A Place Called Gethsemane

A place called Gethsemane

appears in the gospels,

(Matthew 26:36,38 and Luke 22:39-71),

immediately after Passover meal, and

right before Messiahs arrest and subsequent crucifixion.

The Hebrew word for Passover

comes from the Hebrew verb

פָּסַח – pasach,

meaning: to pass over or to spare.

The Greek equivalent used in the New Testament to refer to the Passover is

G3957 – πάσχα – pascha

If you are new to this term pesach/Passover, it refers to the 1st of 7 Biblical Appointed Times given by the Lord to be celebrated annually.

(Posts on the 7 Feasts can be found listed on homepage.)

Pesach/Passover commemorates the Israelites’ deliverance from slavery in Egypt. The account can be found in Exodus 12 and tells of the sacrificial lamb that was killed and the meal that followed. This is where Adonai instructed the Israelites to sacrifice a lamb and mark their doorposts and lintel with its blood.

This act was to protect them from the final plague that struck Egypt, the death of the firstborn. The festival is celebrated on the 14th day of the Hebrew month of Nisan usually in the months of March and April in the Gregorian calendar. (In 2025 it is today April 12th).

This celebration marks the beginning of the week long annual Appointed Time of Unleavened Bread. It is a time of remembrance and gratitude for the Lords’ salvation and faithfulness, symbolizing redemption and deliverance. Messiah was the prophetic fulfillment of this appointed time, and in Hebrew they are called Moedim. He was the Passover/pesach lamb.

During this Passover/Pesach  פָּ֫סַח season

our attention is once again drawn to the places

where Messiah spent His last hours.

One very well known location is

a place called Gethsemane.

 

The name Gethsemane

stems from an Aramaic phrase often translated

oil press;

highlighting that the area functioned as an olive orchard, where oil was extracted from olives.

The word is of Aramaic origin, from

גת שמנא – gath shemanim, meaning: oil press,

and the Hebrew equivalent is

גת שמנא –gath shemanim,

which directly translates to

oil press, gath and shemen.

Strongs# 1660 gath: Winepress

Original Word: גַּת
Transliteration: gath
Pronunciation: gath
Phonetic Spelling: gath
Meaning: a wine-press. From an unused root meaning to tread out grapes.

The Greek word G3025 (ληνός, lenos): 

 and refers to a winepress in the New Testament, used in contexts such as the parable of the wicked tenants in Matthew 21:33.

The Hebrew word gath refers to a winepress, which was a structure or device used for extracting juice from grapes during the winemaking process. In biblical times, winepresses were often hewn out of rock or constructed from stone.

Vineyards and wine production played a crucial role in the agricultural, economic and daily life of ancient Israel. The winepress was a symbol of abundance and blessing, as wine and was a staple in the diet and used in religious rituals. The process of treading grapes in a winepress was labor-intensive and often a communal activity. Winepresses are frequently mentioned in the Bible as metaphors for judgment and blessing, reflecting their dual role in both providing physical sustenance and spiritual symbolism.

The four cups of wine in the Passover Seder reflect the Lords four actions of redemption, as described in Exodus 6:6-7.

They stand for each of the four promises the Lord makes to His people.

The Cup of Sanctification

I will bring you out from under the burdens of the Egyptians.

The Cup of Deliverance

I will rescue you from their bondage.

The Cup of Redemption

I will redeem you with an outstretched arm.

The Cup of Praise

I will take you as My people.

(Described in more detail later in this post).

Strongs #8081 shemen: Oil

Original Word: שֶׁמֶן
Transliteration: shemen
Pronunciation: SHEH-men
Phonetic Spelling: (sheh’-men)
Definition: Oil, grease, liquid, richness, which is derived from an unused root meaning to shine or be oily. from shamen fat, oil.
NASB Translation
choice (1), fatness (2), fertile (2), fertile* (1), lavish (1), oil (176), oils (3), ointment (1), olive (6), wild* (1).

Corresponding Greek #1637 (elaion): Olive oil, used in similar contexts as shemen, for anointing and as a symbol of the Holy Spirit.

Also #5548 (chriō): To anoint, often used in the New Testament to describe the anointing of Yeshua/Jesus and believers with the Holy Spirit/Ruach haKodesh.

The Hebrew word shemen primarily refers to oil, particularly olive oil, which was also a staple in ancient Israelite culture. It was and still is used in various contexts, including anointing, cooking, lighting lamps, and as a symbol of abundance and blessing. In the religious context, oil was used for anointing priests, kings, and sacred objects, signifying consecration and the presence of the Holy Spirit. In ancient Israel, olive oil was a valuable commodity, essential for daily life and religious practices. It was used in offerings and as a base for anointing oils and perfumes. Because olive oil production was a significant agricultural activity, and its abundance was often seen as a sign of the Heavenly Father’s blessing. The process of extracting oil from olives involved crushing and pressing, which is metaphorically significant in many biblical texts.

Rather than ‘a garden’ as we would imagine, the name Gethsemane reflects its more likely use as an olive press, indicating its connection to olive groves and because olive oil was a staple in the Mediterranean diet and economy, olive presses were common in areas with olive groves.

The Mount of Olives, where Gethsemane is located, was a significant site in Jewish tradition and prophecy.

The garden’s setting provided a secluded place for prayer and reflection, away from the bustling city of Jerusalem

and

we are told in Acts 1:12.

was a

“Sabbath day’s walk from the city.” 

 

The pressing of grapes and olives correlates symbolically with the pressure Yeshua/Jesus felt the night before His crucifixion.

Many interpreters have pointed out the powerful parallel between the crushing and pressing of olives to produce oil,

the crushing and pressing of grapes to produce wine;

and Messiah experiencing

the crushing and pressing of intense sorrow and grief

before His ultimate sacrifice.

John notes in 18:1 that Jesus “went out with His disciples across the Kidron Valley” and entered a garden familiar to them.

This place of olive trees and oil press was known as a garden being located across the Kidron Valley on the

Mount of Olives (Hebrew Har ha-Zetim).

This was a ridge paralleling the eastern part of Jerusalem, and in reality is an olive orchard at the foot of the Mount of Olives.

In Matthew 26:38, Messiah reveals that His soul is

“consumed with sorrow to the point of death.”

This extreme pressure reflects how He willingly stepped into the role of the sacrificial Lamb, bearing the weight of humanity’s sins, John 1:29.

The prayerful agony in Gethsemane highlights His full humanity experiencing that stress and grief, while also highlighting His resolve to complete the Fathers plan of redemption.

In Luke 22:44 we are told that His sweat became like drops of blood falling to the ground, a profound picture that some modern medical experts link to extreme stress. This condition, known as hematidrosis, and although rare, it has been documented in medical literature, further showing both the historical and physiological reliability of the Gospel accounts.

        

Without doubt we can never fully comprehend Messiah’s agony in that garden but neither should we set it to the side; because it is the agony of the One True God and Man at the same time, coming face to face with sin. It was the event of the ages, which was Holiness meeting with that which is evil and out of harmony with everything that He is. We cannot learn about Gethsemane through personal experience. Gethsemane and Calvary represent something totally unique, they are the gateway the doorway into life for us. The door, the dalith, Whom Yeshua/Jesus said He was.

The door, the dalet/dalith, for the sheep.

Strong’s Hebrew: 1808. דָּלִיּוֹת (dalith) —

Door, Doorpost. Derived from the root דָּלַל (dalal),

which means “to hang” or “to be low.”

In John 10:9-16 Yeshua tells us that He is not only the shepherd of His sheep, but also the door of the sheep. In doing so, He is inviting us to be part of His sheepfold.

Because He had stated very clearly in John 18:37, that He came with the express purpose to die. So, it was not just the death He was about to endure on the cross that Yeshua/Jesus agonized over in Gethsemane. He knew He was the Lamb of God that takes away the sin of the world, just as John the Baptist knew and declared it publicly as recorded in John 1:29.

Is it possible that His concern was that He might not get through this struggle as the incarnate son, understanding the human flesh side of His nature and physical being? He was surely confident of getting through it as the only begotten Son of God, satan could not reach Him spiritually, there He was untouchable. However satans assault was that Messiah would come through for us on His own as the son in His humanity. If Yeshua /Jesus had done that He could not have been our Savior. In Hebrews 9:11-15 we can read the record of His agony in light of his earlier wilderness temptations. In Luke 4:13, The devil departed for a more opportune time/season and in Gethsemane, satan came back with his temptations and accusations, but he was overthrown once again. It would seem that the final assault against the humanity of Yeshua/Jesus was in

a place called Gethsemane.

The agony in Gethsemane was the agony in fulfilling His destiny as the Savior of the world. The biblical accounts reveal all that it cost Him to make it possible for us to become sons of God; and the simplicity of our salvation was won on the foundation of His indescribable agony which should make us think more deeply into its meaning!

The cross of Messiah/Christ was a triumph for Him, both as the son of man and the son of God. It was not only a sign that He had triumphed but that he had triumphed to save the human race. Because of what He went through, every human being has been provided with a way of access into the very presence of the Heavenly Father.

The cross of Messiah is the revealed truth of our Heavenly Fathers judgment on sin. We should never think of the cross of Yeshua/Jesus as a martyr’s death because on the contrary, it was the supreme triumph of all time and it shook hells foundations. There is nothing in time and eternity more absolutely certain and irrefutable than what Yeshua/Jesus accomplished on that cross. He made it possible for the entire human race to be brought back into a right standing relationship with YHVH. He made redemption the foundation of human life, that is, He made a way for every person to have fellowship with our Heavenly Father and to become His children in a loving relationship of true family. His mission, HIs destiny was hidden until it was finished and why the word tells us in 1Cor. 2:8 that if satan had realized beforehand, he would never have crucified the Lord of Glory. It was the mystery of the gospel of the kingdom of heaven, hidden, but now revealed. Ephesians 3.

The cross was not something that happened to Him, it wasn’t something The Father didn’t know about, He came to die, the cross was His purpose in coming.

How many times did He walk past the lines of people, crucified by the Romans along the road to Jerusalem, knowing one day He would also be hung on a stake?

He is the lamb slain from the foundation of the world – the redemption plan was always set in place from the very beginning. Rev. 13:8.

The incarnation of Messiah would have no meaning without the cross. We should be mindful of not separating that YHVH was manifested in the flesh …from, He made Him to be sin for us.

1Tim. 3:16 and 2 Cor. 5:21.

The purpose of the incarnation was redemption. Our Heavenly Father came in the flesh to take sin away not to accomplish something for Himself. The cross is the central event in time and eternity and the answer to the problems of both. The cross is not the cross of a man, but the cross of the King of the Universe, and it can never be fully comprehended through human experience; because the cross is Him exhibiting His nature. It’s the gate, the door, through which any and every individual can enter into oneness with Him, but it is not a gate we pass right through, it’s one where we abide in the life/chaim that is found there.

The heart of salvation is the cross of Christ. The reason salvation is so easy to obtain is that is cost Him so very much. After a place called Gethsemane, the cross was the place where the One True God and sinful man collided, and where the way to eternal life with Him was opened; and His heart absorbed all the agony of that collision. The reason that He was able to do this at all, began with Abram and the covenant that the Father and Messiah made themselves; Genesis 15:17. It came to pass that, when the sun went down, and it was dark, look, a smoking furnace, and a flaming torch passed between these pieces.

It was not Abram who walked between the parts of the sacrificed animals. It was not Abram who made the covenant with God, or Abrams life would have had to pay the price for the broken covenant. Our Heavenly Father made it with Himself, so when the penalty had to be paid, it was He Himself Who was legally bound to pay with His own life. This life that had to be sacrificed, came in the form of His only begotten Son; Who as the sinless Lamb of God was the perfect offering, Whose blood covered all sin for all time. No more blood sacrifice has ever been and will not ever be needed…

It is finished and we are redeemed.

Every last will and testament/covenant cannot be ratified or fulfilled until the death of the one who made the will. With Messiah s death all the promises of the covenant /testament/will have come into being. And because He rose again in resurrection life, the new-renewed and better covenant is now in effect …eternally. We need a greater understanding of what went before for thousands of years, in order to fully appreciate what we have now been given through the promises of Messiahs victory over sin, death, hell and the grave.

The place called Gethsemane is a reminder of the wine press, the crushing of the grapes, and the part of the Seder Passover meal that includes the 4 cups of wine. This was the custom in Messiahs day and all followed the annual moedim.

For those new to this explanation, below is a brief overview of the 4 cups and their relationship to the 4 promises mentioned previously from Exodus 6:6-7.

Four cups of wine are poured during the course of the Seder.

The first cup is the cup of sanctification.

When drinking the cup of sanctification those at the meal recite, “I will bring you out from Egypt.” Because the children of Israel were enslaved in Egypt for 400 years, many had become bitter, having begun as guests but with time they became slaves and the yoke of slavery was burdensome and heavy. During Passover, we remember how our Heavenly Father brought the children of Israel out from slavery and made them into a great nation with a purpose and calling—to be a light to the nations (Isaiah 42:6, Isaiah 49:6, Acts 13:47) and to bring Messiah Yeshua/ Jesus into the world. Without the Jewish people, without Passover, we would not have the Messiah. When drinking the cup of sanctification, we remember YHVH bringing Israel out of slavery and the miracle that the Messiah came through the line of David. 

The 2nd cup reminds us of our deliverance from sin and death, that both Jew and Gentile, are under God’s judgment unless they accept salvation, that is, substitutionary atonement, through Yeshua/Jesus the Messiah Romans 5:9, 1 Cor. 15:1-5, John 14:6. The children of Israel could not just rely on their position as Israelites. They had to respond to the method that our Heavenly Father chose, which was the slaying of the Pesach/Passover lamb .We should humbly remember that just as the children of Israel escaped Egypt in haste, so our time on earth is fleeting – each moment is precious. 

The third cup of the Passover/Pesach Seder is The Cup of Redemption and is the first cup to be drunk after the meal. It is believed that it is the Cup of Redemption that Yeshua/Jesus instructed the disciples to partake of in the last supper, as both accounts in Matthew 26:27 and Luke 22:19 describe the cup being taken after the meal. Luke’s account in 22:15 even refers to the last meal Yeshua/Jesus had with his disciples as Passover. In this verse specifically, Messiah tells His disciples:

“I have earnestly desired to eat this Passover with you before I suffer.”

The Cup of Redemption traditionally signifies the slaying of the Passover lamb that spared the Israelites from the 10th plague of the slaying of the first born. This cup traditionally remembers how the Lord redeems Israel with an outstretched arm. It is very significant when Messiah tells His disciples that the wine in this cup is

My blood of the covenant, which is poured out for many for forgiveness of sins. 

As the blood of the Passover Lamb covered the believing Israelites and Egyptians back in Egypt, so the Blood of Messiah covers Jewish and Gentile believers today.

The 4th cup of the Seder is the Cup of Praise. When drinking this cup, there is singing and rejoicing that Israel was made into a nation at Sinai. The leader of the Seder says that the Lord has remembered them; and to this day, our Heavenly Father has remembered the everlasting covenant that He made with Abraham in Genesis 17:7. Traditionally the song called in Hebrew Dayenu, meaning: “it would have been enough” is sung together with psalms of praise. In the song Dayenu, the words thank our Heavenly Father for delivering us from the Egyptians, bringing them through the Sea of Reeds, and bringing them forth as Am Yisrael, the people of Israel. There is a hope when drinking this 4th cup, that our Heavenly Father will forgive, restore the Jewish people, bring them back to the Land of Israel and that the Messiah will return.

Messiah sanctifies us – “And for their sakes I sanctify Myself, that they also may be sanctified by the truth” John 17:19.

Messiah delivers us – “And you shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free” John 8:32.

Messiah redeems us – “But when the fullness of the time had come, God sent forth His Son, born of a woman, born under the law, to redeem those who were under the law, that we might receive the adoption as sons” Galatians 4:4-5.

Messiah is our joy /praise – “These things I have spoken to you, that My joy may remain in you, and that your joy may be full” John 15:11.

Three things we can learn:

Dependence on Prayer:

Obedience to God’s Will:

and Vigilance:

A place called Gethsemane underscores the necessity of profound, earnest prayer during times of crisis. Messiah’s willingness to endure unimaginable stress prior to bearing sin for the world, emphasizes total submission to divine plans. The disciples’ weakness in staying awake, warns believers about spiritual alertness and the ease of complacency.

A place called Gethsemane continues to serve as a powerful reminder that sincere prayer, unwavering submission to God, and triumph over human weakness are central to a life rooted in truth and devotion.

The Passover/Pesach is truly our moment to remember that we have passed over from death to life, and to never to take lightly, or for granted, the power of the cross and His sacrificial atoning death and resurrection.

Other posts on this, Pesach /Passover and week of Unleavened Bread can be found in the archives. Some links below for those new to the site.

https://www.minimannamoments.com/palm-sunday-nisan-the-appointed-time-of-the-lamb/

https://www.minimannamoments.com/not-passing-over-passover-week/

https://www.minimannamoments.com/unleavened-bread-matzot-week/

https://www.minimannamoments.com/first-fruits/

https://www.minimannamoments.com/a-lot-can-happen-in-a-week/

https://www.minimannamoments.com/even-more-can-happen-in-and-around-the-same-week/

https://www.minimannamoments.com/midweek-mannabite-secrets-of-the-seder-plate/

https://www.minimannamoments.com/unleavened-bread-matzot-week/

https://www.minimannamoments.com/more-than-one-palm/

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

https://www.minimannamoments.com/13-for-supper-and-only-4-cups/

https://www.minimannamoments.com/pesach-emunah-for-his-am-segulah/

https://www.minimannamoments.com/pesach-emunah-for-his-am-segulah-part-2/

https://www.minimannamoments.com/afikomen-mysterious-and-hidden/

https://www.minimannamoments.com/where-was-keifa-the-week-of-chag-hamatzot/

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

https://www.minimannamoments.com/a-greater-exodus/

Shalom, shalom mishpachah/family

and cheverim/friends!

It’s all about Life and Relationship,

NOT Religion.

You are greatly loved and precious in His sight.

NOT SURE?

YOU CAN BE..

SAY THE FOLLOWING FROM YOUR HEART RIGHT NOW…

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

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

Another Rock

In the previous post we looked at

Psalm 18:2 and asked the question:

Who is a rock?

The Hebrew word for rock 

in this verse in Psalm 18 is:

sale’i or sal·‘î.

sal·‘î
סַֽלְעִ֥י
my rock
N‑msc | 1cs

As a post-script to last week, there is another Hebrew word used in the Bible for rock and that is:

sela   סלע 

It is found in that well known verse in 2 Samuel 22:2

And he said, The LORD [is] my rock,

and my fortress,

and my deliverer;

 In this verse the word

rock/sela’

means:

a fortress.

Strongs #5553 [e]

Part of Speech: Noun Masculine
Transliteration: cela`
Pronunciation: seh’-lah
Phonetic Spelling: seh’-lah
Definition: Rock, cliff
Meaning: a craggy rock from an unused root meaning to be lofty; a craggy rock, literally or figuratively (a fortress) — (ragged) rock, stone(-ny), strong hold.

Corresponding Greek: – G4073 (πέτρα, petra): Often used in the New Testament to describe a large rock or bedrock, similar to “sela” in its metaphorical use for strength and stability.

The Hebrew word “sela” primarily refers to a rock or cliff, often used to describe a large, immovable mass of stone. It conveys the idea of strength, stability, and permanence. In the biblical context, “sela” is frequently used metaphorically to describe God as a refuge and source of protection for His people. In the ancient Near East, rocks and cliffs were significant geographical features that provided natural fortresses and places of refuge. They were often associated with safety and security, especially in the arid and mountainous regions of Israel. The imagery of God as a “rock” would have resonated deeply with the Israelites, who understood the protective and enduring nature of such formations.

 It is a fortress built literally into a rock.  The place called Petra is the same word as the Greek word πέτραl, and it is the best example of a sela’.

In the 4th Century BC it was the capital of the Nabataean Kingdom.  It’s a historic and archaeological city in southern Jordan and has been a location used in modern times by several film-makers.

This city was carved out of a stone mountain and the inhabitants were able to successfully defend themselves against enemy attacks by taking advantage of the mountainous terrain in that area.

In ancient times those under threat of an enemy army would run for the safety they found in the mountains. Whoever made it to the highest ground often had the best defensive position.  

No doubt that is where we get the familiar saying; “It’s time to head for the hills.”

As believers in Messiah Jesus Christ/Yeshua haMashiach we are in a war, it is a spiritual war against evil led by the enemy of our souls.  The sure way we defeat the enemy is to go to The Rock.  

The Rock of our salvation/deliverance.

The Rock of Ages.

The Hebrew word sela’ for rock used in this verse really means the cleft of the rock.

The term “cleft of the rock” appears in the Bible as a significant symbol of

divine protection,

refuge,

and revelation.

The cleft is an opening or a split in the mountain, which is the safest place to hide when pursued by the enemy in early times.  it’s difficult sometimes to be in the cleft of the rock where our Heavenly Father has placed us, but that’s the best place to be, because it’s the center of His will for our lives.

Last post we learned that a Hebrew word for

fortress is matsud/matsuwd, 

which has its origins in the word for:

a prey and

one that is hunted or being chased.

4686

matsuwd: Fortress, stronghold, net, bulwark

Original Word: מָצוּד
Part of Speech: Noun Feminine
Transliteration: matsuwd
Pronunciation: maw-tsood’
Phonetic Spelling: maw-tsood’
Definition: Fortress, stronghold, net, bulwark
Meaning: a net, capture, a fastness. From the root verb צוּד (tsuwd), meaning “to hunt” or “to lie in wait.”

The word eventually took on the idea of a fortress

for the one being chased will seek a sela’ or a fortress.

So the Lord is a sela’ for the matsud meaning:

The Lord is the fortress

in the cleft of the rock

for those being pursued or hunted.

The word sela’ is a word play on the Hebrew word selah which means: to rise up.  In ancient times the army which achieved the higher ground was the army that could not be defeated.  As we go to war against the enemy, we need to:

rise up and take shelter in the cleft of the rock,

which is the heart of our heavenly Father.

The safest place to be is in the center of His will and that is His heart.

Then finally Adonai is the Deliverer.  

The one being hunted or pursued not only finds Adonai to be

a fortress in the cleft of the rock or sela’

but He will also deliver us from those that are pursuing us.

The Hebrew word deliverer is palat,

which is a word that is used for:

one who helps another person escape from a prison.

6403 palat

Original Word: פָלַט
Part of Speech: Verb
Transliteration: palat
Pronunciation: pah-LAHT
Phonetic Spelling: paw-lat’
Definition: To deliver, to rescue, to escape
Meaning: to slip out, escape, to deliver

palat — To deliver, to rescue, to escape. The Hebrew verb “palat” primarily conveys the action of delivering or rescuing someone from danger or distress. It is often used in contexts where divine intervention is implied, highlighting God’s role as a deliverer.

The term can also refer to the act of escaping from a perilous situation, emphasizing the successful evasion of harm.

 In the ancient Near Eastern context, the concept of deliverance was deeply intertwined with the belief in divine protection and intervention. The Israelites often found themselves in situations where they needed deliverance, whether from physical enemies, natural disasters, or spiritual oppression. The use of “palat” in the Hebrew Bible reflects a worldview where God is seen as a powerful and active deliverer, capable of saving His people from any threat.

Our Heavenly Father not only hides us in the

‘cleft of the rock’, 

but when the danger is passed,

He will lead us out of that secure place into a place of safety.

‘Rock of Ages‘ is a well known hymn by Rev. A. M. Toplady.

Another hymn about the cleft of the rock was written by Fanny Crosby. She was blind from the age of 7 and without doubt faced fears that we who have our sight will never understand; and yet between 1820-1915 she wrote 3194 hymns and over 8,000 inspirational poems. Probably the best known include ‘Blessed Assurance’,

‘Tell me the story of Jesus’

and the one that reflects this post:

‘He hideth my soul in the cleft of the rock’.

Many people struggle with fears of various things, some may seem unreasonable, but nevertheless they are fears.

To overcome those fears we too can find safety in the sela’, the cleft of the rock, where our Heavenly Father eventually palat, led her, as He will with us into a safe place.

It is a possibility that the psalmist wrote the word sela’ because he was making a play on the word selah which means: to rise above.

Selah, (Hebrew סֶלָה), is a short but meaningful term woven into the fabric of the Psalms and Habakkuk. While its exact meaning may encompass: pause, exalt, or lift up, rise above; the overall effect is to draw readers and worshipers into deeper contemplation of our Heavenly Father’s majesty, mercy, and mighty acts.

When our Heavenly Father palat’s us, or delivers us,

we too will selah – rise above all our troubles and be at peace/shalom,

as we keep our mind focused on Him.

Isaiah 26:3 Thou wilt keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on thee; because he trusteth in thee.

We can be certain of this because Yeshua is the Rock of our salvation, and the phrase occurs several times in the Old Testament. TaNaKH – Deuteronomy 32:15; 2 Samuel 22:47; Psalm 89:26; 95:1.

The term “The Rock of our Salvation” is a profound biblical metaphor that signifies

the strength,

stability,

and reliability

of our Heavenly Father,

as the foundation of faith and deliverance for His people.

Ps 62:2. God alone is the mighty rock that keeps me safe and the fortress where I am secure. He only is my rock and my salvation: he is my high tower; I shall not be greatly moved. He alone is my rock and my salvation; He is my fortress; I will not be shaken. My salvation and my honor rest on God, my strong rock; my refuge is in God.”

In 1 Corinthians 10:4, Paul refers to Christ as the spiritual rock that accompanied the Israelites: “And all drank the same spiritual drink. For they drank from the spiritual rock that accompanied them, and that Rock was Christ.”

The depiction of our Heavenly Father as the Rock of Salvation, carries significant spiritual implications. It highlights His immutability and faithfulness, assuring all believers of His constant presence and support; and particularly in reference to the Israelites journey through the wilderness and ours through this life. He is always with us and this metaphor also emphasizes His role as a protector and deliverer, offering salvation and refuge to those who trust in Him.

Furthermore, the identification of Messiah as the spiritual rock in the New Testament/Brit Chadashah, highlights the continuity of our Heavenly Fathers ongoing work of salvation from the Old Testament to the New. It affirms the belief that Yeshua/Jesus is the ultimate fulfillment of the Fathers promise of salvation, providing a firm foundation for the faith of believers.

He indeed is the rock of ages and the idea that He is, simply means that,

He is stedfast and true,

unmoving, unyielding,

and He does not change.

Hebrews 13:8 affirms, 

Jesus Christ is the same yesterday, today, and forever.

The expression

cleft of the rock, 

is found in

Exodus 33:22.

When my glory passes by, I will put you in a cleft in the rock and cover you with my hand until I have passed by.

The word sela’ is a word play on the word

selah which means:

to rise up.  

In ancient times the army which achieved the higher ground was the army that could not be defeated.  As we continue to fight the good fight of faith against the enemy, we need

to rise up and

take shelter in the cleft of the rock

which is our Fathers’ heart 

and is most assuredly

the safest place to be!

Shalom, shalom mishpachah/family

and cheverim/friends!

It’s all about Life and Relationship,

NOT Religion.

You are greatly loved and precious in His sight.

NOT SURE?

YOU CAN BE..

SAY THE FOLLOWING FROM YOUR HEART RIGHT NOW…

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

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

Who Is A Rock, A Fortress And A Shield?

The Psalms are some of the most popular chapters in the Bible. Many will turn to them in stressful times for comfort, encouragement and direction; and Psalm 18 is no exception. In verse 2 David writes that…

“The Lord is my rock and my fortress, and my deliverer, my God, my strength in whom I will trust.” Psalms 18:2:

He wrote this Psalm after he had been delivered from Saul by the Lords intervention. Finding himself caught in a situation where he could neither retreat, nor could he move to his left or right, and standing still was not an option; so moving forward was the only way, right towards the enemy. It’s not just David that experiences that kind of situation because when a believer seeks to deepen his or her relationship with the Lord, the enemy will attempt to distract and dissuade any progress with outright attacks. This is what we usually understand as spiritual warfare.

This often happens when we have been energized and filled with the enthusiasm and zeal of the Lord, and the minute we move forward it seems like the target on our back flashes a signal to every negative spirit around. Initially it can make us stop in our tracks and wonder if our decision was a bad one and maybe it would be better to just stay right where we are in that comfort zone.

At this point we are in the same situation as David found himself, we can’t go back, and in going forward we will without doubt run into yet another obstacle or hindrance. This is the moment of faith and trust, and the decision we make will determine not only the way forward, but whether the outcome will be victorious or not. Instead of the flesh winning the fight here, telling us to go to bed and pull the covers over our heads; we must turn to our Heavenly Father just as David did, and in faith declare out loud..

“The Lord is my rock

and my fortress,

and my deliverer,

my God,

my strength in whom I will trust.”

It will change our perspective and build up our faith…

how?

… because

faith comes by hearing and hearing by the word of God.

So we need to keep saying it

until we really believe it

and the words have taken root in our hearts and minds.

Our Heavenly Fathers says in

Isaiah 55:11

and like David we will discover that

in such a predicament, our Heavenly Father is our “rock”. 

The Hebrew word for rock

 in this verse is 

sale’i.

5553 [e]
sal·‘î
סַֽלְעִ֥י
my rock
N‑msc | 1cs

This is the kind of rock that serves as a shelter. 

In this way as for David, our Heavenly Father is

a rock – a sale’i …

one that we can hide behind as we make our way forward.

 It sounds like an answer however, how do we do that?

How do we get behind this rock? 

The same reference to a rock as is in 2 Samuel 22:2.

Here, as we have done many times before, we can look at the letters in the word which help us with our study.

The Hebrew letters of the word salei are:

samek, lamed, ayin.

סַֽלְעִ֥י

Samek which represents a shelter 

that comes through the

Lamed which indicates prayer

and through this Lamed or prayer

you will receive the

Ayin which is spiritual insight or discernment.

Every time our aim and desire is to move closer towards our Heavenly Father, we need to pray for spiritual insight and the ability to discern. 

In Ps. 18 verse 2, our Heavenly Father was also a fortress for David,

 The Hebrew word used in this verse for fortress is ‘aved 

which means stronghold and also to hold captive.

מְצוּדָה  noun feminine fastness, stronghold;

— absolute ׳מ 1 Samuel 22:4 +, מְצֻדֶה 2 Samuel 5:9, construct מְצֻדַת 2 Samuel 5:7; suffix מְצוּדָתִי Psalm 18:3 

The Hebrew word matsuwd (mesud)

primarily refers to

a place of defense or protection,

such as a fortress or stronghold.

It can also imply a trap or net, indicating:

a place where one might be ensnared.

The term is used metaphorically in the Bible to describe:

Adonai’s protection, or the security that is found in Him.

In ancient Israel, fortresses and strongholds were critical for defense against enemies. These structures were often built on elevated terrain, providing a strategic advantage. They were places of refuge during times of war and were essential for the survival of a city or community. The imagery of God as a fortress reflects the cultural understanding of safety and security provided by such structures.

matsuwd: Fortress, stronghold, net, bulwark

Original Word: מָצוּד
Part of Speech: Noun Feminine
Transliteration: matsuwd
Pronunciation: maw-tsood
Phonetic Spelling: maw-tsood’)
Definition: Fortress, stronghold, net, bulwark
Meaning: a net, capture, a fastness. From the root verb צוּד (tsuwd), meaning “to hunt” or “to lie in wait.”

Corresponding Greek G3794 (ochyrōma): A Greek term for fortress or stronghold, used metaphorically in the New Testament, such as in 2 Corinthians 10:4, where it refers to spiritual strongholds.

4686 [e]
ū·mə·ṣū·ḏā·ṯî,
וּמְצוּדָתִ֗י
and my fortress
Conj‑w | N‑fsc | 1cs

In the sense of being a captive for ones own safety. When under threat the authorities will often place a prime witness to a crime in custody in a safe house with 24hour protection. Its for their own good but can feel like being imprisoned. Our Heavenly Father provides this same round the clock place of protection for us.  It may not be so much in the natural realm but rather in a spiritual sense, where we are temporarily restrained, held captive in His fortress, protected by His Holy Spirit and nothing and no one hurt us.

The Lord’s name is a full strong tower; the righteous run to it, and they shall be safe. Proverbs 18:10

 

The next Hebrew word in the verse

6403 [e]
ū·mə·p̄al·ṭî
וּמְפַ֫לְטִ֥י
and my deliverer
Conj‑w | V‑Piel‑Prtcpl‑msc | 1cs

is 

palesh palat

which can mean 

to deliver. 

palat: To deliver, to rescue, to escape

Original Word: פָלַט
Part of Speech: Verb
Transliteration: palat
Pronunciation: pah-LAHT
Phonetic Spelling: paw-lat’
Definition: To deliver, to rescue, to escape
Meaning: to slip out, escape, to deliver

The Hebrew verb “palat” primarily conveys the action of:

delivering or rescuing someone from danger or distress.

It is often used in contexts where divine intervention is implied, highlighting God’s role as a deliverer. The term can also refer to the act of escaping from a perilous situation, emphasizing the successful evasion of harm.

In the ancient Near Eastern context, the concept of deliverance was deeply intertwined with the belief in divine protection and intervention. The Israelites often found themselves in situations where they needed deliverance, whether from physical enemies, natural disasters, or spiritual oppression. The use of palat in the Hebrew Bible reflects a worldview where:

God is seen as a powerful and active deliverer, capable of saving His people from any threat.

In its Semitic root form, it has the idea of escaping.

For David, this was an ironic situation, and the same can be said for us, we can escape the captivity of the enemy, by being held captive in our Heavenly Fathers provision.

David then says that God is his strength. 

6697 [e]
ṣū·rî
צ֭וּרִי
my strength
N‑msc | 1cs

tsur: Rock, Cliff, Boulder

Original Word: צוּר
Part of Speech: Noun Masculine
Transliteration: tsuwr
Pronunciation: tsoor
Phonetic Spelling: tsoor
Definition: Rock, Cliff, Boulder
Meaning: a cliff, a rock, boulder, a refuge, an edge. From the root verb צוּר (tsur), meaning “to confine,” “to bind,” or “to besiege.”

Corresponding Greek– G4073 (petra): Often used in the New Testament to convey similar imagery of strength and stability, as seen in Matthew 16:18, where Yeshua/Jesus refers to Peter as the “rock” upon which He will build His church.

The Hebrew word “tsur” primarily denotes:

a rock or a cliff,

often symbolizing strength, stability, and protection.

In the biblical context, it is frequently used metaphorically to describe God as a reliable refuge and source of salvation. The imagery of God as a rock emphasizes His unchanging nature, dependability, and the security He provides to His people.

In the ancient Near Eastern context, rocks and cliffs were natural fortresses and places of refuge. They provided physical protection against enemies and harsh weather. This cultural understanding is reflected in the biblical usage of tsur as;

a metaphor for God’s protective and steadfast nature.

The Israelites, living in a land with many rocky terrains, would have readily understood the significance of God being their rock.

In Hebrew there are several words that can be used for strength. He begins the verse using rock as a symbol of Adonai and repeats that image again by using the Hebrew word 

sur 

which means

a rock

however this is 

a cutting type rock, a rock used as knife. 

The word comes from a Semitic root meaning

to advance forward by cutting your way through like cutting your way through a heavy brush. 

For example in the same manner that a machete would be used when a pathway was needed in an overgrown area. 

The word sur is spelled

Sade = s,

Vav = a connection, and

Resh = r

and these letters explain that

when we humble (Sade) ourselves and

connect (Vav)

with the Fathers Holy Spirit (Resh)  

He will be our cutting tool.

In the last descriptive word, David declares that:

the Lord is his, and our, shield. 

4043 [e]
mā·ḡin·nî
מָֽגִנִּ֥י
My shield
N‑csc | 1cs

magen or meginnah

Original Word: מָגֵן
Part of Speech: Noun Masculine
Transliteration: magen
Pronunciation: mah-GEN or meh-gin-NAH
Phonetic Spelling: maw-gane’
Definition: Shield
Meaning: a shield, a protector, the scaly hide of the crocodile. Derived from the root verb גָּנַן (ganan), meaning:

“to cover” or “to protect.

in Hebrew shield comes from the root word: ganan. 

Ganan is a covering. 

In reality that is what a shield does:,

it covers the holder as we go forward.

The Hebrew words magen and meginnah primarily denote a shield, a piece of defensive armor used in battle to protect the warrior from enemy attacks.

In a broader sense, these terms are also used metaphorically in the Bible to describe: God’s protection and defense of His people. The shield symbolizes safety, security, and divine protection.

In ancient Near Eastern cultures, the shield was an essential part of a soldier’s armor. It was typically made of wood, leather, or metal and was used to deflect arrows, spears, and other weapons. The shield’s importance in warfare made it a powerful symbol of protection and strength. In the biblical context, God is often depicted as a shield to His people, emphasizing His role as a protector and defender against spiritual and physical threats.

And here within the letters of the word itself, we see how to acquire this ganan/shield.  

If we take a look at the root word we see it’s spelled 

מָגֵן

Gimmel, Nun, Nun. 

This combination of letters suggests that:

a person is running or advancing in faith and trust. 

It is the same idea as Paul speaks of in Ephesians 6,

the shield of faith as part of the believers spiritual armor,

in other words,

faith is our shield. Our faith in God’s ability strength and power.

Corresponding Greek word– G2375 (θυρεός, thyreos) – A large shield, as used in Ephesians 6:16: “In addition to all this, take up the shield of faith, with which you can extinguish all the flaming arrows of the evil one.”

There may be a time we don’t want to make that move forward, because of fear, that enemy opposing our faith, may try to grip our hearts; but suddenly as the scripture says, we will hear hear a voice behind us saying… Isaiah 30:21

You will hear a voice behind you saying, “This is the way. Follow it, whether it turns to the right or to the left.” 

We are to move, to take that step of trust, 

and we must move in faith and obedience,

because once we move … as

the Gimmel is advancing forward,

then the two Nuns of faith and trust 

are supernaturally provided by our Heavenly Father

and we have our

ganan – a shield. 

A shield  –  Ganan – גנן  Gimmel Nun Nun

In Judges 6:1-6 there’s an account of Gideon and although he was a military commander, when he was faced with advancing into battle against the Midianites he became terrified to move forward. He was lacking in faith and Adonai provided the faith he needed right at that moment. However in order to receive that faith he had to go into the Midianite camp, he had to make a step forward into the very thing which he feared most; then our Heavenly Father answered him with a sign that strengthened his faith. 

The scripture says He has given

the measure of faith to everyone

so our Father has given each of us enough faith to take that first step

and then

supplies what we need as we keep moving forward.

The first step in strengthening our faith is to step forward in the faith that we have, even if its only the size of a grain of mustard seed.

Matthew 17:20  “Because you have so little faith. Truly I tell you, if you have faith as small as a mustard seed, you can say to this mountain, ‘Move from here to there,’ and it will move. Sometimes we are the mountain that has to move….

Shalom, shalom mishpachah/family

and cheverim/friends!

It’s all about Life and Relationship,

NOT Religion.

You are greatly loved and precious in His sight.

NOT SURE?

YOU CAN BE..

SAY THE FOLLOWING FROM YOUR HEART RIGHT NOW…

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

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

Fear Not -Yea – Isaiah 41:10

There are several interesting Hebrew words in this verse

but primarily it’s saying that,

when we face a real threat

our Heavenly Father is telling us not to fear. 

Fear thou not; for I am with thee: be not dismayed; for I am thy God: I will strengthen thee; yea, I will help thee; yea, I will uphold thee with the right hand of my righteousness. Isaiah 41:10. 

This word for fear as used here,

is a fear for one’s own personal safety. 

In Strongs #3372 

it references [e] tî·rā
תִּירָא֙
fear
V‑Qal‑Imperf‑2ms

In #3372 Strongs also lists the Hebrew word:

yare’: Fear, revere, be afraid

Original Word: יָרֵא
Part of Speech: Verb
Transliteration: yare’
Pronunciation: yah-ray’
Phonetic Spelling: yaw-ray’
Definition: Fear, revere, be afraid
Meaning: to fear, to revere, cause to frighten

Corresponding Greek – G5399 (φοβέω, phobeo): 

To fear, be afraid, reverence

– G5401 (φόβος, phobos): Fear, terror, reverence

The Hebrew verb yare

primarily conveys the idea of fear,

which can range from:

a sense of terror or dread to reverence and awe.

In the context of the Bible, yare

is often used to describe the fear of God,

which encompasses:

both a profound respect and

a recognition of His power and holiness.

This fear is not merely about being afraid but involves a deep reverence and commitment to God’s commandments and will. In ancient Israelite culture, fear of the Lord was a foundational aspect of religious life. It was understood as the beginning of wisdom, Proverbs 9:10, and was integral to maintaining a covenant relationship with God. This fear was not just an emotional response but a guiding principle that influenced ethical behavior, worship, and community life. The concept of fearing God distinguished the Israelites from surrounding nations, emphasizing a unique relationship with a holy and sovereign deity.

The reason we need not fear

is because our

Heavenly Father is with us –

Emmanuel.  עִמָּנוּאֵל

Strongs #6005  Immanuel. (sometimes spelled with an I.)

Derived from the Hebrew words עִם   im, with,

אֲנַחְנוּ  anu, us,

and אֵל  El, God.

He is our spiritual Father and we are His spiritual children.

But He does not stop there He goes on to say:

“Be not dismayed.”  

 in Hebrew the word dismayed is

tisheta’ 

8159 [e]
tiš·tā‘
תִּשְׁתָּ֖ע
Be dismayed
V‑Qal‑Imperf‑2ms

shaah: To look, gaze, regard, pay attention

Original Word: שָׁעָה
Part of Speech: Verb
Transliteration: sha`ah
Pronunciation: shah-ah
Phonetic Spelling: (shaw-aw’)
Definition: To look, gaze, regard, pay attention, to gaze at, about, to inspect, consider, compassionate, be nonplussed, bewildered, anxious, fearful.

This word occurs only once, in this verse, and apparently comes from a Semitic root meaning – to be blind! 

When someone is really frightened or angry, they become irrational and are blind to the real situation, and all they can do is imagine all the horrible things that are about to happen. Being overwhelmed by the circumstances in which they find themselves in which could be some sort of extreme physical or emotional crisis, their reactions become completely unreasonable. In such situations we often say that: a person reacted in blind panic/fear or bind rage/anger.

However our heavenly Father is reassuring us I am with you.

A promise also found in Zephaniah 3:17 among many others.

The LORD your God in your midst, 

7130 [e]
bə·qir·bêḵ
בְּקִרְבֵּ֖ך‪
in your midst
Prep‑b | N‑msc | 2fs

qereb: midst, inner part, inward part, among, within

7130 Original Word: קֶרֶב
Part of Speech: Noun Masculine
Transliteration: qereb
Pronunciation: keh’-reb
Phonetic Spelling: (keh’-reb)
Definition: midst, inner part, inward part, among, within
Meaning: the nearest part, the center From an unused root meaning to approach or come near

The Hebrew word qereb primarily denotes:

the inner part or midst of something.

It is often used to describe the innermost parts of a person, such as the heart or soul, and can also refer to the physical center or interior of a group or object. In a broader sense, it can mean “among” or “within,” indicating presence or inclusion within a group or community. In ancient Hebrew culture, the concept of the “inner part” or “midst” was significant both physically and spiritually.

The heart or inner being was considered the seat of emotions, thoughts, and will. 

This means He is in our midst i.e. literally within us, which is supported by Messiahs statement in John 17:23 I in them, and You in Me; that they may be made perfect in one, and that the world may know that You have sent Me, and have loved them as You have loved Me.

There were many gods out there but all these other gods required, pleading, begging with sacrifices, sometime human sacrifices, to get answers and help from them. In contrast, if we go to the God of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob, the God of Israel and the Father of our Messiah, Yeshua HaMashiach. He will say, I will not only be with you but I am already with you, without the demands made by ‘demonic foreign gods/entities’.

Furthermore we are told in this verse that He will 

strengthen us.  

553 [e]
’im·maṣ·tî·ḵā
אִמַּצְתִּ֙יךָ֙
I will strengthen you
V‑Piel‑Perf‑1cs | 2ms

The word 

strengthen in this verse is 

‘amats 

which from its Semitic root carries the idea of 

imparting courage. 

amets: To be strong, to be courageous, to be firm, to strengthen

Original Word: אָמַץ
Part of Speech: Verb
Transliteration: amats
Pronunciation: ah-MAYTS
Phonetic Spelling: (aw-mats’)
Definition: To be strong, to be courageous, to be firm, to strengthen
Meaning: to be alert, courage

Corresponding Greek: The Greek equivalent often used in the Septuagint for ‘amets is ἐνδυναμόω (endunamoō), which means to empower or strengthen.

The Hebrew verb אָמֵץ  – ‘amets, primarily conveys the idea of strength and courage. It is often used in contexts where individuals are encouraged to be resolute and steadfast, especially in the face of challenges or adversaries. The term can also imply the act of strengthening or fortifying oneself or others, both physically and spiritually.

In ancient Israelite culture, strength and courage were highly valued traits, especially for leaders and warriors. The concept of ‘amets is deeply embedded in the narrative of the Israelites, who often faced formidable enemies and daunting tasks. The exhortation to be strong and courageous is a recurring theme in the Hebrew Bible, reflecting the need for reliance on God’s power and promises in overcoming obstacles.

This is exactly what those who have endured horrific circumstances will testify, they received the impartation of courage at the moment they needed it most.

Then we have a very interesting word that follows.

It is the word 

yea.

In the English language, Yea can be used as an informal adverb meaning yes or to affirm, or as a noun to indicate an affirmative vote. When used in a vote, yea can be pronounced like yay.

 In the Hebrew this word is ‘ap.  

637 [e]
’ap̄-
אַף־
Yes
Con

 

‘Ap is a common word throughout the various Semitic languages. 

In the Old Testament /TaNaKH, it is rendered as: 

even, indeed, surely, furthermore, how then, how much more, and also. 

637 aph: Also, indeed, even, moreover

Original Word: אַף
Part of Speech: conjunction
Transliteration: aph
Pronunciation: ahf
Phonetic Spelling: (af)
Definition: Also, indeed, even, moreover
Meaning: meaning accession, yea, adversatively though

Greek- G2532 (καί, kai) – often translated as “and,” “also,” or “even.” G1161 (δέ, de) – often translated as “but,” “and,” or “moreover.”

The Hebrew word aph is a versatile particle used primarily as a conjunction or adverb. It is often employed to add emphasis or to introduce an additional thought or idea. In English, it is commonly translated as also, indeed, even, or moreover. This word serves to strengthen the statement it accompanies, highlighting the importance or certainty of the assertion. In ancient Hebrew, conjunctions and adverbs like aph played a crucial role in the structure and flow of narrative and poetic texts. The use of aph reflects the Hebrew language’s tendency to build upon ideas, creating a layered and nuanced expression of thought. (PaRDeS). This linguistic feature is evident in the Hebrew Bible, where aph often introduces a significant or unexpected element, underscoring the depth and complexity of the biblical message.

Its Semitic root however, has the idea of 

how much more. 

In modern English we would probably say one of the following:

But even better yet than that: significantly more than; considerably more than; to a greater extent; and, even more than meets the eye.

So our Heavenly Father is telling us that:

He will not only give us 

courage 

but better yet/ how much more,

He will help us. 

This word for help has a very interesting meaning.

5826 [e]
‘ă·zar·tî·ḵā,
עֲזַרְתִּ֔יךָ
I will help you
V‑Qal‑Perf‑1cs | 2ms

In Hebrew it is ‘azaretika 

from the root word ‘azar Strongs #5826

azar: To help, to support, to assist

Original Word: עָזַר
Part of Speech: Verb
Transliteration: `azar
Pronunciation: ah-ZAR
Phonetic Spelling: (aw-zar’)
Definition: To help, to support, to assist
Meaning: to surround, protect, aid, help support

Greek – G997 (boētheō): To help, to come to the aid of

– G998 (boēthos): Helper, one who provides aid

The Hebrew verb azar primarily means to help or to assist. It conveys the idea of providing aid or support, often in times of need or distress. This term is frequently used in the context of divine assistance, where God is depicted as a helper to His people. It can also refer to human assistance, where individuals support one another. In ancient Israelite culture, the concept of help was deeply embedded in the community and religious life. The Israelites often found themselves in situations where they needed divine intervention, whether in battle, personal distress, or national crises. The idea of God as a helper was central to their understanding of His covenant relationship with them. This divine assistance was not just about physical aid but also encompassed spiritual and moral support.

So we see that this word has the idea of:

protection

not in the way of someone taking control and we don’t do anything

but more of the idea of:

supporting us and assisting us in the battle. 

In other words we still need to engage in the fight, but our Heavenly Father is telling us, to not be concerned in any way because,

He is watching over our backs…together with the Ephesians 6 promises of keeping our spiritual armor in place, we are assured our protection is a total of 360 degrees! 

 There is one more word in this same verse that has the

 ‘ap/yea – (better yet) 

in front of it and that is:

yea, I will uphold thee with the right hand of my righteousness

Here it is stating that our Heavenly Father will not only give us

courage /amatz to enter this conflict,

but better than that,

He is watching over our backs.

 Isaiah 58:8 Then your light will break forth like the dawn, and your healing will quickly appear; then your righteousness will go before you, and the glory of the Lord will be your rear guard. And Isaiah 52:12. For the LORD will go ahead of you; yes, the God of Israel will protect you from behind.

Click link below for more on Him watching our backs: https://www.minimannamoments.com/in-times-of-need-and-during-days-of-uncertainty-whos-got-our-vav/

BUT….

even better than all of that

He is upholding us. 

This word for 

upholding is: 

tamak

tamak: To hold, support, uphold, sustain

Original Word: תָּמַךְ
Part of Speech: Verb
Transliteration: tamak
Pronunciation: tah-mak’
Phonetic Spelling: (taw-mak’)
Definition: To hold, support, uphold, sustain
Meaning: to sustain, to obtain, keep fast, to help, follow close, grasp (1), grasped (1), held (1), held fast (1), hold (1), hold her fast (1), hold fast 

Word Origin: A primitive root to sustain; by implication, to obtain, keep fast; figuratively, to help, follow close — (take, up-) hold (up), maintain, retain, stay (up), stick fast to which in its root form means: to take hold, hold fast, or glue oneself to something. 

Corresponding Greek G2902 (krateo): To hold fast, to seize

– G472 (antichomai): To hold against, to withstand

The Hebrew verb tamak primarily means to hold or support. It conveys the idea of grasping firmly, sustaining, or upholding something or someone. In the context of the Hebrew Bible, it often refers to God’s sustaining power or the act of supporting others, both physically and spiritually. In ancient Hebrew culture, the concept of support and sustenance was vital, especially in a community-oriented society where mutual aid was essential for survival. The imagery of holding or supporting is often used metaphorically to describe God’s relationship with His people, emphasizing His role as a sustainer and protector. This reflects the agrarian/agricultural and pastoral lifestyle of the Israelites, where physical support was often necessary for daily life.

The best part is that our Heavenly Father will not only give us courage /amatz

and watch our backs,/ azaretika, but 

He will tamak/tamas/glue Himself to us,

And because He will never be defeated, if we are glued to Him, we will not be defeated either, He will literally stick with us to the end! No doubt most readers have super-glued themselves to an item or their own hand, so we know what that means.

Those who have witnessed our Heavenly Fathers miraculous intervention, could testify to the truth of Isaiah 41:10; for as they faced that situation they found courage from and, assurance that, God was watching their backs. But most importantly that the presence of God was glued/tamar to them.

Maybe we do not feel as if we have all this courage and support yet, and hopefully none of us will face insurmountable odds that threaten our very lives. However, if we or our loved ones ever do, one thing we know, courage strength will come and it will glue us to our Father. It will be there when we need it, Isaiah 41:10 assures us of that.

With all our daily news reports and media platforms raising awareness of negative world events; without a deep personal relationship with our Heavenly Father we might easily begin to fear and be dismayed. The Word of God has been preserved for thousands of years so that we can read, absorb and trust in the Truths it contains. It is our daily bread of life/Chaim and as we feast on all the promises and encouragements within, we will not fear because He will uphold us with

the right hand of His righteousness.

yamin: Right hand, right side, south

3225 [e]
bî·mîn
בִּימִ֥ין
with right hand
Prep‑b | N‑fsc

Original Word: יָמִין
Part of Speech: Noun Feminine
Transliteration: yamiyn
Pronunciation: yah-MEEN
Phonetic Spelling: yaw-meen’
Definition: Right hand, right side, south
Meaning: the right hand, side, the south. Derived from the root יָמַן yaman, meaning “to go to the right” or “to choose the right.”

Corresponding Greek G1188 (dexios): Refers to the right hand or right side, often used in the New Testament to convey similar meanings of power and authority.

The Hebrew word yamin primarily refers to the right hand or right side. It is often used in the Bible to denote strength, authority, and favor, as the right hand was traditionally considered the hand of power and skill. Additionally, yamin can refer to the south, as directions were often oriented with the east as the primary point of reference, making the right side the south. In ancient Near Eastern cultures, the right hand was associated with power and honor. It was customary for the right hand to be used in greetings, oaths, and blessings. The right hand was also symbolic of divine favor and protection. In biblical times, sitting at someone’s right hand was a position of prestige and authority, as seen in royal courts and among disciples.

tsedeq: Righteousness, justice, rightness

6664 [e]
ṣiḏ·qî.
צִדְקִֽי׃
My righteous
N‑msc | 1cs

Original Word: צֶדֶק
Part of Speech: Noun Masculine
Transliteration: tsedeq
Pronunciation: tseh’-dek
Phonetic Spelling: tseh’-dek
Definition: Righteousness, justice, rightness
Meaning: the right, equity, prosperity. Derived from the root צָדַק (tsadaq), meaning “to be just” or “to be righteous.”

Corresponding Greek: – G1343 (δικαιοσύνη, dikaiosynē):Often translated as “righteousness” in the New Testament, reflecting the same moral and ethical standards as “tsedeq.”

The term Right Hand of Righteousness is a significant biblical phrase that symbolizes:

strength, authority, and the divine power of God. It is often associated with God’s ability to uphold, protect, and deliver His people.

In the New Testament, Yeshua HaMashiach/Jesus Christ is described as being seated at the right hand of God, signifying His authority and divine status. Mark 16:19 

 In Ephesians 1:19-21, we see Yeshua/Jesus above all others by Him being seated at the right hand of the Father.

The term God’s right hand in prophecy, refers to the Messiah to Whom is given the power and authority to subdue His enemies, Psalm 110:1; Psalm 118:16. We find a quote in Matthew 22:44 from Psalm 110:1, which is a Messianic Psalm. “The Son of David” is claimed by the Lord Jesus Christ/Yeshua haMashiach, as He is the “greater son of David” or the Messiah. In this passage of Matthew 22, Yeshua/Jesus questions the Pharisees about who they think the Christ or the Messiah is. While the Pharisees were gathered together, Jesus asked them, Saying, What think ye of Christ? Whose son is He? They say unto him, The Son of David. He saith unto them, How then doth David in spirit call him Lord, saying, The LORD said unto my Lord, Sit thou on my right hand, till I make Thine enemies thy footstool? If David then call Him Lord, how is He his son? Matthew 22:41-45, KJV. The position of the Messiah is at God’s right hand.

The fact that Yeshua/haMashiach/Jesus Christ is at the “right hand of God” was a sign to the disciples that He had indeed gone to heaven. In John 16:7-15, Yeshua/Jesus told the disciples that He had to go away and He would send His Ruach haKodesh/Holy Spirit. So the coming of His Ruach haKodesh/Holy Spirit in the upper room on the day of Shavuot/Pentecost in Acts 2:1-13, was proof positive that Yeshua/Jesus was indeed in heaven seated at the right hand of God. This is confirmed in Romans 8:34 where Paul writes that Messiah/Christ is sitting at God’s right hand making intercession for us.

Therefore, what we can say is that God’s right hand, refers to the Messiah, the Lord Jesus Christ/Yeshua haMashiach, and He is of equal position, honor, power, and authority with God our Heavenly Father, John 1:1-5. The fact that Messiah/Christ is sitting, refers to the fact that His work of redemption is done and when the fullness of the Gentiles is brought in Romans 11:25, Messiah/Christ’s enemies will be made His footstool. When the end of the age comes, all prophecy will be completed, and time will be no more.

God’s right hand refers to the Messiah Himself, Who died to give us eternal life. His promise is that He will never leave us nor forsake us and moments before His ascension into heaven, these are the words that Yeshua/Jesus spoke – I will be with you always. This was His final encouragement to a group of people whose world had been turned upside down and inside out. Some of us may be experiencing our world turned upside down today and if so, then this is an appropriate time to remember nothing happens that He does not know about, and He will intervene when we ask for His help. He is there, the ever-present God reinforcing His omnipresence and faithfulness and providing comfort and hope to every believer facing fiery tests and trials.

He is Yahweh/Jehoveh/Yehoveh Shammah, –

the Lord is there.

Ez.48:35.

and

El Roi –

The God Who Sees me,

Genesis 16:14-15.

So the next time we read Yea in a version of the Bible,

remember that

Yea –ap…means:

also; even much more than that;

but even better yet than that;

significantly more than;

considerably more than;

to a greater extent;

and, even more than meets the eye…..

and apply its meaning because

yea… even much more….

can we can trust in

and rely on His promise

when He said…

surely I am with you always,

to the very end of the age.

Matthew 28:20.

Shalom, shalom mishpachah/family

and cheverim/friends!

It’s all about Life and Relationship,

NOT Religion.

You are greatly loved and precious in His sight.

NOT SURE?

YOU CAN BE..

SAY THE FOLLOWING FROM YOUR HEART RIGHT NOW…

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

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