Climbing Mountains and Leaving For Home – Comings and Goings

Having just completed the 49 days of Counting the Omer.

This season runs from the First Fruits – בִּכּוּרִים – Bikkurim/Resurrection

to

Pentecost/Shavuot/שָׁבוּעוֹת which begins on the 50th day from פסח – Pesach/Passover.

We remember Yeshua/Jesus was with them for 40 days after His Resurrection and appeared to many during that time, up to the day He returned Home to heaven/shamayim.

1Cor. 5:16. After that, He appeared to more than five hundred brothers at once, most of whom are still living, though some have fallen asleep.

In John 20:17 we are told that on the first day of the week after Passover/Pesach, Jesus/Yeshua appeared to Mary Magdalene, (Miriam of Magdala).

The women that came to the tomb (Mary the Mother of James, Salome, and Joanna), then a first appearance to Peter. He also appeared to the rest of the 12 Disciples with Thomas absent, later He appeared to them with Thomas present.

The occasion recorded in 1 Corinthians 15:1-11, to 500 at one time, then to James (presumably James the brother of Jesus), then to all the Apostles, and last to Paul himself.

There was also the meeting with the 2 disciples on the Emmaus road.

The 40th day of the Omer was when His Ascension took place and the promise was given to those present that He will return the same way they saw Him go.

Click link below for more on Ascension

https://www.minimannamoments.com/are-we-in-a-divine-pause/

His second coming shall be in like manner as Acts 1:10-11 And as they were gazing intently into the sky while He was going, behold, two men in white clothing stood beside them.

His Cross is the door/Dalet by which whosoever will can enter into the eternal life to be with the Father.

Dalet door of the cross

Click link below for more on Dalet/door:

https://www.minimannamoments.com/the-pesach-dalet-in-time-a-man-between-2-realms-yonah-and-the-watches-of-the-night/

Because of His resurrection, Jesus/Yeshua, has the right to give eternal life to anyone, and by His ascension our Savior entered heaven, keeping the door open for humanity.

His previous Transfiguration which began on another Mountain was completed on the Mountain of Ascension.

The Transfiguration was a manifestation of His glory a powerful demonstration of His divine nature, which He possessed prior to coming to earth in a human body.

Before Abraham was I AM. John 8:58

Undoubtedly, the purpose of His transfiguration, into at least a portion of His heavenly glory, was so that those of His disciples who were closest to Him, could gain a greater understanding of Who He was. Surely He underwent a dramatic change in appearance when the disciples saw Him in His glory.

After six days Jesus took with him Peter, James and John the brother of James, and led them up a high mountain by themselves. There he was transfigured before them “his face did shine as the sun,” “and his garments became glistering, exceeding white, so as no fuller on earth can whiten them.”

Luke 9:27; Matthew 17:1-8.

One of the purposes of the Transfiguration may have been to strengthen the faith of the disciples in His divine nature before they experienced the shock of the difficult days ahead of them.

In early times, the mount of the Transfiguration had become known as the holy mount. (2 Peter 1:18). It seems to have been known by the faithful, and one tradition identified it with Mount Thabor/Tabor.

The other view, and probably more likely one, is that Mount Hermon was the site of the transfiguration.

Hermon means: Devoted or Sanctified!

Mount Hermon from the Sea of Galilee

It is in the far north, the location of Caesarea Philippi, at the southwestern foothills; 25 miles northeast of the Sea of Galilee to the Golan Heights.

It is situated on a terrace 1,150 feet high overlooking a lush fertile valley. Here also, is the easternmost source for the Jordan River.

It is one of the four major headwaters.

During the Hellenistic period (323 to 31 B.C.), this city was originally called Panias (also spelled Paneas) because of its close association with the Greco-Roman god Pan. The modern name, Banias, is an Arabic corruption of the original.

In order to distinguish it from the harbor city on the Mediterranean called Caesarea Maritima, it became known as Caesarea Philippi. Philip, one of Herod the Great’s sons, renamed it so in honor of Emperor Augustus in 2 B.C.

Here in Caesarea Philippi, there was once a magnificent temple which dominated the landscape, constructed of white marble by Herod the Great to the godhead of Caesar. An earthquake in 363 C.E likely destroyed the city.

There is a cave immediately to the north of Caesarea Philippi.

This cave was said to be the birthplace of the Greco-Roman god Pan/Faunus, the god of nature, fields, forests, mountains, flocks and shepherds.

The pagan worshipers would make sacrifices at the mouth of the cave where they had built a sanctuary to Pan/Faunus.

It would seem to make sense for the transfiguration to take place in that region where Messiah had been ministering and where Peter made his confession.

Not coincidentally, at the base of this mountain was the place known as the gates of Hades, (gates of hell).

To the pagan mind, the cave at Caesarea Philippi created a gate to the underworld (Hades), where they believed fertility gods took up residence during the winter.

This location was especially unique because it stood at the base of a cliff where spring water flowed. At one time, the water ran directly from the mouth of a cave set in the bottom of the cliff. This region is referred to in the Old Testament by the name Baal-gad, which is described in the northernmost conquest of Joshua as being in the Valley of Lebanon below Mount Hermon (Josh. 11:17; 12:7; 13:5; also see: Judges 3:3; 1 Chron. 5:23).

The name Baal-gad meant literally Master Luck, the name of a god of fortune who may later have been identified with Pan. One good reason the Bride of Messiah should refrain from using the term good luck when offering encouragement to one another; but rather offer shalom and blessings to each other in Jesus/Yeshuas name.

This region was the northernmost extent of Yeshua/Jesus’ ministry and no doubt He found some privacy here with His disciples in this non-Jewish region, no less, because it was beyond the jurisdiction of Galilee’s ruler, Herod Antipas. It was here in the district of Caesarea Philippi, not long before before His final journey to Jerusalem and crucifixion that He asked the 12 disciples,

Who do you say that I am?

Matt.16:15.

It is a very important point that Jesus/Yeshua chose to ask this question here, since there were few areas anywhere else with more religious significance; and because it was filled with the temples of ancient Syrian Baal worship. Historians have identified at least 14 such temples, it was a place beneath the shadow of ancient gods.

Imagine the scene, Jesus/Yeshua was standing in an area with the temples of the Syrian gods, a place where the Greek gods were believed to look down, and the place where the most important river in Israel has its source, (the Jordan river), and asked them Who they thought He was.

Messiah knew what He was doing when choosing the 3 disciples, Peter, James and John to follow Him to the summit of Mount Hermon. His choice was not random and because of His well-defined objective, He was not concerned the rest would feel rejected or resentful but did what needed to be done. Peter would testify later, saying:

“for we did not follow cunningly devised fables when we made known to you the power and coming of our Lord Jesus Christ, but were eyewitnesses of his majesty. For he received from God the father honor and glory when such a voice came to him from the excellent glory: “this is my beloved son, in whom I am well pleased.” and we heard this voice which came from heaven when we were with him on the HOLY MOUNTAIN.” 2 peter 1.16-18

Some may wonder why He didn’t choose His beloved Mount of Olives, or where He heard the prayer of His servant/prophet Elijah, and responded with fire on Mount Carmel? Or even the Mount of Beatitudes, where He taught, revealing the secrets of eternal life? Why did He choose the highest and most difficult mountain to climb in Israel?

Psalm 133 gives us an answer:

Behold, how good and how pleasant it is for brethren to dwell together in unity!

It is like the precious oil upon the head, running down on the beard, the beard of Aaron, running down on the edge of his garments.

It is like the dew of Hermon, descending upon the mountains of Zion; for there the Lord commanded the blessing – life forevermore.”

Yeshua/Jesus chose Mount Hermon, because He wanted to point out to His disciples what it represents, as described in the Psalm.

It was prophetic because it spoke of unity, harmony and perfect peace/shalom, among the children of God in the Kingdom of Heaven; and accurately portrays the picture of our Heavenly Fathers’ family gathered around His throne. He expresses His joy and delight in seeing His children around Him, the fruit of the sacrifice of His first born, Jesus/Yeshua.

Comparing the joy to: like the precious oil upon the head.

This precious oil upon the head represents the outpouring of the Holy Spirit in the form of a physical anointing/Shavuot/Pentecost; and it is something that can only be understood by those who have had this experience.

Like the dew of Mount Hermon is the reference to the sources of water that form the rivers, which merge together forming the River Jordan. Mount Hermon is the water source for all of Israel. Water is life/chaim, it is impossible to live without its existence and in those days, the greatest wealth of a community was water, for that reason, settlements were always built around wells/water sources. Another reason He said, John 4:14; but whoever drinks the water I give them will never thirst. Indeed, the water I give them will become in them a spring of water welling up to eternal life.

When the Psalmist writes, the dew of Hermon that descends upon the mountains of Zion, he is portraying the fullness of life that Gods’ children enjoy in His presence.

Mount Hermon could be said to be a sanctuary that is invisible to the eyes of the wicked, being revealed to the chosen ones, because of its splendor and spiritual significance, no wonder the Messiah chose it from among the others and,

from it,

God commands the blessing

and life/chaim/lifes, forevermore!

 

It is like the dew of Hermon, descending upon the mountains of Zion; for there the Lord commanded the blessing – life forevermore.”

Small wonder the devil tried to usurp it for his own!

Because of this significance, no doubt Messiah deliberately set Himself against the world’s religions and was asking to be compared with them. Here in this setting, is where Peter boldly replies with his great confession,

You are the Messiah/the Christ, the Son of the living God. Matt. 16:16.

Now the significance of this tremendous statement of faith becomes clearer and it changed everything for the disciples.

Then Yeshua/Jesus responds in Matt. 16:17-18 Blessed are you, Simon Bar-Jonah! For flesh and blood has not revealed this to you, but my Father who is in heaven. And I tell you, you are Peter, and on this rock I will build my church, and the gates of hell [literally, Hades] shall not prevail against it.

Here His reference to the cave and the gates of Hades at Mount Hermon, makes complete sense!

It is plain from Scripture that His ascension from another mountain, that of Mount of Olives; was a literal, bodily return to heaven. He rose from the ground gradually and visibly, observed by the disciples. Straining to catch a last glimpse of Yeshua/Jesus, when a cloud hid Him from their view, then, 2 angels appeared and promised the onlookers…in just the same way that you have watched Him go. Acts 1:11.

The daily route Jesus/Yeshua took in and out of the city passed over the Mount of Olives. From ancient times the revered rise overlooking Jerusalem from east was seen with importance.

The Mount of Olives is a mountain ridge east of and adjacent to Jerusalem’s Old City. It is named for the olive groves that once covered its slopes. He led the disciples over the summit and onto the eastern slope of the Mount of Olives. Interestingly, the journey was what is defined as a Sabbath’s journey; or a little more than 1/2 mile.

Mark:11:1; [Luke:19:29];[Luke:24:50

The ascension was the ultimate, indisputable evidence that Jesus Christ/Yeshua HaMashiach was triumphant, conquering ha satan/the adversary and all his hosts. Here is the extent of His victory, but it also reveals the measure of the power which has been bestowed upon His saints to carry out His work on earth until He returns.

It emphasizes the fact that we are given the serious responsibility of putting His will into effect on earth, as He reigns from heaven.

Matthew 6:9-13 verse 6:10.

The Rabbi/Teacher’s parting words commissioned His people to make disciples of every creature among the nations throughout the earth (Mt. 28:18-20; Mk. 16:15-16; Lk. 24:47).

This was 10 days before Shavuot and the Holy Spirit/Ruach HaKodesh outpouring.

Pesach/Passover is incomplete and Shavuot/Pentecost obstructed and the Second Coming of Messiah impossible without His Ascension!

Acts 2:5  And suddenly there came a sound from heaven as of a rushing mighty wind, and it filled all the house where they were sitting. 3 And there appeared unto them cloven tongues like as of fire, and it sat upon each of them.

Click below for previous posts which focus on Shavuot/Pentecost.

https://www.minimannamoments.com/50-days-later-an-earthly-and-spiritual-harvest-pentecost-shavuot/

https://www.minimannamoments.com/2-x-3000-a-marriage-made-in-heaven/

https://www.minimannamoments.com/the-look-of-shavuot/

This reference to Cloven Tongues may have been an indication to them that the fire was not strange fire but Holy acceptable fire from heaven.

Leviticus 11:3. Whatsoever parteth the hoof, and is cloven footed, and cheweth the cud, among the beasts, that shall ye eat.

However one of the main meanings to them was that Pentecost/Shavuot was the celebration of the giving of Torah in the wilderness and the manifested presence of God came as fire and remained with them by night for 40 years; and furthermore, fire was always known as a cleansing agent.

This was the presence of God, the impartation of His spirit infilling the properly prepared vessels; igniting that zeal to go and make disciples of all nations.

One final interesting point is that, a critical scene was repeated post resurrection but pre ascension.

The location was beside the Sea of Galilee in Luke 5:1-11; Matt.4:18-22; Mark 1:16-20.

Notably the place/HaMakem, of Calling.

See 

https://www.minimannamoments.com/have-we-heard-it/

https://www.minimannamoments.com/the-calling-part-2/

Here in Matthew 4:22, Yeshua/Jesus called them and they left everything to follow Him….. (Have we?)…

But not until after He told them them to let down their nets for a catch. Which they did and pulled in a huge haul of fish.

He stated He would make them fishers of men. Then in John 21, He is again in Galilee beside the sea and tells them to let down their nets for a catch.

Once again the nets were filled to overflowing.

He tells them to come and eat.

Again the reference to feeding them for He is the bread of life.

This is at the end of His time with them.

We see the reference to

the beginning and the end

the first and the last

the Alef and Tav

the Alpha and Omega,

(Rev.22:13)

start and finish of their time with Him.

The catch of fish to becomes the catching of men,

catching souls for the kingdom of the Heavens.

The 2nd time was the place of commissioning.

A question arises always where did the fire, hot coals, fish and bread come from?

The coals/ Stones were hot so it would seem that He had been there a while.

Bring some fish He says.

Jesus saith unto them, Bring of the fish which ye have now caught. John 21:10

The bread wouldn’t have been the flat crisp sort so that it could be broken, not a soft loaf like we usually think of.

This makes another question. Where did He get the bread from, was it another miracle?

Did He turn some of the stones beside the sea of Galilee into bread?

Stones that look very much like bread!

This was the very subject of an earlier temptation the devil used against Him, to prove that He was the Son of God/YHWH.

Now it was no temptation, but instead, a provision to feed His children-mishpachah/disciples-talmidim/friends-cheverim.

He was and is the Son of the Living God, the Creator of the universe, who took the elements of the dirt of the earth He created to form us. Surely then, as the devil came testing/ tempting Him, He was able to do just that… or it would not have been by its’ very definition – a temptation?

What we do know is everything points to Jesus as Messiah, savior and He points always to the father. Everything has meaning whether we fully understand it or not.

Pentecost/Shavuot was a ‘second giving’, of the Torah.

A giving of Himself, of His risen Spirit/Ruach;

to fill them and fire them up.

His Torah/Word is no longer written on stone but in their,

and our,

hearts of flesh.

He is the living Torah, the living Word made flesh and is still living amongst us.

Knowledge is not the end goal here in these posts… but Relationship is.

Knowledge and understanding, are simply an aid to a deeper understanding of the One who gave His life for us.

This Shavuot /Pentecost allow the Ruach/Spirit of Holy Fire to do His complete work in us that we become vessels fit for the Masters use.

The purpose being that so many more souls are added to His kingdom.

As we are climbing the mountains with Him following His lead know we are soon leaving for home too. It’s possible that when He said earlier meet me in Galilee it was also related to meet me in the kingdom of God because Galilee was a home where the meeting could go on without any distraction! Did Yeshua/Jesus choose Galilee to show them how they would also join Him in the Kingdom of God, the kingdom of His Heavens?

Keep your eyes upon Jesus/Yeshua.

Look full in His wonderful face

and the things of this world will grow strangely dim

in the light of His glory and grace.

Be ready… Look to the Son!

When we look at this do we see son rise or sun set?

https://www.minimannamoments.com/sonset-sunrise-sunset-sonrise-apocalypse-of-the-tamid/

Shalom shalom mishpachah/family and cheverim/friends! You are loved and appreciated and prayed for daily.

Thank you so much for taking the time to read the posts. If they have been a blessing and if you haven’t already, please sign up for free email notification, like, share and subscribe, it all helps to freely spread the Gospel to the uttermost parts of the earth and reaches others with His Truths. MMM will continue as long as the platform is accessible… meanwhile let’s remember

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.

Pictures of Faithfulness – The Quality and Seal of a True Talmidim

Faithful Disciples

aman talmidim

   אֵמֻן   תלמידם 

Faithfulness

the seal/trademark/quality/characteristic/hallmark

of a talmidim

can we say amen to that?

Remember Hebrew reads from right to left.

This characteristic is one of the most important traits that a follower of Jesus/Yeshua can have. Sadly, it was one of the things that the children of Israel constantly failed at because they kept turning away from The Lord to other gods/idols and because of the marriage covenant made at Sinai, their lifestyle became the same as a spouse committing adultery, breaking vows and being unfaithful.

Shavuot/Pentecost is the Appointed Time of Remembering that wonderful promise of the Father as He made the children of Israel His Bride, betrothing Himself to them and the giving of Torah.

For more of  Shavuot /Pentecost click links below:

https://www.minimannamoments.com/2-x-3000-a-marriage-made-in-heaven/ 

https://www.minimannamoments.com/50-days-later-an-earthly-and-spiritual-harvest-pentecost-shavuot/

When people assign the attribute of faithfulness to others it is a positive and encouraging one.

In Prov. 22:1 we are told that to be known as a person of integrity is worth more than silver or gold.

A good name [earned by honorable behavior, godly wisdom, moral courage, and personal integrity] is more desirable than great riches; And favor is better than silver and gold. AMPC

“They [the words of God] are more desirable than gold, yes, than much fine gold” (Psalm 19:10).

As we are to seek a good name instead of riches, so we are also to seek loving favor over riches. There is no better way to garner loving favor than to have a good name and people will love and gravitate towards us for having integrity and being faithful.

Scripture firmly establishes the faithfulness of our Heavenly Father.

1Thess. 5:24. The one who calls you is faithful, and he will do it.

 1 Corinthians 1:9. God, who has called you into fellowship with His Son Jesus Christ our Lord, is faithful.

Psalms 119:90  Your faithfulness endures to all generations;  you have established the earth, and it stands fast. God is faithful, by whom you were called into the fellowship of his Son, Jesus Christ our Lord.

2 Chronicles 34:12 faithful workers.

It is interesting to note God does not use this term liberally in the scriptures or say people are faithful too often, it is reserved for only a few. Because of this we must understand it is very highly valued in His eyes and as such, is no doubt the reason why He was so upset with the children of Israel/His people when they kept going astray and being unfaithful to Him.

To be proclaimed a faithful servant by the King of the Universe Melekh HaOlam, is almost beyond words let alone our understanding;

so much so, that we need to take more than a quick glance at the statement.

Numbers 12:7
My servant Moses is not so, who is FAITHFUL in all mine house.

Moses is one of the few and of course Jesus/Yeshua, who He is both pleased with and Yeshua/Jesus is also called a prophet like unto Moses.

Deuteronomy 18:15
The Lord thy God will raise up unto thee a Prophet from the midst of thee, of thy brethren, like unto me; unto him ye shall hearken;

There is a principle applied to the interpretation of the Scriptures that is called the Law of First Mention.

This term means the literal first mention of a word, theme, teaching, topic or doctrine, will then always connect it to the mind of the Lord in any future mention of the same theme, topic or word.

In Scripture, where there is the first mention of a word, it takes on special significance as it discloses God’s initial and primary intended meaning/focus of that theme and therefore it needs to be considered as a primary/1st witness whenever the word occurs elsewhere in the text.

Here there is another first mention concerning one who is to come. It is called a type or a shadow, of which there are many in the old testament scriptures.

Paul echoed this prophetic statement confirming its fulfillment in Hebrews 3:1-5:

 

Wherefore, holy brethren, partakers of the heavenly calling, consider the Apostle and High Priest of our profession, Christ Jesus;
Who was faithful to him that appointed him, as also Moses was faithful in all his house.
 For this man was counted worthy of more glory than Moses, inasmuch as he who hath builded the house hath more honour than the house.
For every house is builded by some man; but he that built all things is God.
And Moses verily was faithful in all his house, as a servant, for a testimony of those things which were to be spoken after;

 And also in

Acts 3:22
For Moses truly said unto the fathers, A prophet shall the Lord your God raise up unto you of your brethren, like unto me; him shall ye hear in all things whatsoever he shall say unto you.

As we read again the first mention of the Hebrew word Faithful we know that over the millennia meanings of words change and also take on other attributes. To find out what Yahweh (or Yehoveh/ YHWH/ YHVH), means we can look at some of the earliest recorded script available, pictographs, to see if maybe there are details hidden in the pictures and meanings for the letters of the word. 

The first point to aid in understanding this hidden meaning is to recall that Moses was a shadow/type of the coming Messiah as recorded in the prophetic text of

Deuteronomy 18:15
The Lord thy God will raise up unto thee a Prophet from the midst of thee, of thy brethren, like unto me; unto him ye shall hearken;

When we follow these scripture verses, like the bread crumbs of His manna, (provision to eat and stay alive and thrive), through the scriptures, we will always find they lead us to the Messiah,

THE Bread of Life.

Messiah who said He was the Bread which came down from Heaven the Bread of Life/Chaim. Just as in the wilderness, for Moses and the Israelites, the manna came down from heaven (provision to eat and stay alive and thrive),

Jesus the Messiah/Yeshua Ha-Mashiach is hidden right in front of our eyes in the concepts of the pictographs for the three letters Aleph, Mem and Noon that make up the Hebrew word which is translated as FAITHFUL in both English and Hebrew.

AMN

אֵמֻן  noun [masculine] trusting, faithfulness

faithful, truth 

Alef Mem Nun

From ‘aman; established, i.e. (figuratively) trusty; also (abstractly) trustworthiness — faith(-ful), truth. 

see HEBREW ‘aman

  1. aman

aman: to confirm, support

אָמַן
Part of Speech: Verb
Transliteration: aman
Phonetic Spelling: (aw-man’)
Definition: to confirm, support

אֵמוּן

emun: faithfulness

Transliteration: emun
Phonetic Spelling: (ay-moon’)

Strongs 529

Some DEFINITIONS:

The Word ‘Faith’ In Hebrew:

emuwn – trustworthiness; faithful.

emuwnah- honesty; truth; faithfulness; firmness; official obligation.

The first time this word is used in the text is found in Exodus 17:12: “But Moses’ hands became heavy; so they took a stone and put it under him, and he sat on it. And Aaron and Hur supported his hands, one on one side.

In the New Testament the adjective “faithful” is a derivative of the Greek noun meaning “faith.” Here we get the translation “faithful” as a natural derivative of faith. Once again the fundamental meaning is that the one so described is trustworthy and loyal. The root idea is that one has fidelity toward another person or toward God.

The Hebrew root word for faithful includes the idea of confirmation or proof. God always proves to be reliable when it comes to His relationship with us. The Bible verse in which this name of God appears links the name to God’s covenant reliability.

The meaning is trusty or reliable. The only two other occasions it appears in the Hebrew it is rendered faith or truth. A noun derived from ‘âman that occurs three times rendered faithful is ‘ĕmûnâh (H530).

The Hebrew word for faith is אמונה (emunah – Strong’s #530) and is an action oriented word meaning “support”. This is important because the Western concept of faith places the action on the one you have faith in, such as “faith in God”. But, the Hebrew word אמונה places the action on the one who “supports God”.

FAITHFUL – אֵמֻן – AMN

The Pictographs

We know from previous posts that the letters and their pictures have several meanings and we are told in

Prov 25:2 It is the glory of God to conceal a thing: but the honor of kings is to search out a matter.

אֵמֻן

Alef/Aleph – Mem – Nun/Noon

Various meanings of Alef/Aleph

Strong Leader – Leading – Strength – Aloof – Separate
Gentle – Head of the Family – First – The Beginning
God the Father – OX and

based on past word studies, we’re already aware that we are dealing with the ideal meaning of the letter. Because the context of the verse is about Faithfulness it is fairly clear that God the Father is the ideal picture of Faithfulness.

 

Mem

Various Meanings of Mem

Liquid- Waters – like a Tsunami Chaotic and Destructive Seas & Massive Ocean Waves

coming down like Rain as Life giving Water

a brook or stream of refreshing Waters  

Waters which make Deserts bloom

The Living Water as the Word of God that brings Life

Removing some of the possible meanings, which seem obvious from the context of the scripture that they do not refer to a Tsunami, Flood Waters nor Chaos or Confusion.

The reference sounds like it’s about Moses but recall that Moses is just a shadow of the individual really being alluded to.

 

NUN/NOON

seed – life – continuity.

Taking a fresh look in John 6:26 where there is an account recorded in Jesus/Yeshua’s ministry, it’s one we all know well; the feeding of 5000 with 2 loaves and 5 fish!

Note the pictograph!

And then read what He said the very next day to that very same group of people.

Jesus answered them and said, Verily, verily, I say unto you, Ye seek me, not because ye saw the miracles, but because ye did eat of the loaves, and were filled.
 Labour not for the meat which perisheth, but for that meat which endureth unto everlasting life, which the Son of man shall give unto you: for him hath God the Father sealed.
They said therefore unto him, What sign shewest thou then, that we may see, and believe thee? what dost thou work?
Our fathers did eat manna in the desert; as it is written, He gave them bread from heaven to eat.
Then Jesus said unto them, Verily, verily, I say unto you, Moses gave you not that bread from heaven; but my Father giveth you the true bread from heaven.
 For the bread of God is he which cometh down from heaven, and giveth life unto the world.

The Messianic significance of Manna doesn’t need any clarification.

Then immediately after miraculously feeding 5000 men, (women and children numbers not included!) the same unbelieving Jews that had partaken of the miraculous feast, surrounded Messiah in order to ask Him this ..

What sign shewest thou then, that we may see, and believe thee? what dost thou work?
Our fathers did eat manna in the desert; as it is written, He gave them bread from heaven to eat.

Showing they had no comprehension whatsoever. They did not understand that Jesus/Yeshua was speaking of spiritual matters and it was an invitation to all who heard to enter into a relationship with Him that would result in eternal life. Sadly all they were looking for was unlimited free-meals. 

This is when Jesus/Yeshua makes the connection between the true Manna that comes from heaven and Himself.

John 6:35-36

 And Jesus said unto them, I am the bread of life: he that cometh to me shall never hunger; and he that believeth on me shall never thirst.
But I said unto you, That ye also have seen me, and believe not.

Why did He use the word manna to refer to himself?

the meaning of the Hebrew word Manna, 

 Usually we hear it said that manna translates as “WHAT IS IT?”

We spell or write it as Manna. 

The Hebrew letters used are MN – Mem and Nun once again the meanings are the fish, seed, life and water.

Pictorial Meaning of Manna

Mem

The Living Word of God
That comes down from Heaven
Like the rain

Exodus 16: 13b -14

And in the morning the dew lay round about the host.
And when the dew that lay was gone up, behold, upon the face of the wilderness there lay a small round thing, as small as the hoar frost on the ground.

Noon

LIFE

Jesus/Yeshua The Living Word of God
That comes down from Heaven
Like the rain…

to reverse the curse of sin and death

and bring Eternal Life!

John 6:32b
I say unto you, Moses gave you not that bread from heaven; but my Father giveth you the true bread from heaven.

There seems to be a the direct connection between Manna, the bread that came down from heaven, and the last two letters in the Hebrew word Faithful because the last two letters in the word Faithful are the two letters Mem Noon, the word for Manna.

Looking carefully at the words He said to them

recorded in John 6:32 and add in the hebrew letters alef mem nun

Then Jesus said unto them, Verily, verily, I say unto you, Moses gave you not that bread from heaven; but my

Father

giveth you the true bread from heaven.
For the bread of God is he which cometh down from heaven

and giveth life  unto the world.

Here is the meaning to the hidden puzzle we are meant to find when we read the first mention of Faithful.

John 6:35
And Jesus said unto them, I am the bread of life: he that cometh to me shall never hunger; and he that believeth on me shall never thirst.

The Manna that first descended from Heaven to earth was given a name with specific letters that would eventually open the door/dalet of understanding, revealing/apocalypse of a mystery. 

The One who came from Heaven has many names and He IS The true Manna.  Messiah, the Anointed One, Emmanuel, The Sinless, Spotless Lamb of God, also called Faithful and True in

Revelation 19:11a
And I saw heaven opened, and behold a white horse; and he that sat upon him was called Faithful and True,

Another fact that cannot be ignored is in Revelation 3:14
Messiah’s Name is also AMEN

And unto the angel of the church of the Laodiceans write; These things saith the AMEN, the FAITHFUL and true witness, the beginning of the creation of God;

the Hebrew word Amen is also spelled

AMN – Alef mem Nun

Recall this first use of the Hebrew word Faithful had the shadow of another One who was even more faithful than Moses in view. The One to come

in Deuteronomy 18:15 Moses says prophetically that God is going to raise up another prophet who is greater than himself who the children of Israel should listen to:

Deuteronomy 18:15
The Lord thy God will raise up unto thee a Prophet from the midst of thee, of thy brethren, like unto me; unto him ye shall hearken;

Shadow is revealed by Apostle Paul to be Yeshua Ha-Maschiach

Then in Hebrews 3:1-5. Paul tells us who that Prophet is none other than Jesus the Christ /Yeshua Ha-Mashiach.

Wherefore, holy brethren, partakers of the heavenly calling, consider the Apostle and High Priest of our profession, Christ Jesus;
Who was faithful to him that appointed him, as also Moses was faithful in all his house.
3 For this man was counted worthy of more glory than Moses, inasmuch as he who hath builded the house hath more honour than the house.
For every house is builded by some man; but he that built all things is God.
And Moses verily was faithful in all his house, as a servant, for a testimony of those things which were to be spoken after;

In John 6:32 He reveals what the word faithful truly means and we can insert the Hebrew letters here too.

Then Jesus said unto them, Verily, verily, I say unto you, Moses gave you not that bread from heaven; but my

Father  

giveth you the true bread from heaven.
For the bread of God is he which cometh down from

heaven

and giveth life  unto the world.

So the sum of this is He is the one that the Heavenly Father sent down from Heaven to give us eternal life. Jesus/Yeshua is that Manna sent from the Father. Jesus/Yeshua is the bread of life and Jesus/Yeshua is revealing He is literally faithful, not simply an attribute He IS Faithful. This is possible because the word FAITHFUL is used only one time in the entire Scripture as a personal pronoun. 

And because of the principle regarding the order of first mention spoken of earlier, which applies in all languages including the Hebrew, Greek, and English language, that means all other times the word is mentioned as a noun or adjective, the first mention supersedes them. Here is why we need to study to show ourselves approved unto the Lord… its only by digging for the pearls and treasures that we will find those truths that make us say WOW! (Worthy Of Worship!) and when His light shines on a verse making it even more precious we see with clear vision there is always more to the Word of God.

By comparison to our faithful Heavenly Father who sent His faithful Son to accomplish the salvation and deliverance of fallen, sinful man, everyone else pales in comparison. and all who are loyal, trustworthy and keep their words of promise cannot be compared to Him.

Final thoughts for a different perspective on AMEN AMN

How is amen connected to faithful?

Its what we usually say at the end of a prayer. There are several opinions on its meaning.. some say its so be it as an affirmation and agreement to what has been voiced in the preceding prayer.

We have also heard and maybe thought it has no specific meaning or is an acrostic abbreviation. We are all learning and no one person knows everything so we add another pearl of knowledge and understanding as line upon line precept upon precept.

Ahmein pronounced in hebrew

Amazingly AMEN is found 28 times in the Old Testament

Psalm 89:52
Blessed be YHVH for evermore. Amen, and Amen.

Hebrew word AMEN is found in the Greek and English translations of the New Testament 51 times.

1 Peter 5:11
To him be glory and dominion for ever and ever. Amen.

Now we must ask ourselves, what are we declaring every time we say AMEN at the end of a prayer to our Heavenly Father? We are in truth, proclaiming the fulfillment of the very first prophecy ever given to humanity and we are declaring that our Heavenly Father is faithful to keep His promise of a Redeemer; that which was given to Eve after the Fall and eviction from the Garden of Eden/GanEden. This is celebrated every time we say AMEN because Jesus/Yeshua has fulfilled that promise.

For more on Eden/pictographs click link below:

https://www.minimannamoments.com/back-to-the-future-past/

Every time your spirit prompts you to say AMEN after receiving the words of life into your heart, we are proclaiming that our Faithful Heavenly Father sent His precious and only begotten Son from heaven to the earth in order to accomplish OUR Salvation.

Amen is the testimony that you have eternal life because

Yeshua became FAITHFUL.

The one name FAITHFUL and TRUE is only one sent from Heaven. He alone was given the power and authority to save humanity from the curse of sin and death and by the Faithful Spirit of Our Father, He freely gave the gift of Faith that guarantees eternal life, even though not one is deserving of such a gift.

Next time we read the word FAITHFUL it will take on a whole new meaning.

So what are we really saying?

the Hebrew word for AMEN is exactly the same word as the Hebrew word FAITHFUL; Aleph Mem Noon!

The word faithful in Hebrew pretty much means the same thing it does today. It describes someone who always does the right thing even when no one else is looking. This person will always be truthful and true. They’re filled with integrity and will hold up their end of the deal no matter the sacrifice.

The Lord is absolutely truthful and faithful.

It is derived from the Hebrew root having the basic meaning “to trust (a person),” or “to believe (a statement).”

This is the same root that gives us the word “amen.”

The derived meaning is that the one so described is trustworthy, dependable, trusting, or loyal. Moses was faithful in all God’s household (Numbers 12:7).

As well as being the Manna from Heaven

His Name is also Faithful

and Amen

Revelation 19:11a
And I saw heaven opened, and behold a white horse; and he that sat upon him was called Faithful and True.

Revelation 3:14
And unto the angel of the church of the Laodiceans write; These things saith the Amen, the faithful and true witness, the beginning of the creation of God;

No surprise then that Yeshua/Jesus asks the question

When the Son of Man returns will He find faith on the earth?

He was speaking of Faithfulness in all its fullness!

If we are true disciples we will remain faithful to the last. These are the disciples who have not compromised nor wandered off the straight and narrow path but with perseverance patience and long suffering stay in the WAY.

Faithful is He who called you.

This is the ideal expression of Our Heavenly Father and of the Son

Who also vows I will not leave you nor forsake you. Hebrews amp

Lets make sure we are in a position to hear those cherished words well done thou good and faithful servant/disciple enter thou into the joy of the Lord

because

and

Faithfulness – AMN – is without doubt the seal/trademark/quality/characteristic/hallmark of a Talmidim/Disciple who follows their Master;

can we say amen AMN to that?

Most assuredly we can!

Amen and Amn!

Faithful to the end.

Shalom, Shalom mishpachah/family

and cheverim/friends!

You are loved and appreciated and prayed for daily.

משפחה 

Mish-pa-KH

Thank you so much for taking the time to read the posts. If they have been a blessing and if you haven’t already, please sign up for free email notification, like, share and subscribe, it all helps to freely spread the Gospel to the uttermost parts of the earth and reaches others with His Truths.

Please Do Not leave this page without the surety in your heart that you know the faithfulness of Messiah in your life as the days draw ever closer to the end of the age..

NOT CERTAIN?

YOU CAN BE..

Make sure 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 very precious in His sight.

He longs to give you the Shalom He paid the ultimate price for..

SIMPLY SAY THE FOLLOWING MEANING IT FROM YOUR HEART..don’t delay one more minute, SAY IT 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.

 

 

Quick Reminder…

Quick reminder for newer readers, there are a few other posts relating to Passover/Pesach and Spring Appointed Times…

https://www.minimannamoments.com/the-pesach-dalet-in-time-a-man-between-2-realms-yonah-and-the-watches-of-the-night/

An Extra Post on First fruits at

https://www.minimannamoments.com/revealing-the-overcoming-resheet-of-bikkurim/

The resurrection at

The Mystery of ‘In His Deaths’…

https://www.minimannamoments.com/the-mystery-of-in-his-deaths/

https://www.minimannamoments.com/sonset-sunrise-sunset-sonrise-apocalypse-of-the-tamid/ 

 

https://www.minimannamoments.com/tag/zeroah/

https://www.minimannamoments.com/back-to-the-future-past-part-2-plus-who-was-eating-bread-on-day-6/

https://www.minimannamoments.com/back-to-the-future-past-part-2-plus-who-was-eating-bread-on-day-6/

and for those who may not have seen it already a post for the days of Omer.

We are already in the countdown to Shavuot!

A guide for each day through the rest of the days to Shavuot Pentecost

https://www.minimannamoments.com/counting-our-blessings-with-omer/

https://www.minimannamoments.com/49-parables/

A parable to be read for each day until Pentecost/Shavuot.

(As time permits some more content will be added to each parable.)

Also for the special 40th day of Omer

https://www.minimannamoments.com/are-we-in-a-divine-pause/

 Finally there is a new page just added…

https://www.minimannamoments.com/daily-devotions-for-the-49-days-of-omer/

for some Daily Devotionals to assist in preparing our hearts for The Feast Of Shavuot.

It’s a work in progress so thank you for your patience!

For anyone who has never had the opportunity to see

THE PASSION

below is a link to watch the film

there is no charge..

https://youtu.be/L4k1uExAOa4

Shalom shalom ‘Mishpachah’ ‘Family’.

What’s The Connection Between Almonds and Olive Oil with Messiah and 2 Lampstands?

Including the Apocalypse of the Menorah – The Light of the World.

The season is here again for remembering the birth of Messiah Yeshua/Jesus the Christ.

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

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

For both Messianic Jews and those who do not recognize Jesus as Messiah it is also the season of remembering the Re-Dedication of the Temple in Jerusalem and the relighting of the Temple Menorah known as the festival of lights. In Hebrew it’s called Hanukkah or Chanukah. This year both celebrations are in the same week beginning at sundown on Sunday night, Dec. 22, 2019 … and ending at sundown on … Monday, December 30, 2019. 

The Hebrew word ḥanuká usually spelled חֲנוּכָּה 

is a transliteration, also romanized as Chanukah or Hanukkah and חֲנֻכָּה means dedication. It is a Jewish holiday, and is thus named because it celebrates the rededication of the Second Temple in Jerusalem at the time of the Maccabean Revolt against the Seleucid Empire.

The Maccabees successfully rebelled against Antiochus IV Epiphanes. 168-143 BCE. After the victory, the Maccabees entered Jerusalem in triumph and ritually cleansed the Temple, reestablishing traditional Jewish worship there and installing Jonathan Apphus, Judah’s youngest brother, as high priest.

Hanukkah is observed for eight nights and days, starting on the 25th day of the Jewish month of Kislev.

The menorah, a seven-branched candelabrum, is the oldest symbol of the Jewish religion, and a variation of it a 9-branched candle holder is called a Hanukkah-menorah or Chanukiah/Chanukiyah, is used for the observance of Chanukah/hannukah which is mentioned in the new Testament John10:22 however there is no reference to the 9 branch Chanukiah/Chanukiyah found in scripture.

The 7-branched candle holder is called a Menorah and was lit in the Jewish Temple is recorded in (Exodus ch.25). 

מְנוֹרָה seven-lamp (six branches)

The menorah for 

hannukah חֲנוּכָּה 

is a 9 lamp candlestick.

The Menorah stands for light, wisdom, and Divine inspiration. 

Why Nine candles? It comprises Eight for the eight days of Hanukkah. The ninth is for the helper-candle used to light the others.

The Kohanim/Priests, lit the Menorah in the Sanctuary every evening and cleaned it out every morning, replacing the wicks and putting fresh olive oil into the cups. The Nine Branched Menorah -used only during Chanukah, also known as the Chanukiyah, is commonly patterned after this Menorah, because Chanukah commemorates the miracle that a day’s worth of oil for this menorah lasted eight days.

For more on hannukah חֲנוּכָּה  click links below:

https://www.minimannamoments.com/hanukkahchanukah-believers-today/
https://www.minimannamoments.com/chanukah-or-hanukkah/
https://www.minimannamoments.com/the-miracle-of-the-hammer-men/

In Jewish homes on each night of Hanukkah a new branch is lit. The ninth holder, called the shamash (helper or servant), is for a candle used to light all other candles and/or to be used as an extra light. To be kosher the shamash must be offset on a higher or lower plane than the main eight candles or oil lamps.

If and when we Messianic believers light a Chanukkiah, remember that the candle the Shamash or shammash – the servant/attendant candle and could be considered a caretaker for the others, this is the one that is used to kindle the other candles, represents Jesus/Yeshua, the light of the world. It is He Who lights the other branches! 

To give this hanukkah greater significance we should also remember that the symbol which we term as being the star of David is not referenced in the Bible!! Interestingly because the star is on the flag, doesn’t mean that the symbol is the scriptural representation of Israel.

According to the scriptures the correct and official symbol of Israel is the Menorah and is included on all important documents.

2000+ yrs ago, many symbols were used to decorate buildings and therefore archeologists cannot define them as Jewish simply by the symbols found amongst ruins because Swasticas and pentagrams and other symbols have also been identified.

In Ex 25:31-40. The Lord gave Moses a specific instruction:

31 And thou shalt make a candlestick of pure gold: of beaten work shall the candlestick be made: his shaft, and his branches, his bowls, his knops, and his flowers, shall be of the same.
32 And six branches shall come out of the sides of it; three branches of the candlestick out of the one side, and three branches of the candlestick out of the other side:

33 Three bowls made like unto almonds, with a knop,(knob), and a flower in one branch; and three bowls made like almonds in the other branch, with a knop and a flower: so in the six branches that come out of the candlestick.
34 And in the candlesticks shall be four bowls made like unto almonds, with their knobs and their flowers.
35 And there shall be a knop under two branches of the same, and a knop under two branches of the same, and a knob under two branches of the same, according to the six branches that proceed out of the candlestick.
36 Their knobs and their branches shall be of the same: all it shall be one beaten work of pure gold.
37 And thou shalt make the seven lamps thereof: and they shall light the lamps thereof, that they may give light over against it.
38 And the tongs thereof, and the snuff dishes thereof, shall be of pure gold.
39 Of a talent of pure gold shall he make it, with all these vessels.
40 And look that thou make them after their pattern, which was shewed thee in the mount.

Pure gold and to be fashioned from this one piece the candlestick lampstand was to be fashioned comprising:

A stem and 6 branches 3 one side and 3 on the other; and the specific reference in vs. 33 to the almond tree that the menorah is connected with.

Three bowls made like unto almonds.

It is interesting that it was not the olive tree and its blossom, nor the fig tree and its blossom, or even the cedar tree, or any other tree mentioned by God in scripture.

Moses is given instruction that the knobs and branches are to be of one piece so it was made from one “talent,” or kikar of gold – one piece of pure beaten gold,

The menorah (מְנוֹרָה) was formed from one piece of pure beaten gold weighing 3,000 shekels of silver (nearly 100 pounds).

It was a highly decorative work that had seven branches (with seven lamps), nine flower blooms, eleven fruits, and twenty two cups.

The menorah’s height, measured at 18 handbreadths, and considered to be the height of an average man.

The cups which were fashioned on the branches were compared to Alexandrian goblets, which are wide with a narrow bottom, like wine glasses.

As to the menorah’s branches, some opinions hold that they were hollow (Ibn Ezra), but the majority maintain that they were solid. The greatest controversy regarding the menorah concerns its basic structure, i.e., the shape and direction of its branches. Some ancient diagrams, as well as historical evidence, depict the menorah as having rounded branches; other opinions maintain that the branches rise diagonally, straight out from the middle.

Within the Holy Temple, the menorah stood inside the Sanctuary on the southern side, and its seven lamps were to be lit in such a manner, that they would all shine towards the center. Each day a priest would tend to its the lamps’ flames, fixing and preparing the wicks and kindling them anew.

It is the symbol of light and therefore takes the most central role because its light burst forth from the sanctuary; it was spiritual, as well as physical illumination.

So when we declare Jesus Christ/Yeshua Messiah as the light of the world today; there, in the mishkan in the middle of the wilderness was that prophetic light! 

The windows in the walls of the sanctuary were constructed differently than any other windows in the world. These were just the opposite of ordinary windows, for that which is the normally considered the function of windows -to let the light in…….

The Sanctuary’s windows were in order to allow the special spiritual light emanating from the Temple Menorah to burst out into the world from within the Holy Place

As Jesus said, I am the light of the world. He must also replenish the oil for the each if the lamps; which He does by the continual infilling of His Holy Spirit.

One flame of the Menorah, the “western” lamp, burned perpetually. This candle was never extinguished, for the other flames were kindled from its fire. Concerning this flame the verse states, “raise up a constantly-burning lamp” (Lev. 24:2-3). This is the second flame from the end on the eastern side. 

The Menorah was not to be constructed in separate pieces then joined together to make one stand, but one stand with many branches and specific details. These instructions were given to Moses during one of the 40 days periods that he was on Mt Sinai. Moses delegated this very precise and intricate construction to the man with the God given ability to create such an exquisite thing. His name was Bezalel בְּצַלְאֵל and means in the shadow [protection] of God.

Bezalel is described in the genealogical lists as the son of Uri, the son of Hur, of the tribe of Judah. He was said to be highly gifted as a workman, showing great skill and originality in engraving precious metals and stones and in wood-carving.

 A master workman under Moses; son of Uri, son of Hur, of the tribe of Judah. God gave him special wisdom and skill for his task, which was, to superintend the making of the tabernacle and its furniture ( Exodus 31:2; 35:30; 36:1,2; 8; 37:1; 38:22; 1 Chronicles 2:20; 2 Chronicles 1:5 ).

He accomplished this with the aid of Oholiab of the tribe of Dan, who was associated with him and subordinate to him, had the charge of the textile fabrics (Ex. 36:1, Ex. 36:2; 38:22). 

The Tabernacle was a pattern, a replica of the heavenly things; and also prophetic of the things to come in the life and person of Jesus/Yeshua.

The candlestick/menorah, stood before the ark, representing the same throne of God in heaven (for the ark of the covenant is a throne/mercy seat/place of His manifested presence).

And they make a sanctuary for me, and I will dwell in their midst. According to all that I show you, the pattern of the tabernacle, and the pattern of all its vessels, even so shall ye. Exodus 25: 8-9

In Revelation 4:5 John saw the coming heavenly pattern of the temple as represented by the menorah he was shown and also..

And before the throne burn seven flaming torches, which are the seven Spirits of God. Revelation 4:5

The candle dispelled the darkness of both the Tabernacle and the Temple (1 Kings 8:12). To get to the ark, the high priest had to pass the menorah walking through its light, revealing/the apocalypse of the WAY to the Ark/Holy Throne/Presence.

Jesus/Yeshua said unto him, I am the way and the truth and the life; No one comes to the Father but by me. John 14: 6

He is also our High Priest who leads us to the mercy seat the kapporet , He lights the WAY.

Therefore, the menorah/candelabrum is symbolizing the WAY/the path (Psalm 119: 105) that in the midst of darkness (2 Peter 1:19)

When was the menorah initiated?

It was part of the Mishkan furniture the tent of meeting the tabernacle in the wilderness Ex. 33.

It was in the tent of meeting where Moses met with the Living God face to face.

Ex 33: depart and go up from here. To your descendants. And I will send my angel before you the 7 nations.

This was after the golden calf incident and God did not go with them but instead sent His angel.

The LORD said to Moses, “Depart; go up from here, you and the people whom you have brought up out of the land of Egypt, to the land of which I swore to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, saying, ‘To your offspring I will give it.’
I will send an angel before you, and I will drive out the Canaanites, theAmorites, the Hittites, the Perizzites, the Hivites, and the Jebusites. 
Go up to a land flowing with milk and honey;  but I will not go up among you, lest I consume you on the way, for you are a stiff-necked people.”
When the people heard this disastrous word, they mourned, and no one put on his ornaments.
For the LORD had said to Moses, “Say to the people of Israel, ‘You are a stiff necked people; if for a single moment I should go up among you, I would consume you. So now take off your ornaments, that I may know what to do with you.’” Therefore the people of Israel stripped themselves of their ornaments, from Mount Horeb onward.

The Tent of Meeting

Now Moses used to take the tent and pitch it outside the camp, far off from the camp, and he called it the tent of meeting. And everyone who sought the LORD would go out to the tent of meeting, which was outside the camp.

Whenever Moses went out to the tent, all the people would rise up, and each would stand at his tent door, and watch Moses until he had gone into the tent.

When Moses entered the tent, the pillar of cloud would descend and stand at the entrance of the tent, and the LORD would speak with Moses. 

10 And when all the people saw the pillar of cloud standing at the entrance of the tent, all the people would rise up and worship, each at his tent door. 

11 Thus the LORD used to speak to Moses face to face, as a man speaks to his friend. When Moses turned again into the camp, his assistant Joshua the son of Nun, a young man, would not depart from the tent.

Moses’ Intercession

12 Moses said to the LORD, “See,  you say to me, ‘Bring up this people,’ but you have not let me know whom you will send with me. Yet you have said, I know you by name, and you have also found favor in my sight.’ 
13 Now therefore, if I have found favor in your sight, please show me now your ways, that I may know you in order to find favor in your sight. Consider too that this nation is your people.”
14 And he said, “My presence will go with you, and I will give you rest.”
15 And he said to him, If your presence will not go with me, do not bring us up from here. 
16 For how shall it be known that I have found favor in your sight, I and your people?  Is it not in your going with us,  so that we are distinct, I and your people, from every other people on the face of the earth?”
17 And the LORD said to Moses, “This very thing that you have spoken I will do, for you have found favor in my sight, and I know you by name.”
18 Moses said,“Please |show me your glory.” 
19 And he said, “I will make all my goodness pass before you and will proclaim before you my name ‘The LORD.’ And I will be gracious to whom I will be gracious, and will show mercy on whom I will show mercy. 
20 But,” he said, “you cannot see my face, for man shall not see me and live.” 21 And the LORD said, “Behold, there is a place by me where you shall stand on the rock, 
22 and while my glory passes by I will put you in a cleft of the rock, and I will cover you with my hand until I have passed by. 23 Then I will take away my hand, and you shall see my back, but my face shall not be seen.”

The Golden lamp stand or candlestick stood opposite the golden table, on the southern side of the Holy of Holies. (Exodus 40:24-25).

South is the direction of earth (Ezekiel 47:1), as north is of heaven.

Perhaps specifying this direction for the lamp stand indicates that the Church is still in the flesh while in the holy, holding forth the light of Truth. This is also indicated by the five copper sockets at the entrance to the holy, copper representing human nature, either just or justified.

A description of the lamp stand for the Tabernacle in Exodus 25:31-39 is directly from God to Moses. This is God’s design. It is particularly detailed in relation to the beautiful almond blossom we see in spring.

Exodus 25:33 (KJV) — “Three cups made like almond blossoms in one branch, a calyx and a blossom bud; and three cups made like almond blossoms in the other branch, a calyx and a blossom bud — so for the six branches going out of the lampstand.”

[Note: The Douay-Rheims Bible says of each decoration, “as it were nuts … and a bowl withal, and a lily” (Exodus 25:33). Thus we understand that there were three elements per decoration.]

There were three branches on either side of a central stem (i.e. shaft), with each of the seven extremities holding a lamp containing oil for burning.

This is symbolizing the following: six of them represent the human, because 6 is number representing the man, since man was made the sixth day of creation (Genesis 1: 26- 31 / Revelation 13 : 18).

The seventh, in the center, represents Jesus Christ as immortal Master (Matthew 23: 8). When we are united to Christ we are seven, (eternity), without Him we are just six – a finite number of mortal man.

Each of the six branches was adorned with three sets of cups shaped like almond blossoms, with a knop (knob, bud or bulb) and a flower; the centre stem was adorned with four of these.

Thus, there is a total of 22 such sets. These might represent the original 22 books of the Old Testament writings which graced the early church. The Hebrews associated the number of them with the 22 patriarchs from Adam through Jacob, and the 22 letters of the Hebrew alphabet.

However, our Bible contains also the New Testament, and in later times the books have been divided into a total of 66. If the three identified elements — bowls, knops, flowers — are numbered separately, this would total 66 in the entire lamp stand. The three branches on one side, together with the centre stem, would contain 39, and three remaining branches 27, which is the division of books in our Old and New Testaments.

The five petals of the cups shaped like almond blossoms are a fitting number to represent the new creation [in Christ], later represented by the five wise virgins of Matthew 25.

Almonds, it is said, produce flowers before leaves, and the Hebrew word for almond means ‘hasten,’probably in observation of this early seasonal produce of the almond flowers. So with the church; they produce the lovely graces of the spirit before their leaves of profession and teaching will be observed by the world in the kingdom.

This meaning of the name ‘almond’ explains Jer. 1:11,12, where the appearance of an almond rod, or branch, is a token from the Lord that ‘I will hasten my word to perform it.’ In this passage it may refer prophetically to the raising of the saints early in the harvest as the work preliminary to the judgments of the Lord which follow shortly thereafter. Aaron’s rod that budded Num.17, was to establish his Divine appointment to the priesthood, was possibly also from the almond tree.

Aarons lifeless rod budded and miraculously, it brought forth life – (resurrection life); just as the cross of wood also ‘budded and produced blossoms’, after his resurrection from the dead.

Aarons Rod was a picture of Gods authority judgment, just as The Messiahs cross and resurrection vindicates Gods exclusive choice of Yeshua/Jesus as our Mediator before God. Those who reject his choice will ultimately share the same fate as those who party with Korach’s Rebellion, when Aarons Rod budded.

אַהֲרֹ֖ן  מַטֹּתָֽ

mattheh Aaron

The Hebrew word for the staffs of Moses and Aaron, is mattheh. It can mean staff or rod, and it can also mean tribe, showing the connection between the staff and the person and even the tribe which is represented by the person. It also means a scepter, an object used to show authority.

Above picture is an individual oil lamp, with its cover closed. Below see the lamp with its cover opened, (on the left of picture insert). In the bowl of the lamp is a depression large enough to hold 1/2 log of pure olive oil, and toward the far left is a channel through which the wick will extend. In the top of the picture we see the seven lamps placed upon the Menorah.

the lamp with its cover opened,
And you shall make a menorah of pure gold. The menorah shall be made of hammered work; its base and its stem, its goblets, its knobs, and its flowers shall all be one piece with it. And six branches coming out of its sides: three menorah branches from its one side and three menorah branches from its second side. Three decorated goblets on one branch, a knob and a flower, and three decorated goblets on one branch, a knob and a flower; so for the six branches that come out of the menorah. And on the stem of the menorah shall be four decorated goblets, its knobs and its flowers. And a knob under the two branches from it, and a knob under the two branches from it, and a knob under the two branches from it; so for the six branches that come out of the menorah. Their knobs and their branches shall all be one piece with it; all of it shall be one hammered mass of pure gold.” (Exodus 25:31-36)

These six verses describe the structure of the Menorah, and concludes, 

“all of it shall be one hammered mass of pure gold.”

Exodus 25:37 then adds, “And you shall make its lamps seven, and he shall kindle its lamps [so that they] shed light toward its face.”

From this we learn that the seven lamps which held the oil and the wicks were separate from the Menorah.

This is further stated in 2 Chronicles 4:20: “And the menorah and its lamps to kindle them as is required, before the Devir, (parochet separating the Sanctuary from the Holy of Holies), of refined gold.” 

Again, the Menorah and the seven lamps are referred to as distinct and separate entities.

We see this distinction a third time in the words of the prophet:

Zechariah, 4:2: “And he said to me, “What do you see?” And I said, “I saw, and behold there was a menorah all of gold, with its oil-bowl on top of it, and its seven lamps thereon; seven tubes each to the lamps that were on top of it.”

According to the ancient writings, each of the seven lamps consisted of a bowl into which 1/2 log (approx. 285 grams) of pure olive oil was poured and the ptil (wick) was placed, and a cover to protect the oil and to keep it clean. It would be opened when cleaning out and replenishing the oil, as was done each morning, and closed before kindling the wick.

The burning bush, an almond tree, the menorah. All symbols of the Tree of Life and of God’s presence.

The tabernacle preceded the construction of Solomons Temple and the reconstructed Temple of Herod in Jerusalem.

David had too much blood on his hands to be able to build the house of God.

When Solomon built it, he had 10 menorah lamp stands made for the temple 1000BC 1Kings.

The inner sanctuary had 5 on the right and 5 on the left side. There was only need for one. The temple was destroyed in 586 B.C. by Nebuchanezer, king of Babylon. There is some belief that the temple furniture was hidden prior to the destruction and it is a fact that the ark was never present in the 2nd temple in the holy of holies when it was rebuilt. It is possible that at least one of the 10 menorahs was saved prior to the destruction.

The menorah was huge and the High Priest needed a ramp to be able to access and light the lamps with fresh oil every day.

New every morning just like His mercies. The lamp gave light all day every day.

In 70 AD there was a great Jewish revolt against the Roman Empire that began in 66AD. When Espacio was called back to Rome to become Caesar, his son Titus continued the battle against the Jews, and eventually destroyed the temple.

The Roman empire had its roots in the descendants of Edom/Esau.

Roman Emperor Domitian constructed the Arch of Titus 82 AD on Via Sacra, Rome, to commemorate the capture and siege of Jerusalem in 70 CE, which effectively ended the Great Jewish Revolt, although the Romans did not achieve complete victory until the fall of Masada in 73 CE.

Emperor Nero then sent Vespasian.

The Romans Destroy the Temple at Jerusalem, 70 AD.

In the year 66 AD the Jews of Judea rebelled against their Roman masters. In response, the Emperor Nero dispatched an army under the generalship of Vespasian to restore order.

Titus, the son of Emperor Vespasian, captures Jerusalem after a four month siege.

The emblem of the menorah was taken from the frieze on the Arch of Titus

and it became the symbol of Israel today.

Above & Below:The Arch of Titus in Rome

this menorah as part of many other things that the Jewish people were carrying in a victory procession of the Romans all the way into Rome.

Recorded by historian Josephus Flavius who documented Titus’s Triumphal Procession in Rome, 71 C.E. BOOK VII, Chapter V.

They brought all the temple treasures to a place called the temple of Peace built by Vespasian where the most precious trophies were housed and it included the temple menorah, at least one of them, and the silver trumpets also carved into the arch.

The menorah was in the tabernacle and in the first and 2nd temples and then it was gone from Jerusalem.

Above:The Temple of Peace (Latin: Templum Pacis), also known as the Forum of Vespasian (Latin: Forum Vespasiani), was built in Rome in 71 AD under Emperor Vespasian in honour to Pax, the Roman goddess of peace.  built by Vespasian with the spoils of the Jewish War that he brought to Rome after the fall of Jerusalem in A.D. 71.

Dedicated in 75, it was one of the most impressive monuments in the city. It stood to the north of the Basilica Aemilia in an area that still had not recovered from the great fire of A.D. 64.

It was huge but burned in the 1st century.

Zach 14 prophesied of Jesus return and everything on the Temple mount will be changed. Scripture indicates that Messiah will reign from Jerusalem for 1000 yrs.

Ez. 40 even described the 4th temple!

There was a 1st 2nd  Temple and a 3rd about to be built.

Then there will be a 4th.

For those with eyes to see, whose spiritual heart is sensitive to the times in which we are living; it is clear that the days are moving us quickly to a time prophesied in the Word by Jesus Himself. The signs of the end of this age are all around us and are rapidly increasing. The birth pangs are getting closer together, and we are instructed to be ready spiritually. To be prepared, to have our lamps filled with oil. Just as the high priest filled the oil of the temple menorah daily, so that when it was lit, the lamp stand gave light into the sanctuary and then shone forth from the kaporet /mercy seat, out through the windows to the world outside.

We are to daily invite the Ruach of our High Priest Jesus/Yeshua to fill our sanctuary, our spirit, soul and bodies, with the oil that will in turn give forth light when lit by the Holy/set apart fire of His spirit. Then we will be the light of the world as He was and that He said we would be.

We are crucified with Christ, the tree of resurrection life has made place for us to be grafted in branches as typified in the almond tree and the menorah.

Why were they told to make the Menorah with shape of almond blossom and not olives, vines or figs???

We will look deeper into that question for an amazing conclusion…..in part 2.

As we remember whose we are and why we celebrate whether ‘Christmas’ or ‘Hanukkah’ or both may His light illuminate our hearts and lives as that same kavod light of His glory shines on us and over us.

Shalom Shalom, ‘Mishpachah’  משפחה ‘Family’, Happy ‘Christmas’ and Happy Hanukkah, the Festival of Lights. Please Don’t leave this page until you are certain He is the Light of your life.

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.