Category: More Manna

Extra Helpings

Who Was Under A Juniper Tree And Why?

In our recent journey, we have just come out of the wilderness

and yet in this scripture in 1Kings 19, we read that

someone is running back into the wilderness!

In this account it was Elijah

who was running into the wilderness.

But why?

Because he had just had a confrontation with the wicked queen Jezebel, the wife and the evil influence behind king Ahab.

In fact there had just been a great victory with a powerful demonstration by the intervention of the One True God of Israel.

Elijah had challenged the prophets of Baal to prove their god was superior to the one true God of the Israelites.

After the confrontation Elijah ordered, “Seize the prophets of Baal; don’t let any of them get away!” The people seized them all, and Elijah led them down to Kishon Brook and killed them.

1Kings 18 :40  

Then Ahab told Jezebel everything that Elijah had done and how he had killed all the prophets with the sword. Jezebel flew into an angry rage when she heard that her priests were dead and she sent a messenger to Elijah.

 2 So Jezebel sent a messenger to Elijah, saying, “May the gods deal with me, and ever so severely, if by this time tomorrow I do not make your life like the lives of those you killed!”

When Elijah heard these words he got up quickly and ran with his servant into the stormy night. The scripture said he was afraid and ran for his life escaping from Jezebel and her death threats.

3 And Elijah was afraid and ran for his life.

After such a dramatic confrontation and an outstanding victory over the prophets of Baal

and seeing the power of God on Mount Carmel;

we note that he didn’t call on the Lord in his time of trouble as he had the previous day.

Perhaps he had believed Jezebel would leave him alone when she heard how powerful God was. Instead Jezebel did not pay the slightest attention to the one true God of Israel or His power, all she was interested in was vengeance and getting even with Elijah for killing her prophets.

In response, Elijah was overcome by fear and despair and fled for his life. He took his servant and journeyed to Beersheba in the kingdom of Judah, away from Jezebel’s oversight and authority. Yet even there, he was overcome by depression and isolation, Elijah left his servant behind and traveled alone into the wilderness, asking God to take his life.

Elijahs triumphant victory was followed by fear from an evil report.

We are to remember Ephesians 6 Having done all to stand to stand in the evil day. The evil day is often the day after the victory.

We are cautioned not to relax after a victory but stay alert, watch and be ready to stand firm in faith, which is the opposite of fear.

After he had killed 450 prophets Jezebel sent him a message.

He saw what she said… 1 Kings 19:3

He saw in Hebrew: רָאָה

Rarah- raw-aw; means: to see, have vision, look at, inspect, perceive, observe and to watch.

7200 raah: To see, look at, inspect, perceive, consider

Original Word: רָאָה
Transliteration: ra’ah
Pronunciation: rah-AH
Phonetic Spelling: raw-aw’
Definition: To see, look at, inspect, perceive, consider

Corresponding Greek – G3708 (ὁράω, horao) – to see, perceive

– G991 (βλέπω, blepo) – to look at, behold

The Hebrew verb “ra’ah” primarily means “to see” in a literal sense, but it also extends to more abstract meanings such as

perceiving, understanding, or experiencing.

It is used in various contexts, including physical sight, visionary experiences, and intellectual or spiritual perception. The verb can also imply: the act of looking with intention or consideration.

In ancient Hebrew culture, seeing was not merely a physical act but often carried deeper implications of understanding and discernment. Prophets, for example, were often described as “seers” (ro’eh), indicating their ability to perceive divine truths. The act of seeing was also associated with witnessing events and understanding God’s will, reflecting a holistic view of perception that included both physical and spiritual dimensions.

What we see and hear on the outside affects us on the inside.

Elijah heard a threat and saw the image of the threat. He was listening to his physical senses and his feelings and emotions reacted to the perception in the natural realm. We cannot know everything we hear because it very likely cause us to run in fear.

1 Kings 19:3-4,

Elijah’s drastic despair and request for death, reveals the immense emotional and spiritual toll from the threats and opposition, even in the wake of God’s faithfulness on Mount Carmel. 

Despite being a mighty prophet of God, in his humanity Elijah was still prone to feelings and emotions that brought overwhelming discouragement.

As he ran out of the gate of Jezreel, Elijah did not go to back to the widows house in Zarephath, nor could he hide in Judah because the king of Judah was friends with Ahab; so Elijah and his servant ran southward.

When he came to Beersheba in Judah, he left his servant there, while he himself traveled on a day’s journey into the wilderness.

He sat down under a broom tree and prayed that he might die. “I have had enough, LORD,” he said. “Take my life, for I am no better than my fathers.”

Sat under has the meaning: he was depressed

and juniper has a meaning: to bind or attach.

Juniper is seen as a symbol of resilience, determination, and the ability to adapt to challenging circumstances

Strong’s Hebrew: 7573. רָתַם (ratham) — To bind, to tie

Definition: To bind, to tie 

Meaning: to yoke up, attach

Strong’s Hebrew: 7405. רָכַס (rakas) — To bind, fasten, or …

The Hebrew verb rakas primarily means to bind or fasten together. It is used in contexts where something is being securely attached or joined, often referring to clothing or armor.

He rarah- thought/perceived that things were so bad that he wanted to die. It was a false reality, he had allowed fear to control influence and guide his actions, he ran. This is the flight or fight syndrome. He ran on to the wilderness alone. He was tired and dejected and rested under the juniper/broom tree. Was he realizing that prophetically he needed his mind to swept out and cleansed/refreshed?

Was he finally looking for the Lord?

5 Then he lay down under the broom tree and fell asleep. 

Suddenly an angel touched him and said, “Get up and eat.”

6 And he looked around, and there by his head was a cake of bread baked over hot coals, and a jar of water. So he ate and drank and lay down again.

7 A second time the angel of the LORD returned and touched him, saying, “Get up and eat, or the journey will be too much for you.”

8 So he got up and ate and drank. And strengthened by that food, he walked forty days and forty nights until he reached Horeb, the mountain of God.

During the Israelites’ time in the desert with Moses, they camped at a place called Rithmah known for broom trees. It was named Rithmah simply because it means the place of the broom. Numbers 33:18–19. Apparently, broom trees were plentiful in the area, and the location served as a suitable camp for the children of Israel. Now we know more of the meaning that Juniper/broom is seen as a symbol of resilience, determination, and the ability to adapt to challenging circumstances; it was a symbolic meaning for them at the time.

Being spiritually, emotionally, and physically exhausted, Elijah quickly fell asleep in the shade of the bush.

Elijah sat down under a solitary broom tree

rō·ṯem, which means a juniper tree.

he was running away from danger.

rethem or rothem: Broom tree

Original Word: רֶתֶם
Transliteration: rethem
Pronunciation: reh’-them
Phonetic Spelling: reh’-them
Definition: Broom tree

The origin of the word רֶתֶם is uncertain, but it is believed to be derived from a root that may imply binding or covering, possibly due to the plant’s growth habit.

There is no direct Greek equivalent in Strong’s Concordance for the Hebrew rethem, as it is a specific plant native to the Middle Eastern region and not commonly referenced in Greek texts.

The term “rethem” refers to a type of desert shrub or small tree, commonly identified as the broom tree (Retama raetam). It is known for its ability to thrive in arid conditions and is often found in desert regions. In the Bible, it is associated with providing shade and shelter in harsh environments.

The broom tree is native to the Middle East and North Africa, often found in desert areas. It is characterized by its long, slender branches and small leaves, which help it conserve water. The plant’s ability to grow in barren landscapes made it a symbol of survival and resilience. Historically, its branches were used for fuel, and its roots could be used to make charcoal.

juniper tree

Or rothem {ro’-them}; from ratham;

he Spanish broom (from its pole-like stems) —

juniper (tree).

Strongs #7574 rethem or rothem

רֶתֶם

1 Kings 19:4 
HEB: וַיֵּ֕שֶׁב תַּ֖חַת רֹ֣תֶם [אֶחָת כ]
NAS: under a juniper tree; and he requested
KJV: under a juniper tree: and he requested
INT: and sat under A juniper a requested

1 Kings 19:5 
HEB: וַיִּישַׁ֔ן תַּ֖חַת רֹ֣תֶם אֶחָ֑ד וְהִנֵּֽה־
NAS: under a juniper tree; and behold,
KJV: under a juniper tree, behold, then an angel
INT: and slept under A juniper a and behold

The “broom tree” is what some Bible translations such as the KJV and NASB call the “juniper”; other translations such as the ESV, CSB, and NIV speak of it as the “broom tree” or the “broom bush.”  It grows to around 6 to 8 feet tall and can provide enough shade to shelter someone from the scorching desert heat.

Having roots and branches that burn hot, the broom tree was a source of fuel and high-quality charcoal during biblical times. Psalm 120:4 likens the judgment of God to “a warrior’s sharp arrows, with burning coals of the broom brush.”

The angel that visited Elijah made “some bread baked over hot coals”; since the broom tree was right there, it’s quite possible that the angel used its wood as fuel 1 Kings 19:6. The thick root of the broom tree was good fuel for fire, and in dire circumstances it could also be eaten. Job speaks of men who, in extreme conditions, resorted to eating broom tree roots:
“Haggard from want and hunger,
they roamed a the parched land
in desolate wastelands at night.
In the brush they gathered salt herbs,
and their food was the root of the broom bush” Job 30:3–4
A broom tree’s roots are bitter and unappetizing but can provide some nourishment to a starving person.

Although the broom tree is just a desert shrub, but in the Bible it serves as an important reminder of God’s provision. As God sustained and sheltered Elijah under a broom tree, He also promises to give us rest and meet our needs. Matthew 11:28; Philippians 4:19.

 Providing shelter from difficult situations is something that God is good at doing; He is “our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble” Psalm 46:1.

The juniper tree symbolizes refuge, protection against evil spirits, and strength, particularly highlighted in the story of the prophet Elijah in 1 Kings 19:4-5.

The juniper tree appears in both the Old and New Testaments, representing: comfort during distress and divine provision.

Junipers embody resilience and endurance, paralleling the challenges faced by believers, reinforcing themes of perseverance and faith.

Historically, juniper trees have been seen as symbols of protection and cleansing, used in rituals for purification and healing. Juniper berries possess medicinal properties and were historically utilized for various ailments, continuing to be valued in herbal remedies today.

Durable juniper wood has been employed in construction, including biblical structures, and remains popular in modern landscaping and decor.

One of the reasons a broom tree has that name is because the branches grow straight, with prickly small leaves at the end. They are said to be capable of providing shade for one person, with little room for covering more. All of that becomes a metaphor for Elijah being a singular prophet of note in the history of the “fathers” of those peoples.

The symbolism of a Juniper tree is as a protection against evil spirits, giving a reflection of how the divine “ancestors” of Yahweh protected the laws [the marriage vows] of Moses from corruption. Thus, Elijah was one broom of the Lord God, who was sent to sweep out the evil presence, the uncleanness, that had defiled the Northern Kingdom.

Elijah, sat down under a tree of branches He invited/offered/asked the Lord God of Israel to take his life. When the NRSV translation says, “ He asked that he might die,” it must be realized that Elijah was “asking” this of the Lord so the Hebrew word

וַיִּשְׁאַ֤ל

“way·yiš·’al” [“shaal”]

can be read as “he prayed.”

7952 shaal: To ask, inquire, request, demand

Original Word: שָׁאַל
Part of Speech: Verb
Transliteration: sha’al
Pronunciation: shaw-al’
Phonetic Spelling: shaw-al’
Definition: To ask, inquire, request, demand

Corresponding Greek G154 (aiteo): To ask, request

– G2065 (erotao): To ask, inquire

Elijah, on the other hand, represents a willing sacrifice to Lord, praying:

“It is enough; now, Yahweh, take away my life,

for I am no better than my ancestors.”

In that translation, the Hebrew word

מֵאֲבֹתָֽי

“mê·’ă·ḇō·ṯāy”

is translated generically as “ancestors.”

Englishman’s Concordance

mê·’ă·ḇō·ṯāy — 1 Occurrence

1 Kings 19:4 
HEB: ט֥וֹב אָנֹכִ֖י מֵאֲבֹתָֽי׃ 
NAS: for I am not better than my fathers.
KJV: for I [am] not better than my fathers.
INT: better my fathers

The core word in that [“ab”] means “fathers.”

ab: Father

Original Word: אָב
Transliteration: ab
Pronunciation: ahv
Phonetic Spelling: awb
Definition: Father

Corresponding Greek– G3962 (πατήρ, patēr) – Father

The Hebrew word “אָב” (‘ab) primarily means “father” and is used in the Old Testament to denote a male parent. It can also refer to a forefather, ancestor, or a figure of authority and respect. In a broader sense, it is used metaphorically to describe God as the Father of His people, Israel, and by extension, all believers.

This relates Elijah to a lineage of prophets, where the “fathers” – Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob – were not to be confused with the majority of people that declared relationship by blood, but only those whose souls were related through covenant/marriage relationship to the Lord God. The prayer was probably connected with his being condemned to death by Ahab, Elijah’s acts proved the true power and divinity of the God of Israel. When it was over, after the Lord had set fire to the wood and burned his sacrifice on the altar, leading to the death of 450 priests of Ba’al there was nothing more Elijah could do. Instead of trying to save himself from being killed by Ahab, Elijah offered his soul into the Heavenly Fathers hands.

It is highly likely that we will all come to some point in life where we will say, it is enough. This mighty prophet came to this point, and this gives us hope, it happens to all of us at one time or another.

Elijah slept under a juniper tree. He, like us sometimes, curled up in a ball and wanted to give up. Life can become too overwhelmingly hard for us, and the mountain in front of us can look too big to overcome. There was a day when Yeshua/Jesus climbed into a boat with the disciples and said, Let us go over to the other side. Everything seemed good and they had just heard the sermon on the mount, it looked like nothing could shake their faith. However in the account we read: And there arose a great storm. Our Heavenly Father brings storms into our lives to test our faith. To humble us as we see where we really are. We have to first be pulled down so that He can build us up and it is God that lifts us up, its not in our own strength..

We can say to Him, it is enough, however this comes from

our own reasoning, our own understanding

of what is happening around us and to us.

Scripture says we are not to lean on our own understanding.

For us as believers, we are faced with the ongoing challenge of walking through a world that we no longer belong in, and no doubt there will be many times we come to the juniper tree.

The juniper tree is also a place of

our own understanding,

our own rationalizing,

our own wisdom and thought patterns,

our own imaginations and determinations.

We arrive here when we take our eyes off our Lord and Savior, something we must never do because we never outgrow Him. We never come to a point of being independent from Him, or to the point that we will never need Him anymore. Spiritually we are in covenant with Him through faith in His Blood; we need him, and He loves us and is always there for us. He is faithful, even when we are unfaithful. He loves us, when we stop loving Him.

Elijah sat under the juniper tree and then he slept under the juniper tree. The progression shows he came to a point of complete hopelessness and finally he was emptied of himself; and this is when God moved in his life providing food and rest for him. The Bible assures us we have a merciful high priest, Messiah has great compassion towards us because He knows our frame, He remembers that we are but dust.

He suffered when he became a man, so that he could experience what we experience. Jesus/Yeshua was familiar with all our sufferings so He knows what we feel like. He knows our weaknesses, because He lived on the earth as one of us.

Elijah was a man like us, tempted to curl up in a ball and give up. Life can become overwhelming for us. The mountains we face can loom so big before us they seem insurmountable.

After hard spiritual battles we can be tired and vulnerable but we are never alone.

There is a place we can go, a place for spiritual direction and consultation, for rest, to receive refreshment from the provision of the Lord. Because like Elijah, without the Lord the journey will be too hard for us.

Elijah went a day’s journey into the wilderness, and came and sat down under a solitary broom tree. He asked that he might die: “It is enough; now, Yahweh, take away my life, for I am no better than my ancestors.” Then he lay down under the broom tree and fell asleep. Suddenly an angel touched him and said to him, “Get up and eat.” He looked, and there at his head was a cake baked on hot stones, and a jar of water. He ate and drank, and lay down again. The angel of Yahweh came a second time, touched him, and said, “Get up and eat, otherwise the journey will be too much for you.” He got up, and ate and drank; then he went in the strength of that food forty days and forty nights to Horeb the mount ha-elohim.

Sometimes when we have been through a time of testing or great trial and we have persevered depending on the Lord to bring us through, we experience victory and a breakthrough in our situation. Gods’ intervention changes everything and the enemy appears to be on the run. This is when we may be tempted to relax and not be as alert as we should be, and its then that the enemy will exploit our inattention and fatigue and mount an unexpected attack like a whiplash. This kind of reaction can cause us to become fearful if we are not rooted and grounded in the Lord.

We are not to look at the physical circumstances but to look in faith to the Lord. However this is not always as easy as it sounds. We are in a physical human body with all the feeling and emotions and weakness of flesh. The spirit is willing but the flesh is weak. And like Elijah we feel like giving up, we have had enough and feel like we can’t take any more; we run away into the wilderness and finally totally exhausted sit under a juniper tree just wanting to die and go home and be with the Lord. Here under the juniper tree our loving heavenly Father will bring a time of refreshing to us so we can go forward.

Ps. 103:14 For He knows our [mortal] frame; He remembers that we are [merely] dust.

There was further work for Elijah to do

and God gave him a time of rest and refreshing with

food to eat and water to drink.

The presence of bread and water by Elijah’s “head” is indicating that his ego was replaced with spiritual food – bread cooked on coals, and everlasting water – a jar of water.

Elijah was touched by an angel, at the point of that touch, being told “Get up and eat” – the actual command is “arise” [from “qūm”], which also has a meaning to leave the body of flesh and enter the heavenly realm – Elijah was commanded to eat and receive of the Heavenly offerings from the Lord brought to him by an angel.

6965 [e]
qūm
ק֥וּם

qum: Arise, stand, establish, confirm, endure, fulfill

Original Word: קוּם
Transliteration: quwm
Pronunciation: koom
Phonetic Spelling: koom
Definition: Arise, stand, establish, confirm, endure, fulfill
Meaning: to rise

Corresponding Greek– ἀνίστημι (anistēmi) – to rise, to stand up

– ἐγείρω (egeirō) – to awaken, to raise up

The Hebrew verb “qum” primarily means “to arise” or “to stand up.” It conveys the idea of rising from a lower position to a higher one, whether physically, metaphorically, or spiritually. It is used in various contexts, including standing up from a seated position, rising to take action, establishing something firmly, or fulfilling a promise or prophecy. The verb can also imply endurance or the act of being established over time.

In ancient Hebrew culture, the act of standing or rising was often associated with taking action, assuming responsibility, or preparing for a significant event. For example, standing could indicate readiness for battle, the beginning of a journey, or the assumption of a leadership role. The concept of “qum” also ties into the covenantal promises of God, where He “establishes” His word and fulfills His promises to His people.

In verse 6 we then read that Elijah “ate and drank, and lay down again,” The angel came a second time, touched him, and said, “Get up and eat, otherwise the journey will be too much for you,”’ this becomes Elijah being completely restored returning to life in the body of flesh as symbolic of resurrection. In the same way that after telling her to

rise – qum

to awaken, to raise up

Messiah told Jarius

“give her [his risen daughter] something to eat”

there is a need for spiritual food to feed the soul returned to the body of flesh. This is not a need for physical food, as resurrection from death is not simply about the physical flesh but for the soul to be strengthened.

To have our soul saved by the Lord of Heaven and Earth, we must die to self- all of our ego and self-will, and be reborn from above, in resurrection life having Messiah/Christ in us the hope of Glory.

Yeshua/Jesus then becomes the bread baked on coals and the jar of water that gives nourishment to our souls. Reminding us of John, where Yeshus/Jesus said, “I am the bread of life.” The bread of life is set by our head, when our heads have been emptied of self, and all ego is dead. If we don’t, then in a way we hang suspended between heaven and earth, trying to figure a way to save our own lives, which of course is an impossibility. Elijah shows us that the true goal should be to save our soul; and that means telling our Heavenly Father, “This is enough. Take my life.” Not to kill us physically but to finally and completely surrender all to Him!

When our Heavenly Father refreshes us, we can go for 40 days on the spiritual food bread and water. The bread of life – His Word, and the water of His Holy Spirit. 40 is symbolic of testing and trials both spiritual and physical 40 years in wilderness 40 days Jesus/Yeshua in the wilderness Moses etc., etc. In Him we will be sustained through every trial of life.

So repent [change your inner self—your old way of thinking, regret past sins] and return [to God—seek His purpose for your life], so that your sins may be wiped away [blotted out, completely. 

Acts 3:19

Elijah was restored and we know that

the times of refreshing shall come from the presence of the Lord.

He repented of his fear, he changed his mind and his way of thinking, he returned to the Lord and received his directions to go forward.

His life was not over, but he needed the Lord

to restore him

and energize him

and strengthen him

so he could continue to run his race,

and in his case he literally outran the horses.

There is supernatural strength available for us too. Philippians 4 13 comforts us that, in the inevitable challenges of human frailty, sickness, aging, and opposition, and all the fiery trials and furnaces of affliction; supernatural help lies readily available to those who cling to Messiah.  

“I can do all things through Christ who gives me strength.”

This scripture encapsulates the essence of strength in Christ, emphasizing that it is through His empowerment. 

Supernatural strength is not bound by natural limitations, but by its very name, the supernatural overcomes the natural and puts the believer, His child, into the hands of a loving Heavenly Father. 

Through a series of extraordinary events, Elijah’s faith and calling were renewed and through these strategic directions, God realigned and re-commissioned His prophet. 

This is not just a story of personal struggle and divine revelation, but also a testament to the enduring power of faith; and of the human experience of seeking understanding in moments of despair and feelings of failure.

1 Kings 19:5-8, ESV

God actively displayed His tender concern and nourishment, both physically and emotionally, to Elijah in his time of deepest need. 

This dramatic, divine intervention, highlights how God strengthens, nurtures and equips His faithful servants, ministering to them in their emotional and spiritual brokenness.

Meanwhile, Elisha’s instant obedience after instruction, highlights his readiness to answer God’s call. This transition reveals God’s wisdom and attention to details and his organization of all things in arranging the next phase of His work through Elijah.

Arise and eat  – Elijah was eating the wrong thing

which had driven him into the wilderness…

then Elijah looked – naw-bat. 1Kings 9:6

5027 [e]   6
way·yab·bêṭ   6

וַיַּבֵּ֕ט

And he looked

nabat: To look, regard, behold, consider

Original Word: נָבַט
Transliteration: nabat
Pronunciation: naw-BAHT
Phonetic Spelling: naw-bat’
Definition: To look, regard, behold, consider
Meaning: to scan, look intently at, to regard consider (2), depend (1), depended (1), gaze (1), gazed (1), look (34), look down (2), looked (11), looks (4), observe (1), observed (1), pay attention (1), regard (2), see (3).

Corresponding Greek – G991 (βλέπω, blepō) – to see, to look at

– G3708 (ὁράω, horaō) – to see, to perceive

The Hebrew verb “nabat” primarily means to look or gaze intently, often with a sense of consideration or contemplation. It can imply looking with favor, attention, or discernment. The term is used in various contexts, including God looking upon His creation, people looking to God for help, or individuals regarding one another with specific intentions.

In ancient Hebrew culture, sight and vision were often associated with understanding and perception. To “look” or “behold” was not merely a physical act but also carried connotations of insight and discernment. The act of looking could imply a deeper spiritual or emotional engagement, reflecting the importance of vision in both literal and metaphorical senses.

God has to lift us up and out of our depressive state and cause us to look down on our situations. We are seated with Him in the heavenly places and are to see things from His perspective.

Arise and eat was the command, these cakes were not ordinary cakes, they were as living coals of fire; Angels food, like the manna in the wilderness. Elijah was able to go 40 days and nights in the strength of those cakes. Isaiah was also touched with the living coal upon his lips which removed the sin the uncleanness from him. If we allow the living coals of the Fathers love to touch us and remove all uncleanness from our lives, we too can go in the strength of His love for many days. The Hebrew word for Gods’ strength is ko-akh

in the strength

בְּכֹ֣חַ

3581 bə·ḵō·aḥ

koach: Strength, power, might, ability, force

Original Word: כֹּחַ
Transliteration: koach
Pronunciation: koh-akh
Phonetic Spelling: ko’-akh
Definition: Strength, power, might, ability, force
Meaning: vigor, a large lizard

Derived from an unused root meaning to be firm or vigorous, literal force in a good or bad sense or figurative capacity, means, produce; also from its hardiness, a large lizard its ability able to change and to accommodate surroundings as in chameleon, force, fruits, might, power, full strength, substance, wealth.

The Hebrew word “koach” primarily denotes physical strength or power, but it can also refer to mental or spiritual strength. It is used to describe the might of individuals, nations, and even God Himself. In the context of human ability, it often implies the capacity to perform tasks or achieve goals. When referring to God, it underscores His omnipotence and sovereign power over creation.

In ancient Israelite culture, strength and power were highly valued attributes, often associated with leadership and divine favor. Physical strength was essential for survival, warfare, and labor. The concept of “koach” also extended to the spiritual realm, where it was seen as a gift from God enabling individuals to fulfill their divine calling. The Israelites recognized that true strength came from God, Who empowered them to overcome their enemies and achieve victory.

We are to live and move and have our being in His/Gods’ strength. Ephesians 6:10 In conclusion, be strong in the Lord [draw your strength from Him and be empowered through your union with Him] and in the power of His [boundless] might. 

Because as Romans 8:35 states Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? Shall tribulation, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or peril, or sword?

As it is written: “For Your sake we are killed all day long; We are accounted as sheep for the slaughter.”

Yet in all these things we are more than conquerors through Him who loved us.

For I am persuaded, that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor powers, nor things present, nor things to come, 9 neither height nor depth, nor anything else in all creation, will be able to separate us from the love of God that is in Christ Jesus our Lord.…

Making a focal point of the tree as a source of comfort during his distress was symbolic of God’s provision and care. The tree of life representing Messiah to Whom we are grafted in and from where we receive our strength. God allowed Elijah to rest under the broom tree, giving the prophet much-needed strength before continuing his journey to Mount Horeb. 1 Kings 19:8–9.

This story is helpful to us to recognize where we have been and where we are going. Many make resolutions at the start of a new year deciding to make changes but rarely follow through, giving up after only a little while.

The angel said to Elijah,

the journey will be too great for thee.

This is so true for us, the journey through this life is too great for us in our own strength. If we try and make it through life in our own strength we won’t make it. If we try to make it to heaven our own way, we won’t make it either. We can pride ourselves on our independence but we are never, ever truly independent; even when we turn and run from God, even when we disobey God and are rebellious, He sends rain on the just and the unjust. He can give and He can remove, our health can be taken away in a heartbeat, our life can be snatched from the earth any second. We are in His hands and we need to remember we are never truly in control of anything. For the believer, we need spiritual meat and drink for the journey at hand, by reading our Bibles. We are what we eat, so eat the words of eternal life, they are what will sustain our life.

Job said, I have esteemed thy words more than my necessary food. Spiritual food is more important to us than physical food, and yet so often we will skip reading our Bible, we skip prayer, and fellowshipping with and worshipping our Savior. Even though this is what will get us through this life. The Bible says that Elijah went in the strength of the food that the angel gave him for 40 days and 40 nights to Mount Horeb. God’s word is God’s power, the power is in His Word. For us the power is in our faith in His Word. Faith comes by hearing and hearing by the Word of God. The Word of God is our food. When Elijah reached Mount Horeb he saw that God was in control and that’s where we must arrive at also.

In this account of the prophet Elijah, it revealed his moments of vulnerability and divine encounters. In the middle of great challenges, he experienced a profound personal crisis, and even questioned his mission, purpose and calling.

Even though the circumstances of life may seem beyond repair and completely overwhelming, be encouraged that no matter what problem you are in, no matter what life has thrown at you, you can have the peace, the true shalom of God in your heart. Things can seem desperate, hopeless, out of control, but if you turn your eyes to Jesus/Yeshua, if you simply believe and trust Him, if you will cry out and lean on Him and not your own understanding, there will be a great calm in your life.

Psalm 34, “The angel of Yahweh encompasses those who fear him, and he will deliver them.”

“Whoever eats of this bread will live forever; and the bread that I will give for the life of the world is my flesh.”

Arise and eat – He is our meat and drink.

The Juniper tree is there for a reason and a season but we are not to stay under it forever.

Once we have recognized where we are and change our focus off of ourselves, have received the refreshing of the Lord and have clear direction of where we are to go. Then we choose to keep our eyes on Yeshua/Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith. He will perfect that which concerns us and strengthen us to run our race and complete our task to His glory. Don’t give up family, we are so close to that finish line and the victors crown of eternal life.

Shalom, shalom mishpachah/family

and cheverim/friends!

It’s all about Life and Relationship,

NOT Religion.

You are greatly loved and precious in His sight.

NOT SURE?

YOU CAN BE..

SAY THE FOLLOWING FROM YOUR HEART RIGHT NOW…

Heavenly Father I come to you in the Name of Jesus/Yeshua asking for forgiveness of my sins for which I am truly sorry. I repent of them all and turn away from my past.

I believe with my heart and confess with my mouth that Jesus/Yeshua is your Son and that He died on the cross at calvary to pay the price for my sin, so that I might be forgiven and have eternal life in the kingdom of Heaven. Father I believe that Jesus/Yeshua rose from the dead and I ask you to come into my life right now and be my personal Savior and Lord and I will worship you all the days of my life. Because your word is truth I say that I am now forgiven and born again and by faith I am washed clean with the blood of Jesus/Yeshua. Thank you that you have accepted me into your family in Jesus’/Yeshua’s name. Amen.

Who Were The First Evangelists?

Around this time of year we hear the Christmas story with all the familiar elements that make up our traditional scene.

We have no doubt heard it since childhood and because we have become so used to its retelling, we may never really stop to think about it or ponder on some obvious questions; and if we do have questions, we’ve probably just put them out of our minds.

Luke 2:8 “And there were shepherds in the same country abiding in the field, and keeping watch by night over their flock.”

Shepherds  – רָעַוָתָא  Ra’ata   Resh, Ayin Vav Taw Aleph

These questions could be:

Why was the night watch so important that the Bible made sure to mention it?

When did the shepherds sleep if they stayed up all night watching their sheep?

More significant ones are: Why did the angels appear to this particular group of shepherds

and

why to shepherds in the first place?

Why were there a group of shepherds, didn’t shepherds work alone?

Some answers  have been offered such as:

they watched by night during certain times of the year.

Shepherds often let their sheep graze together, which apparently is not true.

The often given explanation as to why God chose to reveal the birth of His Son to shepherds, is because shepherds were the lowest class of people, sometimes criminals and outcasts; being that they were filthy, dirty scum of the earth types.

This doesn’t sit well if we are to remember that Yeshua/Jesus called Himself the shepherd of the sheep and if that is a true description, why would we want to call Yeshua/Jesus our shepherd, or our pastor our shepherd?

The reasoning behind the description of shepherds as scum of the earth, is possibly because of their job. They were always ‘ceremonially unclean’, and were therefore not permitted to participate in the Temple proceedings, etc. It does seem ironic, that the ones who cared for the sacrificial lambs were not allowed in. However, they had the honor to be the first to see our Heavenly Fathers’ perfect sacrificial Lamb.

Messiah Jesus/Yeshua had two roles to fulfill :

First as the suffering Servant/Lamb of God and

Second as the victorious King.

The shepherds saw Him as the sinless Lamb of God and later

the wise men saw him as King of Kings;

both of His roles were seen and declared.

Matthew 2:11 shows that Jesus/Yeshua was in Bethlehem when the Wise Men visited Him, He was in a house and is described as a child, rather than a baby who was just born.

Shepherds were not considered the scum of the earth in Middle Eastern culture. Often a shepherd was a young teenager, usually the youngest of the family who was given the responsibility of keeping watch over the family’s prized possessions. Large herds equalled wealth in those days. Many great men of God are recorded as starting out as shepherds, just as David was in 1Sam. 17:34. But David persisted. I have been taking care of my father’s sheep and goats.

 If there was no son were available sometimes a daughter would be given the responsibility, (Rachel watering her fathers flocks); and if not, an honest reliable outsider would be hired. By studying ancient cultures it seems clear that being a shepherd was a well-respected profession.  So the thinking that our Father sent His angels to announce the birth of His Son to the lowest men in society just doesn’t seem right?

In biblical narratives, shepherds hold a distinguished symbolic significance, epitomizing virtues such as leadership, care, and divine guidance. The role of shepherds is exemplified in the story of King David, who transitions from a shepherd boy to the king of Israel.

His shepherding background symbolizes his capability for leadership and his role as a protector and provider for his people. Similarly, the shepherds who were among the first to witness the birth of Yeshua/Jesus highlight themes of humility and the inclusion of all societal layers in significant religious events.

These portrayals affirm the shepherds’ intrinsic worth and moral integrity, positioning them as key figures in the manifestation of divine plans.

Despite their positive portrayal in scripture, shepherds are subject to negative societal attitudes. Historically, shepherds were marginalized and considered unclean due to their constant contact with animals and the nomadic nature of their work, which kept them at the fringes of settled society. This attitude presents a stark contrast to their exalted biblical roles.

This is a profound paradox: while scripture lifts up shepherds, society devalues them, pointing to a significant difference between spiritual values and what is normal in society. In turn, this serves to increase the message in scripture of humility and divine favor, which exceeds any prejudices or social status.

7462 [e]
rō·‘îm

רֹעִ֖ים
the shepherds
V‑Qal‑Prtcpl‑mp

Genesis 48:15 
HEB: וְיִצְחָ֔ק הָֽאֱלֹהִים֙ הָרֹעֶ֣ה אֹתִ֔י מֵעוֹדִ֖י
NAS: The God who has been my shepherd all
KJV: the God which fed me all my life long
INT: and Isaac the God has been my shepherd my life against

The word shepherd that is used in this passage in Luke 2:8, is the Greek word poimenes which means:

to feed or to protect.

It is also a word for pastures

as that is where the shepherd feeds his sheep.

The Latin word for shepherd is pastor 

as in pasture

where we get the idea that:

our pastor is our shepherd whose job it is to spiritually feed his flock/congregation.

Luke 2:8 N-NMP
GRK: Καὶ ποιμένες ἦσαν ἐν
NAS: region there were [some] shepherds staying out in the fields
KJV: country shepherds abiding in the field,
INT: And shepherds were in

Luke 2:15 N-NMP
GRK: ἄγγελοι οἱ ποιμένες ἐλάλουν πρὸς
NAS: from them into heaven, the shepherds [began] saying
INT: angels the shepherds said to

7462 Strong’s Lexicon

ra’ah: To shepherd, to tend, to pasture, to feed

Original Word: רָעָה

Transliteration: ra`ah

Pronunciation: rah-AH

Phonetic Spelling: (raw-aw’)

Definition: To shepherd, to tend, to pasture, to feed

Meaning: to tend a, flock, pasture it, in, to graze, to rule, to associate with

Corresponding Greek – G4165

(ποιμαίνω, poimainō): To shepherd, to tend

– G4166 (ποιμήν, poimēn): Shepherd

The Hebrew verb “ra’ah” primarily means:

“to shepherd” or “to tend.”

It is used in the context of caring for and guiding sheep, which involves leading them to pasture, protecting them from harm, and ensuring their well-being. This term is often used metaphorically in scripture to describe leadership, guidance, and care, particularly in a spiritual or community context.

In ancient Israel, shepherding was a common occupation and an essential part of the agrarian lifestyle. Shepherds were responsible for the welfare of their flocks, which were vital for providing wool, milk, and meat. The imagery of shepherding is deeply embedded in the cultural and religious life of Israel, symbolizing leadership, provision, and protection. This metaphor is frequently applied to God as the divine Shepherd of Israel and to leaders who are expected to care for their people as a shepherd cares for his sheep.

Brown-Driver-Briggs

  1. רָעָה167 verb pasture, tend, graze (Assyrian rê°û, verb pasture, noun ruler, Tel Amarna ru—i (as Canaanism) WklNo. 181, 11; Arabic , Ethiopic Aramaic רְעָא,

These shepherds in Luke were called

good shepherds because they were

keeping watch over their flocks by night.

So what does good shepherds and

keeping watch really mean?

To answer the meaning of good shepherds we recall Messiah called Himself the Good Shepherd

“I am the good shepherd. I know my own and my own know me, just as the Father knows me and I know the Father; and I lay down my life for the sheep.” John 10:14-15

and Psalm 23 The LORD is my shepherd; I shall not want…..

is possibly the most well known of all Psalms and in it we find some answers:

For both animal shepherds and Messiah as our Good Shepherd, a good shepherd provides rest and nourishment, leading his flock to green pastures and still waters; which symbolizes a place of abundance and provision where we find spiritual sustenance.

The good experienced shepherd guides his flock to still waters, signifying his role in leading us to a place of peace and safety, true shalom. We all need times of spiritual refreshment and tranquillity under the care of the watchful guard.

The presence of the Good Shepherd brings peaceful assurance, joy and contentment. In the same way that sheep rest in the presence of their shepherd, we find that serene calm and security in Messiah, and are able to find His direction for our lives  trusting in Him. He will never lead us into danger and we are not to fear for He knows the way we will take.

The Good Shepherd guides us along the right or righteous path, which reflects our Heavenly Fathers’ character and faithfulness. Righteousness, can only be found through Messiah by aligning ourselves with Him and ultimately experiencing His shalom peace that passes all understanding.

 

Why was the birth of Messiah revealed to shepherds and to these shepherds in particular and why were they grouped together?

The answer to that may be in the Jewish Talmud.

Talmud and Midrash, a commentary and interpretative writings that hold a place in the Jewish religious tradition second only to the Bible (Old Testament).The Hebrew term Talmud (“study” or “learning”) commonly refers to a compilation of ancient teachings regarded as sacred and normative by Jews from the time it was compiled until modern times.

It is recorded that the lambs/sheep which were to be used for the daily sacrifice in the temple were to be fed in the pastures in Bethlehem.

These particular pastures were owned by the temple specifically for the raising of the yearling lambs.

The seh or  sacrificial lambs.

Seh is the word most often associated with lambs that were used in the ancient Hebrew system of sacrifice and atonement (see Exodus 34:19-20, Leviticus 5, Leviticus 12

Strong’s Hebrew: 7716. שֶׂה (seh) — Lamb, sheep, goat

The “lamb” is SEH (shin-hey),

and is in masculine form with masculine verbs.

Therefore, the “lamb” IS a “ram“, rendered from

AYIL (alap-yodh-lamed).

Strong’s Hebrew: 352. אָ֫יִל (ayil) — ram

Hebrew Word: Lya

Transliterated Word: ‘ayil

Recalling Abrahams directive for the sacrifice, slain in ceremony of ratification of covenant between the Lord God & Abraham in Genesis 15:9……. here is something interesting.

When the male lamb is just part of the flock it is called SEH,

but when it is set apart for sacrifice (as a male lamb)

it then “graduates” to the word AYIL.

We also have to remember that God Himself never said on that particular day He would provide anything, let alone a lamb. In Genesis 22:8 Avraham replied, “God will provide himself the lamb for a burnt offering, my son”; and they both went on together. Abraham and Isaac said it! Abraham trusted YHWH to provide a sacrifice, which is we need to focus on.

These sheep in the Bethlehem fields/pasture had a team of shepherds not just one, looking after them, and they were most likely from the priestly tribe of Levi, providing watches around the clock.

These shepherds were not wandering nomads and were not fast asleep on the ground, the scripture clearly says they were watching their sheep by night. The lyrics to some of the songs we sing are often artistic license and not based in facts, so we get a wrong picture of true events.

There were four night watches where the shepherds worked in shifts; the evening watch: 9 pm. to midnight, the midnight watch: 12 – 3 am., the cock crowing watch: 3am. – 6am. and the morning watch: 6am -9am. .

Note the name of the 3rd watch – the cock crowing watch, when Messiah said to Peter before the cock crows ,or the cock crowing watch, not when a rooster calls!

The Greek words used here is

phulassontes phuloakas

which literally means

guarding in the guardhouses of the night.

5442 [e]
phylassontes
φυλάσσοντες
keeping
V-PPA-NMP

5438 [e]
phylakas
φυλακὰς
watch
N-AFP

5422 phulassó: To guard, to keep, to watch over, to protect, to observe

Original Word: φυλάσσω
Part of Speech: Verb
Transliteration: phulassó
Pronunciation: foo-las’-so
Phonetic Spelling: (foo-las’-so)
Definition: To guard, to keep, to watch over, to protect, to observe
Meaning: (a) I guard, protect; mid: I am on my guard, (b) act. and mid. of customs and regulations: I keep, observe.

Derived from the Greek word φύλαξ (phulax), meaning “a guard” or “watchman.”

phulaké: Guard, watch, prison, custody

Original Word: φυλακή
Transliteration: phulaké
Pronunciation: foo-lak-ay’
Phonetic Spelling: (foo-lak-ay’)
Definition: Guard, watch, prison, custody
Meaning: a watching, keeping guard; a guard, prison; imprisonment.

Derived from the Greek verb φυλάσσω (phulassō),

meaning “to guard” or “to watch.”

 H4929 מִשְׁמָר (mishmar): Guard, watch, prisonThe Greek word “phulaké” primarily refers to a place of guarding or confinement, such as a prison or a watch post. It can also denote the act of keeping watch or being on guard. In the New Testament, it is used both literally, to describe physical imprisonment or custody, and metaphorically, to describe spiritual vigilance or the act of keeping watch.

The shepherds in Bethlehem who were guarding and not just simply watching, these sacrificial lambs 24 hours a day; and when not on their watch, they slept in guard houses built for that purpose called Migdal ‘Eder.

 Below are pictures of these migdal eders, agricultural watchtowers, some photographed in the last century (ca. 1900-1920). Note the stair on the near side with a seated man near the top, the brush covered turret, and the arched doors leading into enclosed rooms beneath where they would have cared for the new born lambs.

The Hebrew caption (top right) suggests, “A Watchtower from the hills of Samaria.”

Migdal ‘Eder 

is a transliteration of the Semitic phrase for

“fort of the flock.”

Such forts or towers are found in the biblical text.

A migdol  –

possibly from the Akkadian madgaltu,

watchtower or border post;

offers a place of refuge, safety, and a vantage point. Remains of these dry-stacked stone structures may still be seen in rural Israel. Local Arab speakers call them qusoor or palaces. They often appear as rock piles in terraced fields, but nowhere as numerous as in the hills around Bethlehem. Interesting that if Messiah was born in a Migdal Eder it is also called a palace! A perfect place for a King!

 

Below are some plans and elevations of tower types in the area immediately west of Bethlehem. 

 

  A sacrificial lamb had to be without spot or blemish so they required extra special care and only the very best shepherds were chosen to watch/guard them.

In the Peshitta, the Aramaic word for

shepherd is ra’a.

This comes from a Semitic root and it expresses:

the idea of a deep passion. 

These are the

good shepherds

the ones who feel such passion for their sheep and their duty to watch and guard

these sheep

that they would literally

lay down their lives for these sheep.

Yeshua/Jesus as the good shepherd

was and is a ra’a.

Why did the angels appear to them around the midnight watch between 12 and 3am. which is known as the most difficult watch, during these hours it is the hardest to stay awake? Today in modern terms its known as the graveyard watch. There is an ancient Hebrew tradition that the Messiah would come at midnight. If they were from the tribe of Levi, this they would have been aware of; and with that in mind it’s also a possibility that Messiah was born at midnight. It is quite possible that Mary and Joseph passed by these fields in Bethlehem.

We have to look at the fact here that for these dedicated ra’a shepherds, to decide to leave their seh – sacrificial lambs, they must have been convinced that they were going to worship the true ra’a shepherd and seh – sacrificial lamb. Could it mean that they realized that there was no longer a need for those seh – sacrificial lambs because the real life long awaited seh – sacrificial lamb had come and their job was no longer needed?

 

 Micah 4:8 tells us exactly where He would be born. It was in

“the tower of the flock”.

This was a stone tower about 3 stories high, the ground floor was a birthing room which was safe from weather and predators, This area was always kept ritually clean and set aside just for the birthing of the lambs.

Literally thousands of lambs were born swaddled and cared for the same way before they were inspected to check for perfection, just as Messiah Himself would be examined before His sacrificial death. Our Heavenly Father gave us many prophetic pictures of what, how and where His son would be born, so it would seem that Micah prophecy came to pass, He was born in the

tower of the flock, Migdal Eder.

מִגְדַּל־עֵ֫דֶר, mig-dal-e-der;

There is one more thing that may be true, let the reader decide, Why did the angels made reference to the swaddling of Yeshua/Jesus? New born babies were washed and salted and swaddled and these new born lambs were swaddled. They used the strips of cloth from the priests garments which were regularly replaced because they were stained with the blood from the sacrificial lambs; cloth was expensive in those days, so they were repurposed for the sacrificial lambs. These may have been the strips of swaddling clothes that Jesus/Yeshua was wrapped in and probably the only human baby to have that done to Him it would certainly explain why it was a SIGN to them that He was the prophesied Savior. Strips from the priests blood stained garments who made the sacrifices for sin, swaddled the Messiah who came to shed His blood as the perfect atonement sacrifice for sin, for all mankind, for all time.

2099 [e]
euangelistas
εὐαγγελιστάς  ,
evangelists
N-AMP

Strong’s Lexicon

euaggelistés: Evangelist

Original Word: εὐαγγελιστής
Transliteration: euaggelistés
Pronunciation: yoo-ang-ghel-is-TACE
Phonetic Spelling: (yoo-ang-ghel-is-tace’)
Definition: Evangelist
Meaning: an evangelist, a missionary, bearer of good tidings.

Derived from the Greek word

εὐαγγέλιον (euaggelion),

meaning “good news” or “gospel.”

While there is no direct Hebrew equivalent for

“evangelist,”

the concept of proclaiming good news

is present in the Hebrew Scriptures,

such as in the role of a

“messenger” (מַלְאָךְ, mal’akh) or “herald” (מְבַשֵּׂר, mevaser).

The term “euaggelistés” refers to a proclaimer of the gospel, one who announces the good news of Jesus Christ. In the New Testament, an evangelist is someone who is specifically gifted and called to spread the message of salvation through Christ. This role is distinct from that of apostles, prophets, pastors, and teachers, though it shares the common goal of edifying the body of Christ and expanding the Kingdom of God.

STRONGS NT 2099: εὐαγγελιστής

εὐαγγελιστής, εὐαγγελιστοῦ, ὁ (εὐαγγελίζω),

a Biblical and ecclesiastical word, 

a bringer of good tidings,

an evangelist(Vulg.evangelista).

This name is given in the N. T. to those

heralds of salvation through Christ who are not apostles:

 Acts 21:8; Ephesians 4:11; 2 Timothy 4:5.

Evangelists are proclaimers of the Good News they are those who impart an effective witness for King Messiah, so that people turn from sin and accept Gods forgiveness through His Messiah.

As we have seen the lambs that were sacrificed in the Temple, were raised in close proximity to Jerusalem, in a Little Town called Bethlehem. The very same place where Messiah, the Lamb of God who took away the sins of the world was born.

The bible records in Luke 2 that… “While shepherds watched their flocks by night . . . ” Not just any shepherd’s or any flocks, but the lambs destined to be offered up in the Temple of Jerusalem as sacrifices, atonement, for the sins of the people.

That’s why the first ones to witness the birth of Yeshua/Jesus were the shepherds, because when a sacrificial lamb is born, the shepherds attend its birth. Not just any shepherd’s, but the shepherds of Bethlehem, the shepherds appointed to attended the birth of the sacrificial lambs. So the Lamb of God was born among the sacrificial lambs for the same reason, to be sacrificed in Jerusalem.

The plan of God was there from the beginning, and the Prophet Micah foretold His birth place centuries before. The entire purpose of His life was a sacrificial gift of love for all mankind. His entire life, even from the moment of His birth, was orchestrated to reflect His love for the world. Yeshua/Jesus’s entire life was a living sacrifice, every moment a gift given, the incarnation of true love.

Messiah came at a time when the Temple was still standing, when the priesthood of Israel was still in effect. The sons of Aaron had charge over the sacrifices and confirmed that each sacrifice was spotless and without blemish so it would follow that these shepherds were part of the tribe of the levitical priesthood assigned to the raising of the sacrificial lambs.

And when they had seen it, they made known abroad the saying which was told them concerning this child…

So it seems that the sons of Aaron had charge over the sacrifices and confirmed that each sacrifice was spotless and without blemish. However, shouldn’t there have been some connection, some recognition given by the priests, of Yeshua/Jesus being the final and ultimate sacrifice?

There was, born to the cohanim, to the house of Aaron, a child who was not only a priest, but one descended from Aaron on both his father’s and mother’s line, a pure-blooded priest. The child was given the name Yochanan.  We know him as John the Baptist. It was John who presented the Lamb, Yeshua/Jesus the Messiah, the final sacrifice, to Israel. It was the cohanim who identified the sacrifice and certified that it was acceptable to be sacrificed. Thirty years later it was Yochanan, John, His cousin, who first identified Yeshua/Jesus as the acceptable sacrifice, the sacrificial Lamb. It was John who declared the prophetic fulfillment, “Behold the Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world.”

So it would seem from the scriptures that the

first non human evangelists were the angels

and the

first human evangelists were these shepherds,

the very ones whose responsibility was to care for protect and make ready the lambs for the Temple sacrifices. 

https://www.minimannamoments.com/a-lambs-tale-and-a-mysterious-tower/

https://www.minimannamoments.com/because-he-came/

Shalom, shalom mishpachah/family

and cheverim/friends!

It’s all about Life and Relationship,

NOT Religion.

You are greatly loved and precious in His sight.

NOT SURE?

YOU CAN BE..

SAY THE FOLLOWING FROM YOUR HEART RIGHT NOW…

Heavenly Father I come to you in the Name of Jesus/Yeshua asking for forgiveness of my sins for which I am truly sorry. I repent of them all and turn away from my past.

I believe with my heart and confess with my mouth that Jesus/Yeshua is your Son and that He died on the cross at calvary to pay the price for my sin, so that I might be forgiven and have eternal life in the kingdom of Heaven. Father I believe that Jesus/Yeshua rose from the dead and I ask you to come into my life right now and be my personal Savior and Lord and I will worship you all the days of my life. Because your word is truth I say that I am now forgiven and born again and by faith I am washed clean with the blood of Jesus/Yeshua. Thank you that you have accepted me into your family in Jesus’/Yeshua’s name. Amen.

Christmas – Chanukkah

It’s not every year

that Christmas and Hanukkah

fall on the same dates.

This year they do,

beginning December 25th, Christmas day

and ending on January 2nd..

Hanukkah/Channukah is not as many may think of it as the Jewish Christmas, but rather a celebration in remembrance of the rededication of the temple.

Below are links to several posts from previous years describing its origins and meaning to us today and explaining things such as: there are 9 candles on the hanukkah menorah, not 7…

https://www.minimannamoments.com/the-miracle-of-the-hammer-men/

https://www.minimannamoments.com/chanukah-or-hanukkah/

https://www.minimannamoments.com/hanukkahchanukah-believers-today/

https://www.minimannamoments.com/who-lights-up-your-life/

https://www.minimannamoments.com/lhahd-leek-ner-shel-chahookah-to-light-the-light

 

As a festival of lights it is

reminding us the Messiah came as

the light of the world that was shrouded in darkness.

Today with the Light of His indwelling Holy Spirit

we are the light of His truth

to a world which is still being influenced by the darkness

from an unseen realm.

During this Christmas/Chanukah Season, and always, may the LORD God of Israel/Yisrael help us walk in the unforgettable and irrepressible radiance of His glory. He came to us clothed in our humanity; as a baby He legally entered this realm. He came with one goal, to die, that by sacrificing His life for ours we may receive the ultimate ‘Chirstmas’ gift of forgiveness of sins and the promise of eternal life. 

We are to shine our light pointing to the Redeemer and the One Who can shatter that darkness in our lives. He said in John 12:32

And I, if I be lifted up from the earth, will draw all men unto myself.

May the true shalom of our Heavenly Father and His Messiah overshadow all of us today and every day.

Don’t leave this page until you are certain in your heart that the Messiah Yeshua/Jesus is the Light of your world.

We all need to be born again from above by His Spirit of Holiness..His Mercy and Grace are what we need…for therein is His forgiveness.

(Matt. 5:16).

“For God, who said, ‘Let light shine out of darkness’

(יְהִי אוֹר וַיְהִי־אוֹר),

has shone in our hearts to give the light of the knowledge of the Glory of God in the face of Jesus/Yeshua the Messiah”

(2 Cor. 4:6).

כִּי־עִמְּךָ מְקוֹר חַיִּים
בְּאוֹרְךָ נִרְאֶה־אוֹר

ki · im·me·kha · me·kor · cha·yim
be·or·kha · nir·eh · ohr

“For with You is the fountain of life;
in Your light do we see Light”
(Psalm 36:9)

Make certain Messiah Jesus/Yeshua is your Redeemer, Savior, Lord and soon returning King and that you have a personal relationship with Him.

Its all about Life and Relationship, NOT Religion.

You are greatly loved and precious in His sight.

NOT SURE?

YOU CAN BE..

SAY THE FOLLOWING FROM YOUR HEART RIGHT NOW…

Heavenly Father I come to you in the Name of Jesus/Yeshua asking for forgiveness of my sins for which I am truly sorry. I repent of them all and turn away from my past.

I believe with my heart and confess with my mouth that Jesus/Yeshua is your only begotten Son and that He died on the cross at calvary to pay the price for my sin, so that I might be forgiven and have eternal life in the kingdom of Heaven. Father I believe that Jesus/Yeshua rose from the dead and I ask you to come into my life right now and be my personal Savior and Lord and I will worship and serve you all the days of my life. Because your word is truth I say that I am now forgiven and born again from above and by faith I am washed clean with the blood of Jesus/Yeshua. Thank you that you have accepted me into your family in Jesus’/Yeshua’s name. Amen.

A Walk on the Wildside – The Wilderness Journey Theirs and Ours – Part 5

We have come to final stage of the wilderness journey and as we pass through the last of the camps on our way to the promised land, we continue to see the Lords hand in reaffirming the lessons His children were to learn. This recorded journey is also our life journey, and one thing is clear there is no physical solution to a spiritual problem. The natural can only be turned into the spiritual through sacrifice. Without this a person will lead a divided life because our Heavenly Father’s will is for the natural to be changed into the spiritual through obedience. Hebrews 5:8 Although He was a Son, He learned obedience from the things which He suffered. Sin is what made it necessary for the natural to be sacrificed. God’s perfect will is not sacrifice yet He permits it. Abraham offered up Ishmael, son of the flesh, before he offered up Isaac, the son of the spirit.  Genesis. 21:8-14.

Some of us are trying to offer up spiritual sacrifices to the Father before we have sacrificed the natural. The only way we can offer a spiritual sacrifice to God is to present our bodies a living sacrifice. Rom. 12:1. Sanctification means more than being freed from sin, it means the deliberate commitment of ourselves to the God of our salvation and being willing to pay whatever it may cost. If we don’t sacrifice the natural to the spiritual, the natural life will resist and defy the life of the Son of God in us and will produce continual turmoil. This is always the result of an undisciplined spiritual nature. We go wrong when we stubbornly refuse to discipline ourselves physically, morally or mentally. Excusing ourselves with statements like, I wasn’t taught or disciplined as a child. Then we need to learn and to discipline ourselves now. If we don’t we will ruin our entire personal life for the Lord God.

What are we learning from this desert wilderness?

One thing is certain, as long as we continue to pamper and gratify our natural life, God is not actively involved with it. BUT… once we are willing to put our natural life out in the desert wilderness and are determined to keep it under control of our spirit, God will be with us 100%. He will then provide spiritual and natural wells and oases and fulfill all His promises for both. Genesis. 21:15-19.

41So they departed from Mount Hor and camped at Zalmonah.  42They departed from Zalmonah and camped at Punon.  43They departed from Punon and camped at Oboth.  44They departed from Oboth and camped at Ije Abarim, at the border of Moab.  45They departed from [c]Ijim and camped at Dibon Gad.  46They moved from Dibon Gad and camped at Almon Diblathaim.  47They moved from Almon Diblathaim and camped in the mountains of Abarim, before Nebo.  48They departed from the mountains of Abarim and camped in the plains of Moab by the Jordan, across from Jericho.  49They camped by the Jordan, from Beth Jesimoth as far as the Abel Acacia Grove[d] in the plains of Moab.

Numbers 33:38 
HEB: הַכֹּהֵ֜ן אֶל־ הֹ֥ר הָהָ֛ר עַל־
NAS: up to Mount Hor at the command
KJV: into mount Hor at the commandment
INT: the priest about Hor to Mount at

Numbers 33:39 
HEB: שָׁנָ֑ה בְּמֹת֖וֹ בְּהֹ֥ר הָהָֽר׃ ס
NAS: when he died on Mount Hor.
KJV: when he died in mount Hor.
INT: years died Hor Mount

Numbers 33:41 
HEB: וַיִּסְע֖וּ מֵהֹ֣ר הָהָ֑ר וַֽיַּחֲנ֖וּ
NAS: from Mount Hor and camped
KJV: from mount Hor, and pitched
INT: journeyed Hor Mount and camped

Numbers 34:7 
HEB: תְּתָא֥וּ לָכֶ֖ם הֹ֥ר הָהָֽר׃
NAS: Sea to Mount Hor.
KJV: ye shall point out for you mount Hor:
INT: the Great shall draw Hor to Mount

Numbers 34:8 
HEB: מֵהֹ֣ר הָהָ֔ר תְּתָא֖וּ
NAS: from Mount Hor to the Lebo-hamath,
KJV: From mount Hor ye shall point out
INT: Hor Mount shall draw

38Then Aaron the priest went up to Mount Hor at the command of the Lord, and died there in the fortieth year after the children of Israel had come out of the land of Egypt, on the first day of the fifth month. 39 Aaron was one hundred and twenty-three years old when he died on Mount Hor. 40 Now the king of Arad, the Canaanite, who dwelt in the South in the land of Canaan, heard of the coming of the children of Israel. 41So they departed from Mount Hor and camped at Zalmonah.

Numbers 33:41 
HEB: הָהָ֑ר וַֽיַּחֲנ֖וּ בְּצַלְמֹנָֽה׃ 
NAS: Hor and camped at Zalmonah.
KJV: Hor, and pitched in Zalmonah.
INT: Mount and camped Zalmonah

6758 [e]
bə·ṣal·mō·nāh.
בְּצַלְמֹנָֽה׃
at Zalmonah

Tsalmonah: Tsalmonah

Original Word: צַלְמֹנָה
Transliteration: Tsalmonah
Pronunciation: tsal-mo-NAH
Phonetic Spelling: (tsal-mo-naw’)
Meaning: Tsalmonah is derived from the Hebrew root

צֶלֶם (tselem),

meaning shadow or image or shade of death.

The name likely means “shady” or “shadowy,” possibly referring to the physical characteristics of the location, maybe trees or shade from a high sided mountain. Remembering that in the Hebrew culture names were significant, describing the characteristics of a place or person; and often prophetic in nature being connected to the individuals future and destiny in Gods plans and purposes.

There are no direct Greek equivalents for Tsalmonah, as it is a specific Hebrew place name. However, the concept of “shadow” or “image” can be related to Greek words like σκιά (skia) for “shadow.”

Psalm 23 encourages us that though

we walk through the valley of the shadow of death,

He is with us and its important to note that we walk through,

we don’t stay there, and death does not touch us because

its only a shadow.

Tsalmonah is part of the itinerary of the Israelites as they wandered in the desert for 40 years. It was their time of testing, reliance on God, and preparation before entering the Promised Land. The specific location of Tsalmonah is not definitively known today, but it is traditionally considered to be in the region of the Sinai Peninsula.

 42They departed from Zalmonah and camped at Punon.

Numbers 33:42 
HEB: וַיִּסְע֖וּ מִצַּלְמֹנָ֑ה וַֽיַּחֲנ֖וּ בְּפוּנֹֽן׃
NAS: They journeyed from Zalmonah and camped
KJV: And they departed from Zalmonah,and pitched
INT: journeyed Zalmonah and camped Punon

Numbers 33:42 
HEB: מִצַּלְמֹנָ֑ה וַֽיַּחֲנ֖וּ בְּפוּנֹֽן׃ 
NAS: from Zalmonah and camped at Punon.
KJV: from Zalmonah, and pitched in Punon.
INT: Zalmonah and camped Punon

6325 [e]
bə·p̄ū·nōn.
בְּפוּנֹֽן׃
at Punon

Punon: Punon

Original Word: פּוּנֹן
Transliteration: Punon
Pronunciation: poo-NON
Phonetic Spelling: (poo-none’)
Meaning: Perplexity, which is derived from an unused root meaning: to be perplexed or to be dark.

There are no direct Greek equivalents for Punon, as it is a specific place name in the Hebrew Bible. Punon is believed to have been located in the region of Edom, which is southeast of the Dead Sea. The area was known for its copper mines, and it is possible that Punon was a site of mining activity during biblical times. The Edomites, descendants of Esau, inhabited this region, and it played a significant role in the history of Israel due to its strategic location and resources.

The name may indicate the feelings of the Israelites at this stage in their journey; possibly emotionally perplexed and the darkness of negativity about their situation may have been trying to torment their minds. The journey had been long and arduous, testing everything in them, and although they were on the last stages of their journey to the promised land; doubts and fears always rise, trying to cause us to stumble right before our patient faith sees the reality of its trust in the natural.

The same is true for us today, when we have been believing for a certain outcome and waiting for what seems a lifetime for the answers to our prayers. The enemy will whisper doubts and accusations, hoping to cause our faith to waver and maybe tempt us to operate out of the arm of the flesh to fulfill that need. Here is where we are to let perseverance/patience have her perfect work by enduring trials, turning to God for strength and hope during painful times.

James 1:4  let patience have its perfect work, so that they may be mature and complete, lacking nothing.

Our Heavenly Fathers’ ways are always, without exception, better than anything we can come up with. Sometimes we are our own worst enemy, seeing how we can facilitate the answer in a more timely manner to our agenda; and with that we compromise to keep it and sadly we will eventually lose it. Our capable and independent actions subvert the plan of our Father and the lack of patience to undergird our faith leads to disobedience which in turn is sin – James 1:15, Romans 6:23 – and sin brings forth death. Maybe not right away, which leads us to think its ok as we see no immediate consequences; however spiritual laws are unchangeable and are no respecter of persons, and the end is always the same. What we choose to think or believe will not change the truth of Gods’ Word.

 43They departed from Punon and camped at Oboth.

Numbers 33:43 
HEB: וַיִּסְע֖וּ מִפּוּנֹ֑ן וַֽיַּחֲנ֖וּ בְּאֹבֹֽת׃
NAS: They journeyed from Punon and camped
KJV: And they departed from Punon, and pitched
INT: journeyed Punon and camped Oboth

Numbers 33:43 
HEB: מִפּוּנֹ֑ן וַֽיַּחֲנ֖וּ בְּאֹבֹֽת׃ 
NAS: from Punon and camped at Oboth.
KJV: from Punon, and pitched in Oboth.
INT: Punon and camped Oboth

88 [e]
bə·’ō·ḇōṯ.
בְּאֹבֹֽת׃
at Oboth

Oboth: Oboth

Original Word: אֹבֹת
Part of Speech: Proper Name Location
Transliteration: Oboth
Pronunciation: oh-BOHTH
Phonetic Spelling: (o-both’)
Definition: Oboth
Meaning: plural of #178 water skins and is derived from the Hebrew root

אֹב (ob),

meaning “a wineskin” or “a necromancer’s spirit.”

There are no direct Greek equivalents for Oboth in the Strong’s Greek Dictionary, as it is a specific Hebrew place name it primarily serves as a geographical marker. The name itself may suggest a connection to the practices of necromancy or the presence of spirits.

Necromancy is the practice of communicating with the dead, the conjuring of the spirits of the dead for magical purposes which is forbidden by God.

A wineskin is a container and was made from goat or sheep hide/skin. The simile to a necromancer, whose skin/body/container is used by a demonic spirit, in the process of communication is suggested here.

Lev. 19:31 “Do not turn to mediums or necromancers; do not seek them out, and so make yourselves unclean by them:

Deut. 18:9-12.

Is. 8:19 And when they say to you, “Inquire of the mediums and the necromancers who chirp and mutter,” should not a people inquire of their God? Should they inquire of the dead on behalf of the living?

1John 1:4 Beloved, do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits to see whether they are from God, for many false prophets have gone out into the world.

Rev. 21:8 But as for the cowardly, the faithless, the detestable, as for murderers, the sexually immoral, sorcerers, idolaters, and all liars, their portion will be in the lake that burns with fire and sulfur, which is the second death.”

1Sam. 28:7-19 was the account of Saul seeking the prophet Samuel through a medium it also has severe consequences. In 1 Chronicles 10:13-14, Saul died because he consulted a medium, and this passage also emphasizes the sinfulness of this practice.  As a sin it’s punishable by God’s judgment.

Lev. 20:27 “A man or a woman who is a medium or a necromancer shall surely be put to death. They shall be stoned with stones; their blood shall be upon them.”

We are to talk only to our Heavenly Father in the Name of Jesus/Yeshua. His Spirit of Holiness is the only supernatural communication we are to seek.

The location of Oboth is not precisely known today, but it is believed to have been situated in the region east of the Jordan River, possibly in the territory of Edom.

  44They departed from Oboth and camped at Ije Abarim, at the border of Moab.

Numbers 33:44 
HEB: וַיִּסְע֖וּ מֵאֹבֹ֑ת וַֽיַּחֲנ֛וּ בְּעִיֵּ֥י
NAS: They journeyed from Oboth and camped
KJV: And they departed from Oboth, and pitched
INT: journeyed Oboth and camped Iye-abarim

Numbers 33:44 
HEB: וַֽיַּחֲנ֛וּ בְּעִיֵּ֥י הָעֲבָרִ֖ים בִּגְב֥וּל מוֹאָֽב׃
NAS: and camped at Iye-abarim, at the border
KJV: and pitched in Ijeabarim, in the border
INT: Oboth and camped Iye-abarim the border of Moab

 

5863 [e]
hā·‘ă·ḇā·rîm
הָעֲבָרִ֖ים
Ije Abarim

Iyye Haabarim: Iyye Haabarim

Original Word: עִיֵּי הָעֲבָרִים
Transliteration: Iyye Haabarim
Pronunciation: ee-YAY hah-ah-vah-REEM
Phonetic Spelling: (ee-yay’ haw-ab-aw-reem’)
Meaning: Ije-ha-Abarim and is derived from the Hebrew root:

עִי (iy), meaning: “ruins” or “heaps,”

and עָבַר (abar), meaning: “to pass over” or “to cross.”

Plural of #5753 ruins of the passes a place near /Israel.

There is no direct Greek equivalent for Iyye Haabarim, as it is a specific Hebrew place name. However, related concepts of “crossing” or “passing over”

might be linked to Greek words like

διαβαίνω (diabaino), meaning “to cross over.”

Iyye Haabarim translates to “Ruins of the Passers” or “Heaps of the Crossings.” Iyye Haabarim is located in the region east of the Jordan River, near the border of Moab. The name reflects the transient nature of the Israelites’ journey, as they were often moving from one encampment to another. This location is significant as it marks a stage in the Israelites’ approach to the land of Canaan. It may refer to the things we leave behind when we move from one location to another. There may be items we discard or no longer need on our journey. It is critical when we move forward that we understand that how we leave one place is how we enter the next. We will take with us the same attitude that we departed the previous place with. Leaving often brings feelings of uncertainty, sadness, or anticipation, but Scripture offers comfort and guidance during these times of transition.

 The act of leaving behind something familiar, or letting go, can be both liberating and daunting. The Bible acknowledges the significance of leaving and provides guidance for this, just as Abraham did by leaving his familiar surroundings and obeying God’s call. It teaches us the importance of being willing to leave behind our comfort zones and follow God’s leading, even if it means leaving behind our family and friends. Sometimes He may call us to leave behind our careers, occupations or lifestyles to fulfill His purposes.

Ruth’s declaration to her mother-in-law Naomi points clearly to her loyalty and commitment to leaving behind her Moabite heritage and embracing the God of Israel. This verse reminds us that leaving can also mean leaving behind our past beliefs and practices and embracing a new way of life and a relationship with God.

Ruth 1:6 But Ruth replied, Don’t urge me to leave you or to turn back from you. Where you go I will go, and where you stay I will stay. Your people will be my people and your God my God. Her obedience resulted in that she became the great–grandmother of David. She is one of five women mentioned in the genealogy of Messiah found in the Gospel of Matthew 1:5.

Come, follow me,” Jesus said, “and I will send you out to fish for people.”

Messiahs’ invitation to His disciples highlights the idea of leaving behind their former occupations as fishermen to become fishers of people. It reminds us that following Yeshua/Jesus requires a willingness to leave behind our old way of life and priorities and embrace a new purpose of serving and sharing the Gospel with others. It also underscores the need to leave behind the attachment to worldly possessions and prioritizing them above the call to follow Messiah. It challenges us to examine our hearts and consider what we may need to leave behind in order to fully follow Him.

Is. 43 :198-19 “Forget the former things; do not dwell on the past. See, I am doing a new thing! Now it springs up; do you not perceive it? I am making a way in the wilderness and streams in the wasteland.”

In these verses, God calls His people to let go of the past and embrace the new things He is doing. It reminds us that leaving can involve leaving behind old mindsets, grievances, and disappointments, allowing God to bring forth transformation and a fresh start in our lives. There are various instances in the scriptures where leaving is discussed. Leaving can refer to physical departure from a place or situation, or it can also have a broader meaning of moving away from certain behaviors, mindsets, or influences.

In our leaving we should not leave behind piles of negative debris in the form of complaints, regrets, blame and fears; but one of love, peace, joy, hope and expectation of the future. Then as we enter the new with that same attitude and spirit of life, the law of the spirit of life will make us free from the law of sin and death. Romans 8:2.

  45They departed from [c]Ijim and camped at Dibon Gad.

Numbers 33:45 
HEB: מֵעִיִּ֑ים וַֽיַּחֲנ֖וּ בְּדִיבֹ֥ן גָּֽד׃
NAS: from Iyim and camped at Dibon-gad.
KJV: from Iim, and pitchedin Dibongad.
INT: Iyim and camped Dibongad Gad

1769 [e]
bə·ḏî·ḇōn
בְּדִיבֹ֥ן
at Dibon

1410 [e]
gāḏ.
גָּֽד׃
Gad

Dibon: Dibon

Original Word: דִּיבוֹן
Transliteration: Dibon
Pronunciation: dee-BONE
Phonetic Spelling: (dee-bome’)
Meaning: Dibon and is derived from the root:

דּוּב (dûb), meaning to pine away or to languish.

From # 1727: pining, mope, sorrow; name of 3 places.

There is no direct Greek equivalent for Dibon in the Strong’s Greek Dictionary, as it is a proper noun specific to the Hebrew context.  Dibon was an ancient city located east of the Jordan River, primarily associated with the territory of Moab. It is often referred to as “Dibon of Moab” to distinguish it from other locations. The name may imply a place of languishing or pining, possibly reflecting its historical or geographical characteristics. It was a significant city during biblical times, often mentioned in the context of Israel’s interactions with the Moabites. It was where Ruth came from.

The city is notable for the Mesha Stele, an ancient Moabite stone inscription that provides valuable historical insights into the region and its conflicts with Israel.

Dibon was initially assigned to

the tribe of Gad but later became a Moabite stronghold.

Numbers 33:46 
HEB: וַיִּסְע֖וּ מִדִּיבֹ֣ן גָּ֑ד וַֽיַּחֲנ֖וּ
NAS: They journeyed from Dibon-gad and camped
KJV: And they removed from Dibongad,and encamped
INT: journeyed Dibongad Gad and camped

  46They moved from Dibon Gad and camped at Almon Diblathaim.

Numbers 33:46 
HEB: וַֽיַּחֲנ֖וּ בְּעַלְמֹ֥ן דִּבְלָתָֽיְמָה׃ 
NAS: and camped at Almon-diblathaim.
KJV: and encamped in Almondiblathaim.
INT: Gad and camped Almon-diblathaim

5963 [e]
diḇ·lā·ṯā·yə·māh.
דִּבְלָתָֽיְמָה׃
Almon Diblathaim

Almon Diblathayemah: Almon Diblathaim

Original Word: עַלְמֹן דִּבְלָתָיְמָה
Transliteration: Almon Diblathayemah
Pronunciation: al-MONE dib-lah-thah-YE-mah
Phonetic Spelling: (al-mone’ dib-law-thaw’-yem-aw)
Definition: Almon Diblathaim
Meaning: Almon-Diblathajemah Derived from two Hebrew words:

עַלְמֹן (Almon) meaning hidden or concealed

and

דִּבְלָתָיְמָה (Diblathayemah)

which is related to דִּבְלָה (diblah),

meaning: fig cake or fig grove – Almon of the double cake of figs.

Same as #5960 and dual of #1690 toward Diblathajim, a place in the desert from #5963 hidden and #5960 and to press together as a cake of figs. #1690

There are no direct Greek equivalents for Almon Diblathayemah, as it is a specific Hebrew place name. However, the concept of wilderness journeys and encampments can be related to Greek terms used in the New Testament for wilderness or desert, such as ἔρημος (erēmos).

The name suggests a location that might have been

known for its fig production

or

a place that was hidden or concealed.

The name reflects the agricultural practices of the time, where figs were a common and valuable food source. The wilderness journey was a formative period for the Israelites, shaping their identity as God’s chosen people and teaching them reliance on divine provision.

 47They moved from Almon Diblathaim and camped in the mountains of Abarim, before Nebo.

Numbers 33:47 
HEB: וַֽיַּחֲנ֛וּ בְּהָרֵ֥י הָעֲבָרִ֖ים לִפְנֵ֥י נְבֽוֹ׃
NAS: in the mountains of Abarim, before
KJV: in the mountains of Abarim, before
INT: and camped the mountains of Abarim before Nebo

Numbers 33:47 

HEB: וַיִּסְע֖וּ מֵעַלְמֹ֣ן דִּבְלָתָ֑יְמָה וַֽיַּחֲנ֛וּ בְּהָרֵ֥י
NAS: They journeyed from Almon-diblathaim and camped
KJV: And they removed from Almondiblathaim, and pitched
INT: journeyed Almon-diblathaim and camped the mountains

5682 [e]
hā·‘ă·ḇā·rîm
הָעֲבָרִ֖ים
of Abarim

Abarim: Abarim

Original Word: עֲבָרִים
Transliteration: Abarim
Pronunciation: ah-vah-REEM
Phonetic Spelling: (ab-aw-reem’)
Meaning: Abarim, derived from the Hebrew root

עָבַר (avar), meaning:

to pass over or to cross.

There is no direct Greek equivalent for Abarim, as it is a specific Hebrew geographical term. However, the concept of crossing or transition can be related to Greek terms like

διαβαίνω (diabaino – G1224), meaning “to cross over.“

Abarim refers to a mountain range or region located east of the Jordan River. The name suggests a place of crossing or transition, fitting its role as a boundary before entering Canaan.

The Abarim mountains hold significant historical and theological importance in the biblical narrative. They are mentioned in the context of the Israelites’ wilderness wanderings and are notably the location where Moses viewed the Promised Land before his death. Moses disobedience to a direct instruction from the Lord cost him his desire to enter the promised land; a timely reminder to all of us to: shema – hear and obey, when our Heavenly Father asks us to do something.

The range includes Mount Nebo, from which Moses saw the land of Canaan. Deuteronomy 32:49-50.

5015 [e]
nə·ḇōw.
נְבֽוֹ׃
Nebo

Nbow: Nebo

Original Word: נָבוֹ
Transliteration: Nbow
Pronunciation: naw-voh’
Phonetic Spelling: (neb-o’)
Meaning: Nebo, derived from the root:

נָבָא (naba), meaning:

to prophesy or to speak by divine inspiration.

While there is no direct Greek equivalent for the proper noun Nebo, the concept of prophecy and divine communication can be linked to Greek terms such as

προφήτης (prophētēs – Strong’s Greek 4396), meaning “prophet.”

Nebo is a name used in the Hebrew Bible, primarily referring to a location and a deity. It is most commonly associated with Mount Nebo, a significant mountain in the biblical narrative, and with a Babylonian deity of wisdom and writing.

Mount Nebo is a prominent mountain peak in the Abarim range, located in present-day Jordan. It holds significant importance in the biblical narrative as the place where Moses viewed the Promised Land before his death. Deuteronomy 34:1.

The name Nebo is also linked to a Babylonian god, Nabu, who was associated with wisdom, writing, and prophecy. This reflects the cultural exchanges and influences between the Israelites and their neighboring civilizations.

 48They departed from the mountains of Abarim and camped in the plains of Moab by the Jordan, across from Jericho.

Numbers 33:48 
HEB: וַֽיַּחֲנוּ֙ בְּעַֽרְבֹ֣ת מוֹאָ֔ב עַ֖ל יַרְדֵּ֥ן
NAS: in the plains of Moab by the Jordan
KJV: in the plains of Moab by Jordan
INT: and camped the plains of Moab by the Jordan

Numbers 33:48 
HEB: וַיִּסְע֖וּ מֵהָרֵ֣י הָעֲבָרִ֑ים וַֽיַּחֲנוּ֙ בְּעַֽרְבֹ֣ת
NAS: from the mountains of Abarim and camped
KJV: from the mountains of Abarim, and pitched
INT: journeyed the mountains of Abarim and camped the plains

 49They camped by the Jordan, from Beth Jesimoth as far as the Abel Acacia Grove[d] in the plains of Moab.

Numbers 33:49 
HEB: הַשִּׁטִּ֑ים בְּעַֽרְבֹ֖ת מוֹאָֽב׃ ס
NAS: as Abel-shittim in the plains of Moab.
KJV: in the plains of Moab.
INT: Abel-shittim the plains of Moab

Deuteronomy 32:49 
HEB: אֶל־ הַר֩ הָעֲבָרִ֨ים הַזֶּ֜ה הַר־
NAS: mountain of the Abarim, Mount
KJV: into this mountain Abarim, [unto] mount
INT: about mountain of the Abarim to this Mount

Moab: Moab

Original Word: מוֹאָב
Part of Speech: proper name, of a people and territory
Transliteration: Moab
Pronunciation: moh-AV
Phonetic Spelling: (mo-awb)
Meaning: Moab, derived from the Hebrew root, possibly meaning: “from father” (מֵאָב),

indicating the ancestral relationship described in Genesis.

G3473 Μωάβ (Moab) – G3474 Μωαβίτης (Moabite)

Moab refers to both a person and a nation in the Bible. Moab was the son of Lot, born from an incestuous relationship with his eldest daughter. Genesis 19:37. The descendants of Moab became the Moabites, a people often in conflict with Israel. The Moabites settled east of the Dead Sea, in a region known for its fertile land. They were closely related to the Israelites, being descendants of Lot, Abraham’s nephew. Despite this kinship, the Moabites frequently opposed Israel, both politically and religiously. The Moabites worshiped Chemosh, a god to whom they sometimes offered human sacrifices. The relationship between Israel and Moab was complex, involving periods of both conflict and cooperation.

Numbers 33:49 
HEB: הַיַּרְדֵּן֙ מִבֵּ֣ית הַיְשִׁמֹ֔ת עַ֖ד אָבֵ֣ל
NAS: by the Jordan, from Beth-jeshimoth as far
KJV: by Jordan, from Bethjesimoth [even] unto Abelshittim
INT: by the Jordan Beth-jeshimoth far Abel-shittim

3383 [e]
hay·yar·dên
הַיַּרְדֵּן֙
the Jordan

1020 [e]
hay·ši·mōṯ,
הַיְשִׁמֹ֔ת
Beth Jeshimoth

’ā·ḇêl
אָבֵ֣ל

63 [e]
haš·šiṭ·ṭîm;
הַשִּׁטִּ֑ים
the Abel Shittim

Yarden: Jordan

Original Word: יַרְדֵּן
Transliteration: Yarden
Pronunciation: yar-DEN
Phonetic Spelling: (yar-dane’)
Meaning: a descender principle river.

The word is derived from the Hebrew root:

יָרַד (yarad),

meaning: to descend or to go down.

G2446 (Ιορδάνης, Iordanes): The Greek equivalent of the Hebrew “Yarden,” used in the New Testament to refer to the Jordan River.

The term “Yarden” refers to the Jordan River, a significant geographical feature in the biblical narrative. It is often associated with boundary crossings, spiritual transitions, and divine interventions. The Jordan River serves as a physical and symbolic marker in the history of Israel, representing both a literal and metaphorical passage from one state of being to another.

The Jordan River is one of the most prominent rivers in the biblical lands, flowing from the Sea of Galilee to the Dead Sea. It has been a critical water source and a natural boundary throughout history. In biblical times, the Jordan was a site of numerous significant events, including the crossing of the Israelites into the Promised Land, the prophetic ministry of Elijah and Elisha, and the baptism of Yeshua/Jesus by John the Baptist.

The river’s name, meaning “to descend,” reflects its geographical descent from the highlands of Galilee to the lowest point on earth at the Dead Sea.

For more on Jordan see mmm the descender, also posts on the 12 tribes – links below:

https://www.minimannamoments.com/what-is-the-connection-between-the-descender-a-spring-an-eye-a-dove-and-a-miracle/

https://www.minimannamoments.com/the-man-the-tribe-the-land-yisrael-israel-prophetic-in-every-way/

Jericho

Numbers 33:48 
HEB: עַ֖ל יַרְדֵּ֥ן יְרֵחֽוֹ׃ 
NAS: by the Jordan [opposite] Jericho.
KJV: of Moab by Jordan [near] Jericho.
INT: by the Jordan Jericho

Numbers 33:50 
HEB: עַל־ יַרְדֵּ֥ן יְרֵח֖וֹ לֵאמֹֽר׃
NAS: by the Jordan [opposite] Jericho,saying,
KJV: by Jordan [near] Jericho, saying,
INT: by the Jordan Jericho saying

Yericho or Yerecho or Yerichoh: Jericho

Original Word: יְרִיחוֹ
Transliteration: Yericho or Yerecho or Yerichoh
Pronunciation: yeh-ree-KHO
Phonetic Spelling: (yer-ee-kho’)
Meaning: Jericho, Jerecho is derived from the Hebrew root

יָרַח (yarach), meaning: moon,

possibly indicating a connection to lunar worship or the moon’s significance in ancient times.

G2410 Ἰεριχώ (Iericho) – The Greek transliteration of Jericho, used in the New Testament.

Jericho is a significant city in the Bible, often referred to as the “City of Palms” due to its lush palm trees and fertile surroundings. It is one of the oldest inhabited cities in the world and is frequently mentioned in the context of Israel’s conquest of Canaan led by Joshua.

from רָוַח, = regio fragrans, the district abounding in palms, rose-gardens, balsam, etc.

Jericho is located near the Jordan River in the Jordan Valley. It was a fortified city with strong walls, making it a strategic military target. The city’s destruction by the Israelites under Joshua’s leadership is one of the most famous events in the Old Testament, symbolizing God’s power and faithfulness to His promises. Archaeological evidence supports Jericho’s ancient habitation and its significance in trade and agriculture.

1020 Beth Hayshimoth: House of Desolations

Original Word: בֵּית הַשִּׁמֹּות
Transliteration: Beth Hayshimoth
Pronunciation: bayth ha-shee-moth
Phonetic Spelling: (bayth hah-yesh-ee-moth’)
Definition: House of Desolations house of the deserts
Meaning: Beth-ha-Jeshimoth is derived from two Hebrew words:

בֵּית  beth, meaning house

and

הַשִּׁמֹּות  hashimoth,

meaning: desolations or wastes.

There are no direct Greek equivalents for Beth Hayshimoth in the Strong’s Greek Dictionary, as it is a specific Hebrew place name, referring to a location on the eastern side of the Jordan River, near the Dead Sea. The name suggests a place characterized by desolation or wilderness.

Beth Hayshimoth was situated in the territory allotted to the tribe of Reuben after the Israelites entered the Promised Land. It was located in the plains of Moab, an area known for its proximity to the Dead Sea and its arid, desolate landscape. The region was significant during the Israelites’ journey from Egypt to Canaan, serving as a staging ground before crossing the Jordan River.

Numbers 33:49 
HEB: עַ֖ד אָבֵ֣ל הַשִּׁטִּ֑ים בְּעַֽרְבֹ֖ת מוֹאָֽב׃
NAS: as far as Abel-shittim in the plains
KJV: from Bethjesimoth [even] unto Abelshittim in the plains
INT: Beth-jeshimoth far Abel-shittim the plains of Moab

Abel Hashshittim: Abel of the Acacias

Original Word: הָשִּׁטִּים אָבֵל
Transliteration: Abel Hashshittim
Pronunciation: ah-BEL hah-shit-TEEM
Phonetic Spelling: (aw-bale’ hash-shit-teem’)
Definition: Abel of the Acacias
Meaning: Abel hash-Shittim is derived from two Hebrew words: “אָבֵל” (Abel),

meaning: meadow or stream,

and “הַשִּׁטִּים”  Hashshittim,

meaning: the acacias or Meadow of the acacias.

There is no direct Greek equivalent for Abel Hashshittim, as it is a specific Hebrew place name. However, the Greek term “Ἀκακία” (G212) refers to the acacia tree, which is part of the name shittim meaning:

wood of acacia tree

from its scourging thorns, to flog.

For believers this reminds us of the scourging Messiah suffered for us and the thorny crown that was pressed into His head.

The scourging He endured was the prophetic fulfillment of

Isaiah 53:5 and

Exodus 15:26 right before they came to Elim.

25 And Moses cried out to the LORD, and the LORD showed him a log. And when he cast it into the waters, they were sweetened. There the LORD made for them a statute and an ordinance, and there He tested them, 26 saying, “If you will listen carefully to the voice of the LORD your God, and do what is right in His eyes, and pay attention to His commands, and keep all His statutes,then I will not bring on you any of the diseases I inflicted on the Egyptians. For I am the LORD who heals you.” 27 Then they came to Elim, where there were twelve springs of water and seventy palm trees, and they camped there by the waters.…

Here is the source of our ‘name of God’, Jehovah Rophe- Yahweh rofe’ekha –  רָפָא  יהוה

 Pronounced: Yä-wá’ (or Yod-Há-Väv-Há’) Roh-fee’. It is a name of God revealed to Moses at Marah, where God provided sweet water for the Israelites; it has the idea of “restore, make whole, repair.”

Our Heavenly Fathers promise of healing was fulfilled in Messiah as confirmed in 1 Peter 2:24 He Himself bore our sins in His body on the tree, so that we might die to sin and live to righteousness. “By His stripes you are healed.” 

Abel Hashshittim  (# 7848 shit-teem) refers to a location in the plains of Moab, east of the Jordan River, where the Israelites camped before crossing into the Promised Land. The name suggests a place characterized by acacia trees, which were common in the region.

Abel Hashshittim is significant in the biblical narrative as the final encampment of the Israelites before entering Canaan. It is located in the plains of Moab, near the Jordan River, opposite Jericho. This site is associated with the events in Numbers 25, where the Israelites fell into idolatry and immorality with the Moabites, leading to God’s judgment. The acacia trees in the area were likely used for various purposes, including construction and religious artifacts, as acacia wood was durable and abundant.

Numbers 33:48 
HEB: וַֽיַּחֲנוּ֙ בְּעַֽרְבֹ֣ת מוֹאָ֔ב עַ֖ל יַרְדֵּ֥ן
NAS: in the plains of Moab by the Jordan
KJV: in the plains of Moab by Jordan
INT: and camped the plains of Moab by the Jordan

Numbers 33:49 
HEB: הַשִּׁטִּ֑ים בְּעַֽרְבֹ֖ת מוֹאָֽב׃ ס
NAS: as Abel-shittim in the plains of Moab.
KJV: in the plains of Moab.
INT: Abel-shittim the plains of Moab

Numbers 33:44 
HEB: הָעֲבָרִ֖ים בִּגְב֥וּל מוֹאָֽב׃ 
NAS: at Iye-abarim, at the border of Moab.
KJV: in Ijeabarim, in the border of Moab.
INT: Iye-abarim the border of Moab

Moab 4124

Moab: Moab

Original Word: מוֹאָב
Part of Speech: proper name, of a people and territory
Transliteration: Moab
Pronunciation: moh-AV
Phonetic Spelling: (mo-awb)

Meaning: Moab, derived from the Hebrew root, possibly meaning: from father (מֵאָב),

indicating the ancestral relationship described in Genesis.

G3473 Μωάβ (Moab) G3474 Μωαβίτης (Moabite)

Moab refers to both a person and a nation in the Bible. Moab was the son of Lot, born from an incestuous relationship with his eldest daughter. Genesis 19:37. The descendants of Moab became the Moabites, a people often in conflict with Israel. The Moabites settled east of the Dead Sea, in a region known for its fertile land. They were closely related to the Israelites, being descendants of Lot, Abraham’s nephew. Despite this kinship, the Moabites frequently opposed Israel, both politically and religiously. The Moabites worshiped Chemosh, a god to whom they sometimes offered human sacrifices. The relationship between Israel and Moab was complex, involving periods of both conflict and cooperation.

Now we are at the end of our journey through the wilderness, we are aware that it is a process both for the Israelites and for us. God took His people out of Egypt and all they had there, including slavery; and for the next 40 years He took Egypt and all its influences out of them. Only 2 of the original travelers were free enough to go forward, a remnant; those born in the wilderness knew His provision their whole life. It usually follows that the longer we have been in the world, the more we have been exposed to its influences and need to gain freedom from. In Galatians 1:17, Paul claims he did not go to Jerusalem immediately,

Gal. 2:1. What did Paul do in the 14 year period before his second journey?

Hebrews 11:38. the Apostle remembers being “in perils in the wilderness.”

Paul had wilderness times of preparation early in his ministry during “three years in Arabia.” to get free from all he had become without Christ.

Are we any different? This is a process and not achieved overnight, there is no quick fix. However, the quicker we yield and part ourselves from the old life, and the old nature of the carnal identity, traditions and worldly cultures, the sooner His Holy Spirit can augment the change from within. Our self assertiveness and all our mental qualities in the soul, must be replaced by a regenerated spirit and whose reliance on Gods indwelling spirit is evident. This is hard for independent, capable, intelligent individuals because it makes no logical sense. All our old man traits need to be crucified and replaced by faith, which means letting go of our desire and ability to control our environment and life. The cravings and lust for satisfying the flesh in all its guises and excuses, are what will prevent spiritual growth, and we will end up spinning our wheels and going nowhere fast. When we continue looking to the natural realm, trying to furnish our personal needs in all areas by providing and protecting ourselves; it will stunt our faith in a Heavenly Provider. This in turn puts a tourniquet on the development of a personal relationship with the Father by His Spirit in Yeshua/Jesus name. Galatians 5:16-17. This I say then, Walk in the Spirit, and ye shall not fulfil the lust of the flesh 17For the flesh lusteth against the Spirit, and the Spirit against the flesh: and these are contrary the one to the other:

These points are some of what the Israelites were learning and there is so much more that can be said to really do justice to this subject. These posts are just a basic overall view; or the topic would be much longer than it is already!

Many times the Israelites were swayed by the pressures that came from the ‘mixed multitude’, who were not fully Hebrews and left Egypt with them hoping for a better life. They were rebellious and disobedient and would not conform or follow through on their verbal agreement to the covenant.  Many wanted to turn back to where they had come from, to return to that which was  familiar and less challenging. For us it can be ungodly influences through family members, friends, co-workers or worldly media. Any failure is not on Gods part, because He does not change; so are we keeping our side of the covenant we have made with Him? How we respond to our wilderness trials, testings and hard experiences, will directly affect how long we will stay there, and in which camp, in order to learn the lessons He desires to teach us.

The land they inherited and came into, is the only place in the earth that the Lord God, Creator of Heaven and Earth placed His name.

https://www.minimannamoments.com/i-will-put-my-name-here/

This land must be kept to a higher level of holiness than the rest of the world and it has been given to His people Israel, and those who join Israel by being grafted in by grace. All idols must be thrown down, and when the Israelites turned from the Lord and followed those idols they were evicted from the land; as God used other nations to take them into captivity e.g. Babylon.

There is a significant reference here to the life, health and physical body of the believer, we are the only people where the Lord God places His Name. We belong to Him because He paid the ultimate price, and we are to cast away all idols that take any important place in our lives before the Lord. We are part of a holy nation now and are called to a higher standard than the world around us.

2 Corinthians 6:17.

Come out from among them and be ye separate – be holy, consecrated, set apart to Him. If we don’t, we compromise and live with one foot in the world and can easily fall into sin and backslide into worldly ways. We are to die to the old life and dedicate ourselves to the Messiah and His kingdom. There is a standard that we must have for our lives as carriers of His Glory, the presence of His Holy Spirit who cannot live in an unclean environment. We are that sanctuary now, and have become the dwelling place of the Lord in earthen vessels.

Let’s run our race and keeping our eyes on Messiah, finish our course, because we did not select it, God authored it, established it and He will perfect and finish it.

Heb. 12:1 1; Cor. 9:24; Heb. 12:2.

The world behind us – the promised land before us.

No turning back.

Shalom mishpachah/family

and cheverim/friends!

It’s all about Life and Relationship,

NOT Religion.

You are greatly loved and precious in His sight.

NOT SURE?

YOU CAN BE..

SAY THE FOLLOWING FROM YOUR HEART RIGHT NOW…

Heavenly Father I come to you in the Name of Jesus/Yeshua asking for forgiveness of my sins for which I am truly sorry. I repent of them all and turn away from my past.

I believe with my heart and confess with my mouth that Jesus/Yeshua is your Son and that He died on the cross at calvary to pay the price for my sin, so that I might be forgiven and have eternal life in the kingdom of Heaven. Father I believe that Jesus/Yeshua rose from the dead and I ask you to come into my life right now and be my personal Savior and Lord and I will worship you all the days of my life. Because your word is truth I say that I am now forgiven and born again and by faith I am washed clean with the blood of Jesus/Yeshua. Thank you that you have accepted me into your family in Jesus’/Yeshua’s name. Amen.