Understanding Isaiah 64:6 – Does the Bible Call Righteousness Filthy Rags?

 

One of the most misused verses in the Bible is Isaiah 64:6, often quoted in a fragmented manner as, “our righteousness is as filthy rags.” This verse is frequently used within Christianity as proof that works or keeping the "old law" (the Torah) are worthless in the eyes of Yah—the very Elohim who gave those instructions for His people to follow.

“And יהוה commanded us to do all these laws, to fear יהוה our Elohim, for our good always, to keep us alive, as it is today. And it is righteousness for us when we guard to do all this command before יהוה our Elohim, as He has commanded us.” (Deuteronomy 6:24-25)

It is illogical to believe that the Creator would give His creation a set of instructions, only to be displeased when they obey Him. To take this idea further into absurdity, this same Creator would then be furious when His creation disobeyed His instructions. Such a contradiction would render it impossible to live in alignment with Yah. However, Scripture itself refutes this fallacy.

“But if a man is righteous and shall do right-ruling and righteousness, if he has not eaten on the mountains, nor lifted up his eyes to the idols of the house of Yisra’ĕl (Israel), nor defiled his neighbor’s wife, nor comes near a woman during her uncleanness, if he does not oppress anyone, does return to the debtor his pledge, does not commit robbery, does give his bread to the hungry and covers the naked with a garment, if he does not lend on interest or take increase, turns back his hand from unrighteousness, executes right-ruling in truth between man and man, if he walks in My laws, and he has guarded My right-rulings in truth – he is righteous, he shall certainly live!” declares the Master יהוה.” (Ezekiel 18:5-9)

El Shaddai has spoken: the man who walks in His Torah will be counted as righteous. Many astute students of Scripture will recognize that the list provided in Ezekiel consists of commandments from the Torah.

The Messianic Writings and Righteousness

This concept of obeying the Father as the path to righteousness is not lost with the Messiah either.

“Not everyone who says to Me, ‘Master, Master,’ shall enter into the reign of the heavens, but he who is doing the desire of My Father in the heavens. “Many shall say to Me in that day, ‘Master, Master, have we not prophesied in Your Name, and cast out demons in Your Name, and done many mighty works in Your Name?’ “And then I shall declare to them, ‘I never knew you, depart from Me, you who work lawlessness!’” (Matthew 7:21-23)

“For all these the nations seek for. And your heavenly Father knows that you need all these. But seek first the reign of Elohim, and His righteousness, and all these shall be added to you.” (Matthew 6:32-33)

“Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, because they shall be filled.” (Matthew 5:6)

“Blessed are those persecuted for righteousness’ sake, because theirs is the reign of the heavens.” (Matthew 5:10)

The disciples also affirm this truth:

“Little children, let no one lead you astray. The one doing righteousness is righteous, even as He is righteous.” (1 John 3:7)

“Because the eyes of יהוה are on the righteous, and his ears are open to their prayers, but the face of יהוה is against those who do evil.” (1 Peter 3:12)

“Do you not know that to whom you present yourselves servants for obedience, you are servants of the one whom you obey, whether of sin to death, or of obedience to righteousness?” (Romans 6:16)

“And flee from the lusts of youth, but pursue righteousness, belief, love, peace with those calling on the Master out of a clean heart.” (2 Timothy 2:22)

“Confess your trespasses to one another, and pray for one another, so that you are healed. The earnest prayer of a righteous one accomplishes much.” (James 5:16)

Examining Isaiah 64:6 in Context

Now that we have established a consistent biblical definition of righteousness—obedience to Yah’s commandments in loving devotion—we turn to Isaiah 64:6 to examine its full context.

“You shall meet him who rejoices and does righteousness, who remembers You in Your ways. See, You were wroth when we sinned in them a long time. And should we be saved? And all of us have become as one unclean, and all our righteousnesses are as soiled rags. And all of us fade like a leaf, and our crookednesses, like the wind, have taken us away. And there is no one who calls on Your Name, who stirs himself up to be strengthened in You; for You have hidden Your face from us, and have consumed us because of our crookednesses. And now, O יהוה, You are our Father. We are the clay, and You our potter. And we are all the work of Your hand. Do not be wroth, O יהוה, nor remember crookedness forever. See, please look, all of us are Your people!”  (Isaiah 64:5-9)

I included the surrounding verses to provide context. When Isaiah 64:6 is quoted in isolation, it leads to a misunderstanding of the verse’s true meaning. By examining the full passage, we see a more accurate interpretation. Notice Isaiah 64:4:

“You shall meet him who rejoices and does righteousness, who remembers You in Your ways. See, You were wroth when we sinned in them a long time. And should we be saved?” (Isaiah 64:5)

Isaiah affirms that Yah meets with those who practice righteousness—He does not turn away from them or dismiss their righteous deeds as filthy rags. Those who rejoice in righteousness do so with a sincere and loving heart. The overarching theme of Isaiah is the prophet’s urgent plea to the House of Judah to remember the Elohim of Israel and remain faithful to His ways. Yet, Judah had fallen into backsliding, idol worship, and a corrupt mixture of true and false worship. Though they may have performed certain righteous deeds, their hearts were far from Yah, rendering their actions meaningless. This theme is reinforced throughout Isaiah and is particularly evident in Isaiah 64:7.

“And there is no one who calls on Your Name, who stirs himself up to be strengthened in You; for You have hidden Your face from us, and have consumed us because of our crookednesses.” (Isaiah 64:7)

Remember, Isaiah declares that those who rejoice in righteousness will be met by Yah, while those who refuse to obey the Father will find that He hides Himself from them. This distinction further demonstrates that the righteousness mentioned in Isaiah 64:4 is not the same as the righteousness referenced before or after that verse. The mixed and corrupt worship that Isaiah condemns is not a minor issue—it is a central theme introduced at the very beginning of the book. There, the prophet vividly likens the House of Israel and the House of Judah to Sodom and Gomorrah, underscoring the severity of their spiritual corruption.

“Unless יהוה of hosts had left to us a small remnant, we would have become like Seḏom (Sodom), we would have been made like Amorah (Gomorrah). Hear the word of יהוה, you rulers of Seḏom; give ear to the Torah of our Elohim, you people of Amorah! “Of what use to Me are your many slaughterings?” declares יהוה. “I have had enough of ascending offerings of rams and the fat of fed beasts. I do not delight in the blood of bulls, or of lambs or goats. “When you come to appear before Me, who has required this from your hand, to trample My courtyards? “Stop bringing futile offerings, incense, it is an abomination to Me. New Moons, Sabbaths, the calling of gatherings – I am unable to bear unrighteousness and assembly. “My being hates your New Moons and your appointed times, they are a trouble to Me, I am weary of bearing them. “And when you spread out your hands, I hide My eyes from you; even though you make many prayers, I do not hear. Your hands have become filled with blood. “Wash yourselves, make yourselves clean; put away the evil of your doings from before My eyes. Stop doing evil! “Learn to do good! Seek right-ruling, reprove the oppressor, defend the fatherless, plead for the widow.” (Isaiah 1:9-17)

The New Moons, Sabbaths, and appointed times mentioned in the Torah belong to Elohim, not Judah. Failing to consider the entirety of Scripture leads to the same misunderstanding that many fall into regarding Isaiah 64:4 and the concept of righteousness. Elohim calls His people to return to Him, to seek right-ruling, and to put away evil because El Shaddai does not accept a mixture of wickedness and righteousness. At that time, Israel had corrupted Elohim’s New Moons and appointed days, molding them into their own version through mixed worship. This is why their sacrifices became an abomination to Him—though they honored Him with their lips, their hearts were far from Him.

Israel’s Destiny

Isaiah longed for Israel to return to Yah and fulfill their calling as a light to the nations.

“For Tsiyon’s (Zion’s) sake I am not silent, and for Yerushalayim’s (Jerusalem’s) sake I do not rest, until her righteousness goes forth as brightness, and her deliverance as a lamp that burns. And the nations shall see your righteousness, and all sovereigns your esteem. And you shall be called by a new name, which the mouth of יהוה designates.” (Isaiah 62:1-2)

Yah desires Israel (Biblical Israel) to be a beacon of righteousness for the nations.

“And it shall be in the latter days that the mountain of the House of יהוה is established on the top of the mountains, and shall be exalted above the hills. And all nations shall flow to it. And many peoples shall come and say, “Come, and let us go up to the mountain of יהוה, to the House of the Elohim of Ya‛aqoḇ (Jacob), and let Him teach us His ways, and let us walk in His paths, for out of Tsiyon (Zion) comes forth the Torah, and the Word of יהוה from Yerushalayim (Jerusalem).” (Isaiah 2:2-3)

Conclusion: Rightly Defining Righteousness

We must allow the Bible to define its own terms rather than imposing our own interpretations—especially when it comes to a concept as vital as righteousness. For generations, many have been misled into believing that following Yeshua in Torah obedience is nothing more than filthy rags—a notion so absurd that it is akin to a man looking at his reflection in a mirror and immediately forgetting his own appearance. Instead, seek out the matter with an earnest heart, become a servant of righteousness, and may the Ruach HaKodesh lead you into all truth.

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One Elohim, One Torah, One Israel: Refuting Dispensationalism

 

There is a widespread belief that the Bible is divided into two distinct sections: the ‘Old Testament’ and the ‘New Testament.’ While this division is not mentioned in the scriptures themselves, it is commonly accepted as fact and serves as a foundation for the religion established by Papal Rome. This divided understanding of the divine word leads to the notion that the Yah of the ‘Old Testament’ differs from the one in the ‘New Testament,’ that the standards for living a life pleasing to Elohim have shifted, and that the church has replaced Israel. These ideas are often associated with dispensationalism, though they do not encompass the entire scope of this doctrine. In this article, we will turn to the scriptures to see what the Word of El Shaddai truly reveals.

Error of Dispensationalism: Yah Changed

“For I am יהוה, I shall not change…” (Malachi 3:6)

Being perfect, Yah has no need for change. Change is only necessary when something is imperfect. Think of your diet—when you change it, it’s because you’ve realized it lacks the nutrient-dense foods your body needs. A perfect diet, however, would provide all the essentials for a healthy life, making change unnecessary. In the same way, Yah, the Creator of all things, has no need to alter His ways. He is the perfect El, the perfect Father. Rather than conforming to us, we are called to conform to Him.

“Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of lights, with whom there is no change, nor shadow of turning.”  (James 1:17)     

Even the Messiah, the perfect representation of the Father’s will, remains unchanging.

“Yeshua the Messiah is the same yesterday, today, and forever.” (Hebrews 13:8)

Error of Dispensationalism: The Torah Done Away

“Grass shall wither, the flower shall fade, but the Word of our Elohim stands forever.” (Isaiah 40:8)

Yah’s Word is His Torah—His instructions for living a righteous life—and it endures for all eternity. The Torah reflects the behavior of the Creator, written down for us to follow.

“And it shall be in the latter days that the mountain of the House of יהוה is established on the top of the mountains, and shall be exalted above the hills. And all nations shall flow to it. And many peoples shall come and say, “Come, and let us go up to the mountain of יהוה, to the House of the Elohim of Jacob, and let Him teach us His ways, and let us walk in His paths, for out of Zion comes forth the Torah, and the Word of יהוה from Jerusalem.” (Isaiah 2:2)

The Torah is not a set of shackles—on the contrary, it is perfect, and within it is true freedom.

“But he who looks into the perfect Torah of freedom and continues, not being a hearer who forgets but a doer of the work, this man will be blessed in what he does.” (James 1:25)

Many claim that the Messiah did away with the Torah. However, as I discussed in the article “Yeshua's Sermon on the Mount: Rediscovering Torah and the Way to the Father,” Yeshua did not abolish the Torah; rather, He restored it to the people as it was originally intended. He clearly states that His mission was not to nullify His Father’s teachings.

“Do not think that I came to destroy the Torah or the Prophets. I did not come to destroy but to complete. For most certainly, I tell you, until heaven and earth pass away, not even one smallest letter or one tiny pen stroke shall in any way pass away from the Torah, until all things are accomplished.” (Matthew 5:17-18)

Even in the final chapter of the Bible, Yeshua blesses those who keep the commandments—the Torah.

“Blessed are those doing His commands, so that the authority shall be theirs unto the tree of life, and to enter through the gates into the city.” (Revelation 22:14)

Error of Dispensationalism: The Church Replaced Israel

The Messiah did not come to establish a new religion, nor did He come to found "The Church." The belief that the Church replaced Israel originates from Papal Rome. I’ve discussed this extensively in “The Truth About the Sabbath Day: What It Is and What We Should Do” and explored our identity in Messiah in the article “Discovering the Connection Between Israel and the Church in the Bible.” To put it simply, Yeshua is the King of Israel, who will rule from Jerusalem and, ultimately, New Jerusalem—not the king of the Church ruling from Rome.

“For, behold, in those days, and in that time, when I restore the fortunes of Judah and Jerusalem, I will gather all nations, and will bring them down into the valley of Jehoshaphat; and I will execute judgment on them there for my people, and for my heritage, Israel, whom they have scattered among the nations…” (Joel 3-1-2)

“And he carried me away in the Spirit to a great and high mountain, and showed me the great city, the set-apart Yerushalayim (Jerusalem), descending out of the heaven from Elohim, having the esteem of Elohim, and her light was like a most precious stone, like a jasper stone, clear as crystal, and having a great and high wall, having twelve gates, and at the gates twelve messengers, and names written on them, which are those of the twelve tribes of the children of Yisra’ĕl (Israel).” (Revelations 21:10-12)

Anyone can be counted as native-born in Israel—they simply need to follow the Messiah.

"My sheep hear My voice, and I know them, and they follow Me.” (John 10:27)

Conclusion: One Elohim, One Messiah, One Torah, One Israel

The Bible is a unified, harmonious collection of books spanning thousands of years, yet its message remains consistent throughout. There is one Elohim, one Messiah, one Israel, and one Torah. The foundation of Yah’s Word has never changed, and neither has His purpose for humanity. As we delve deeper into the scriptures, we discover that His commandments, promises, and covenants are eternal, offering guidance for all who seek to walk in His ways. The truth of His Word transcends time, and it is through our understanding and application of this truth that we find our true identity in Him.  

“Where there is no vision, the people are let loose, But blessed is he who guards the Torah.” (Proverbs 29:18)

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Overcoming Complaining: Trusting in Yah Elohim's Plan

 

Complaining is a common spiritual ailment that affects most people at times. It often seems normal to vent to a co-worker about upper management or share frustrations with a spouse or close friend. While expressing feelings and standing against injustices are important, it's crucial to recognize that this can be done without complaining. The spirit of complaining stems from distrust or frustration, not merely with our circumstances, but with Elohim. If we believe that Elohim allows things to happen, then our dissatisfaction is directed at the one who permits these events. For example, a flat tire never happens when it’s convenient, and while we may become frustrated and shake our fists, what does this achieve? Perhaps Elohim allowed the tire to go flat to prevent a fatal accident. We can never fully know the reasons behind such events. This is why complaining is neither appropriate nor beneficial, and in all things, we should give thanks.

“In all circumstances give thanks, for this is the desire of Elohim in Messiah Yeshua for you.” (1 Thessalonians 5:18)

This is easier said than done, as life often conditions us to be pessimistic and resentful. Complaining becomes second nature and often happens without us even realizing it. While some may not see the harm in complaining, it's important to recognize that at its root lies a spirit of distrust. We should strive to be like David, blessing the Father in all things and at all times.

“I bless יהוה at all times; His praise is continually in my mouth.” (Psalms 34:1)

A kindred spirit to complaining, which shares the same root, is worry. When we are anxious about the future, it reflects a faith that does not fully trust in Elohim.

“Do not worry at all, but in every matter, by prayer and petition, with thanksgiving, let your requests be made known to Elohim. And the peace of Elohim, which surpasses all understanding, will guard your hearts and your thoughts in Messiah Yeshua.” (Philippians 4:6-7)

If we allow such a spirit to dwell within us, it can harden our hearts, turning them cold and dark. The light of Yah will fade from us, leaving only the futile need to complain and worry.

“Because knowing Elohim, they didn’t glorify Him as Elohim, and didn’t give thanks, but became vain in their reasoning, and their senseless heart was darkened.” (Romans 1:21)

If one listens to the spirit of distrust, the vanity of their reasoning becomes evident. Their thoughts turn to self-pity, spite, negativity, and, above all, become daggers to Elohim. Although they know Yah, they do not see Him as El Shaddai. Our Elohim is a consuming fire, and to understand how seriously Yah regards complaining, we read the following.

“And it came to be, when the people were as complainers, it was evil in the ears of יהוה. And יהוה heard it, and His displeasure burned. And the fire of יהוה burned among them, and consumed those in the outskirts of the camp.” (Numbers 11:1)

With a mighty hand, Yah delivered the children of Israel from the bondage of Egypt. They witnessed miracles and ate bread from heaven. Even so, the spirit of distrust crept in as the discomfort of the wilderness began to set in.

“And the people spoke against Elohim and against Mosheh (Moses), “Why have you brought us up out of Egypt to die in the wilderness? For there is no food and no water, and our soul loathes this disgusting food!” And יהוה sent fiery serpents among the people, and they bit the people. And many of the people of Yisra’ĕl died. Then the people came to Mosheh (Moses), and said, “We have sinned, for we have spoken against יהוה and against you. Pray to יהוה to take away the serpents from us.” So Mosheh (Moses) prayed on behalf of the people.” (Numbers 21:5-7)

How often do we pray for a new job, only to complain about it once we have it? Or pray to move to a new city, only to find something about the city to complain about once we get there? We are no different from the Israelites who wandered the desert. They prayed for deliverance, and once they were free, they found things to complain about.

Hunger

“They took their journey from Elim, and all the congregation of the children of Israel came to the wilderness of Sin, which is between Elim and Sinai, on the fifteenth day of the second month after their departing out of the land of Egypt. The whole congregation of the children of Israel murmured against Moses and against Aaron in the wilderness; and the children of Israel said to them, “We wish that we had died by the Yah’s hand in the land of Egypt, when we sat by the meat pots, when we ate our fill of bread, for you have brought us out into this wilderness to kill this whole assembly with hunger.” Then Yah said to Moses, “Behold, I will rain bread from the sky for you, and the people shall go out and gather a day’s portion every day, that I may test them, whether they will walk in my Torah or not.” (Exodus 16:1-4)

Manna

“The mixed multitude that was among them lusted exceedingly; and the children of Israel also wept again, and said, “Who will give us meat to eat? We remember the fish, which we ate in Egypt for nothing; the cucumbers, and the melons, and the leeks, and the onions, and the garlic; but now we have lost our appetite. There is nothing at all except this manna to look at.” (Numbers 11:4-6)

Thirst

“All the congregation of the children of Israel traveled from the wilderness of Sin, according to Yah’s commandment, and encamped in Rephidim; but there was no water for the people to drink. Therefore the people quarreled with Moses, and said, “Give us water to drink.” Moses said to them, “Why do you quarrel with me? Why do you test Yah?” The people were thirsty for water there; so the people murmured against Moses, and said, “Why have you brought us up out of Egypt, to kill us, our children, and our livestock with thirst?” Moses cried to the Yah, saying, “What shall I do with these people? They are almost ready to stone me.” (Exodus 17:1-4)

Moses’ Leadership

“All the congregation lifted up their voice, and cried; and the people wept that night. All the children of Israel murmured against Moses and against Aaron. The whole congregation said to them, “We wish that we had died in the land of Egypt, or that we had died in this wilderness! Why does Yah bring us to this land, to fall by the sword? Our wives and our little ones will be captured or killed! Wouldn’t it be better for us to return into Egypt?” They said to one another, “Let’s choose a leader, and let’s return into Egypt.” (Numbers 14:1-4)

If Yah has placed us in a trial or led us through our own wilderness, we should not be like those of the past—constantly complaining and succumbing to the spirit of distrust that separates us from Elohim. Instead, be steadfast and calm, knowing that all things work for the glory of Elohim.

“We know that all things work together for good for those who love Elohim, for those who are called according to his purpose.” (Romans 8:28)   

If you are truly keeping covenant with Yah Elohim, rest assured that whatever you are going through will be okay. He has a plan for you and for those who walk this path alongside you.

Conclusion

It's understandable to feel overwhelmed at times and to seek aid. Even as we battle against the spirit of distrust, which manifests as complaining and fear, we may still feel the pressures of the world. Rather than yielding to its seductive whispers, we rise to the occasion, discerning what we can control and what we cannot, and placing our trust in the One we call Father.

“Therefore I tell you, don’t be anxious for your life: what you will eat, or what you will drink; nor yet for your body, what you will wear. Isn’t life more than food, and the body more than clothing? See the birds of the sky, that they don’t sow, neither do they reap, nor gather into barns. Your heavenly Father feeds them. Aren’t you of much more value than they? “Which of you by being anxious, can add one moment  to his lifespan? Why are you anxious about clothing? Consider the lilies of the field, how they grow. They don’t toil, neither do they spin, yet I tell you that even Solomon in all his glory was not dressed like one of these. But if Elohim so clothes the grass of the field, which today exists and tomorrow is thrown into the oven, won’t he much more clothe you, you of little faith? “Therefore don’t be anxious, saying, ‘What will we eat?’, ‘What will we drink?’ or, ‘With what will we be clothed?’ For the Gentiles seek after all these things; for your heavenly Father knows that you need all these things. But seek first Elohim’s Kingdom and his righteousness; and all these things will be given to you as well. Therefore don’t be anxious for tomorrow, for tomorrow will be anxious for itself. Each day’s own evil is sufficient.” (Matthew 6:25-34)

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Lashon Hara: Understanding Evil Speech in Scriptures

 

Lashon Hara, or "evil speech," refers to any form of communication that is harmful or damaging to someone, even if it is true. For instance, calling someone lazy because they do not work or maintain a tidy home, with the intent of insulting their character, constitutes lashon hara. Such statements, while possibly true, are damaging and fail to promote personal growth or uplift the spirit. Similarly, presenting a fellow congregant negatively to leadership due to a personal grievance, in an attempt to influence their perception, is also lashon hara. Whether or not we intend harm, our words can still be harmful, underscoring the need for vigilance in our speech. As it is written, "the power of death and life is found on the tongue."

“Death and life are in the power of the tongue, and those loving it eat its fruit.” (Proverbs 18:21)

Controlling our tongues is one of the most challenging tasks we face. Often, we may say something hurtful before we even fully realize what we've uttered. This is why practicing temperance and compassion is essential.

Lashon Hara in the Scriptures

The term "lashon hara" does not appear in the scriptures and originates from Rabbinic Judaism. However, a close examination of the scriptures reveals that Yah condemns evil speech.

“You shall not spread a false report. Don’t join your hand with the wicked to be a malicious witness. “You shall not follow a crowd to do evil. You shall not testify in court to side with a multitude to pervert justice” (Exodus 23:1-2)

This form of lashon hara involves lying with malicious intent, aiming to bring punishment or harm to an innocent person. Falsely accusing someone of sinning falls into this category, which is known in English as slander.

“You shall not go around as a slanderer among your people. You shall not endanger the life of your neighbor. I am Yah.” (Leviticus 19:16)

The Hebrew word translated as "slanderer" is "rakiyl," which can also mean "tale bearer" or "informer." This term can encompass spreading true information that is not beneficial. For instance, it is appropriate to warn others about someone violent, as this is beneficial. However, spreading gossip about someone's weekend activities is not beneficial and falls under the category of harmful speech.

“With his mouth the godless man destroys his neighbor, but the righteous will be delivered through knowledge. When it goes well with the righteous, the city rejoices. When the wicked perish, there is shouting. By the blessing of the upright, the city is exalted, but it is overthrown by the mouth of the wicked. One who despises his neighbor is void of wisdom, but a man of understanding holds his peace. One who brings gossip betrays a confidence, but one who is of a trustworthy spirit is one who keeps a secret.” (Proverbs 11:9-13)

“He who goes about as a tale-bearer reveals secrets; therefore don’t keep company with him who opens wide his lips.” (Proverbs 20:19)

If the slanderer, tale-bearer, or gossiper is telling the truth about their neighbor, why is it considered wrong? It is because revealing these secrets harms their neighbor, leading to negative outcomes and sowing discord. Such actions are malicious, as referenced earlier in Leviticus 19:16 and in Ezekiel.

“You have despised that which is set-apart to Me, and you have profaned My Sabbaths. “Slanderous men have been in you to shed blood.” (Ezekiel 22:8-9)

Lashon Hara in Numbers 12

At the beginning of Numbers 12, we immediately see Aaron and Miriam committing lashon hara against their own brother.

“Miriam and Aaron spoke against Moses because of the Cushite woman whom he had married; for he had married a Cushite woman. They said, “Has Yah indeed spoken only with Moses? Hasn’t he spoken also with us?” And Yah heard it.” (Numbers 12:1-2)

The chapter goes on to detail how Yah punished Miriam with tzaraat (commonly mistranslated as leprosy). Notice that nothing Aaron or Miriam said was a lie, but their words carried the spirit of destruction.

• Moses did marry a Cushite woman.
• Yah declared Aaron a prophet in Exodus 7:1 and Miriam a prophetess in Exodus 15:20, so Yah had spoken to them.

However, their words implied that Moses was unfit to be the leader of Israel, echoing previous accusations by the Israelites who had even intended to murder him.

“All the congregation of the children of Israel traveled from the wilderness of Sin, starting according to Yah’s commandment, and encamped in Rephidim; but there was no water for the people to drink. Therefore the people quarreled with Moses, and said, “Give us water to drink.” Moses said to them, “Why do you quarrel with me? Why do you test Yah?” The people were thirsty for water there; so the people murmured against Moses, and said, “Why have you brought us up out of Egypt, to kill us, our children, and our livestock with thirst?” Moses cried to Yah, saying, “What shall I do with these people? They are almost ready to stone me.” (Exodus 17:1-4)

“All the congregation lifted up their voice, and cried; and the people wept that night. All the children of Israel murmured against Moses and against Aaron. The whole congregation said to them, “We wish that we had died in the land of Egypt, or that we had died in this wilderness! Why does Yah bring us to this land, to fall by the sword? Our wives and our little ones will be captured or killed! Wouldn’t it be better for us to return into Egypt?” They said to one another, “Let’s choose a leader, and let’s return into Egypt.” Then Moses and Aaron fell on their faces before all the assembly of the congregation of the children of Israel. Joshua the son of Nun and Caleb the son of Jephunneh, who were of those who spied out the land, tore their clothes. They spoke to all the congregation of the children of Israel, saying, “The land, which we passed through to spy it out, is an exceedingly good land. If Yah delights in us, then he will bring us into this land, and give it to us: a land which flows with milk and honey. Only don’t rebel against Yah, neither fear the people of the land; for they are bread for us. Their defense is removed from over them, and Yah is with us. Don’t fear them.” But all the congregation threatened to stone them with stones. Then Yah’s glory appeared in the Tent of Meeting to all the children of Israel.” (Numbers 14:1-10)

Lashon Hara in 1 Samuel

In 1 Samuel 22, David is on the run from Saul and seeks aid at the temple. While he and his men are there, they are spotted by Doeg, a herdsman, who later informs King Saul of what he saw.

“Saul said to his servants who stood around him, “Hear now, you Benjamites! Will the son of Jesse give everyone of you fields and vineyards? Will he make you all captains of thousands and captains of hundreds? Is that why all of you have conspired against me, and there is no one who discloses to me when my son makes a treaty with the son of Jesse, and there is none of you who is sorry for me, or discloses to me that my son has stirred up my servant against me, to lie in wait, as it is today?” Then Doeg the Edomite, who stood by the servants of Saul, answered and said, “I saw the son of Jesse coming to Nob, to Ahimelech the son of Ahitub. He inquired of Yah for him, gave him food, and gave him the sword of Goliath the Philistine.” (1 Samuel 22:7-10)

Everything Doeg reported to Saul was true; however, his report was malicious and led to the deaths of Ahimelech and his family.

“The king said to Doeg, “Turn and attack the priests!” Doeg the Edomite turned, and he attacked the priests, and he killed on that day eighty-five people who wore a linen ephod. He struck Nob, the city of the priests, with the edge of the sword—both men and women, children and nursing babies, and cattle, donkeys, and sheep, with the edge of the sword. One of the sons of Ahimelech the son of Ahitub, named Abiathar, escaped and fled after David.” (1 Samuel 22:18-20)

We later find confirmation in the Psalms that Doeg’s report was sinful and an example of lashon hara.

“For the Chief Musician. A contemplation by David, when Doeg the Edomite came and told Saul, “David has come to Ahimelech’s house.”“Why do you boast of mischief, mighty man? El’s loving kindness endures continually. Your tongue plots destruction, like a sharp razor, working deceitfully. You love evil more than good,lying rather than speaking the truth. Selah. You love all devouring words, you deceitful tongue. Elohim will likewise destroy you forever. He will take you up, and pluck you out of your tent, and root you out of the land of the living.”  (Psalms 52:1-5)

David observes that Doeg's report to Saul contained treacherous and betraying words, yet Doeg spoke the truth. The Hebrew word translated as 'deceitful' can imply treachery, and 'lying' can mean betrayal. Substituting these words clarifies David's point: while Doeg's words were truthful, their intent was evil, constituting sin.

Apostolic Writings on Lashon Hara

One of the primary principles of lashon hara is that speech causing strife among Israelites is prohibited. Similarly, Paul issues a stern warning against those who sow discord within the assembly, urging followers of the Messiah to distance themselves from such individuals.

“If anyone teaches a different doctrine and doesn’t consent to sound words, the words of our Master Yeshua the Messiah, and to the doctrine which is according to reverence, he is conceited, knowing nothing, but obsessed with arguments, disputes, and word battles, from which come envy, strife, insulting, evil suspicions, constant friction of people of corrupt minds and destitute of the truth, who suppose that reverence is a means of gain. Withdraw yourself from such.” (1 Timothy 6:3-5)

In a similar manner, we are informed that those who practice lashon hara will not enter the Kingdom of Elohim, as they use their words to stir up trouble, fracture the assembly, and elevate themselves above others.

“Now the deeds of the flesh are obvious, which are: adultery, sexual immorality, uncleanness, lustfulness, idolatry, sorcery, hatred, strife, jealousies, outbursts of anger, rivalries, divisions, heresies, envy, murders, drunkenness, orgies, and things like these; of which I forewarn you, even as I also forewarned you, that those who practice such things will not inherit God’s Kingdom.” (Galatians 5:19-20)

Messiah on Lashon Hara

Another principle of lashon hara is the prohibition of revealing another’s sin. The exception to this rule is that one must first confront the person privately about their sin. If they refuse to repent (teshuva), only then may the matter be brought publicly. This concept is also taught by our Master.

“If your brother sins against you, go, show him his fault between you and him alone. If he listens to you, you have gained back your brother. But if he doesn’t listen, take one or two more with you, that at the mouth of two or three witnesses every word may be established. If he refuses to listen to them, tell it to the assembly. If he refuses to hear the assembly also, let him be to you as a Gentile or a tax collector.” (Matthew 18:15-17)

Conclusion: Building Up with Words of Grace

Our words should be used to build each other up, not tear each other apart. If firm words are necessary to correct a fellow member of the Body of Messiah, they should be spoken with utmost care, ensuring they contribute to the edification of their spiritual growth rather than its destruction.

“Let no corrupt speech proceed out of your mouth, but only what is good for building others up as the need may be, that it may give grace to those who hear. Don’t grieve the Set-apart Spirit of Elohim, in whom you were sealed for the day of redemption. Let all bitterness, wrath, anger, outcry, and slander be put away from you, with all malice. And be kind to one another, tender hearted, forgiving each other, just as Elohim also in Messiah forgave you.” (Ephesians 4:29-32)

“And the tongue is a fire. The world of iniquity among our members is the tongue, which defiles the whole body, and sets on fire the course of nature, and is set on fire by Gehinnom. For every kind of animal, bird, creeping thing, and sea creature is tamed, and has been tamed by mankind; but nobody can tame the tongue. It is a restless evil, full of deadly poison. With it we bless our Elohim and Father, and with it we curse men who are made in the likeness of Elohim. Out of the same mouth comes blessing and cursing. My brothers, these things ought not to be so.” (James 3:6-10)

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Yeshua's Sermon on the Mount: Rediscovering Torah and the Way to the Father

 

“But when He saw the crowds, He went up on a mountain. And when He was seated His taught ones came to Him. And having opened His mouth, He was teaching them, saying…” (Matthew 5:1-2)

On the mount, Yeshua redelivers the Torah to the people, expounding upon its deeper meanings. This act of Yeshua ascending a mountain to teach the Torah echoes the time when Yah, through Moses, instructed the children of Israel at Mount Sinai.

“And יהוה spoke to Mosheh (Moses) on Mount Sinai, saying, “Speak to the children of Yisra’ĕl, and say to them…” (Leviticus 25:1-2)

Yeshua Reaffirms the Torah

While the Christian church often cites the Sermon on the Mount as evidence that the Messiah abolished or taught contrary to the Torah, there are at least five instances where Yeshua affirmed the validity and relevance of the Torah in the lives of His followers.

“Do not think that I came to destroy the Torah or the Prophets. I did not come to destroy but to complete.” (Matthew 5:17)

Despite the initial part of the sentence, many use the latter part of the sentence to justify their disregard for the Torah. However, the Greek word for 'complete' or 'fulfill,' as per Strong’s coordinates, signifies to 'fill up' or 'make full,' to bring to realization, or to cause Elohim’s will (as revealed in the Torah) to be obeyed as intended, and for Yah’s promises (as conveyed through the prophets) to be fulfilled. 

“For truly, I say to you, till the heaven and the earth pass away, one yod or one tittle shall by no means pass from the Torah till all be done.” (Matthew 5:18)

The heavens and the earth still exist, serving as the two witnesses that Yah summoned to stand before Israel after He bestowed upon them the Torah.

“I have called the heavens and the earth as witnesses today against you: I have set before you life and death, the blessing and the curse. Therefore you shall choose life, so that you live, both you and your seed, “to love יהוה your Elohim, to obey His voice, and to cling to Him…” (Deuteronomy 30:19-20)

“Whoever, then, breaks one of the least of these commands, and teaches men so, shall be called least in the reign of the heavens; but whoever does and teaches them, he shall be called great in the reign of the heavens.” (Matthew 5:19)

I've heard Christians use this to argue that even those who don't adhere to the Torah will enter the Master’s rest. However, this is incorrect, as we'll explore later. Being considered the least in the kingdom doesn't equate to being with the Messiah. While Elohim’s kingdom will encompass all of creation, access to His city, which houses the tree of life, won't be granted to everyone.

“Blessed are those doing His commands, so that the authority shall be theirs unto the tree of life, and to enter through the gates into the city. “But outside are the dogs and those who enchant with drugs, and those who whore, and the murderers, and the idolaters, and all who love and do falsehood.” (Revelation 22:14-15)  

“For I say to you, that unless your righteousness exceeds that of the scribes and Pharisees, you shall by no means enter into the reign of the heavens.” (Matthew 5:20)

Remember that the Pharisees were hypocrites who prioritized their own traditions over Elohim's commands. They esteemed what would later be known as the Talmud above the Holy Torah. Let's be clear: Christian church doctrines that deviate from the Torah are no different from the Talmud, rendering those preachers and teachers no better than the scribes and Pharisees.

“Not everyone who says to Me, ‘Master, Master,’ shall enter into the reign of the heavens, but he who is doing the desire of My Father in the heavens. “Many shall say to Me in that day, ‘Master, Master, have we not prophesied in Your Name, and cast out demons in Your Name, and done many mighty works in Your Name?’ “And then I shall declare to them, ‘I never knew you, depart from Me, you who work lawlessness!’” (Matthew 7:21-23)

Merely wielding the authority of the Messiah to perform miracles doesn't confer citizenship in the Kingdom of Heaven. Despite their use of authority, they never genuinely knew the Messiah because they failed to learn the Father’s ways. Instead, they followed the broad path supported by Papal Rome and her Protestant offspring.    

Yeshua, the Prophesied Teacher

Yeshua embodies many roles: Messiah, King, High Priest, Son of the Living Elohim, and he is also a teacher (rabbi), as prophesied in Isaiah.

“and all your children taught by יהוה, and the peace of your children great.” (Isaiah 54:13)

“You call me Teacher and Master, and you say well, for I am.” (John 13:13)

“Because I spoke not from Myself, but the Father who sent Me has given Me a command, what I should say and what I should speak. “And I know that His command is everlasting life. Therefore, whatever I speak, as the Father has said to Me, so I speak.” (John 12:49-50)

Yeshua teaches the Torah, as it reflects the will of the Father. During his sermon on the Mount, Yeshua's teaching echoed a style not seen since the days of old when righteous prophets instructed and exhorted Israel to teshuva (repent). For centuries, the people lacked a true teacher and leader until, as Moses had promised, Yeshua emerged from among them.

“YHWH your Elohim shall raise up for you a Prophet like me from your midst, from your brothers. Listen to Him…” (Deuteronomy 18:15)

For those present, the moment of revelation unfolded before their very eyes. The prophet, the Messiah, the rabbi they had longed for, was breathing life into the Torah and the Tanakh (the 'old' testament) right before them.  

“And it came to be, when יהושע had ended these words, that the people were astonished at His teaching, for He was teaching them as one possessing authority, and not as the scribes.” (Matthew 7:28-29)

The Poor in Spirit

“Blessed are the poor in spirit, because theirs is the reign of the heavens.” (Matthew 5:3)

“And all these My hand has made, and all these that exist,” declares יהוה. “Yet to such a one I look: on him who is poor and bruised of spirit, and who trembles at My Word.” (Isaiah 66:2)

Those Who Mourn

“Blessed are those who mourn, because they shall be comforted.” (Matthew 5:4)

“The Spirit of the Master יהוה is upon Me, because יהוה has anointed Me to bring good news to the meek. He has sent Me to bind up the broken-hearted, to proclaim release to the captives, and the opening of the prison to those who are bound, to proclaim the acceptable year of יהוה, and the day of vengeance of our Elohim, to comfort all who mourn…” (Isaiah 61:1-2)

The Meek

“Blessed are the meek, because they shall inherit the earth.” (Matthew 5:5)

“But the meek ones shall inherit the earth, And delight themselves in plenty of peace.” (Psalm 37:11)

Those who Hunger

“Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, because they shall be filled.” (Matthew 5:6)

“For He has satisfied a longing being, And has filled the hungry being with goodness.” (Psalms 107:9)

“Oh everyone who thirsts, come to the waters. And you who have no silver, come, buy and eat. Come, buy wine and milk without silver and without price. “Why do you weigh out silver for what is not bread, and your labour for what does not satisfy? Listen, listen to Me, and eat what is good, and let your being delight itself in fatness. “Incline your ear, and come to Me…” (Isaiah 55:1-3)

The Merciful

“Blessed are the merciful, for they shall obtain mercy” (Matthew 5:7)

“With the merciful, you will show yourself merciful; with an upright man you will show yourself upright;” (Psalms 18:25)

The Clean in Heart

“Blessed are the clean in heart, because they shall see Elohim.” (Matthew 5:8)

“Who does go up into the mountain of יהוה? And who does stand in His set-apart place? He who has innocent hands and a clean heart, Who did not bring his life to naught, And did not swear deceivingly.” (Psalm 24:3-4)

The Peacemakers

“Blessed are the peacemakers, because they shall be called sons of Elohim.” (Matthew 5:9)

And Ya‛aqoḇ (Jacob) made a vow, saying, “Seeing Elohim is with me, and has kept me in this way that I am going, and has given me bread to eat and a garment to put on –when I have returned to my father’s house in peace, and יהוה has been my Elohim, then this stone which I have set as a standing column shall be Elohim’s house, and of all that You give me, I shall certainly give a tenth to You.” (Genesis 28:20-22)

“And you shall say to Pharaoh, ‘Thus said יהוה, Yisra’ĕl (Israel) is My son, My first-born.” (Exodus 4:22)

The Persecuted

“Blessed are those persecuted for righteousness’ sake, because theirs is the reign of the heavens. “Blessed are you when they reproach and persecute you, and falsely say every wicked word against you, for My sake. Rejoice and be glad, because your reward in the heavens is great. For in this way they persecuted the prophets who were before you.” (Matthew 5:10-12)

“Which of the prophets did your fathers not persecute?” (Acts 7:52)

Every single prophet that Elohim ever sent to Israel has been persecuted, and most were killed by their own people for urging them to obey the Torah.

“And the prophets…And others were tortured, not accepting release, to obtain a better resurrection. And others had trial of mocking's and floggings and more, of chains and imprisonment. They were stoned, they were tried, they were sawn in two, and they were slain with the sword. They went about in sheepskins, in goatskins, being in need, afflicted, mistreated, of whom the world was not worthy – wandering in deserts and mountains and caves and holes of the earth.” (Hebrews 11:32-38)

What is righteousness?

“For all Your commands are righteousness.” (Psalms 119:172)

The Salt

“You are the salt of the earth, but if the salt becomes tasteless, how shall it be seasoned? For it is no longer of any use but to be thrown out and to be trodden down by men.” (Matthew 5:13)

“‘And season with salt every offering of your grain offering, and do not allow the salt of the covenant of your Elohim to be lacking from your grain offering. With all your offerings you bring salt.” (Leviticus 2:13)

Salt was to be used with every offering, and here Yeshua is telling the people that they are salt, they are like offerings to the Most High. Believing Israel is that salt that was in the tabernacle, acting as a type and shadow of those who hold reverence to El Shaddai’s ways.

“I call upon you, therefore, brothers, through the compassion of Elohim, to present your bodies a living offering – set-apart, well-pleasing to Elohim – your reasonable worship.” (Romans 12:1)

The Light of the World

“You are the light of the world. It is impossible for a city to be hidden on a mountain. “Nor do they light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a lampstand, and it shines to all those in the house. Let your light so shine before men, so that they see your good works and praise your Father who is in the heavens.” (Matthew 5:14-16)

“and He says, “Shall it be a small matter for You to be My Servant to raise up the tribes of Ya‛aqoḇ (Jacob), and to bring back the preserved ones of Yisra’ĕl (Israel)? And I shall give You as a light to the nations, to be My deliverance to the ends of the earth!” (Isaiah 49:6)

“For the command is a lamp, And the Torah a light.” (Proverbs 6:23)

By walking in the Torah, you become a beacon of light to those around you. This isn't some abstract light concocted by Christianity rooted in philosophical debate; rather, it's the light of the Torah! It's the teachings of the Father for His children.   

 You Have Heard it Said

“You heard that it was said to those of old, ‘You shall not murder,’ and whoever murders shall be liable to judgment. But I say to you that whoever is wroth with his brother without a cause shall be liable to judgment. And whoever says to his brother, ‘Raka!’ shall be liable to the Sanhedrin. But whoever says, ‘You fool!’ shall be liable to fire of GĕHinnom.” (Matthew 5:21-22)

Notice that Yeshua says, 'You have heard it said,' but the Torah was written. The Pharisees spoke in the synagogues, but they did not teach the deeper, inward aspects of the Torah. When there were righteous teachers of the Torah, they taught that sin begins in the heart, not just with actions. Yeshua is restoring this understanding to the people

“You heard that it was said to those of old, ‘You shall not commit adultery.’“But I say to you that everyone looking at a woman to lust for her has already committed adultery with her in his heart. And if your right eye causes you to stumble, pluck it out and throw it away from you. For it is better for you that one of your members perish, than for your entire body to be thrown into GĕHinnom.” (Matthew 5:27-29)

Once again, Yeshua addresses the heart of the matter. The desire to sin begins in the heart, which is why we must take every thought captive. Notice also how He alludes to Samson with the plucking out of the eyes. Samson was seduced by Delilah, which cost him everything, including his eyesight. This reference is often missed by readers of Matthew chapter five today, but I have no doubt that those in attendance understood and recognized the significance, just as they would have grasped the following references as well.

“You have heard that it was said, ‘An eye for an eye, and a tooth for a tooth.’ But I tell you, don’t resist him who is evil; but whoever strikes you on your right cheek, turn to him the other also. If anyone sues you to take away your coat, let him have your cloak also.” (Matthew 5:38-40)

I have already discussed 'eye for an eye, tooth for a tooth' at length in 'Eye for Eye.' But did you catch the biblical reference that Yeshua mentioned? Who is He telling the people to emulate, while also showing that Elohim will provide for His own? Joseph lost his coat when his jealous brothers sold him into slavery, and he lost his cloak when he was framed for adultery. Yet, despite all the evil done to him, Joseph was still made second in all of Egypt and was able to save his entire family.

The One Pointing the Way

Yeshua did not come to dismantle His Father’s ways, nor did he come to establish a new religion. He came to redeem Israel, taking Judah’s cup of bitter waters, and teach the Torah as intended. The Messiah declared that the only way to the Father was through him, and we understand that the Torah guides us to the Messiah.

“For Messiah is the goal of the ‘Torah unto righteousness’ to everyone who believes.” (Romans 10:4)

Yeshua is showing the way to the Father, not Christian church doctrine or the proclamations of pastors claiming divine revelation when Yah hasn't spoken. It's the King of all Kings who directs the way.

“The one who says he stays in Him ought himself also to walk, even as He walked.” (1 John 2:6)

“My sheep hear My voice, and I know them, and they follow Me.” (John 10:27)

P.S.

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Exploring the Contrast: Yeshua vs. Jesus in Sabbath, Food, and Holidays

 

To preface this article, it would behoove me to state that I am not discussing the names themselves. Whether you call the Messiah Yeshua or Jesus is not my concern; instead, what I am concerned about is that for most people the name Jesus conjures up a specific idea of the Messiah that is in stark contrast to the image created with the name Yeshua. To put it in simple terms, the Greek Jesus came to do away with the Torah and founded a new religion called Christianity, with the Church replacing Israel. Yeshua, however, came to fill up the Torah to its highest application, reminding the people of how to properly follow the set-apart teachings of Yah, and did not replace Israel with the Church.

Several topics could be brought up to show the distinction between the Greek Jesus and the Hebrew Yeshua, but I have selected three that can be easily identified and covered in a single article. If the need arises, then a part two will surely be on the way, Yah willing. In the meantime, the three topics to be discussed are the Sabbath, food, and holidays.

The Sabbath

The Sabbath is a very important day for the creator of everything.  It is not only the day He rested after finishing creation,

“Thus the heavens and the earth were completed, and all their array. And in the seventh day Elohim completed His work which He had done, and He rested on the seventh day from all His work which He had made. And Elohim blessed the seventh day and set it apart, because on it He rested from all His work which Elohim in creating had made...” (Genesis 2:1-3)

It is also a sign between Him and His people,

“And you, speak to the children of Yisra’ĕl (Israel), saying, ‘My Sabbaths you are to guard, by all means, for it is a sign between Me and you throughout your generations, to know that I, יהוה, am setting you apart.” (Exodus 31:13)

The importance of the Sabbath day cannot be overstated or overlooked. It is not a day to be made into a principle for any day of the week; it is an eternal sign between Yah and those who know Him.

After briefly showing the high regard Elohim has and expects us to have for the Sabbath day, how did/does the Greek Jesus view the Sabbath? Well, according to Christian scholars, he broke the Sabbath on a few occasions, and Christians do not have to keep the Sabbath because they are in the Church age now. Before examining the scriptures that such schools of thought bring up, it should be noted that the idea of the Church age or Yahweh interacting with humans in dispensations is utter lunacy and unfounded in scripture. Elohim does not change; a perfect being has no need for change.

“For I am יהוה, I shall not change, and you, O sons of Ya‛aqoḇ (Jacob), shall not come to an end.” (Malachi 3:6)

“Every good gift and every perfect gift is from above, coming down from the Father of lights, with whom there is no change, nor shadow of turning.” (James 1:17)   

There are two sections routinely used by Christianity to show that the Messiah broke the Sabbath, and in each of them, with a little bit of knowledge of the Torah and logic, you can see the scriptures do not support Yeshua breaking the Sabbath that His father established.

“And it came to be on a Sabbath that He went through grainfields, and His taught ones were plucking the heads of grain and were eating, rubbing them with the hands. And some of the Pharisees said to them, “Why are you doing what is not right to do on the Sabbath?” (Luke 6:1-2)

Many will point to the Pharisees, stating that Yeshua and his disciples broke the Sabbath simply because they said so. This would be a false assumption since the Pharisees themselves do not keep the Torah but uphold the Talmud (traditions of men), as seen here-

“But He answering, said to them, “Why do you also transgress the command of Elohim because of your tradition?” (Matthew 15:3)

Despite the Pharisees' accusations, Yeshua and his disciples were in the right when they were plucking grain to eat on the Sabbath.

“When you come into your neighbor’s standing grain, you shall pluck the heads with your hand, but do not use a sickle on your neighbor’s standing grain.” (Deuteronomy 23:25)

According to the Torah, it is permissible to pluck grain to eat on the Sabbath, but not for harvesting. Yeshua and his disciples were not out reaping on the Sabbath, just grabbing a bite to eat on the road, perfectly in alignment with the Torah.

The next section that is often brought up is the instance where Yeshua healed the man on the Sabbath.

“Now it was a Sabbath when יהושע made the clay and opened his eyes. Therefore the Pharisees also asked him again how he had received his sight. He said to them, “He put clay on my eyes, and I washed, and I see.” Therefore some of the Pharisees said, “This Man is not from Elohim, because He does not guard the Sabbath.” Others said, “How is a man who is a sinner able to do such miracles?” And there was a division among them.” (John 9:14-16)

There are no commands against healing or doing good on the Sabbath; this is a man-made rule invented by the Pharisees as seen in the Talmud:

“R. Hiyya the son of Abba stated in the name of R. Levi: It is forbidden to place saliva on an ailing eye on the Sabbath, for that would be equivalent to healing on the Sabbath.” (Midrash Tanchuma, Noach 8)

Food

The verse commonly cited to argue that the Messiah abolished dietary instructions is located in the Gospel of Mark. In numerous translations, an interpretative addition is present in parentheses, influencing the meaning of the text.

“Are you so dull?” he asked. “Don’t you see that nothing that enters a person from the outside can defile them? For it doesn’t go into their heart but into their stomach, and then out of the body.” (In saying this, Jesus declared all foods clean.) (Mark 7:18-19 NIV)

This error carries significant weight, given that the oldest manuscripts lack the statement 'In saying this, Jesus declared all foods clean.' It highlights the extent to which men may go to manipulate the scriptures to fit their agenda. Translations that adhere more closely to the source material avoid including such interpretative additions by the translators.

“And He said to them, “Are you also without understanding? Do you not perceive that whatever enters a man from outside is unable to defile him, because it does not enter his heart but his stomach, and is eliminated, thus purging all the foods?” (Mark 7:18-19)

Maintaining a Hebraic understanding of food involves recognizing that it does not mean anything that you can physically consume. In Hebrew tradition, the definition of food is limited to the animals listed by Yah as permissible in the Torah, found in Leviticus 11.

If you carefully read Mark 7 in its entirety, it becomes evident that the practice of ceremonially washing hands before eating, as discussed (consult the Talmud for context), is revealed as a tradition of men rather than a commandment from Yah. Additionally, historical research indicates that there was a time when the belief persisted that consuming bread with unwashed hands could permit demons to enter the body. Yeshua, however, asserts that eating bread with unwashed hands does not defile or profane the body; rather, it is the committing of sin that brings defilement. This is evident as he proceeds to enumerate several sins. For more information, please see the article 'To Eat or Not to Eat'.

Holidays

The Christian church commonly teaches that the Messiah was born on December 25, celebrated as Christmas, and was resurrected on Easter. However, this belief is a clear distortion, openly acknowledged by the Catholic church, which admits to assimilating pagan holidays and 'Christianizing' them. I have delved into this topic in several articles, which are available for viewing on my 'Pagan Holidays' page.

Yeshua, the Hebrew Messiah, did not observe pagan holidays but instead adhered to the Biblical feast days as outlined in the Torah. Scriptural evidence supports this, offering examples of his observance of these feast days, including a reference to his celebration of Hanukkah.

Passover and the Feast of Unleavened Bread:

“And on the first day of Unleavened Bread the taught ones came to יהושע, saying to Him, “Where do You wish us to prepare for You to eat the Pĕsaḥ?” And He said, “Go into the city to a certain man, and say to him, ‘The Teacher says, “My time is near. I am to perform the Pĕsaḥ at your house with My taught ones.”’ ” And the taught ones did as יהושע had ordered them, and prepared the Pĕsaḥ. And when evening came, He sat down with the twelve.” (Matthew 26:17-20)

The Feast of Tabernacles:

“And the festival of the Yehudim was near, the Festival of Sukkot. So His brothers said to Him, ‘Get away from here and go into Yehudah, so that Your taught ones also see the works that You are doing. For no one acts in secret while he himself seeks to be known openly. If You do these works, show Yourself to the world. For even His brothers did not believe in Him. Yeshua therefore said to them, “My time has not yet come, but your time is always ready. “It is impossible for the world to hate you, but it hates Me because I bear witness of it, that its works are wicked. “You go up to this festival. I am not yet going up to this festival, for My time has not yet been filled.” And having said this to them, He stayed in Galil. But when His brothers had gone up to the festival, then He also went up, not openly, but as it were in secret.” (John 7:2-10)

Hanukkah:

“At that time the Ḥanukkah came to be in Yerushalayim, and it was winter. And יהושע was walking in the Set-apart Place, in the porch of Shelomoh (Solomon).” (John 7:22-23)

Yeshua the Messiah

Yeshua, the historical, factual, Hebrew, obedient son of Yah, did not come to do away with the Torah, or to found a new church:

“Do not think that I came to destroy the Torah or the Prophets. I did not come to destroy but to complete. For truly, I say to you, till the heaven and the earth pass away, one yod or one tittle shall by no means pass from the Torah till all be done. “Whoever, then, breaks one of the least of these commands, and teaches men so, shall be called least in the reign of the heavens; but whoever does and teaches them, he shall be called great in the reign of the heavens.” (Matthew 5:17-19)

But He came to bring back the lost sheep of the house of Israel:

“And He answering, said, “I was not sent except to the lost sheep of the house of Yisra’ĕl.” (Matthew 15:24)

While the world may celebrate and worship a false Greek Jesus, for me and my household we will follow the Hebrew Yeshua in Torah obedience to the Father. Continue to test all things, and may the Ruach Hakodesh lead you into all Truth.

P.S.

Check out some of my books! Available in both print and Kindle versions. 

Understanding the Good News of Yeshua: A Deeper Look at His Teachings

 

What is the Good News of Yeshua?

There is a distinction that needs to be made between the Good News of Yeshua and the Good News about Yeshua. The Good News of Yeshua refers to the gospel he taught, while the Good News about Yeshua pertains to his coming, death, burial, resurrection, and his second coming. Today, I choose to focus on the Good News of Yeshua because most people are already aware of the Good News about him. By neglecting the gospel of Yeshua, we fail to understand the true Good news of the scriptures.

It is important to recognize that these two aspects are not one and the same. For many, the gospel is centered around the death, burial, and resurrection of Yeshua. However, this is not the Good News that Yeshua himself taught, as his disciples were caught off guard when he spoke about his impending death.

“And taking the twelve aside, He said to them, “See, we are going up to Yerushalayim (Jerusalem), and all that has been written by the prophets about the Son of Aḏam shall be accomplished. “For He shall be delivered up to the nations and shall be mocked and insulted and spat upon, “and having flogged Him they shall kill Him. And on the third day He shall rise again. But they understood none of this, and this word was hidden from them, and they did not know what was being said.” (Luke 18:31-34)

“And as they were coming down from the mountain, He ordered them not to relate to anyone what they saw, till the Son of Aḏam had risen from the dead. And they kept this matter to themselves, debating what the rising from the dead meant.” (Mark 9:9-10)

“And going from there they passed through Galil. And He did not wish anyone to know, for He was teaching His taught ones and said to them, “The Son of Aḏam is being delivered into the hands of men, and they shall kill Him. And having been killed, He shall rise the third day.” But they did not understand the word, and they were afraid to ask Him.” (Mark 9:30-32)

The disciples struggled to grasp the meaning of the Master's words, and it is worth noting that he chose to share this information with them privately, away from public knowledge. Several chapters later, Yeshua is depicted teaching the Good News, which implies that this message couldn't have been solely about his death, as mentioned earlier. 

“And it came to be, on one of those days, as He was teaching the people in the Set-apart Place and bringing the Good News, that the chief priests and the scribes, together with the elders, came up.” (Luke 20:1)

This is the same Good News that Yeshua himself instructed his disciples to go out and teach way back in Luke chapter 9. 

“And as for those who do not receive you, when you go out of that city, shake off the dust from your feet as a witness against them.” And going out they went through the villages, bringing the Good News and healing everywhere.” (Luke 9:5-6)

It would not be until chapter 18 that Yeshua disclosed his fate to his closest disciples, which further illustrates that the Good News Yeshua taught and told his disciples to teach was not about his death, burial, and resurrection. 

If the gospel Yeshua taught was not about his death, burial, and resurrection, then what was it? Well, according to the author of Hebrews, it was the very same Good News given to the people who left Egypt.

“For who, having heard, rebelled? Was it not all who came out of Mitsrayim (Egypt), led by Mosheh (Moses)? And with whom was He grieved forty years? Was it not with those who sinned, whose corpses fell in the wilderness? And to whom did He swear that they would not enter into His rest, but to those who did not obey? So we see that they were unable to enter in because of unbelief.” (Hebrews 3:16-19)

“Therefore, since a promise remains of entering into His rest, let us fear lest any of you seem to have come short of it. For indeed the Good News was brought to us as well as to them, but the word which they heard did not profit them, not having been mixed with belief in those who heard it.” (Hebrews 4:1-2)

We have received the very same Good News as those who were led out of Egypt, that being entering into a covenant with the almighty Elohim if we agree to do all that He says, i.e., keeping Torah. But take note that those in the wilderness did not profit from this because they did not trust in Elohim, as seen in the connection between rebellion, sin, disobedience, and unbelief.

“Since then it remains for some to enter into it, and those who formerly received the Good News did not enter in because of disobedience.” (Hebrews 4:6)

Yeshua Taught the Torah

We know that the Messiah taught a Torah observant lifestyle as evident in the following verses.

“Do not think that I came to destroy the Torah or the Prophets. I did not come to destroy but to complete. For truly, I say to you, till the heaven and the earth pass away, one yod or one tittle shall by no means pass from the Torah till all be done. “Whoever, then, breaks one of the least of these commands, and teaches men so, shall be called least in the reign of the heavens; but whoever does and teaches them, he shall be called great in the reign of the heavens. For I say to you, that unless your righteousness exceeds that of the scribes and Pharisees, you shall by no means enter into the reign of the heavens.” (Matthew 5:17-20)

Messiah himself said do not think he came to destroy the Torah, therefore do not let that thought enter your mind!

“Then יהושע spoke to the crowds and to His taught ones, saying, “The scribes and the Pharisees sit on the seat of Mosheh. Therefore, whatever they say to you to guard, guard and do. But do not do according to their works, for they say, and do not do.” (Matthew 23:1-3)

When the scribes and Pharisees sat in the seat of Moses, they taught the Torah, but they did not practice what they preached and instead upheld the oral torah, which we now know as the Talmud. For more examples, please check out my “Torah” page.

Let’s examine a few mentions in the writings of the disciples and apostles about the good news, and see if it aligns with our interpretation.

Peter on the Gospel

“Therefore, having girded up the loins of your mind, being sober, set your expectation perfectly upon the favor that is to be brought to you at the revelation of יהושע Messiah, as obedient children, not conforming yourselves to the former lusts in your ignorance, instead, as the One who called you is set-apart, so you also should become set-apart in all behavior, because it has been written, “Be set-apart, for I am set-apart.” And if you call on the Father, who without partiality judges according to each one’s work, pass the time of your sojourning in fear, Knowing that you were redeemed from your futile behavior inherited from your fathers, not with what is corruptible, silver or gold, but with the precious blood of Messiah, as of a lamb unblemished and spotless, foreknown, indeed, before the foundation of the world, but manifested in these last times for your sakes, who through Him believe in Elohim who raised Him from the dead and gave Him esteem, so that your belief and expectation are in Elohim. Now that you have cleansed your lives in obeying the truth through the Spirit to unfeigned brotherly love, love one another fervently with a clean heart, having been born again – not of corruptible seed, but incorruptible – through the living Word of Elohim, which remains forever, because “All flesh is as grass, and all the esteem of man as the flower of the grass. The grass withers, and its flower falls away, but the Word of Elohim remains forever.” And this is the Word, announced as Good News to you.” (1 Peter 1:13-25)

The divine word of Elohim is embodied in the Torah, His righteous instructions that guide us to live a life pleasing to Him. While the redemptive act of the Messiah's sacrifice and the shedding of his precious blood is indeed good news, it is important to understand that the Good News proclaimed by the Messiah, as mentioned by Peter, did not solely revolve around his death, burial, and resurrection. Rather, it focused on the proper path to the Father's heart, which is through the observance of the Torah. It is essential to recognize that Yeshua himself is the embodiment of the Torah in human form. This passage of scripture highlights Peter's message that we have been granted a fresh start. The old ways of living in the flesh are rendered obsolete for those who have been born again and are now willing and ready to live as obedient children. This transformation is indeed good news!

Paul’s Writings on the Good News

“But brothers, I make known to you the Good News, which I brought as Good News to you, which you also did receive, and in which you stand, through which also you are being saved, if you hold fast that word I brought as Good News to you. Otherwise, you have believed in vain. For I delivered to you at the first that which I also received: that Messiah died for our sins according to the Scriptures, and that He was buried, and that He was raised the third day, according to the Scriptures.” (1 Corinthians 15: 1-4)

The death, burial, and resurrection of the Messiah are undeniably good news, but it is crucial to understand why they hold such significance. They represent the starting point of the restoration process for the lost sheep of the House of Israel, as Yeshua himself affirmed. This pivotal event symbolizes the opportunity for reconciliation and redemption, offering hope and a way for the scattered Israelites to be brought back into a renewed covenant relationship with their Creator. 

“And He answering, said, “I was not sent except to the lost sheep of the house of Yisra’ĕl (Israel).” (Matthew 15:24)

The Good News should not be understood through the lens of Christianity's perception, where the death of the Messiah is seen as a license to live according to personal preferences. It is not about selectively following certain commandments while dismissing others as archaic or coming from an angry deity. Rather, the Good News is intertwined with the gathering of the lost sheep, a process made possible by the death of the Messiah (bringing redemption to the Bride). This concept is echoed by Paul, who mentions it in the following passage: 

“Therefore, remember that you, once nations in the flesh, who are called ‘the uncircumcision’ by what is called ‘the circumcision’ (the pharisees) made in the flesh by hands that at that time you were without Messiah, excluded from the citizenship of Yisra’ĕl and strangers from the covenants of promise, having no expectation and without Elohim in the world. But now in Messiah יהושע you who once were far off have been brought near by the blood of the Messiah. For He is our peace, who has made both one, and having broken down the partition of the barrier.” (Ephesians 2:11-14)

What was the barrier? It was the understanding that the divorced House of Israel could not return while their husband was still alive (Redeeming the Bride). Gentiles were never prohibited from joining Israel, as there are numerous examples in the Tanach (Grafted In). However, the divorced Israelites, who were separated from Elohim, faced a specific barrier. This is why the Good News that Paul refers to a few verses later is rooted in the prophecy that healing and restoration would come to all of Israel. 

“And having come, He brought as Good News peace to you who were far off, and peace to those near.” (Ephesians 2:17)

“I have seen his ways, but now I heal him, and I lead him, and restore comforts to him and to his mourners, creating the fruit of the lips: peace, peace to him who is far off and to him who is near,” said יהוה, “and I shall heal him.” (Isaiah 57:18-19)

With all this in mind, let us read Paul’s warning about accepting a false gospel, and ruminate on what that could be.

“For, indeed, if he who is coming proclaims another יהושע, whom we have not proclaimed, or if you receive a different spirit which you have not received, or a different Good News which you have not accepted, you put up with it well enough!” (2 Corinthians 11:4)

“I marvel that you are so readily turning away from Him who called you in the favor of Messiah, to a different ‘Good News,’ which is not another, only there are some who are troubling you and wishing to pervert the Good News of Messiah. However, even if we, or a messenger out of heaven, bring a ‘Good News’ to you beside what we announced to you, let him be accursed. As we have said before, and now I say again, if anyone brings a ‘Good News’ to you beside what you have received, let him be accursed.” (Galatians 1:6-9)

Furthermore, the gospel preached by the Christian Church often promotes a message of disobedience through the lens of the Messiah's death. Moreover, they tend to vehemently criticize those who choose to follow Yeshua by obeying the Torah and living in accordance with the Father's will. The gospel they proclaim cannot be actively obeyed but is rather centered around a belief system (e.g., believing in Jesus Christ and his sacrifice for one's sins is all there is). However, the true Good News encompasses both belief and action. As demonstrated throughout this article, and finally with Paul and Peter themselves, the genuine Good News of the Kingdom of Elohim involves active participation and obedience to the Father's commands..

“In flaming fire taking vengeance on those who do not know Elohim, and on those who do not obey the Good News of our Master יהושע Messiah.” (2 Thessalonians 1:8)

“Because it is time for judgment to begin from the House of Elohim. And if firstly from us, what is the end of those who do not obey the Good News of Elohim?” (1 Peter 4:17)

Continue to test all things, including this article, and I pray that the Ruach Hakodesh leads you into all truth.

P.S.

Check out some of my books! Available in both print and Kindle versions.