheep, and this is when they conspired at first to kill Joseph, but ended up putting him into a pit. Jacob, upon seeing the bloodied coat of Joseph that his brother’s used to deceive him, went into great mourning.

Jacob tore his clothing and put on sackcloth and mourned for his son many days. All his sons got up along with all his daughters to console him, but he refused to be comforted. He said, “For I will go down to Sheol to my son, mourning.” So his father kept weeping for him.” (Genesis 37:34-35, TLV)

Notice how the prophet Jeremiah sees Rachel doing the same thing, but not just for Joseph. She laments and weeps for his many descendants who had also been sent into exile.

Thus says Adonai: “A voice is heard in Ramah—lamentation and bitter weeping—Rachel weeping for her children, refusing to be comforted for her children, because they are no more.” (Jeremiah 31:15, TLV)

But there is a promise and exhortation that Adonai gives to Rachel.

Thus says Adonai: “Restrain your voice from weeping and your eyes from tears. For your work will be rewarded”—it is declaration of Adonai—“when they will return from the land of the enemy. So there is hope for your future”—it is declaration of Adonai—“when your children will return to their own territory.” (Jeremiah 31:16-17, TLV)

In Judaism, Cheshvan 11th has become a type of Jewish Mother’s Day. In a sense, all mother’s suffer pain and toil to birth and raise children. But, I find this Jewish Mother’s Day especially poignant, since there are so many grieving mothers in Israel due to the atrocious attacks of Hamas. Grace in Torah firmly stands with Israel and grieves with the many that have lost family and friends. I was in the Land on Simchat Torah when war broke out (more on that in Part II). I have a tiny inkling of what our Jewish brothers and sisters endure as they protect and fight for their inheritance. And whether Christians realize it or not, the Land IS one of the promises of the New Covenant, which goes back to the Covenant with Abraham.[2]

Mother Rachel’s Tears

Unlike the other matriarchs and patriarchs, Rachel was not buried in Hebron at Machpelah. She is separated or exiled from Hebron and Machpelah (Cave of the Couples) despite it not being far from where she died. Why? If Rachel was the wife Jacob had intended to marry from the beginning, and she was the one he loved the most, why would she be buried on the side of road and not in the family grave site? Does this seem unnatural to you? In Jewish tradition, caring for the dead is the highest form of chesed, lovingkindness, because a dead person has no capability of returning the favor or paying one back. Caring for their body is a completely selfless act. If Jacob loved her so much, we must ask why she was buried where she was.

Perhaps Jacob knew something that we don’t easily see. God certainly chose Rachel, even after her death, to symbolize his mourning and deep desire for His wayward children to return to Him. Maybe Adonai allowed Jacob to see a glimpse of this, or maybe through Jacob’s grief He ensured that Rachel’s burial would be different. Rachel experienced “hard labor” and died giving birth to the final son of Jacob, Benjamin, on the Way to Ephrath (fruitfulness) near Bethlehem, the House of Bread. She called him Ben-oni, Son of My Sorrows, and Jacob changed his name to Ben-yamim, Son of my Right Hand. When Israel was finally able to enter the Promised Land, it occurred in the territory of Benjamin, who was the only son of Israel born in the Land.

Ema Rachel was “separated by her burial.” Why was she not “gathered to her people”? One might conclude that her incident of hiding her father’s idols under her saddle and saying she was on her “moon” cycle earned her death and separation, even in burial. If that is the case, Adonai still chose her to prophetically represent His deep longing for His wayward children to come home – children who had forsaken Him for the idols of their neighbors. Through the mouth of Jeremiah, Adonai proclaimed:

“Set up for yourself roadmarks, place for yourself guideposts; direct your mind to the highway, the way by which you went. Return, O virgin of Israel, return to these your cities. How long will you go here and there, O faithless daughter? For the LORD has created a new thing in the earth—A woman will encompass a man.” (Jeremiah 31:21-22, NASB)

Jeremiah spoke to people who were about to experience the judgment of Adonai that would result in their exile. Rachel’s tomb marks the place where the Babylonians marched the captives from the Land. But it is also the path one must take upon returning home. Separation, then gathering, renewal, and new life.

If one counts from the first day of the year (Tishrei 1) or Rosh Hashanah to Cheshvan 11, it equals forty-one. Forty-one is also the numerical value of אם (Em), which means “mother.” In Jeremiah, Mother Rachel prophetically weeps for her children who are “no more.” We also read this account in the haftarah portion on the second day of Rosh Hashanah (Jeremiah 31:1-19).

“At that time,” declares the LORD, “I will be the God of all the families of Israel, and they shall be My people.” (Jeremiah 31:1, NASB)


“With weeping they will come, and by supplication I will lead them; I will make them walk by streams of waters, on a straight path in which they will not stumble; for I am a father to Israel, and Ephraim is My firstborn.” (Jeremiah 31:9, NASB)

Weeping and mourning turning to laughter and rejoicing prophetically figures the restoration of all things. This is the theme of Jeremiah 31, which contains the prophecy of the new covenant. The Shabbat and festival Psalm read during the Birkat haMazon (Blessing After Meals) is Psalm 126. When you are full and satisfied (Dt. 8:10), remember that your work, toil, and pain will be rewarded. He is faithful. Returning exiles are “like dreamers,” who weep like mama Rachel, carrying their bags of seed. But they will return carrying their sheaves with them. They will rejoice in Simchat Torah. And the sheaves of Joseph’s dream will bow down to their Savior, but they won’t be alone. The first fruits guarantee that the whole field, the full harvest, is absolutely complete (Ezekiel 37:15-28, John 3:16, Romans 11).

Psalms 126:1-6 (NASB)

1 A Song of Ascents. When the LORD brought back the captive ones of Zion, we were like those who dream.

2 Then our mouth was filled with laughter and our tongue with joyful shouting; then they said among the nations, “The LORD has done great things for them.”

3 The LORD has done great things for us; we are glad.

4 Restore our captivity, O LORD, as the streams in the South.

5 Those who sow in tears shall reap with joyful shouting.

6 He who goes to and fro weeping, carrying his bag of seed, shall indeed come again with a shout of joy, bringing his sheaves with him.

The pattern of our complete redemption has been spoken from the Beginning. It will involve sorrow and trouble and hard birth pangs, but it will result with a celebration of the Son of the Right Hand, and great JOY.

Kever Rachel – Rachel’s Tomb

In 2018, I had the opportunity to visit Kever Rachel (Rachel’s Tomb) near Bethlehem. Rachel means a “ewe,” a sheep, and yet she was the FIRST woman shepherdess mentioned in the Bible. Shepherds guard, protect, lead, water, and feed the flock – something the resurrected Messiah said was expected from those that love Him (John 21).

Prophetically, Rachel symbolizes the Shekinah, the Divine Indwelling Presence[3], the Holy Spirit, Who, as Lady Wisdom, calls out to the wayward, lost, exiled, and bound children of Adonai. His desire is to release the prisoners, set the captives free, and bind up the broken hearted (Is. 61). And like a Mother Bird, He longs to gather them under His Wings. Rachel’s irregular burial “on the Way,” and her great pain, toil, and even death resulted with the last son, the Son of the Right Hand, who completed the House of Israel. This pattern points the Way back from the exile and to the restoration of all things (Acts 3:19-21).

Through the imagery of Rachel, God shows us labor pain, birth, death, wailing, mourning, and also great hope for the future. This is life in a nutshell. Rachel weeps, but she will be restored. Rather than being a symbol for death and separation, she pictures new life, repentance, reconciliation, and restoration. She is also connected to dreams and dreamers, the Bat Kol, Voice of God, the future, great joy, seeds growing into sheaves, laughter, prophecy, and Messiah. Most succinctly, she figures exile, redemption, and restoration. This story is told over and over through her life and in the lives of her children.

Rachel’s Tomb is considered the third most holy site in Israel. It once looked more like the first image in the photos below. Today, there is a winding paved road flanked by 50 foot concrete walls, dotted with IDF guard stations, that leads to the structure. These measures are in place to protect pilgrims from terror attacks from nearby Bethlehem, now an Arab city in the “West Bank.” The only indication that Rachel’s tomb looks anything like it did in the past, before all the security
measures were built, is the interior limestone floors, walls, and domed ceiling.

The winding drive was depressing and the entrance looked more prison like than a “holy” space. As we approached the entrance, the oppression was thick and heavy. It wasn’t what I expected. As I walked through the door, my sunglasses broke and fell off my face. I caught them in my hand as I crossed the threshold. Later, I would find that to be the perfect metaphor for my experience. Sometimes, we must remove the artificial lenses we have placed over our eyes because it is dimming our vision and blocking “the light.”

When I looked around, I was disappointed that there was nothing overtly “spiritual” about the place. Adonai had built Rachel up so strongly in my heart that I expected her to (figuratively) meet me there. But alas, all I sensed was heaviness, like the concrete barriers that surrounded everything around us. The men and women were separated, as is normal in Orthodox Jewish spaces. Both sides had many there praying, some very loudly, with wails reminiscent of Rachel weeping for her children. I wondered how many were there because they had lost children due to terror attacks, war, or some other tragedy, or who were dealing with the pain of barrenness. I took some photos and then prayed through my disappointment. “Abba, please show me what is here. I want to see.”

As I opened my eyes after praying, I felt the Holy Spirit, and looked again. While in the natural everything was the same, I began to see the space with new eyes. The Holy Spirit had removed my natural lenses. The ancient limestone walls, shelves lined with prayer books, and the people remained. But, as I listened to the din of prayer by all those visiting, I noticed something that I failed to see before.

Suddenly, it was all very apparent. First, there were so many women! So many PREGNANT women! Large bellies full of life, and the laughter and cries of little children echoing against the golden limestone walls. Whispered prayers, chanted prayers, and even loud wailing pleas clouded the air and created an incense that I couldn’t smell with my natural senses. It all coalesced into a spirit-filled cacophony that I was ashamed that I couldn’t detect previously.

I scanned the room and noticed pews filled with old women, long past child rearing years, who sat there praying for their children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren. Their plain clothes, covered heads, and wrinkled faces were like the epitome of every storybook old woman I’ve ever read about. Generations were represented in that place, and they all knew what and WHO “Rachel” represented. But, I was just opening my eyes like one of the newborns.

One particular old lady sat in the back. My mentor slowly walked towards me at that point and said, “If you give her some shekels, she will bless you.” I have no idea how she knew this would be the case, but already in awe of seeing with new eyes, I did what she suggested. I carefully made my way to the old woman while riffling through my pocket for coins. I reached out to the old Jewess and handed her some shekels. She looked up at me, not with contempt, judgment, or confusion (I am obviously of gentile descent), but with the tenderness of a loving mother or grandmother. She gently grabbed my hand and gave me a blessing in Hebrew. Though I could only make out a few words, my spirit resonated with them and I knew I had received a great honor. Then to my surprise, that old Jewess kissed the back of my hand with the softest lips I’ve ever felt. It was as if ema Rachel had kissed me herself. I was undone.

Overwhelmed, I slowly walked away, choked up by the flood of feeling and images that raced through my mind. I whispered to Adonai, “I get it! I see!”


Rachel is barren wombs who are now full of fruit.[4] She is idol worshipers turned and transformed into the image of Messiah.[5] She represents sacrifice and intercessory prayer. New life. Old life. Just LIFE. Cries, wails, despair and prayers, are exchanged for laughter and shouts of joy that echo throughout the centuries. Rachel died on the Way to Ephrat, fruitfulness. She is very near to the House of Bread – Bethlehem, the place the True Bread from Heaven was born. There is a reason she is not resting in Machpelah with the other patriarchs and matriarchs. She remains with her children in the exile, in their punishment and throughout their separation, calling loudly to them, crying for them to return.

Rachel exudes the love of our Father, whose holiness and righteousness requires justice; but like any good parent, hates to see us suffer all the same. And all the while, despite our treachery, unfaithfulness, and disrespect, His plan is to bring Israel back into His Bosom. And not just Israel, but the nations with them.[6] The prophets all proclaim this. The guilty will not go unpunished, and yet the chesed and mercy of Adonai abounds towards His people (Ex 34, Is. 54:8).

One night, before visiting Rachel’s Tomb, I had a very lucid dream about her. She was gripping metal birthing bars and was in the throes of labor. There were a few of us there who were like midwives and support. As her pains grew more intense, great drops of sweat ran down her face, thoroughly soaking her dark hair and clothing. As she screamed and pushed, her face would change. With one contraction she would be a woman, then the face of man, then the face of child. Many, many faces of all races and ages rippled to life as she travailed. Finally, she gave birth to a son, and he was half grown, the age of 7 or 8.

The dream was so real and graphic that I woke up in shock. It was later that I realized that Rachel is still giving birth, because that is what the Holy Spirit does, He grants us the spirit of repentance so we can accept Yeshua as our Messiah and Savior. Like Joseph’s multicolored tunic, they are from all walks of life and of all ages. He is the Savior of the whole world and He travails for us. And like her, we are meant to travail for the Kingdom too. Paul said, “My little children, for whom I am again in the pain of childbirth until Christ is formed in you,” (Galatians 4:19, NRSV)

The “faces” are those who have grown from seeds scattered in exile among the nations. Our Father’s Word comes to pass even in our punishment for disobedience.[7] The harvest is ready, sheaves are being bound (for the LORD), and they will all bow down to him, and every tongue will confess. Some see the bloodied tunic and assume Joseph is “no more,” that the wild beasts of the world have torn him to pieces. They refuse to be comforted like Jacob and Rachel. They are wrong. He lives, even in Egypt, a place of exile.

If you want to visit Rachel, know that the Way is narrow. It’s a tight place. A protected, restricted, and guarded path. It’s not easy to get there. Yet, Her birth pangs are steadily coming. Contraction after contraction. Wave after wave. Great streams of sweat and tears mar her face. But her work WILL be rewarded! And so will yours, son or daughter of Rachel!

In 2016, before my first trip to Israel,  I “just so happened” to receive the following audio teaching from The Land of Israel (more about them and Arugot Farm in Part II). When Rabbi Katz sang the song that returning exiles, (Jews making Aliyah), are taught, I ugly cried, but it was a cry of joy and wonderment. I hope you will take the time to listen to this short message.

Can you hear Rachel calling for you to come home? Do you have ears to hear? She’s not in Hebron. She is not in Machpelah. She is on the Way waiting for you… Keep your eyes from weeping. Ask for new lenses. Adonai will provide them, even in the gloom and darkness of judgment and war.

Part II

PRAYER

Join me in prayer for Israel, Jerusalem, and all the men, women, and children who are standing firm set on protecting their inheritance from Adonai. For all those lost in the darkness of exile, bondage, captivity, spiritual darkness, and confusion. For all of our children, both physical and spiritual, and for prodigals to return home. Pray for blind eyes to be pierced by the light of Messiah, the suffering Servant, like Joseph, Who gave everything, even His life for the sheep. For all those entrenched in idol worship, like Laban, and the ancient House of Israel (Ephraim). Pray for our enemies near and far who are entrapped by fear and strong delusion making them sell themselves and their children to corrupt governments believing they are free when they are shackled to false ideologies. Pray for the lives of the unborn and all babies that are destroyed to satisfy the desires of greed, selfishness, hatred, and fear for the future. Pray for those who are sick and suffering, in pain, or who are isolated, estranged, or rejected.

May Adonai heal our land and restore our captivity. May He unify us in His love. May we cry so loudly that the Egyptians hear it when Joseph reveals himself and reunites the family of God.

For all these we pray. We wail and weep and cry out to the Most High, and He hears our prayers.

[1] Psalm 27:4, John 2:21, Romans 8:9, 1 Corinthians 3:16-17; 6:19-20, 2 Corinthians 6:16, Ephesians 2:20-22, Revelation 21-22.

[2] Genesis 12:1-9; 15:1-21, Jeremiah 31:31-40, Ezekiel 11:16-21; 36:24-38.

[3] While the word Shekinah does not appear in the Bible, the concept of the (in)Dwelling Presence of God certainly is. The verbal root of shekinah is sha-khan (H7931) meaning to abide, dwell, tabernacle, and lodge. It has always been the desire and will of Adonai to dwell with and in His people. Yeshua told His followers “to abide” in Him, the True Vine (John 15). Shakhan is also the root of the word Tabernacle, Miskhan, the place where the Presence of Adonai dwelled among His people in the wilderness, and later in the Temple. “And let them make a sanctuary for Me, that I may dwell in their midst.” (Exodus 25:8, LITV) Like Christians, Jews understand that the Tabernacle and Temple mystically figures God’s people (1 Cor. 3:16-17). What dwells in the Tabernacle or Temple? The Spirit of Adonai. In Hebrew, Ruach (Spirit) is a feminine word. When personified, the Spirit is expressed in the feminine form. A Biblical example is Woman/Lady Wisdom in the Book of Proverbs, Who was with God at the Creation. Shekinah is a feminine noun meaning, the “Abiding/Dwelling One.” Dr. Ben Gigi, a Jewish Believer and Hebrew teacher, explains Shekinah here: https://hebrew.jerusalemprayerteam.org/shekinah-divine-presence/

[4] “Shout for joy, O barren one, you who have borne no child; break forth into joyful shouting and cry aloud, you who have not travailed; for the sons of the desolate one will be more numerous than the sons of the married woman,” says the LORD. “Enlarge the place of your tent; stretch out the curtains of your dwellings, spare not; lengthen your cords and strengthen your pegs. For you will spread abroad to the right and to the left. And your descendants will possess nations and will resettle the desolate cities.” (Isaiah 54:1-3, NASB)

[5] “Or do you not know that the unrighteous will not inherit the kingdom of God? Do not be deceived; neither fornicators, nor idolaters, nor adulterers, nor effeminate, nor homosexuals, nor thieves, nor the covetous, nor drunkards, nor revilers, nor swindlers, will inherit the kingdom of God. Such were some of you; but you were washed, but you were sanctified, but you were justified in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ and in the Spirit of our God.” (1 Corinthians 6:9-11, NASB)

[6] Genesis 17:6,16; 35:10-12 Psalm 67; 86:9, Isaiah 2:2-5; 11:10; 19:16-25; 49:6; 60:1-22, Jeremiah 16:19-21, Micah 4:1-5, Zechariah 8:20-23, Romans 11:25-36, Ephesians 3:1-13, Revelation 5:9; 14:6-7, etc.

[7] Isaiah 55:9-11 (NASB) “For as the heavens are higher than the earth, So are My ways higher than your ways And My thoughts than your thoughts.

10 “For as the rain and the snow come down from heaven, And do not return there without watering the earth And making it bear and sprout, And furnishing seed to the sower and bread to the eater;

11 So will My word be which goes forth from My mouth; It will not return to Me empty, Without accomplishing what I desire, And without succeeding in the matter for which I sent it.

Categories: Biblical Symbols, Messianic Issues, new moon, Women | Tags: , , , , , , , , , , , , | 4 Comments

Extraordinary Chesed

Posted on July 10, 2020 by K. Gallagher

 

Kindness shutterstock_363741746This recording is a breakout session delivered on July 2,2020 at Revive called Extraordinary Chesed.

 

 

 

Categories: Messianic Issues, Moedim, Mussar | Tags: , , , , , , | 5 Comments

Warring with Amalek Part III

Posted on February 1, 2019 by K. Gallagher

Valley Dwellers

For the best context, see Part I and Part II. Spiritually speaking, Amalek:

  1. Attacks when one is weary, weak, and discouraged. This is also when one is most likely to grumble, complain, and contend with the LORD, leadership, or other people, which is why Adonai allows the attack in the first place.
  2. Strikes one in the back – you don’t see him coming because your focus is on self and the issues and circumstances in front of you (instead of Adonai).
  3. Plays on the desires of one’s the flesh. Often, the things or positions one desires can become a snare for the flesh. Getting the thing or position takes precedence over relationship with Adonai and other people.
  4. Is a descendant of Esau, the red one ruled by appetite, desire, and “right now.” Spiritually, he is the beast-like (sin) nature of mankind.
  5. Is a valley dweller. Whether one is in a valley of doubt, despair, impatience, or even death, Amalek will meet you there.

King Saul and Amalek

King Saul lost his position on account Amalek just like first generation in the wilderness. Though he wasn’t completely disobedient to the Word of the LORD, Adonai still counted it as full blown disregard.

1 Sam. 15:1-3 (NASB) Then Samuel said to Saul, “The LORD sent me to anoint you as king over His people, over Israel; now therefore, listen to the words of the LORD. 2 “Thus says the LORD of hosts, ‘I will punish Amalek for what he did to Israel, how he set himself against him on the way while he was coming up from Egypt. 3 ‘Now go and strike Amalek and utterly destroy all that he has, and do not spare him; but put to death both man and woman, child and infant, ox and sheep, camel and donkey.‘”

Through the prophet Samuel, King Saul was given very specific instructions. He was to destroy every single thing that was associated with Amalek. But, Saul and the people were not so keen on the details.

1 Sam. 15:9-11 (NASB) But Saul and the people spared Agag and the best of the sheep, the oxen, the fatlings, the lambs, and all that was good, and were not willing to destroy them utterly; but everything despised and worthless, that they utterly destroyed. 10 Then the word of the LORD came to Samuel, saying, 11 “I regret that I have made Saul king, for he has turned back from following Me and has not carried out My commands.” And Samuel was distressed and cried out to the LORD all night.

Saul and the people were not willing to destroy the goods that they deemed good or best. In Saul’s mind, he had done what Adonai asked; he had fulfilled the commandment. There is a lesson here. Instead of the “devil” being in the details, the reality is that Adonai is in the details!

1 Sam. 15:13 (NASB) Samuel came to Saul, and Saul said to him, “Blessed are you of the LORD! I have carried out the command of the LORD.”

Do you suppose that King Saul knew in his heart of hearts that he hadn’t fully obeyed? Or do you think that he had deluded himself into believing that he had fulfilled Adonai’s command by doing most of what He asked? Samuel points out the root issue: pride. Notice how he addresses Saul in verse 17 below.

1 Sam. 15:17-19 (NASB) 17 Samuel said, “Is it not true, though you were little in your own eyes, you were made the head of the tribes of Israel? And the LORD anointed you king over Israel, 18 and the LORD sent you on a mission, and said, ‘Go and utterly destroy the sinners, the Amalekites, and fight against them until they are exterminated.’ 19 “Why then did you not obey the voice of the LORD, but rushed upon the spoil and did what was evil in the sight of the LORD?”

Verse 19 says that Saul “rushed upon the spoil.” The Hebrew word eet (translated as rushed) has the idea of rushing to act with scorn or disrespect. It is akin to the fifth wicked spirit in Proverbs 6:18, feet that hasten to run to do evil.

1 Sam. 15:20-21 (NASB) 20 Then Saul said to Samuel, “I did obey the voice of the LORD, and went on the mission on which the LORD sent me, and have brought back Agag the king of Amalek, and have utterly destroyed the Amalekites. 21 “But the people took some of the spoil, sheep and oxen, the choicest of the things devoted to destruction, to sacrifice to the LORD your God at Gilgal.”

I did obey… but the people. This is not the heart of a leader like Moses who was willing to have his name blotted out even for the guilty. If other people are one’s excuse for not doing what you know to do, then who are you really following?

1 Sam. 15:22-23 (NASB) Samuel said, “Has the LORD as much delight in burnt offerings and sacrifices As in obeying the voice of the LORD? Behold, to obey is better than sacrifice, And to heed than the fat of rams. 23 “For rebellion is as the sin of divination, And insubordination is as iniquity and idolatry. Because you have rejected the word of the LORD, He has also rejected you from being king.”

Notice the sins that Samuel points out to Saul. He compared rebellion to divination. Rebellion is meriy in Hebrew. It comes from the root marah, to be bitter.[1]How is this like divination? Divination is the counterfeit of prophecy. It comes from another spirit that is fueled by the desires of the flesh. Bitterness and rebellion come from the same place. Samuel then mentions insubordination. This is the Hebrew word patsar.[2] It means to peck at, to press, pressure or push someone to do your will. This is likened to iniquity and idolatry. The Ancient Hebrew Lexicon of the Bible defines aven, iniquity, below. See if you can spot the Esau nature.

Vigor: The power within the belly, or loins, for reproduction or creative work. II. Vanity: The use of the power within the loins for vain or other improper purposes. [freq. 90] |kjv: strength, might, force, goods, substance, iniquity, wicked, vanity, affliction, mischief, unrighteous| {H202, H205}

We are insubordinate when we push people around to get our way. This push doesn’t have to be physical, as it is mostly about one’s words. Pressuring someone to yield to you, your desires, your preferences, or what you think is best, is not a mark of leadership or strength – at least not to Adonai. Instead, this type of manipulation is powered by the belly or appetites of nephesh (flesh). By yielding to such pressures, we are in effect worshipping an idol of someone else’s desire.

1 Sam. 15:24 (NASB) 24 Then Saul said to Samuel, “I have sinned; I have indeed transgressed the command of the LORD and your words, because I feared the people and listened to their voice.

Samuel’s words bring clarity to the gravity of what Saul had done (and not done). He realizes that he feared the people more than the LORD. The people (and Saul) did not destroy the “choice” possessions of the Amalekites. Choice is the Hebrew reshit, meaning first, beginning, the choice or most excellent. It is the same word as bereshit, the first word of the Bible. It also refers to firstborn sons (beginning of strength) and first fruits of harvest (Lev. 23:10).

By not destroying the reshit of the Amalekites, they might as well have not done anything at all. In verse 21 (above), these goods are said to be “devoted to destruction” and would be given as a sacrifice to the LORD. This phrase is another link to the transgression of the Children of Israel in the account of the spies. The Amalekites and the Canaanites beat them down as far as Hormah.

Hormah comes from the same root as the phrase “devoted for destruction,” charam.[3] It means to set aside or apart for devotion whether for destruction or sacrifice. It often refers to judgment and utter destruction. In Isaiah, Adonai uses this same word to speak of Edom.

Is. 34:5 (TLV) For My sword has drunk its fill in the heavens. See, it will come down upon Edom, upon the people I have devoted to judgment.

In Saul’s case, everything that belonged to the Amalekites had been devoted to destruction at the judgment of Adonai. Saul and the people instead reserved the reshit of these things and planned to place them on an altar of sacrifice to Adonai. Did you catch the subtle yet profound difference? Samuel likens these actions to divination, iniquity, and idolatry. Details matter.

Samuel, the one who hears God as a type of Yeshua, takes care of the “head” of the Amalekites. Notice that Agag presumes that “death” has passed him by. How wrong he is!

1 Sam. 15:32-33 (NASB) Then Samuel said, “Bring me Agag, the king of the Amalekites.” And Agag came to him cheerfully. And Agag said, “Surely the bitterness of death is past.” 33 But Samuel said, “As your sword has made women childless, so shall your mother be childless among women.” And Samuel hewed Agag to pieces before the LORD at Gilgal. 

Samuel sliced up the enemy (like bread) at Gigal. As gory as it is, this is necessary in the war with Amalek. Every single shred of the lower beastly nature must be destroyed. If your eye is causing you to sin, gouge it out. Obedience is better than sacrifice. In other words, though the world with its wisdom from below says, “the end justifies the means,” Adonai vehemently disagrees.

Because of his careless handling of Amalek, Saul lost his kingship. Like Israel so many centuries before him, he lost his lofty position. Another would be raised up to replace him. The pattern of the “first” or “firstborn” being passed over due to disobedience of the flesh occurs over and over in Scripture. Ye, must be born again. The second born, the man of tents and faith, receives the promise.

Lack of trust and disobedience are marks of the faithless old man, like Esau. Greed, envy, strife, gossip, slander, murder, deceit, malice, arrogance, disrespect, selfish ambition, unnatural passions, impatience, jealousy, all of these things keep one from entering the Shabbat rest of Adonai. (Romans 1:16-32) But, these impulses can be conquered with the Words of Life. (Gen. 4:6-7)

Back to Yehoshua (Joshua)

In Part II, we looked at the first mention of Yehoshua. He is introduced as the commander of those that war with Amalek. (Ex. 17) The succeeding times Yehoshua appears on the scroll are also noteworthy. Near the end of this week’s Torah Portion, Mishpatim (Ex. 21:1-24:18), Yehoshua is positioned in a place that we only associate with YHWH and Moses:

Ex. 24:12-14 (NASB) Now the LORD said to Moses, “Come up to Me on the mountain and remain there, and I will give you the stone tablets with the law and the commandment which I have written for their instruction.” 13 So Moses arose with Joshua his servant, and Moses went up to the mountain of God. 14 But to the elders he said, “Wait here for us until we return to you. And behold, Aaron and Hur are with you; whoever has a legal matter, let him approach them.”

The text is unclear as to where Yehoshua was or what he was doing while Moses was on the mountain for forty days and forty nights receiving the Luchot HaBrit (Tablets). But when Moses arose to go up, Yehoshua arose with him. The following verses close portion Mishpatim:

Ex. 24:15-18 (NASB) Then Moses went up to the mountain, and the cloud covered the mountain. 16 The glory of the LORD rested on Mount Sinai, and the cloud covered it for six days; and on the seventh day He called to Moses from the midst of the cloud. 17 And to the eyes of the sons of Israel the appearance of the glory of the LORD was like a consuming fire on the mountain top. 18 Moses entered the midst of the cloud as he went up to the mountain; and Moses was on the mountain forty days and forty nights.

“Luchot HaBrit” Painting by © Kisha Gallagher 2018

The second mention of Yehoshua is shrouded in mystery. Where was Yehoshua for these forty days and forty nights? What did he eat or drink? Why didn’t the cloud consume him? The third time Yehoshua appears in the text, Moses had descended the mountain. And, pow! There is Yehoshua, right by Moses’ side as he if he never left.

Ex. 32:15-17 (NASB) Then Moses turned and went down from the mountain with the two tablets of the testimony in his hand, tablets which were written on both sides; they were written on one side and the other. 16 The tablets were God’s work, and the writing was God’s writing engraved on the tablets. 17 Now when Joshua heard the sound of the people as they shouted, he said to Moses, “There is a sound of war in the camp.”

I believe the Torah is purposely vague and mystical in these accounts. The natural questions that arise are meant to grab one’s attention. They are like a highlighter saying, “Look here! There’s more!” And, if Yehoshua being present as Moses ascends and descends the mountain failed to capture your intrigue, his fourth mention is just as mystifying.

Ex. 33:10-11 (NASB) When all the people saw the pillar of cloud standing at the entrance of the tent, all the people would arise and worship, each at the entrance of his tent. 11 Thus the LORD used to speak to Moses face to face, just as a man speaks to his friend. When Moses returned to the camp, his servant Joshua, the son of Nun, a young man, would not depart from the tent.

While everyone else in the camp stands at the doorway of their own tent, worshipping at a distance, Joshua remains in the Tent of Meeting, even when Moses returns to the camp. In Hebrew, it says that he would not depart from the midst or middle of the tent. Was he up close and personal with the pillar of cloud when Adonai spoke to Moses face to face? The text is unclear.

A few things are certain. Yehoshua was closer to Moses than anyone else. This is akin to being really close to the Torah or being intimate with Adonai’s instructions and the law giver, Yeshua. Joshua trusted and believed Moses (and thus, Adonai), and was a very loyal servant to him. Because of his closeness to Moses, he avoided grave sins such as the golden calf, and giving an evil report about the Promised Land. Can you see how Joshua emulated Jacob, the one that dwells in the tent of Torah learning, and not the appetite ruled Esau? (Gen. 25:27)

The example of Yehoshua’s relationship with Moses is revealing. The closer one is to him, the closer one is to the Mountain (Throne) of Adonai, and the less likely one is to fall into error in the wilderness of life. It’s as if Yehoshua is hidden (and protected) from the temptations of the camp.

Moreover, Yehoshua was able to see and go to places that no one else could. Is it any wonder that YHWH chose this man to succeed Moses, and lead the Children of Israel into the Promised Land? Or, that the Messiah to come would bear his name sake, and do the same? I don’t think so.

The Hope of King David

There is hope for those that live in the valley with the heinous Valley Dwellers. Yehoshua teaches one to slay them with the mouth of the sword, and to stay close to Moses. King David, another type of Messiah Yeshua, teaches a song to overcome Amalek. He knows that worship turns the eyes of the flesh back to the Creator, an adjustment that is crucial in this war.

David’s most famous song is one that most people, no matter how close or far they are from HaShem, can quote by heart; that is Psalm 23. Do you think it is a coincidence that this Psalm mentions the “valley of the shadow of death,” and a “rod and staff” that brings comfort in a low place, emek?

Ps. 23:1-4 (NASB) A Psalm of David. The LORD is my shepherd, I shall not want. 2 He makes me lie down in green pastures; He leads me beside quiet waters. 3 He restores my soul; He guides me in the paths of righteousness For His name’s sake. 4 Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I fear no evil, for You are with me; Your rod and Your staff, they comfort me.

Did you notice how this Psalm begins? Because Adonai is my Shepherd, I shall not want. How does this differ from the attitude of the Children in the Wilderness? Have you ever been like them, having your “wanter” stuck in the “on” position? I don’t care to admit how often this is true for me. If one is of the flock of Adonai, they trust that He will meet every need, even when one is confused by His Higher ways, like Habakkuk.

Adonai provides pasture (food and rest) and water. He restores (cares for and provides for) the nephesh (flesh/soul). He knows exactly what one needs, and when it is needed. He did NOT deliver you only to kill you in the wilderness of life.

Be a bearer of Good News, repeat the good report of Caleb and Joshua. Remind your downtrodden neighbor that he/she can by all means trust in the Promises of God. Reverse the evil words, mockery, and doubts of the faithless. Do not let your flesh get caught up in their disobedience. Use the Sword to lacham (fight) Amalek. Slice him and all other enemies into perfect portions of lechem (bread) with the Sword of Adonai.

David sang Psalm 23 as a prayer; perhaps, it was a reminder for him as much as it is for us. These six short verses have brought countless comfort to worn out souls over the centuries. If you are exhausted and battle weary, remember that Yeshua holds the rod in His Hand. He has no need for anyone to help Him keep it held high. And, He promises that we will prevail. We will overcome BECAUSE He overcame! Keep trusting, believing, and clinging to Him.

Ps. 23:5-6(NASB) You prepare a table before me in the presence of my enemies; You have anointed my head with oil; My cup overflows. 6 Surely goodness and lovingkindness will follow me all the days of my life, And I will dwell in the house of the LORD forever.

For more on Amalek, see this post on Esther, Costumes, and Purim.

Also, consider that since it is a leap year this year on the Jewish calendar (2019/5779), the haftarah reading the week of Purim is 1 Samuel 15:2-34, the text I’ve explored above. Haman descends from Amalek.

 

[1]H4805 מְרִיmerı̂y mer-ee’ From H4784; bitterness, that is, (figuratively) rebellion; concretely bitter, or rebellious: – bitter, (most) rebel (-ion, -lious). Total KJV occurrences: 23

H4784 מָרָהmârâh A primitive root; to be (causatively make) bitter (or unpleasant); (figuratively) to rebel (or resist; causatively to provoke): – bitter, change, be disobedient, disobey, grievously, provocation, provoke (-ing), (be) rebel (against, -lious). Total KJV occurrences: 45

[2]H6484 פָּצַרpāṣar: A verb meaning to peck at, to press, to push. It indicates a literal physical push against someone (Gen 19:9); figuratively, it refers to urging someone (Gen 33:11) to do something (Jdg 19:7). In a negative sense, it refers to rebellion against someone, arrogance (1Sa 15:23).

[3]Hebrew Word Study: H2763 חָרַם ḥāram: A verb meaning to destroy, to doom, to devote. This word is most commonly associated with the Israelites destroying the Canaanites upon their entry into the Promised Land (Deu 7:2; Jos 11:20). It indicates complete and utter destruction (Jdg 21:11; 1Sa 15:18); the severe judgment of God (Isa 11:15); the forfeiture of property (Ezr 10:8); being “accursed” or set apart for destruction (Jos 6:18). This latter application, being set apart, accounts for what appears to be a contradictory element in the verb. It is also used to mean devotion or consecration to the Lord (Lev 27:28-29; Mic 4:13). Just as something accursed is set apart for destruction, so something devoted to God is set apart for His use.

Categories: Messianic Issues, Torah Portions | Tags: , , , , , , , | 11 Comments

Warring with Amalek Part II

Posted on January 29, 2019 by K. Gallagher

Before digging in, Part I offers the context for this post.

Joshua & Amalek

 “Then Amalek came and fought against Israel at Rephidim. So Moses said to Joshua, “Choose men for us and go out, fight against Amalek. Tomorrow I will station myself on the top of the hill with the staff of God in my hand.””  Ex. 17:8-9 (NASB)

Have you ever noticed that the battle with Amalek is the first time that the Torah introduces the reader to Joshua (Yehoshua)? This is not a coincidence, for he is a type of Messiah Yeshua.

We meet Yehoshua as a commander of men, a mighty warrior, and a servant of Moses. Once Amalek is defeated in Exodus 17, Adonai has Moses forever memorialize the victory. Carefully consider the literal wording of the text:

Ex. 17:14 (LITV) And Jehovah said to Moses, write this, a memorial in a book, and set it in the ears of Joshua, that I will utterly wipe away the remembrance of Amalek under the heavens.

Adonai promises to utterly blot out the memory of Amalek. This mandate and promise is placed in the EARS of Yehoshua. Ears figure hearing and obeying (Shema –Dt. 4:6), but also those willing to forever become a bond-slave (servant) of YHWH. (Ex. 21:5-6) In the natural, we know that Joshua didn’t complete this mission. But, there is another Yehoshua that will.

Moses tells Joshua to choose men to go and lacham (לָחַם- fight) Amalek. Does that Hebrew word look familiar? It is the verbal root of lechem (לֶחֶם– bread). Moses basically told Joshua to go “eat” or feed on Amalek, and he did![1]

In fact, the text says, “And Joshua defeated Amalek and his people by the mouth of the sword.” (Ex. 17:13 LITV) Joshua’s sword has a mouth that devours or “eats” the enemy. Does this remind you of someone else? Someone with not only a sword with a mouth, but that has a mouth like sword?

Is. 49:1-6 (TLV) 1 Listen, to Me, islands! Pay attention, peoples far away. Adonai called Me from the womb, from My mother’s belly He named Me. 2 He made My mouth like a sharp sword…“You are My servant, Israel, in whom I will be glorified…” 6 …So I will give You as a light for the nations, that You should be My salvation (Yeshua) to the end of the earth.”

Adonai’s servant, Yeshua, not only has a mouth like a sword, but a staff or rod like Moses to rule:

Rev. 19:15 (TLV) From His mouth comes a sharp sword—so that with it He may strike down the nations—and He shall rule them with an iron rod, and He treads the winepress of the furious wrath of Elohei-Tzva’ot.

He will strike down and devour the disobedient nations. This process, though terrifying, will also result in salvation and restoration. The Amalekites of the world must be blotted from memory. We will explore more examples of how Yeshua does this later.

 The Spies and Amalek

Num. 13:16 (NASB) These are the names of the men whom Moses sent to spy out the land; but Moses called Hoshea the son of Nun, Joshua.

At the end of the list of the twelve men chosen to search out the Land, Moses reveals that Yehoshua’s name is actually Hoshea, but Moses called him Yehoshua or YHWH saves.[2]Why does Moses (and Adonai) feel it is necessary for the reader to understand this slight change in name at this point in the narrative? Perhaps, it is because it was in the “ears” of Yehoshua that YHWH proclaimed that He would utterly wipe out the memory of Amalek. It was imperative that Joshua not forget this, as he and the eleven others were about to have their faith tested. Amalek was in the Land.

Num. 13:29 (NASB) “Amalek is living in the land of the Negev and the Hittites and the Jebusites and the Amorites are living in the hill country, and the Canaanites are living by the sea and by the side of the Jordan.”

Though Caleb tried to encourage the people by saying, “We should by all means go up and take possession of it, for we will surely overcome it,” the majority lacked faith in the promise of Elohim.

Num. 13:32 (NASB) So they gave out to the sons of Israel a bad report of the land which they had spied out, saying, “The land through which we have gone, in spying it out, is a land that devours its inhabitants; and all the people whom we saw in it are men of great size.

The word “devours” above is akal. It means to eat or devour. Have you ever felt like your enemy was going to swallow you whole? I have. In times of stress, worry, or battle weariness, my husband often reminds me, “The good news is that they can’t eat us.” How true that is, but sometimes it sure does seem as if “they” can do just that. Do you recall what Moses told Joshua to do to Amalek?

He told him to lacham or fight Amalek. Let Amalek become your lechem or bread. Joshua remembers this. In a last attempt to encourage the people, Joshua and Caleb tell them:

Num. 14:9 (NASB) “Only do not rebel against the LORD; and do not fear the people of the land, for they will be our prey. Their protection has been removed from them, and the LORD is with us; do not fear them.”

The word for “prey” above is lechem, bread. What does one do with bread? They eat it, of course! It is a reversal of the fear instilled by the evil report of the ten other spies. Are you afraid that a great enemy is going to consume you? Remember the promises of Adonai. Trust in Him to be your Deliverer (Yehoshua), and the very thing you fear will become your sustenance, your bread. Your victory will become part of your testimony, words (bread) of life that will encourage and sustain others.

This is the key to dealing with the Amalek (Esau – flesh ruled nature) in other people. Who is it that promises to war with Amalek from generation to generation? YHWH! Our job is to keep trusting in Adonai, and reverse the evil reports of others. We must look beyond what our natural eyes see. We need spiritual vision and faith, like that of Caleb and Joshua.

The account with the spies is vital to our understanding. This error cost the children of Israel more than any of their other past mistakes. A whole generation lost the opportunity to enter the Land! This is huge. And why did this happen? The people chose to believe the discouraging words of men, rather than the promises of God. Consider the people’s response to the evil report of the spies:

Num. 14:1-4 (NASB) Then all the congregation lifted up their voices and cried, and the people wept that night. 2 All the sons of Israel grumbled against Moses and Aaron; and the whole congregation said to them, “Would that we had died in the land of Egypt! Or would that we had died in this wilderness! 3 “Why is the LORD bringing us into this land, to fall by the sword? Our wives and our little ones will become plunder; would it not be better for us to return to Egypt?” 4 So they said to one another, “Let us appoint a leader and return to Egypt.”

The people are panicked. But, fear of anything other than Adonai is always a dangerous place. It leads one to the kingdom of Valley Dwellers, where doubt, despair, and unbelief are chief, like Amalek. Once the Children of Israel sink into this low place, their garments reek of the field of Esau. They are prepared to sell their birthright, and even usurp Moses.

Consider what they “lift up” in these verses. It is not the staff of Moses or the serpent on the pole. Instead, they lift their voices in complaint, cries, and fear. Like Esau, they mention death and desire to return Egypt, the house of bondage. This infuriates Adonai so much that He’s ready to smite them all and start over with Moses. Moses and Aaron intercede for the people, and Moses appeals to Adonai’s loving-kindness. Though YHWH pardons the people, they will suffer a grave consequence. They will eat their own words and actually die in the wilderness.

Numbers 14 is a difficult read. It is the proverbial straw that broke the camels’ back as it was the tenth time the Children of Israel tested Adonai’s goodness. When they heard His judgment for their complete lack of faith and trust, they mourned greatly. (Just like Esau did.) The next morning, they set out to obey Adonai’s original edict, but He had already passed the promise to the next generation.

Num. 14:39-40 (NASB) When Moses spoke these words to all the sons of Israel, the people mourned greatly. 40 In the morning, however, they rose up early and went up to the ridge of the hill country, saying, “Here we are; we have indeed sinned, but we will go up to the place which the LORD has promised.”

Though the people had climbed out of the proverbial valley to the ridge of the hill, they were too late. Amalek must be blotted out. Moses warns them that the Amalekites and Canaanites will overcome them if they make a move without YHWH.

Num. 14:44-45 (NASB) But they went up heedlessly to the ridge of the hill country; neither the ark of the covenant of the LORD nor Moses left the camp. 45 Then the Amalekites and the Canaanites who lived in that hill country came down, and struck them and beat them down as far as Hormah.

The people didn’t regard Moses’ warning. The text says, “they went up heedlessly” to the ridge of the hill country without the Ark of the Covenant or Moses. The Hebrew word is aphal (עפל). It means to swell or lift up. It is to be proud or to be presumptuous.[3]Once again, the people have lifted up something other than Adonai. The only other occurrence of this word is in Habakkuk.

Hab. 2:4 (LITV) Behold, the soul of him is puffed up and is not upright; but the just shall live by his faith.

Sadly, a whole generation lost their position, and received a smack down from the descendants of Esau. Like the battle at Rephidim and the account of the fiery serpents, the people were judged by the thing that ruled their hearts – Esau – the red, hot flesh. This is precisely what was happening in Habakkuk’s day, except the instrument of judgment was Chaldea (Babylon).

The apostle Paul found the words in Habakkuk to be most informative as he quotes this verse three times in his epistles. The context of Habakkuk was not lost on Paul. Habakkuk first questioned God’s allowance of evil and violence among His people, and then shock at God’s choice of punishment – Babylon. YHWH assures Habakkuk that Babylon (Chaldea) will indeed receive a greater judgment in the end, much like Amalek. Even though Habakkuk doesn’t completely understand the wisdom of God, he chooses to trust him anyway. He lives by his faith by trusting in the goodness and salvation of God.

Rom. 1:16-17 (NASB) For I am not ashamed of the gospel, for it is the power of God for salvation to everyone who believes, to the Jew first and also to the Greek. 17 For in it the righteousness of God is revealed from faith to faith; as it is written, “BUT THE RIGHTEOUS man SHALL LIVE BY FAITH.”

Gal. 3:11 (NASB) Now that no one is justified by the Law before God is evident; for, “THE RIGHTEOUS MAN SHALL LIVE BY FAITH.”

Heb. 10:35-39 (NASB) Therefore, do not throw away your confidence, which has a great reward. 36 For you have need of endurance, so that when you have done the will of God, you may receive what was promised. 37 FOR YET IN A VERY LITTLE WHILE, HE WHO IS COMING WILL COME, AND WILL NOT DELAY. 38 BUT MY RIGHTEOUS ONE SHALL LIVE BY FAITH; AND IF HE SHRINKS BACK, MY SOUL HAS NO PLEASURE IN HIM. 39 But we are not of those who shrink back to destruction, but of those who have faith to the preserving of the soul.

Don’t throw away your confidence in YHWH when Esau, Amalek, or Babylon attacks. They are sent for the destruction of one thing:

Rom. 1:18 (NASB) For the wrath of God is revealed from heaven against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men who suppress the truth in unrighteousness…

Yeshua, much like Yehoshua, will swallow, eat up, devour, and consume the Amalek in you, me, and our neighbor. Consider His words to the third assembly (church) in the Book of Revelation, Pergamum. Pergamum comes from a word that means height or elevation, like a tower or stronghold. This is a fortified high place, something lifted up. Questions should be forming in your mind. Is this referring to Adonai, as He is a Strong Tower of Refuge? Is this referring to Yeshua, the one lifted up as an elevation offering on our behalf? Or, is this the elevated pride of man’s heart, the fuel of the enemy? The answer to all three is, yes!

Rev. 2:12-17 (TLV) 12 To the angel of Messiah’s community in Pergamum write: “Thus says the One who has the sharp two-edged sword: 13 I know where you live—where satan’s throne is. Yet you continue to hold firm to My name, and you did not deny your faith in Me even in the days of Antipas, My faithful witness, who was killed among you, where satan resides. 14 “But I have a few things against you. You have some there who hold to the teaching of Balaam, who was teaching Balak to put a stumbling block before Bnei-Yisrael, to eat food sacrificed to idols and to commit sexual immorality.15 Likewise you also have those who hold to the teaching of the Nicolaitans. 16 Repent then! If not, I will come to you soon and make war against them with the sword of My mouth. 17 He who has an ear, let him hear what the Ruach is saying to Messiah’s communities. To the one who overcomes I will give some of the hidden manna, and I will give him a white stone—and written on the stone a new name that no one knows except the one who receives it.”

Yeshua introduces Himself as the One with the sharp two-edged sword, which is the Word of God. Only it can cut between spirit and flesh, joints and marrow, to know the heart of man. (Heb. 4:12) If only we would submit and the let the Word reveal what is in our hearts. Then, we could look at that thing like the serpent on the pole and be healed! (From stinking thinking –flesh ruled thoughts from the Valley of Sheol.)

The assembly of Pergamum lived right where satan’s throne was. Beloved, so do you and I. The faithful manage to hold firm to His Name despite persecution. But, some cling to the teaching of Balaam and the Nicolaitans. Ultimately, these enemies appeal to one’s fleshly desires, the Esau of old. They are often more subtle and cunning, things we justify in order to gratify our desires. Just ask King Saul in Part III.

[1]H3898 לָחַםlâcham law-kham’ A primitive root; to feed on; figuratively to consume; by implication to battle (as destruction): – devour, eat, X ever, fight (-ing), overcome, prevail, (make) war (-ring). Total KJV occurrences: 177

[2]Hoshea and Yehoshua are very similar in spelling and meaning:

הושׁע= Hoshea = salvation, deliverer

יְהוֹשֻׁעַ or יְהוֹשׁוּעַ= Yehoshua = YHWH saves or delivers

Both come from the root yasha:

H3467 ישׁעyâsha‛ BDB Definition: 1) to save, be saved, be delivered. 1a) (Niphal). 1a1) to be liberated, be saved, be delivered. 1a2) to be saved (in battle), be victorious. 1b) (Hiphil). 1b1) to save, deliver. 1b2) to save from moral troubles. 1b3) to give victory to. Part of Speech: verb. A Related Word by BDB/Strong’s Number: a primitive root

Though the change in name is slight, the emphasis of who it is that does the delivering and saving is obvious. Joshua is simply a vessel. It is Adonai YHWH that is the true Deliverer and Savior. (Is. 43:11) But, the life of Yehoshua still teaches about Him, and that is the point. Even his surname is telling. Yehoshua is the son of Nun from the tribe of Ephraim. (Num. 13:8) Nun means fish or posterity. (Does Yeshua have any associations with “fish” in the Apostolic Scriptures – N.T.?) Nun comes from a root that means to re-sprout or propagate by shoots; which, gives the sense of something continual or perpetual. (H5126)

[3]H6075 עָפַל‛āp̱al: A verb meaning to be proud, to presume. It describes carrying on an act of presumption, arrogance, against the best advice (Num 14:44). It refers to a person who has become too audacious, proud (Hab 2:4).

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