Tag: Yeshua

Jesus Was And Is An Israelite

Who or What is the Mystery of the Choter? or is it Both?

Why is any of this important?

Why do we need to focus on these things?

Simply because we have grown up with a western based Christianity with a primarily Greek mindset. We focus more on the Renewed Covenant /New Testament and neglect the Old where our true roots are to be found, beyond the Greco/roman church doctrines and dogmas. These, at best, have forgotten, or at worst ignore and even deny the essential roots of the faith in a Messianic Savior. This Messianic Savior who was from the tribe of Israel and whose ancestors trace back to Adam through Jacob, Isaac, Abraham, Moses, et al.

We are reminded to include the whole of God’s Word, not just the bits we like or make us feel good.

The particulars of God’s Word are of utmost importance, even the very words (2 Timothy 2:15), but we must study to understand the words in their context and in light of the whole counsel of God: “For I did not shrink from declaring to you the whole purpose of God” (Acts 20:27).

Everything ultimately points to Jesus/Yeshua and to see Him in all the details of all the scriptures is the wonder of His Living Word. And it should bring us not only delight and great joy; but serve to support the faith and trust in the God whose design is perfect in every aspect of His creation.

The One who took the time to put it in a form that we can read, see and comprehend the miracle that we are and to choose the unsurpassed and incomparable offer of forgiveness/redemption/salvation; which He has made to those called according to His purpose.

The reason we are to study to show ourselves approved, is that by so doing, we come to know Him and the power of His resurrection; as Paul said in Phil.3:10.

These posts, hopefully, are an aid for those with limited time and resources, to be able to enjoy the revealing that Daniel spoke of in the future days. These are those in which we are privileged to be alive! That the prophets desired to see. 1Peter 1:12

We know the familiar stories and yet we still see through a glass darkly, however as we dig together, He continually reveals more of Himself by Ruach HaKodesh to those whose desires are truly toward Him.

 

חֹטֵר

choter
Phonetic Spelling: (kho’-ter)
Definition: branch or twig, a rod

Choter is a Hebrew word for branch, rod, offshoot or twig and here in 11:1 Isaiah uses it prophetically.

Any interpretation of prophecy by its very nature is both mysterious and miraculous, because the very boundaries of time and eternity were crossed in that moment when our Heavenly Father told us the future before it was ever lived; and realizing this can leave us with the feeling of having touched eternity.

Choter or sometimes spelled Hoter; it is pronounced Koter and the letters CH sound hard like a K, and it’s only found 2 x in this form in scripture. The word choter/hoter,  meaning branch or twig. We can see that the literal meaning leads to a more metaphorical one.

Confusion and misunderstanding come in translations from the original language because more than twenty different Hebrew and Greek words are used to connote this growth; they have been translated variously as a branch, shoot, sprout, tendril, or twig; and include Natser, Netzer, semah, sheresh, Anaph branch, to name a few.

Strongs# H6057

ענף aneph

ענף anaph

נצר H5342 Netser 

There are 11 verses with the branch as a type and 118 occurrences in 14 translations.

Also the Hebrew word for Staff is matteh (masculine), and can be pronounced either mat-teh or mat-tah. It is defined as a branch, tribe, rod, staff, or standard (4294); as in Aarons staff which budded!

For this post we will look specifically at Hoter/Choter and two other Hebrew words which are also translated branch. Netser refers to young branches or sprouts.

The imagery of stumps, roots, shoots, and branches is Messianic and reappears throughout the prophets, especially in Isaiah and Jeremiah.

Tsemakh is a noun that comes from the Hebrew verb for sprouting or shooting.

Tsemakh

The verb is often used in connection with these messianic names and links with other names for example in Jer. 23:5-6; 33:15-16; Zech. 3:8.

Netser Phonetic Spelling: nay’-tser

נֵצֶר

Strongs #: 5342

Bible reference: Isa. 11:1

A shoot [khoter] will come up from the stump of Jesse;
from his roots a Branch will bear fruit.

 

Strong’s Concordance number: 6780

Bible references: Zech. 3:8; 6:12

Listen, High Priest Joshua, you and your associates seated before you, who are men symbolic of things to come: I am going to bring my servant, the Branch.

Two similar prophetic names of Jesus/Yeshua, are the Branch of the Lord and the Righteous Branch -Tsemakh tsedaqah. Zechariah connected the messianic term with the role of the servant of the Lord.

The two Hebrew words for Branch are obviously interchanged. One is tsemach (transliterated zemach), and used in all the verses for branch except the major messianic link in Isaiah 11:1 and 2 others, 1 in Isaiah and 1 in Daniel; where natser, (transliterated Nazer) is found. Jesus/Yeshua is called this latter word literally. The hometown of Jesus/Yeshua is Nazareth (Fem. plural of Nazer is Nazeroth).

We can understand further meaning in prophesy from the literal meaning of the actual text in the Hebrew language, that which defies the rules of normal translation. These instances are usually associated with an ironic play on words.

This is the use of double meaning/double entendre; or a similarity in sound and meaning, that continues the idea in the context of a passage as the form of the word may continue to be used in the passage to carry along what is being spoken about.

Even though the subtlety of the use of play on words is lost in translation it should not be thought of as useless decoration. It is a part of the inspired thought processes and in at least one case, it is a vehicle of miraculous revelation.

Branch of the Lord.

Note For New Readers:

The point of this post is not to focus on which word, or the variations of how its spelled, and which is correct; but is rather for the meaning and application to our lives as we follow Jesus our Messiah in the WAY; which is the real aim and goal of mmm.

Just reading about a subject will not do much good if we don’t think on its application to us personally and then prayerfully apply that revealed knowledge to our life and ministry.

The Words of scripture are living and alive and need to be living and alive in us if we are to grow and mature and flower and bear fruit.

All these metaphors, allegories and parables are more than stories and information, they are the meat of the Word that feeds us.

Milk and Meat.

A perfect metaphor for the degrees of maturity required to partake of spiritual food analogous to that required for physical food. It is important that we know where to begin with the milk of God’s word, and that we recognized the necessity for growth in understanding the milk so that we can go on to understand the meat.

1Cor. 3:2

As a result, we are no longer to be children, tossed here and there by waves and carried about by every wind of doctrine, by the trickery of men, by craftiness in deceitful scheming; but speaking the truth in love, we are to grow up in all aspects into Him who is the head, even Christ.

Eph 4:13-15

In Isaiah 11:1 both the words

Choter חטֶר  

and

Natser נצר

are together in the same verse.

Natser/Netzer is another Hebrew word for branch.

There shall come forth a Rod from the stem of Jesse, And a Branch shall grow out of his roots.

Significantly it is in context with a prophetic declaration of One Who will come in the future that will be known as a Branch and will also ‘function’ as a Branch.

From Isaiah 11:1 There shall come forth a Rod from the stem of Jesse, And a Branch shall grow out of his Roots.

חטֶר

One definition of this word is: of any division extending like a branch; any arm or part connected with the main body of thing; 

Isaiah’s use of the Hebrew word nazer or branch and of nazeroth which is obviously identical with Nazareth in form;(simply remove the vowels). Isaiah uses other related forms of the same word which have meaning when seeing them in their connection to Nazarene fulfillment of that which was spoken by the prophets.

It was not uncommon for the prophets to depict the Messiah as a new shoot or branch growing from David’s stock, even though that tree would be cutoff. Isaiah proclaims that a shoot will come up from the stump of Jesse.

Messiah came into the world as a child, a baby, it could be said from the genealogy recorded in Matthew, He was a tiny shoot from an old sawed-off stump. God brings amazing new things out of old stumps!!!

Jesus/Yeshua fulfilled the prophecies about the branch by springing up from David and the tribe of Judah to become the Priest-king of the Kingdom of God.

Real Facts that help us understand/digest the Scriptures: Indigenous to Israel, there is a tree that is practically indestructible even when chopped and cut down, new trees grow from the shoots that sprout from the stump, the base and root system. Even when it is burned, regrowth quickly starts from the roots and brings forth new branches.

This is the olive tree and it has a complex root system that is particularly strong and symbolizes a strong grip on the ground. These roots can find their way through cracks in rocks as they search for deep sources of water.

In Israel, olive trees flower in the spring when temps reach 70 degrees F. and will not flower before 5 years of age.

In all these descriptions note the details that bear reflection upon the characteristics that should be in the life of a disciple!

The olive tree is another one most frequently mentioned in the Bible. Scripture writers used olive tree imagery to describe Jesus/Yeshuas’ roots in the tribe of Judah and the relationship of Jews and Gentiles. Jesus/Yeshua also uses the analogy of the relationship of the Grapevine to the branches, to describe His relationship with His disciples:

“I am the vine; you are the branches” John 5:15.

The branches derive their very existence and ability to produce fruit from the vine. Detached, the branches cease to live or produce. Likewise, apart from Jesus/Yeshua, an individual does not have either spiritual life or fruit.

When an olive tree is very old;

(often reaching ages of hundreds and some even 1,000’s of years growth;) and having reached its maximum yield, It is common for farmers to cut it down to improve its future growth.

Before long, new shoots emerge from the old stump, and the tree begins once again to produce olives.

This aspect of the olive tree provides an image of Isaiah’s prophecy,

‘A shoot will come up from the stump of Jesse; from His roots a Branch will bear fruit’ (Isa. 11:1).

As a descendant of David, Jesus//Yeshua was the shoot from the stump of Jesse (David’s father).

The word has a great variety of possible translations and it is linked to Nazarene, Nazarenes, or Nazareth and is translated: keep, keeping, kept, watchman, watchers, besieged, preserve, preserver, subtle, hidden things, monuments, and BRANCH.

In most scriptures it’s translated as: keep, in the sense of guarding and keeping something safe.

It is translated three times as branch in Isaiah and one time in Daniel.

When Isaiah uses the word it must at least raise a curious interest for the believer. Due to the possibility of play on words or double meaning in contexts that are obviously messianic: it is an amazing reference to Jesus/Yeshua.

It is certain that they point to Jesus/Yeshua as the Messiah because of His connection with Nazareth and because Here also was a virgin named Miriam/Mary.

In the sixth month the angel Gabriel was sent from God to a city of Galilee named Nazareth, to a virgin betrothed to a man whose name was Joseph, of the house of David; and the virgin‘s name was Mary. (Lk. 1:26-27)

He is called the Nazarene in Matthew 2:23. And He came and dwelt in a city called Nazareth: that it might be fulfilled which was spoken by the prophets, He shall be called a Nazarene.

Orthodox Jews will not mention Jesus/Yeshuas name and they certainly will not call Him Christ /Messiah since calling Him Christ/Messiah, would be a confession of what they do not yet believe.

He is most often referred to by Orthodox Jewish scholars as The Nazarene. In Hebrew. Notsri;

נוצרי 

There is apparently no word in the modern Hebrew language corresponding to the word Christian; so Christians are referred to as: the Nazarenes or Notsriym,

The Nazarene literally means:

the one who is the branch!

Consequently His name is The Branch, literally fulfilling this prophecy and amazingly so called, even by those who believe in Him the least.

Israel tour guides have been known to lead tourists to stand next to an ancient Olive Tree.

Then they point to the bottom of the tree, where new shoots come up from the ground, and say for example:

This town is called Nazareth and the root of that word is netzer. These shoots coming up out of the ground are called netzers.

Obviously Jewish tour guides don’t recognize the significance of this word however, However, it’s clear to those who know Jesus/Yeshua as Messiah.

Nazareth today, above and an old picture below.

Here in the town where some of the people from the line of David had resettled after exile, is also where Jesus/Yeshua grew up, the prophesied (Is. 11:1) shoot

The English word for netzer emerged from the root of Jesse (David’s father).

Here the Root of Jesse is written in Hebrew, Shoresh Yishai.

Jesus/Yeshuas own words in His prayer in John 17:

“That all of them may be ONE, Father…” 

is foundational to understanding the purpose of Netzer.

The warning words of the Prophets had been realized, the tree had been felled and all hope had been dashed, and the kingdom that once was had been broken in two. God’s promise to David (son of Jesse), of an heir who would reign forever, had apparently failed.

Or had it?

What do we SEE?

Connection Link to previous post below:

https://www.minimannamoments.com/what-is-the-connection-between-almonds-and-olive-oil-with-messiah-and-lampstands-part-3/

Then a shoot will grow from the stump of Jesse, 
and a branch from his roots will bear fruit.

The tree was the kingdom of Israel, which had been divided into two, Israel and Judah, after Solomon departed the scene. Israel, the northern kingdom, was about to be carried off into captivity by Assyria. That was the prophecy of earlier chapters. However, a remnant of Israel would return from exile, but only a remnant, and would turn to the LORD in faith.

Then Isaiah spoke of an “anointing” that would lift the burden of the oppressor off their shoulders and would completely destroy the yoke from off their neck; Isaiah 10:27. The power of the enemy would be broken. And then, a shoot would grow from the stump of Jesse.

A remnant and a shoot, it seems so little, so small and yet, that is so often how God does His work. Indeed, in Zechariah 4:10, He says, Do not despise these small beginnings.

As the Old Testament frequently notes; e.g. in Jer. 11:16, Hosea 14:6, the olive tree is beautiful.

The faithful followers of God/Jesus/Yeshua, are compared to vigorous olive trees, and their children are said to be like the shoots that appear at the tree’s roots, guaranteeing its survival and future generations.

In Rom. 11:11-24, the New Testament uses olive trees to help illustrate the plan of salvation and Paul describes ‘Christians’ as either natural olive branches, those of Hebrew/Israeli background, or olive branches that have been grafted onto Jesus/Yeshua, those who are heathen/Goyim/Gentiles.

As branches grafted into Jesus/Yeshua, ‘Christians’ will only bear fruit if we are attached to and have a personal relationship with Him and are walking in His WAY.

In the same chapter Paul draws attention to grafting a branch into a stock. It was usual for a farmer to take a wild root or stock and graft into it a cultivated scion.

That was not the case with Israel, the cultivated olive tree; the branches broken off were replaced by wild olive shoots, in other words, Gentile believers. When the Deliverer from Zion comes, however, it will be easy for Hm to restore Israel to its rightful position (vs. 25-27).

The olive tree provides an excellent lesson for non Jewish disciples.

Because Jesus/Yeshua was rejected as Messiah, God cut many Jewish branches down, however,

He did not uproot the tree.

The shoot of Jesus/Yeshua and the branches of His Gentile followers grew from a Jewish stump. As His followers/disciples, we are branches growing from Jewish roots.

The picture of the olive tree is a constant reminder that Jesus/Yeshua is our source of life; our branch springs from Jewish roots. The beautiful olive tree reminds us of God’s eternal plan of salvation and His expectation that all His branches will bear abundant fruit.

Branch is capitalized six times in the Old Testament inferring the understanding of a title name. The Hebrew word used in five of them, semah, simply means sprout, growth, or branch.

The remaining occurrence has the word hoter, meaning: branch or twig…..

As usual the post ‘grew’ in length while assembling!

Both the conclusion and paleo pictograph meaning coming in part 2.

Shalom shalom mishpachah! 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 if you haven’t already, please 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.

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.

What Is The Connection Between Almonds and Olive Oil With Messiah and Lampstands? Part 3

Continuing from the question in part 2

What did Jeremiah see?

“Moreover the word of the Lord came to me, saying, ‘Jeremiah, what do you see?’ And I said, ‘I see a BRANCH (rod) of an almond tree.’ Then said the Lord to me, ‘You have seen well; for I will hasten my word to perform it’

Jeremiah 1:11-12

In response to the Lords initial question Jeremiah says he sees an almond tree. God then responds that He is watching.

What is the point here? Remembering we are examining the connection between Almonds and olive oil with Messiah and lampstands/menorahs.

In all languages other than Hebrew it makes absolutely no sense.

There is no way to understand this verse in its full meaning as shown here without knowing some Hebrew. It is just another indication that Hebrew is essential to fully understand the Word.

However the answer is in the almond….

The Hebrew word for almond, shakeid, (sha’qed, shaked.) is the same root word for awaken and watch and also means watchful, to be diligent, to strive, be steadfast.

This word is sho’ked.

Remember in the Hebrew Alefbeit/Alphabet, there are no letter vowels so it would read the same – shqd and sometimes written shkd as the Hebrew letter for k and q are the same for its pronunciation.

The word of the LORD came to me, What do you see, Jeremiah? I see the branch of a shaqed, (almond tree), I replied. The LORD said to me, you have seen correctly, for I am shoqed (watching) to see that My Word is fulfilled. Jeremiah 1:11-12

shaqed, (almond tree),

shoqed (watching)

The word play indicates that there is an interrelation between the almond (tree) and divine watching.

So symbolically the almond represents God’s watchfulness over His people.

The almond tree is mentioned a number of times in the Old Testament.

In the Scriptures this play on words regarding the use of almond and God’s watchfulness (i.e., faithfulness) is very specific: The purpose is to give greater insight and intention behind the writers’ words. (Remember pardes).

https://www.minimannamoments.com/pardes-what-is-that/

This is Gods’ way of confirming. 1:7-14…    for I am ready to perform my word.

What does this mean?

As the word in Hebrew for almond is shaqed, meaning to keep my word and the word also spelled SHAKEID – Shaqad H8245 is a root meaning to be alert, that is: sleepless, to be on the lookout, (whether for good or ill); hasten, remain, wake, watch for.….

He is saying, ‘THIS’ is how I am going to keep My Word. ‘THIS’, being the manner or way He is going to do it, and as confirming, I am the same yesterday, today and forever; we can understand this meaning when He says it. 

As we look at the almond in the physical, we can see and understand that spiritually it means: He is going to keep His Word and to perform/do, His Word.

I am ready to perform to do. It is Time!

It is interesting that the very same root, sha•kad, that God was using to stress His diligence in keeping His word, appears 26 times in the New Testament with the same exact meaning. (The English translation may vary from verse to verse, but the Hebrew root is always shaked, which makes it so much easier to understand).

For example: “They continued steadfastly in the apostles’ teaching and fellowship, in the breaking of bread, and prayer”. Acts 2:42

“to those who by patience in well-doing seek for glory, honor, and incorruptibility, eternal life”. Romans 2:7

Here is another example of using passive language to convey sha•ked as the active verb,

“Watch! Stand firm in the faith! Be courageous! Be strong!” 1 Corinthians 16:13

Here, too, the call is to work hard on the ways of faith and not only just to watch.

Shaked: the root means to be watchful, to awaken and be vigilant.

The Almond Tree being the 1st to blossom, watchful for the CHANGE of the seasons. We are at one of those seasons right now. Change is a word for this season.

 A rod of an almond tree — as we have noted the word שׁקד, almond, means primarily wakeful, vigilant, and is applied to this tree because it wakes up to life, and blossoms in January, while the other trees are still in their winter’s sleep. Because of this attribute, it is a natural symbol of vigilance, and so God uses it in suggesting His own ever-wakeful activity.

He will not suffer thy foot to be moved: he that keepeth thee will not slumber. Psalm 121:5

There is an urgent need to be watchful, for the enemy will attack when we least expect. While righteous men sleep, the enemy does not. This battle is spiritual and spirits do not need to sleep!

1Peter 5:8 tells us, “Be sober, be vigilant for the devil, your adversary walketh about seeking whom he may devour.” When the righteous people are weary evil lurks in every corner.

The adjective vigilant means watchful, or alert and attentive to danger or trouble. It appears that the LORD has shown Jeremiah that his rod has bloomed like Aaron’s did; and what Jeremiah puts his hand to do will be blessed of God – because here, the rod of the almond tree means to awaken and be ready to do whatever God has for him to do.

It could also mean that God is ready to release His judgment, as a rod, is also an instrument of punishment, the rod of the almond may be intended here as the symbol of that punishment which the prophet was about to announce.

What was about to be fulfilled at that moment, was the 2nd thing Jeremiah saw which was a boiling pot facing away from the North.

Judgment was about to be poured out on Israel and as we are spiritual Israel judgment begins at the house of God……1 Peter 4:17

 

SHAQED means: the almond tree or nut; as being the earliest in bloom.

SHAQAD is a primitive root that also means: to be alert, sleepless; to be on the lookout, remain, wake, awake, watch for, be alert, wait.

The Greek words: GREGOREUO [gray-gor-yoo-o], means: keep awake, watch, be vigilant.

שקד shaked, from שקד shakad, to be ready, to hasten, to watch for an opportunity to do a thing, to awake; because the almond tree is the first to flower and bring forth fruit.

(Repetition in this post is on purpose we need to pay attention and remember its’ meaning as it is so pertinent to our current season).

It blossoms in January, when other trees are locked up in their winter’s repose; and it bears fruit in March, just at the commencement of spring, when other trees only begin to bud.

It was here the symbol was given with which God was about to fulfill His promises.

Surely the Lord GOD will do nothing, unless he reveals his secret to his servants the prophets. Amos 3:7. As He also did with Abraham Gen.18:17.

(The word מקל, (makkel,) though ordinarily meaning rod, is here used in the sense of shoot or twig.)

Almond Trees in bloom meant to look forward with certainty to happiness in the married state. Spiritually the meaning for us is:

Winter is going to end..

Suddenly and

maybe out of season

then

The King will say:

“Arise, my darling,
    my beautiful one, come with me.
See! The winter is past;
    the rains are over and gone.
Flowers appear on the earth;
    the season of singing has come,
the cooing of doves
    is heard in our land.
The fig tree forms its early fruit;
    the blossoming vines spread their fragrance.
Arise, come, my darling;
    my beautiful one, come with me.”  Song of Songs 2:10-13.

Are we diligently looking for our spiritual Bridegroom?

 

The Bridegroom IS returning for His Bride.

Here it seems, is the most significant part of this post.

The message was not just for Jeremiah it was prophetic …..then, and it’s as true and as sobering today.

It is extremely important and could be said to have an urgency to it.

If that is correct, then it needs to be understood by all at this hour in which we are serving our Messiah Jesus/Yeshua. Perceiving the seriousness of our times is our responsibility and it behooves us to pay attention, according to His words, which were repeated many times, both in the Gospels and in those of the other New Testament writers. Mark 13:33 Matt 24:36 Luke 21:36 etc.

 Watch means to stay wide awake. When the New Testament commands us to watch, it is usually the translation of one of two Greek words (gregoreuo and agrupneo), which have similar meanings—to stay awake and to be sleepless. They are usually meant in the metaphorical and spiritual sense – to be vigilant and on guard, fully awake, aware, alert and intently focused – with several applications and implications.

An intense watching over.

Eph 5:14.  Wherefore he saith, Awake thou that sleepest, and arise from the dead, and Christ shall give thee light.

1Peter 5:8. Be sober, be vigilant

Be watchful – Stay alert.

The adversary is poised to pounce, and would like nothing better than to catch us napping.

Keep your guard up.

We are not the only ones plunged into these hard times. It’s the same with Christians/Believers all over the world. So keep a firm grip on the faith, the suffering won’t last forever and not beyond what we are able to endure. 1Cor.10:13

Blessed are those slaves whom the master will find on the ALERT when He comes; is also referring to the 10 virgins parable.

The meaning of the almond tree, therefore, is that God in heaven watches a sinful nation walking away from Him and declares it will have consequences. His message to humanity today is still the same: God is watching!

He will watch over His word either for curse or for blessing.

When sin and immorality engulf nations and even penetrate the Ecclesia/Church, we should remember: God is watching!

When nations assail Israel and seek to divide her land, we can be sure: God is watching!

Still, the message of the almond does carry a strong encouragement. Jeremiah also foresees a miraculous restoration for Israel.

“And it shall come to pass, that as I have watched over them, to destroy, and to afflict… so will I watch over them, to build, and to plant, says the Lord.” (Jeremiah 31:28)

If we decide to consecrate our lives to God, then He promises to watch over us for good. Even with our weaknesses and frailties, His eyes are always upon us!

Jeremiah saw a BRANCH

Yeshua Jesus Messiah

is the Branch

and we are grafted in.

Recall the shapes in the design of the Menorahs branches,

which reminds the onlooker of a flowering tree of life.

The same Tree of Life in Beresheet/Genesis, Eden and in Revelation/New Jerusalem/Shamayim.

The bowls

גְ֠בִעִים

ḡə-ḇi-‘îm

[shall be] made like almond [blossoms]

מְֽשֻׁקָּדִ֞ים

mə-šuq-qā-ḏîm

blossom bloom pricha פְּרִיחָה

blossoms blooms prichot פְּרִיחוֹת

on branch

בַּקָּנֶ֣ה
baq-qā-neh

[with] an [ornamental] knob

כַּפְתֹּ֣ר
kap̄-tōr

וָפֶרַח֒

wā-p̄e-raḥ

and a flower

On each of the six side arms were 3 golden almond blossoms and together with the 4 on the center shaft, there were exactly 22 almond blossoms. Between the 22 flowers, there are 21 connections. From the lowest flower to the top flower on the shaft to the 6 lamps, there are 3×8+3=27 connections, and together with the highest connection from the top flower on the shaft to the middle lamp, there are a total of 28 (4×7) connections. Together they are 50 parts + 7 lamps.

God paid attention to the details from the very beginning; for He commanded that every single almond blossom on the Menorah should consist of 3 parts, namely, the cups, buds and blossoms (petals).

(3 parts yet still one! each coming forth from the other in progression and connected – needing each other in order to do what they were created to do!)

Together they are 3 x 22=66 single flower parts.

Seven branches and 7 lamps

נִיר

ner – lamp: pronounced neer.

Kanim: plural from qaneh. Strongs: 7070 prononced: kaw-neh

קָנֶה

The Menorah had 7 lamps 1 lamp on top of the middle stem and 1 on top of each of the other 6 branches. Each lamp was made of the same gold used to form the rest of the menorah. The lamps were boat shaped with pointed ends that faced the center lamp.

(The picture below is the correct orientation of the wicks.)

The center of the lamps resembles a basin. Each lamp had a cover on it with a hole in the middle for the oil. (see picture in part 2)

The wicks were positioned by either bending them towards the center or by clamping them down between the bowl and the cover.

They were lit daily from right to left. (Same direction as the Hebrew language is read and Messiah sits on the right.)

פְּרָחִים flowers perachim

פֶּרַח flower perach

Nine flower blooms these were ornamental parts to beautify the menorah. According to historical documents the flowers was similar to roses.

Not as the western roses rather more like the Dog rose. 

They were fashioned at the top of each branch just before the lamps. The other two flowers were on the main stem and included one at the base of the menorah. The sages connect the flowers with the book of Leviticus because which begins with 9 words.

כַּפְתֹּרִֽים plural

kaf-to-ree’m

literal meaning: descendants

11 fruits

These were the decorations that extended from the shaft and the branches at the top just before the lamps. The branches extended outward from the top of the three fruits on the main stem, and also appeared at the top of each branch, shaped like apples. They are sometimes likened to the buds/flowers, that develop into fruit.

All of the fruits had almond decorations engraved on them.

The sages connect the buds with the book of Exodus where the first verse begins with 11 words.

22 cups

גְּבִיעַ

a cup – gabia  

Phonetic Spelling: gheb-ee’-ah

The flower cups or goblets that resembled almond buds were really chalice like containers used to hold large quantities of liquid. They are likened to stems that supply the liquid for the blossoms and fruit of a tree. 3 cups were located at the top of each branch and an extra cup located lower on the main stem.

Note: There are so many variations of the design! However the illustrations included are to help our understanding of the spiritual meaning God was conveying to us through the Menorah.

There are 22 letters of the Hebrew alphabet, which are considered the building blocks used in divine revelation; and have been assigned to the design elements of the Menorah.

The sages connect the flower cups with the book of Deuteronomy where the first verse begins with 22 words.

טֹ֖פַח Handbreadth

to’-fakh – tophach

(add im, for plural.)

This refers to the height of the Menorah. The first 3 tefachim were the base itself.

The other elements the cups, buds and flowers were then placed up the tree.

The sages connect the height of the Menorah with the book of Numbers where the first verse begins with 17 words.

One base (i.e., yarech: יָרֵךְ) with three legs.

(see picture further down)

Strongs #3409

yaw-rake 

יָרֵךְ

The base was either square or rectangular in shape and was made of pure hammered gold.

The Brown-Driver-Briggs’ Definition of this word gives some further insight that out of the side of Messiah came the church
1) thigh, side, loin, base

1a) thigh

1a1) outside of thigh (where sword was worn)

1a2) loins (as the seat of procreative power)

1b) side (flank) (of object)

1c) base

Just as God exclusively chose Aaron to minister before Him, Jesus/Yeshua, was the One exclusively chosen to be the great High Priest of the re-newed covenant. Heb 5:4

And just as Aaron’s lifeless rod miraculously brought forth life, Jesus/Yeshua’s cross which was also made of wood resulted in buds and blossoms of new life following His resurrection. He went into the sanctuary made without hands and there offered His blood for the everlasting atonement.

אַהֲרוֹן   Aaron Aharon (a-har-one’) 4294

מַטֶּה matteh or mattah  (mat-teh’)

a staff, rod, shaft, branch, a tribe.

Aaron’s rod, was a picture of God’s authority of judgment, just as the Messiah cross and resurrection justifies Gods exclusive choice of Jesus/Yeshua, who is the Lord our Righteousness.

The light from the Menorah was a spiritual light. It was not seen from the outside of the Mishkan in the wilderness, but only while inside the holy chamber. It enabled service to God to be performed and was not light used for profane purposes.

The six lamps faced the Central lamp which is a picture of Jesus/Yeshua; the light of the world, whose arms and legs were beaten /hammered for our sins.

The Shamash.

He is the light of the world – the servant lamp, the suffering servant who brings light to everyone in the world. The central shaft held the light of the servant lamp and served as a base for the other branches.

The Menorahs radiance symbolized divine light and this light is the radiance of Jesus/Yeshua. 1John 1:5; John 8:12.

Messiah is pictured in the Menorah as the tree of light/life and the servant of the Lord, the light of life and the One who is likened to pure beaten/ hammered gold. He provides us with support, sustenance and light from the oil of the Holy Spirit, therefore our lives grow out of our connection and relationship with Him.

He is the light of the Lord. Psalm 27:1. He is the Shamash who comes down to ignite the light of life within all who will believe. For the one who has the Son has life.

One Menorah. Exodus 25:36, 26:6. The Torah is made up of five separate books but it is one. Similarly, the children of Israel were divided into priests, Kohanim, Levites and Israelites; put together they form one nation.

The Menorah was to be made by hammering the single piece of solid gold into one shape.

The word translated hammered or beaten comes from the Hebrew word meaning difficult.

Strong’s Hebrew: 4749. מִקְשָׁה (miqshah מִקְשָׁה

Strong’s Hebrew: 7186 קָשֶׁה qasheh (kaw-sheh’)

One commentary says that the pattern and method for making the menorah was difficult for Moses to understand.

Strongs #8403

תַּבְנִית tabnith  (tab-neeth’)
Definition: construction, pattern, figure

Because of this, he was to give the task of constructing it to Betzalel – (the carpenter from the tribe of Judah!)

Another image of hammered or beaten gold suggests that it is shaped and refined through testing and pressure.

The Menorah symbolizes light, growth, unity, the tree of life and the unity of Torah. All its parts were formed from a single piece of pure gold that was beaten and hammered into shape. Exodus 25:36

This is a symbol of the divine substance as Gold has a hint of the color of blood combined with the pure white.

The Menorah sat on a three legged base which was an allusion to the hashilush ha kodesh – His triune nature, which is the root of all reality. Just as the many parts of the Mishkan were put together to form one tabernacle so the many parts of the Menorah would likewise fashion to form one lampstand. Jesus/Yeshua taught that there would be one flock from both Jews and Gentiles – one new man having one shepherd. John 10:16

Messiah Jesus/Yeshua did not command us to become Jewish or to observe Talmudic Laws. The word law being: instruction, direction, describing our boundaries and guide to life which is contained in the 10 commandments. Jesus/Yeshua reiterated these in Mark 12:31 and includes loving your neighbor as yourself; which is from Leviticus 19:18 – ‘You shall not take vengeance, nor bear any grudge against the sons of your people, but you shall love your neighbor as yourself; I am the LORD.

It would seem that the only newly stated law we are connected to is the law of the spirit of life in Jesus/Yeshua.

Romans 8:2

2 For the law of the Spirit of life in Christ Jesus hath made me free from the law of sin and death. 3 For what the law could not do, in that it was weak through the flesh, God sending his own Son in the likeness of sinful flesh, and for sin, condemned sin in the flesh: 4 That the righteousness of the law might be fulfilled in us, who walk not after the flesh, but after the Spirit.

Haronem

H r n m

menorah 

מְנוֹרָה    

The Hebrew word Menorah has a simple meaning of lamp.

The pictographs could read: Behold the Headperson  nailed/pegged, brings life from chaos/water.

מְנוֹרָה seven-lamp (six branches)

The lamp stand in today’s synagogues, called the ner tamid (lit. the continual lamp; usually translated as the eternal flame), symbolized by the Menorah.

Verse 37: 7 places for the oil. The receptors for the wicks were 7, in center the servant branch. The wicks placed a certain way on each side so that the 3 wicks pointed to the center, to the servant candle in the middle. This one in the center the servant candle was always lit and always burned.

The hatavah – the cleaning and replenishing of the oil lamps and the replacing of the wicks – There were 3 steps for the priests to stand on to maintain the wicks; and oil every day new oil fresh oil, as yesterdays oil was not appropriate for today, it was replaced daily.

Pattern, a word used often in the scriptures and Jesus/Yeshua is our pattern; and we can see that pattern in the Menorah also.

Pure beaten oil for the lamp. Not candle wax or other oil to burn with. Olive oil burns with a bright light and little smoke, so it had to be clear and pure. In everyday families homes, the best oil was used daily for eating and lesser oil for burning for light, but only the best was used in the tabernacle. The small Ceramic lamps were for home use.

Focus was on the main servant light, at no time there was no light on the menorah.

From evening until morning, sundown to sunup.

The Holy Place was always illuminated by the light of the Menorah; from within.

So too, the Holy Place, the abode of Gods’ Holy Spirit is within – our life, and we should always be illuminated with His glorious light as He indwells us by His spirit. The only source of light and nourishment (table of shewbread) was in the Holy Place: our nourishment comes from within. He is the Bread of Life.

The darkest hours were given light from all the combined lamps. The darker it is, the brighter the light appears.

Wick פְּתִילָה ptila

When wicks were needed they came from the priests white linen garments, which were recycled when too old or torn to be worn. Cut into strips and woven together, these fed the oil to the flame.

The old garments were also used as swaddling clothes for the newborn!

Above picture: The illustration shows the western lamp as the source of the flame of all six of the other lamps. Far right: The kohen is holding the lit wick of the western lamp on the right, and directing it toward the unlit wick of the lamp that is positioned adjacent to it on the Menorah. The same procedure was then repeated, extending the flame of the 2nd lamp to the wick of the 3rd lamp and in this way all 7 lamps were kindled.

A recent 2018 reassessment of artifacts in hitherto unpublished report of 1930s excavations, relating to a discovery in the Negev desert town of Shivta in the 1930s; yielded a very rare 1500-year-old flax lamp wick. Above: the Byzantine-period flax wick and its copper casing.

Without the priestly connection there would be no flame for the temple lamps.

Yeshua/Jesus is our High Priest. Walking in His Ways produces light in our lives.

The extra oil will be needed for the bride to enter the bridal chamber when her bridegroom returns.

The real question is not

where is the Menorah

but

WHO is the representation?  

The source of fire for all seven of the Menorah lamps is the – נר המערבי – western lamp. Jesus/Yeshua is the light of the world and this light will never go out nor can it be extinguished.

The Menorah – Why do we have it?

Heb. 9:24 tells us the earthly sanctuary is a type of the heavenly sanctuary –

the earthly are copies of the true,

the real.

For Christ has entered, not into holy places made with hands, which are copies of the true things, but into heaven itself, now to appear in the presence of God on our behalf. Berean Study Bible 

Hebrews 9:23 So it was necessary for the copies of the heavenly things to be purified with these sacrifices, but the heavenly things themselves with better sacrifices than these. Hebrews 10:1 For the law is only a shadow of the good things to come, not the realities themselves.

God gave us a hint, a shadow of what He was about to do and when

Jesus/Yeshua was about to come.

The Menorah not only speaks of the light of the world but about also the resurrection of Jesus/Yeshua and the first fruit; as in the almond blossom on the Menorah, the first to bloom.

Where is the real Menorah? According to historians, many treasures were stored in the Vatican basement.

St. Peter Basilica Vatican

The important thing is…

not where is it but,

Who is the menorah?

The Menorah symbolizes Jesus/Yeshua: He is the light of the world, because He is the love of the Father in person, the Word and the Savior.

The Holy Spirit/Ruach HaKodesh, without the oil, there is no light and no illumination.

The Bible/Word: 7 parts, 49 scrolls with 66/70 books = the Word of God = the light in this dark world.

The Book of Life/Chaim: eternal life (Rev. 3:5, 20:12-15), and it is to be our way of life, as a light in this world (Mt. 5:13-16)

The Menorah is not a normal lampstand; it is a miracle, just as the Bible itself is also a miracle.

Let it be known to you all, and to all the people of Israel, that by the name of JESUS CHRIST… this man stands here before you whole… Nor is there salvation in any other, for there is no other name under heaven given among men by which we must be saved (Acts 4:10-12).

In the beginning was the WORD, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. He was with God in the beginning. Through him all things were made; without him nothing was made that has been made. In him was life, and that life was the LIGHT of all mankind. The LIGHT shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it. There was a man sent from God whose name was John. He came as a witness to testify concerning that LIGHT, so that through him all might believe.

He himself was not the LIGHT; He came only as a witness to the LIGHT. The true LIGHT that gives LIGHT to everyone was coming into the world. He was in the world, and though the world was made through Him, the world did not recognize Him. He came to that which was His own, but His own did not receive Him. Yet to all who did receive him, to those who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God – children born not of natural descent, nor of human decision or a husband’s will, but born of God. The WORD became flesh and made his dwelling among us. We have seen his glory, the glory of the one and only Son, who came from the Father, full of grace and truth (John 1:1-14).

I am the LIGHT of the world. He who follows Me shall not walk in darkness, but have the LIGHT of life (John 8:12).

I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me (John 14:6).

And behold, I am coming quickly, and My reward is with Me, to give to every one according to his work (Rev 22:12).

 So why did God choose an almond tree to show how His Word will come to pass?

In Israel, because as we have found out, the Almond tree is one of the earliest to bloom and actually blossoms in late winter.

The process from the BRANCH growing and ready to yield fruit takes two years but from this point,

literally overnight,

a beautiful white flower appears.

In fact, it happens so quickly sometimes the blossoms will form even before its leaves grow.

After a long wait the tree SUDDENLY blossoms.

In Jeremiah 1:11-12, the prophet Jeremiah talks to God, who uses the symbol of the almond branch to suggest He is watching the Israelites to see that they follow His Word. 

It is a symbol of new beginnings and God’s watchfulness,

To the Hebrews the almond-tree was the symbol of a new life. It is at the foot of an almond-tree (luz) that access can be obtained to the mysterious city of Luz, It is also the name of the town close to which Jacob/Israel, had his vision and which he named Beith-el, or House of God.

The connection between the almond-tree and heaven, indicates that the idea of immortality may be explained yet again by the symbolism of the almond – also called luz. לוז

more at:
https://www.minimannamoments.com/i-will-put-my-name-part-2/

The almond tree symbolizes:

a quick budding out of season

and why The Lord uses almonds in scripture to relay the message that:

He is watching over His Word to HASTILY perform it.

We are in a season where God is watching faithfully over His word and bringing it to pass in an accelerated time!

Because the almond tree not only blossoms very quickly, but it also blossoms during the winter while all the other tree and herbs are waiting (sleeping), for the next season. His reference to it at this hour, indicates that we are in a season where God is not waiting for the perfect conditions to bring His word to pass, but He is making it come to pass during the off season!

The season when no one is looking for anything, the season where everything is supposed to be hibernating, and in slumber, when everything is not aware.

The season of awakening, of quickening is happening while everyone is asleep. He is waking up the ecclesia/’church’, during the season of slumber, and He is doing it quickly.

Summary for original question 2:

What is the connection between Almonds and olive oil with Messiah and lampstands?

 

The connection to the Menorah and Almonds: Almond tree first to bud, bloom and yield fruit. He is the first fruit resurrected. Death to life.

Aarons staff/rod: proclaimed him the one chosen to be high priest.

Jesus/Yeshua is the good Shepherd from Ps. 23 and John 10:11.

Jesus/Yeshua is the high priest. (See Psalm 2:7, Psalm 110:4 and Hebrews 5:5.)

Jesus/Yeshua is the light of the world, the light of the holy place.

He was there in Genesis 1:1 the Alef and Tav written in the middle of the first verse. (See chart depicting this in last post).

He is the light of the Holy of Holies where the ark of the covenant is and in which was placed the Staff/Almond Rod of Aaron.

He is the servant, the Shamash, the Center candle of the Menorah.

Jesus/Yeshua is the Branch; the tree of life; the Olive tree, the one to whom we are grafted in, and whose oil (spirit), filled the almond shaped lamps of the Menorah.

One final and very timely reference is that of Jeremiah who interestingly enough also found himself at the bottom of a well…looking UP for his redemption!

https://www.minimannamoments.com/well-well-now-eye-see/

Shaqad – ready to perform my Word.

Everything is in Gods timing.

What do we see?

God is even now fulfilling His prophetic Word.

Next time we look at an almond, remember the Menorah, the Messiah and the Word/ Jesus/Yeshua Himself.

He is about to perform, to do.

The almond staff of the high priest who is also the good Shepherd, the symbol of new resurrection life were placed in the box/ark, under the kapporet – under the blood -in the holy of holies!

What do we see?

Now we are His ark in the earth.

The container of His Ruach/Spirit.

His life is in us.

His is light is in us, and the oil for the almond Menorah lamps is in us by His indwelling, the Ruach HaKodesh. It is up to us to allow Jesus/Yeshua, our High Priest, to daily trim our wicks and give us fresh olive oil every morning with His daily mercies.

And we have become the Shamash light, serving others and kindling light into the lives of those around us in the world who are still in a great darkness; and also to be encouraging to those who have seen the light but who need reminding who’s we are and whom we serve.

What do we see?

He is about to perform His Word. Fulfillment of our ultimate destiny is at hand. His plan will be performed in His time.

Be alert – Be watchful.

We live in unprecedented times and prophecy is unfolding even as we read this. Matt 24:33 Look up redemption draws near.

Remember the almond and be ready.

Shaqad!

The King is coming and this time, not as a suffering servant but as judge and King, sovereign over all.

The sign of the almond tree and the Menorah is warning those watching to stay alert and Be Ready…

Bride Be Ready!

1 Peter 4:7
But the end of all things is at hand: be ye therefore sober, and watch unto prayer.

The almond tree represents the sure timing of the Lord, just as certain as spring will follow winter, Gods’ Word will come true. He watches diligently over it. His promises, purposes and judgments are all fulfilled, whether we believe it or not.

Minimannapropheticmoment:

God is releasing the ability to see the things of the Spirit/Ruach with the eyes of our faith.

How many are waiting for their suddenly, and their breakthroughs? For everyone who is waiting for their fulfillment of a Word given by God. Know for certain that He is diligently watching over His word to you, making sure to fulfill it.

Take this Word to heart.

This Almond tree is a picture of strength and endurance. Why? Because although this flower looks fragile and delicate, it can withstand harsh winter winds and rain.

James 1:2-4 Consider it all a joy, my brethren when you encounter various trials, knowing that the testing of your faith produces endurance, and let endurance have its perfect result, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking nothing.

The almond tree blossom heralds the soon arrival of spring. In the Spirit, many find ourselves toward the end of a very long winter. Well, hold on because (spiritual) spring is coming and your sudden breakthrough of God’s word is about to blossom and bear fruit.

Remember the Almond

For our part, we are to be alert …so…

what do YOU see?

Be watchful and know what is happening around you and don’t be casual with the things of God and we won’t become casualties, spiritual or otherwise.

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 to be spiritually alert.

We must be prepared, we must have our lamps filled with oil, just as the high priest filled the oil of the temple menorah daily, so that when he lit the lampstand it 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.

So the connection is:

Almonds that were on the Menorah decoration had great meaning and a double inference to watching.

The tree was the source of the rod that budded and declared the confirming of the Aaronic priesthood and of death to life in resurrection.

The staff that budded was kept in the ark/box the dwelling place of God. His throne, the place of His presence; of heaven on the earth at that time.

Look up for our redemption draws nigh. Meaning, we are not yet fully completed and must endure to the end. Look up to Him. 

For the testimony of Jesus is the spirit of prophecy.

Revelation 19:10

When the angel tells John that:

 the testimony of Jesus is the spirit of prophecy;

he saying that the prophecy is giving glory to Jesus/Yeshua. 

The Spirit of Prophecy Points Back to God, the Spirit of prophecy has and always will point man to the goodness of God towards man and also the good news that Messiah paid the price for our sins on the Cross because the Spirit of Yeshua/Jesus has, and will always, bring reconciliation for man to the Father.

The Menorah/Lampstands of Revelation refer to the Ecclesia, the called out ones, the congregation of believers.

It’s time to stop playing, we need to focus on the gospel of the kingdom.

We’ll know we’re following the laws of the ReNewed Covenant when everything we do, say, or think,

(like the flames on the Menorah),

points to The Shamesh; in other words, TO Yeshua/ Jesus, giving Him all the honor, all the praise, and all the glory. When we are occupied only with how much we are loved by our wonderful Savior, and are enveloped by what He did for us, we will not even be conscious of the fact that we are following and obeying His commandments.

Shalom Shalom ‘Mishpachah’ ‘Family’!

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.

What’s The Connection Between Almonds and Olive Oil with Messiah and Lamp stands? Part 2

We left Part 1 with the question:

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

Scripture records that the pattern for the Menorah was given by God to Moses and almonds have specific meaning which was understood. We have seen the connection between the almond shaped receptacle for the olive oil at the top of each branch of the menorah. Only the Priest could tend the wicks and light them.

The next connection to Almonds was the Rod of Aaron:

Numbers 17:8 And it came to pass, that on the morrow Moses went into the tabernacle of witness; and, behold, the rod of Aaron for the house of Levi was budded, and brought forth buds, and bloomed blossoms, and yielded almonds.

8 Now on the next day Moses went into the tent of the testimony; and behold, the rod of Aaron for the house of Levi had sprouted and put forth buds and produced blossoms, and it bore ripe almonds. 9 Moses then brought out all the rods from the presence of the LORD to all the sons of Israel; and they looked, and each man took his rod.

Aaron’s Rod not only leafed out the next day, it also had flower buds, flowers, and even ripe almonds on the same stick! (Numbers 17:8).

Num. 17:1-5 God spoke to Moses: “Speak to the People of Israel. Get staffs from them—twelve staffs in all, one from the leader of each of their ancestral tribes. Write each man’s name on his staff. Start with Aaron; write Aaron’s name on the staff of Levi and then proceed with the rest, a staff for the leader of each ancestral tribe.”

The man’s name written on the sticks showed that it was the original one, but the growth in various stages of maturity also proves that no one had cut an almond branch and put it in its place.

Sometimes tribes are called Shevatim, which also means: supple BRANCH (still attached to the tree); sometimes they are called Matot, which means hard stick, cut off from the tree.

Although obvious that branches are alive and supple and growing when still attached to the tree and draw their strength from it and its roots; it must be noted that as we are grafted in, we too must stay connected to the tree of life. In our case this is Messiah Jesus/Yeshua HaMashiach, in order to stay alive and grow.

Aaron had his own staff. And it was Aaron’s staff which became a “serpent” before Pharaoh and which swallowed up the “serpents” of the magicians (Exodus 7:9-12). 

Possible symbolic prophetic meaning that death would be swallowed up in life.

The spiritual shown subduing and overcoming the natural. The Creator shown superior over His creation – good triumphing over evil.

Aarons staff was from the almond tree and every tree bears the fruit God created it to produce.

In Ex. 25:31-36 The golden candlestick is recorded and in Isaiah 11:1 the prophetic word declared that…

A shoot, rod or branch (cutting) is how olive trees are reproduced. Just as we are grafted in to Him and He reproduces Himself in us.

1 A shoot (rod) will come up from the stump of Jesse;
    from his roots a BRANCH will bear fruit.
2 The Spirit of the Lord will rest on him—
    the Spirit of wisdom and of understanding,
    the Spirit of counsel and of might,
    the Spirit of the knowledge and fear of the Lord—
3 and he will delight in the fear of the Lord.

He will not judge by what he sees with his eyes,
    or decide by what he hears with his ears;

4 but with righteousness he will judge the needy,
    with justice he will give decisions for the poor of the earth.
He will strike the earth with the rod of his mouth;
    with the breath of his lips he will slay the wicked.
5 Righteousness will be his belt
    and faithfulness the sash around his waist.

The Spirit of the LORD will rest on him— the Spirit of wisdom and of understanding, the Spirit of counsel and of might, the Spirit of the knowledge and fear of the LORD

Here the 7 Spirits of God are listed right along side the BRANCH connecting them there are 7 lamps and there is a confirming reference by John in Rev 4:5 – 7 lamps – 7 spirits.

Num 17:8-10; Jer 1:11-12

Has similar language

The budding of the staff/literally the BRANCH of an almond tree, is symbolic of resurrection life and fullness of God

and is typified in three elements connected to the menorah.

The Bud

the Flower

and

the Fruit.

See chart below for other symbolism.

The Priest is a picture of Yeshua/Jesus and represents man to God.

The Budding is a picture that assures us that HE IS our High Priest.

Apocalypse of the menorah – (revealing the meaning) – and the significance of the almond tree.

The shape reminds the onlooker of a flowering tree of life.

The Menorah was made from 1 piece and resembling a tree with branches, tradition says it also represents the tree of life that was present in the beginning – Beresheet.

The Tree of Life is in the Beginning – Genesis and at the end – Revelation.

On each of the six side arms were 3 golden almond blossoms and together with the 4 on the center shaft, there were exactly 22 almond blossoms. Between the 22 flowers, there are 21 connections. From the lowest flower to the top flower on the shaft to the 6 lamps, there are 3×8+3=27 connections, and together with the highest connection from the top flower on the shaft to the middle lamp, there are a total of 28 (4×7) connections. Together they are 50 parts + 7 lamps.

In Israel, toward the end of January, while the rest of the trees continue their winter slumber, the Almond Tree is the first to awaken to life and blooms.

Therefore, the white almond blossom is a symbol of life and purity.

God paid attention to the details from the very beginning; for He commanded that every single almond blossom on the Menorah should consist of three parts, namely, the cups, buds and blossoms (petals). Together they are 3 x 22=66 single flower parts.

The Menorah stood in the Tabernacle and in Solomon’s Temple. The Menorah also stood in the Temple of Herod in Jerusalem when Jesus was crucified.

The BIBLE: 7 parts, 49 scrolls with 66/70 books = the word of God = the light in this dark world.

Three of the many 7’s in Scripture:

7 Appointed Times

7 Spirits of God

7 Days of the week, etc.

Some symbolism meanings:

The pattern of the menorah was for 3 decorative cups to be on each of the 6 branches only on the main center branch was there to be 4 cups.

4 cups of the Passover meal! For the servant/shamash, was at the center of the Menorah.

The cups of the menorah remind the bride of the cups she drank during the marriage vows with her bridegroom at His Appointed Feasts, vowing to be His faithful bride.

The cups on the menorah and the branches were designed in the shape of open almond blossoms because as already noted, the almond tree represents first fruits and in Israel is the first tree to bloom after the winter. Just as we saw in song of Solomon.. the winter is past the spring has come she was watching for her beloved.

Jesus/Yeshua is the First Fruits from the dead and we are His first fruits. We like the rod of Aaron were dead outside of Jesus/Yeshua. When He redeemed us and was resurrected, then He raised us from death to life and we became His First Fruits. Ezek. 37:1-4

Was it also a reference to the burning bush or the almond tree or the type of sage that grows in Israel? Unless it is very clear, we don’t need to caught up too much in symbolism! However, there are some very clear ones with the blossoms and almond shapes.

How does an almond tree grow?

And what we can learn?

Today the temple of God is where He lives now, within the heart of the believer.

If believers do not know how to maintain the light of the menorah or preserve the bread of His presence, how will the bride know the timing of her wedding or be prepared to join her bridegroom?

The menorah is the only light in the Holy place.

Oil has been provided for the brides journey to light her way but, the oil can only be useful if the menorah has been maintained and the wicks are trimmed. Tended to daily by the priest.

Without the light the bride is unable to see the word, which is the bread of His presence and her path WAY Will be darkened. Maintaining the menorah will allow her to see clearly and find her way to her wedding.

The Lamp stand, the Menorah, represents the Messiah of Israel in John 8:12 Jesus said, I am the light of the world.

As the Bridegroom of Israel, He will light the path/WAY, to reveal the WAY of the bride.

The menorah is also a symbol of the brides mission.

As the Mishkan is to be made in the pattern given, when the bride walks in Jesus/Yeshua’s right ways, she will reflect His light to the nations. Isaiah 42:7

It is said that pure gold is one of the easiest metals to work with. It can be beaten into a transparent gold foil over 500 times thinner than the human hair. God required that the menorah was to be made using one piece of pure gold.

The cups of the menorah:

The pattern of the menorah required three decorative cups to be on each of the six branches extending from the lampstand.

The 3 cups of the six branches of the menorah are symbols which represent the commandment for the Israelites to come before the Lord at His Moedim/Appointed Times/ feasts, three times a year to worship Him. Deut. 16:16 – Devarim.

Only on the main shaft itself were there to be 4 cups. The cups on the menorah remind the bride of the cups she drank during the marriage vows with her bridegroom at His appointed feasts, vowing to be His faithful bride.

The first cup represents the cup of acceptance that the bride will drink at the first feast in the spring at the Passover and the 7 day Feast of Unleavened Bread.

The second cup represents the cup of betrothal the bride drinks at the second feast in late spring or early summer called the feast of Shavuot /Pentecost.

The third cup represents the cup the bride will drink at the 3rd Feast in the Autumn /Fall at the feast of Tabernacles/Sukkot. This will be the wedding (Yom Kippur/ atonement) and celebration cup at the wedding supper of the lamb. Sukkot/ tabernacles).

Only on the main shaft of the menorah, which is also called the branch, is there a 4th cup.

This BRANCH represents Messiah Jesus/Yeshua and the 4th cup represents the cup He drank on our behalf at His death – the cup of bitterness.

He took our cup in fulfillment of the law of jealousy, regarding a wife suspected of being unfaithful to her husband. Ex. 5:11-18; 25-28.

Believers are the ‘unfaithful bride’. In Jesus’s faithfulness to His bride and in fulfillment to the covenant He made with her, He took our cup and drank our judgment and our death upon Himself. This is the cup of judgment that sets us free and brought about our salvation and deliverance. Numbers 5:5 – 31; Luke 22:42.

The cups on the Menorah and the BRANCHES, were designed in the shape of open almond blossoms. The almond tree represents first fruits and as already noted, is the earliest tree to bloom after the winter in Israel. Jesus/Yeshua is the first fruits from the dead and we are His first fruits. We were dead (in our sins) outside of Jesus/Yeshua, when He redeemed us and raised us from death to life we became His first fruits. Ezek. 37:1–4.

The buds and blossoms of the menorah:

Gods’ pattern for the Menorah was to have buds and blossoms on the main branch as well as on the six branches. They were to be placed directly below the cups. These buds and blossoms represent how believers will start to bear seed and glorify Yeshua/Jesus bearing much fruit when they abide in His word. A solid piece of gold in the shape of a Menorah cannot stand on its own without some internal strength to support it.

Jesus/Yeshua has been tried and He is the living testimony, the true Menorah, the Light of the world. Only He can keep the covenant perfectly. His testimony is revealed in His Feasts/Appointed times/Moedim. He will be faithful to fulfill all that He has promised and appointed concerning His heirs.

The almond Blossom turns into fruit that contains an edible seed called a nut.

Almond in Hebrew is Shaqad (Strongs#H 8246 from the root verb Strongs# 8245) meaning to diligently watch.

Jeremiah 1:11 – 12

What do you see Jeremiah?

You have seen correctly for I am watching to see that My Word is fulfilled.

The bride is to diligently watch her ways, by rightly walking in His instructions and being obedient to His commandments as she eagerly waits for the return of her bridegroom, Jesus the Messiah/ Yeshua HaMashiach.

(Heres a reference back to the Song of Solomon 2:10–12.)

Notice the description begins at the base of the menorah and rises up through the description from the ground up from the earth to the heaven.

Base – shaft – knops and cups/blossoms in order.

When it begins before spring, the tree has only small buds on the branch, life is trying to push through.

It bends towards the light, receiving its’ nourishment from the stem to which it is attached; then the bud bursts into blossoms/flower and it gets its’ nutrients from the sun.

Then the blossom fades and falls away leaving a tiny green knop.

Even as a bud, technically it has within it the almond but that is not what we see. With continual feeding of the flower, it matures into the green shape of an almond, with a velvet like covering, which finally matures into a nut.

The outer shell is hard, pitted and tan in color. When fully ripe, inside this shell is the kernel or nut or fruit, which is protected from the elements.

It is always moving upwards to the light. Aarons rod showed all the stages of growth and had come to life.

When a branch is cut from a tree it loses its source of life and becomes a dead stick, a dead piece of almond wood that Aaron used as a staff to walk with; until it was submitted under the authority of God when it was imbued with new life and purpose.

This is just like our lives, death to life, everything with God is from death to life. This is symbolic of resurrection of coming back to life from death.

However, while the sacrifice of Jesus/Yeshua gives us atonement (כַּפָּרָה) with God, the resurrection of the Messiah (i.e., techiyat ha-Mashiach: תְּחִיַּת הַמָּשִׁיחַ) justifies His work of salvation on behalf of the sinner and forever vindicates the righteousness of God.

Techiyat HaMaitim – המתים תחיית – 

The Resurrection Of The Dead

Interesting note: We have seen that the Almond tree blossoms first, before all other trees in the spring and yet, it will be the last to drop its leaves in the fall; while the Olive tree is the last fruit to be harvested in the fall.

The husbandman of the orchard watches carefully for the Almond trees to bloom and burst forth in color; it is the signal to begin pruning his Olive trees! Those pruned are interior branches hidden from the light that would produce no fruit. Soon these broken off branches, littering the ground will be gathered, bundled and burned!  The pruned tree can then reach for the sun, breathe and will spend the growing season developing good fruit. 

At end of January /February, trees are clothed in spectacular white for only 2 weeks. It comes for a season and then its gone. Jesus’ resurrection is always likened to the blossoms of the almond tree and in 1Cor. 15:20-23 but now Christ is risen the first fruits!

Is the almond saying: this is how I am performing my word, He will die and will resurrect as the first fruits?

This interesting relationship between the Almond tree and the Olive tree illustrates our own relationship with the God of Israel – if we make the connections that exist between the Menorah of the Tabernacle….(described as an Almond Tree Ex 25:31-40) and the Oil for the Menorah which comes from the Olive Tree. This oil is to be brought to the Priest by the Children of Israel continually….(Ex 27:20).  In the natural earthly realm, the almond and olive trees represent the First and the Last to produce fruit.

In the spiritual realm, the inner intimate Holy Place of the Tabernacle – the almond tree and the oil come together and become one to produce and contain the light.

Helped by linen wicks, the olive oil in the almond-shaped cups bring forth the light that shines toward the bread, wine and incense on the table in the same room.  

John 17:21.. that they all may be one, as You, Father, are in Me, and I in You; that they also may be one in Us, that the world may believe that You sent Me.

According to John 6:29  … the ‘work’ of God is this: that you believe in Him whom He sent.

Oil represents both Word of Truth and Holy Spirit and it could be said that it is the work of the children of Israel to bring pure oil to keep the lamp of the tabernacle burning. (Ex 27:20)

 They were to bring the pure olive oil representing Truth and Instruction of His Word (Torah) and the Holy Spirit (Ruach).  Jesus/Yeshua/The Word, said that we would… worship the Father in Spirit and Truth. (John 4:24)

When we think this through, we see that the gold Menorah shaped like an almond tree, together with the pure oil from the olives representing the Torah and Spirit; becomes symbolic of the burning bush/tree that would not consume itself.

Our God is a consuming fire to those who are not one with Him, and if we are one with Him will not be consumed. We can draw near and become one with Him because of the finished work of Messiah….if we believe that He is the One sent forth from the Father.

No one comes to the Father except through Messiah. Even as Jesus/Yeshua told the Samaritan woman: the Father is seeking those who will one day worship Him in Spirit and in Truth; represented spiritually by the pure Olive Oil brought continually by the Children of Israel to the Priest tending the Menorah.  

Matthew 5:16  Let your light so shine before men, that they may see your good works and glorify your Father in heaven.

Are our lives like the Menorah giving His Light and Life to a dying world?

Conclusion in Part 3 – including what did Jeremiah see?

Shalom Shalom ‘Mishpachah’ ‘Family’!

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.

 

Midweek Mannabite – A Time For Everything

Matthew 1:23

They shall called His Name Emmanuel.

Matt. 1:23; Luke 1:35

Hallelujah’s fill the air.

A star leads the way.

A Mother’s tired sigh,

And a baby soft cry

Shepherds kneel and wise men bow

And the heavenly host sing,

For in the Bethlehem manger

Is the newborn King.

Thank God He came…

©1gratefulheart.

 

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

Luke 2:10, 11

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

This story would have ended at Malachi in The Bible if Messiah Jesus/Yeshua had not come.

May our hearts and prayers reach out to the ends of the earth, to those who have no ‘Christmas day’, in that they have no good news of the Savior King.

Nehemiah 8:10

“Send portions to them for whom nothing is prepared”.

He was born INTO this world not FROM it.

He did not emerge OUT of history.

He came INTO history FROM the outside.

He is not man BECOMING God, He is God incarnate BECOMING INTO human flesh FROM OUTSIDE it.

He must also COME INTO us from OUTSIDE. Galatians 4:19

All lives must become a

Bethlehem for God’s Son –

A house of bread..

we must be born again. John 3:7

For all those who are tired and weary at this time, or those who are alone during this season. Be encouraged and know that He sees you and loves you very much.

Consider 1Kings 19:7

For this is what He did for His tired servant.

The journey is too great for thee and I am going to refresh you.

He gave him something good to eat and put him to sleep.

Elijah had done an amazing thing but it has been too much for his physical strength; and then the inevitable result became clear and he became depressed.

Every human being has a physical need to be cared for and what many people want and need is a good nights sleep, plus whatever else ails them physically needs to be attended to.

Throughout the generations many have ended up under the Juniper tree!

Here is where it is very soothing to hear the words of Jesus.

The journey is too great for you and I am going to refresh you.

He also told His disciples to..

Come apart and rest awhile. Mark 6:31

Here we must remember not to confuse physical weariness with spiritual weakness.

There comes a time when we need to recharge our batteries…

Be encouraged while reading the following lines:

When we are too tired to trust and too tired to pray and our over taxed strength gives way, the thought comes to mind, just drop it all and rest.

Then we wonder if God will forgive us if we go right to sleep just as a baby does, without asking if we may and without even trying to trust and pray.

We should remember that before we could even talk those raising us did not deny us needed rest and did not refuse to cradle us while we slept.

Those watching over us were quick to see what we needed and to make provision for our natural necessities and to guard us and keep us safe.

It’s okay to just drop it all and give up to rest – Our Heavenly Father knows all about it and we just need to go to sleep as a baby does.

He knows when His child is too tired to pray and does not judge us alone by the prayers we say, because He knows our innermost heart.

  1. He called a little child to him, and placed the child among them. 3.  And he said: “Truly I tell you, unless you change and become like little children, you will never enter the kingdom of heaven.” 

He knows when we do pray and He knows when we do trust and He knows the limits of our human bodies. This was evident in the garden when He told His disciples to take their rest, while He took upon Himself the burden that no one else could bear.

Then he cometh to his disciples, and saith to them: Sleep ye now and take your rest. Matthew 26:45

If we are saved then we have given our life up to Him to keep, so we don’t need to be afraid to go right to sleep.

Ps 37:7 Rest in the LORD because rest allows our mind, body, and soul to renew and then continue with even more strength and focus. 

Psalm 27

Isaiah 40:31 but those who hope in the LORD will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint.

Is 40:29 The LORD gives strength to those who are weary. 

He strengthens those who are weak and tired. He gives strength to the weary and strengthens the powerless. He’s the one who gives might to the faint, renewing strength for the powerless.

Rest in the Lord.

He knows you are facing challenges.

He’s just waiting for you to run to Him. The Savior understands.

In fact, as the word of God says in Hebrews 4:15, He is touched by the feeling of our infirmities. The Lord empathizes with you. You are not alone.

Just be quiet and confident in Him, be anxious for nothing and cast all your cares upon Him.

Psalm 4:8 In peace I will both lay myself down and sleep, for you alone, LORD, make me live in safety. 

And I shall lie down and sleep, because you, Lord Jehovah, make me dwell alone in stillness.

I fall asleep in peace the moment I lie down because you alone, O LORD, enable me to live securely.

Shalom – peace and rest to all family and friends!

Let the love of Our Heavenly Father sustain and encompass us as we learn to rest in Him and He will give us strength.

Please Don’t leave this page until you are certain He is the giver of your rest. 

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.