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)

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Unveiling the Reality Behind Mythological Deities: A Revelation of Ancient Truths

 

Across diverse cultures, tales of gods, monsters, and heroes have woven intricate narratives, collectively known as mythology. Often dismissed as mere folklore, these stories offer glimpses into realms beyond our comprehension. What if, however, these myths were not solely products of imagination? While I do not assert the existence of other gods as traditionally conceived, in this article, I propose an intriguing possibility: that the ancient gods of mythology are, in reality, the fallen angels as depicted in the ancient text of 1 Enoch.

The Fallen Ones

“It happened after the sons of men had multiplied in those days, that daughters were born to them, elegant and beautiful. And when the angels, the sons of heaven, beheld them, they became enamoured of them, saying to each other, Come, let us select for ourselves wives from the progeny of men, and let us beget children. Then their leader Samyaza said to them; I fear that you may perhaps be indisposed to the performance of this enterprise; And that I alone shall suffer for so grievous a crime. But they answered him and said; We all swear; And bind ourselves by mutual execrations, that we will not change our intention, but execute our projected undertaking. Then they swore all together, and all bound themselves by mutual execrations. Their whole number was two hundred, who descended upon Ardis, which is the top of Mount Armon. That mountain, therefore, was called Armon, because they had sworn upon it, and bound themselves by mutual execrations.” (1 Enoch 7:1-8)

Angels, being immortal and not requiring procreation for the perpetuation of their kind, do not need wives. This notion is even referenced by our Messiah.

“In the resurrection then, when they rise, whose wife shall she be? For seven had her as wife. And יהושע answering, said to them, “Is this not why you go astray, because you do not know the Scriptures nor the power of Elohim? “For when they rise from the dead, they neither marry nor are given in marriage, but are as messengers in the heavens.” (Mark 12:23-25)

Notice also how Yeshua remarks that they do not comprehend the scriptures, yet the sole mention of angels in relation to marriage or sexual matters is found exclusively in the book of 1 Enoch. This serves as further indication of 1 Enoch's scriptural significance. Returning to the angels who abandoned their celestial abodes for mortal women, we observe a striking parallel with the deities of mythology. These entities seek to intermingle with humanity, driven often by base desires such as lust. This mirrors the account of the angels who prioritized progeny and physical relationships above all else.

The True Names of the Gods of Mythology

“These are the names of their chiefs: Samyaza, who was their leader, Urakabarameel, Akibeel, Tamiel, Ramuel, Danel, Azkeel, Saraknyal, Asael, Armers, Batraal, Anane, Zavebe, Samsaveel, Ertael, Turel, Yomyael, Arazyal. These were the prefects of the two hundred angels, and the remainder were all with them.” (1 Enoch 7:7-9)

After the dispersion of people from the Tower of Babel, each culture inevitably modified the names and attributes of the fallen angels who once held sway over their ancestors. Hence, every mythology features a deity associated with the sun or craftsmanship. These figures represent the same entities, albeit reshaped by linguistic confusion and the passage of time. As we shall explore, the dominion of the Fallen Ones came to an end with the Great Flood. Nonetheless, the memory of these formidable beings endured beyond the deluge, with their lineage persisting through lesser giants even after the cataclysmic event.

“But the angels transgressed this appointment, and were captivated by love of women, and begat children, who are those that are called demons, and besides, they afterwards subdued the human race to themselves, partly by magical writings, and partly by fears and the punishments they occasioned, and partly by teaching them to offer sacrifices, and incense and libations, of which things they stood in need after they were enslaved by lustful passions; and among men they sowed murders, wars, adulteries, intemperate deeds, and all wickedness. Whence also the poets and mythologists, not knowing that it was the angels and those demons who had been begotten by them that did these things to men, and women, and cities, and nations, which they related, ascribed them to God Himself [i.e. Jupiter), and to those who were accounted to be His very offspring, and to the offspring of those who were called His brothers, Neptune and Pluto, and to the children again of these their offspring. For whatever name each of the angels had given to himself and his children, by that name they called them.” (Writings of Justin Martyr and Athenagoras. Transl. Clark's AnteNic. Lib. Vol. ii., PP- 75, 76)

Knowledge

“Then they took wives, each choosing for himself; whom they began to approach, and with whom they cohabited; teaching them sorcery, incantations, and the dividing of roots and trees.” (1 Enoch 7:10)

“Moreover, Azazyel taught men to make swords, knives, shields, breastplates, the fabrication of mirrors, and the workmanship of bracelets and ornaments, the use of paint, the beautifying of the eyebrows, the use of stones of every valuable and select kind, and of all sorts of dyes, so that the world became altered. Impiety increased; fornication multiplied; and they transgressed and corrupted all their ways. Amazarak taught all the sorcerers, and dividers of roots: Armers taught the solution of sorcery; Barkayal taught the observers of the stars; Akibeel taught signs; Tamiel taught astronomy; And Asaradel taught the motion of the moon.” (1 Enoch 8:1-8)

The fallen angels imparted knowledge to our ancestors, much like the gods of mythology did with humans. It represents a parallel event, reshaped and recounted to suit the cultural context of the dispersed populations following the collapse of Babel.

Giants, the Offspring of Angels

“And the women conceiving brought forth giants…” (1 Enoch 7:11)

This verse is collaborated with Genesis and Flavius Josephus, a Jewish historian from the first century.

“And it came to be, when men began to increase on the face of the earth, and daughters were born to them, that the sons of Elohim saw the daughters of men, that they were good. And they took wives for themselves of all whom they chose. And יהוה said, “My Spirit shall not strive with man forever in his going astray. He is flesh, and his days shall be one hundred and twenty years.” The Nephilim were on the earth in those days, and also afterward, when the sons of Elohim came in to the daughters of men and they bore children to them. Those were the mighty men who were of old, the men of name.” (Genesis 6:1-4)

“For many Angels of God accompanied with women, and begat sons that proved unjust, and despisers of all that was good; on account of the confidence, they had in their own strength. For the tradition is, that these men did what resembled the acts of those whom the Grecians call Giants.” (Flavius Josephus Chapter 3 Section 1.)

The union of angels and humans results in the creation of giants, a race characterized not only by physical stature but also by a formidable presence in the spiritual realm—an inheritance from their celestial progenitors. I will explore this phenomenon further in my upcoming article, but the key takeaway here is that giants emerged from such unions. This parallels the concept of demigods and giants, offspring of unions between gods and mortals in mythology. Likewise, the giants who once roamed the earth were depicted as equally—if not more—malicious than their mythical counterparts.

“…These devoured all the labor of men; until it became impossible to feed them; When they turned themselves against men, in order to devour them.” (1 Enoch 7:12-13)    

“And men, being destroyed, cried out; and their voice reached to heaven.” (1 Enoch 8:9)

It was a harrowing era to inhabit. Fallen angels wielded dominion with little regard for humanity, permitting their offspring, the giants, to prey upon the vulnerable without restraint. They provided no shelter, no guidance, and showed no inclination to intervene. Driven by their aspirations to ascend to godhood, these fallen beings reveled in their creative pursuits, basking in self-appointed divinity for a fleeting moment in time.

An Apocalyptic War

Mythologies often recount tales of an ancient conflict that shook the very fabric of creation. While the identities of the opposing factions may vary, the epic scale of the battle endures. In reality, this war did occur, but it wasn't a clash between gods or giants; rather, it was a conflict between righteous angels and their fallen counterparts, alongside their giant offspring.

“Say to him in my name; hide yourself! And reveal to him the end, which is coming, because the whole earth will be destroyed. A deluge is about to come on all the earth; and all that is in it will be destroyed.  And now teach him so that he may escape and his offspring may survive for the whole Earth.” And further Yah said to Raphael: “Bind Azazel by his hands and his feet and throw him into the darkness. And split open the desert, which is in Dudael, and throw him there. And throw on him jagged and sharp stones and cover him with darkness. And let him stay there forever. And cover his face so that he may not see the light. And so that, on the Great Day of Judgment, he may be hurled into the fire. And restore the Earth which the Angels have ruined. And announce the restoration of the Earth. For I shall restore the Earth so that not all the sons of men shall be destroyed because of the knowledge which the Watchers made known and taught to their sons. And the whole Earth has been ruined by the teaching of the works of Azazel; and against him write: ALL SIN.” And Yah said to Gabriel: “Proceed against the bastards, and the reprobates, and against the sons of the fornicators. And destroy the sons of the fornicators, and the sons of the Watchers, from amongst men. And send them out, and send them against one another, and let them destroy themselves in battle; for they will not have length of days…. And the Yah said to Michael: “Go, inform Semyaza, and the others with him, who have associated with the women to corrupt themselves with them in all their uncleanness. When all their sons kill each other, and when they see the destruction of their loved ones, bind them for seventy generations, under the hills of the earth, until the day of their judgment and of their consummation, until the judgment, which is for all eternity, is accomplished. And in those days, they will lead them to the Abyss of Fire; in torment, and in prison they will be shut up for all eternity.” (1 Enoch 10:2-13)

Before the deluge, a formidable conflict unfolded, one that water alone could not quell. Recognizing the gravity of the situation, El Shaddai dispatched his archangels—Raphael, Gabriel, and Michael—to combat the giants and bind the fallen ones in chains of darkness, awaiting the day of judgment. This act of imprisonment is also referenced in the book of Jude.

“And the messengers who did not keep their own principality, but left their own dwelling, He has kept in everlasting shackles under darkness for the judgment of the great day.” (Jude 1:6)

Conclusion

“At the same time, it is very evident that, in many of the legends, not only of the Greek, but of the Hindu and other mythologies, the Gentile nations have embodied their remembrances of events, the true record of which is found in the Mosaic Scriptures.” (Rev. John Fleming, A.B., The Fallen Angels and the Heroes of Mythology, pg.9)

The tales passed down through ancient mythologies are often dismissed as mere products of primitive imagination, a narrative subtly propagated to undermine the ingenuity of our forebears. Yet, a closer examination reveals a reality far removed from such patronizing assumptions. Our ancestors were not mere simpletons cowering at thunder; their accomplishments, evident in the monumental structures they erected and the extensive voyages they undertook without modern aids like GPS, attest to their sophistication. They inhabited a world beyond our comprehension—one ruled by fallen angels and where giants roamed, consuming the flesh of men. Let us offer praise to the Almighty, Yah, for sending his celestial host to liberate humanity from such oppression.

Continue to test all things, including this article, and may the Rauch Hakodesh lead you into all truth.

P.S.

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Spiritual Transformation: Moses, Pharaoh, and the Journey to Yeshua

 

All of us who come to know Yah, His son, and His Torah, undergo a profound awakening. We transition from living in the realm of spiritual slumber, marching to the beat of Satan's drum. Engaging in self-indulgence and adhering to human doctrines as if they were teachings from El Shaddai. Eventually, our tranquility is disrupted, and we awaken from the illusion to perceive the false reality of the world we were brought up in. We willingly exchange our comfortable existence, embraced by the world, to be transformed into the likeness of Yeshua Messiah. This awakening finds a powerful parallel in the life of Moses, a man raised as an Egyptian in Pharaoh's household. Initially surrounded by the luxuries of royalty, he later opened his eyes and inclined his heart to heed the voice of Elohim.     

“And in those days it came to be, when Mosheh (Moses) was grown, that he went out to his brothers and looked at their burdens. And he saw a Mitsrian (Egyptian) striking a Hebrew, one of his brothers.” (Exodus 2:11)

While information about the early life of Moses remains limited, it is presumed that, having been raised in Pharaoh's household, he identified himself as an Egyptian. Growing through childhood and adolescence immersed in Egyptian life, adhering to their customs and practices, a transformative moment occurs for Moses. His perception shifts, and he becomes aware of the true identity of his brethren. For the first time, he acknowledges the hardships his brothers endure.

Similarly, our upbringing can shape our perspectives. Some of us may have been nurtured to reject the Torah and those who follow its ways. This holds true for many emerging from Christianity, including myself, or any other faith that contradicts the Father's word. Elohim stirs something within us, opening our eyes to the lies and deception masked as truth. At this juncture, we face a crucial decision: do we close our eyes, harden our hearts, and delve deeper into the doctrines ingrained during our upbringing? Or, do we take a stand and resist the adversary? 

“So, he turned this way and that way, and when he saw no one, he struck the Mitsrian (Egyptian) and hid him in the sand. (Exodus 2:11-12)

The act of Moses killing the Egyptian and burying him in the sand goes beyond a mere physical deed; it holds profound spiritual significance. It symbolizes Moses slaying his inner Egyptian, shedding the identity of the old self he once was. This moment marks the pinnacle of his choice to turn away from Satan's kingdom and embark on the path of teshuva (repentance).

“Knowing this, that our old man was impaled with Him, so that the body of sin might be rendered powerless, to serve sin no longer.” (Romans 6:6)

“That you put off – with regard to your former behavior – the old man, being corrupted according to the desires of the deceit, and to be renewed in the spirit of your mind, and that you put on the renewed man which was created according to Elohim, in righteousness and set-apartness of the truth.” (Ephesians 4:22-24)

Similar to Moses, we must slay our inner self, fashioned in the image of various sins. This act is crucial for liberating ourselves from the shackles of unrighteousness and breaking free from the dominion of the metaphorical Pharaoh. Through this process, we attain the freedom to openly worship El Shaddai with completeness and truth. While surrendering the title of being a son of the earthly Pharaoh in this world, we gain access to a superior kingdom if we endure until the end.

“And Pharaoh heard of this matter, and he sought to kill Mosheh. But Mosheh fled from the face of Pharaoh and dwelt in the land of Miḏyan. And he sat down by a well.” (Exodus 2:15)

Pharaoh serves as an analogy for Hasatan, and Egypt symbolizes Hasatan's kingdom. When Hasatan discovers that we have liberated ourselves from his dominion, having overcome our former selves, he then seeks to destroy us. It's important to grasp that Hasatan is unconcerned about those already under his influence; they are already captive to his power and illusions. His true apprehension lies with those who resist his rule and pursue Yeshua in loving obedience to the Father.

“And the dragon was enraged with the woman, and he went to fight with the remnant of her seed, those guarding the commands of Elohim and possessing the witness of יהושע (Yeshua) Messiah.” (Revelations 12:17)

Take note of the conclusion of Exodus 2:15, where, following his escape from Pharaoh, Moses discovers solace at a well. This holds profound spiritual significance, as the well serves as a representation of the Messiah, symbolizing how we find peace and restoration from the well of Yeshua Messiah.

“And Ya‛aqoḇ’s (Jacob’s) fountain was there. So יהושע (Yeshua), being wearied from the journey, was sitting thus at the fountain. It was about the sixth hour.” (John 4:6)

“Yeshua answered and said to her, “Everyone drinking of this water shall thirst again, but whoever drinks of the water I give him shall certainly never thirst. And the water that I give him shall become in him a fountain of water springing up into everlasting life.” (John 4:13-14)

All of us who have undergone a crossing-over experience (Hebrew) share a profound awakening, reminiscent of Moses thousands of years ago beneath the Egyptian sun. In a land much like our own, wholly devoted to false gods and the empty philosophies of men, where the truth was suppressed, and those of Elohim were ensnared in a system governed by fallen angels and demons. Reflecting on Moses's physical departure from Egypt reveals the spiritual battle that unfolded. This struggle against sin, this journey out of Egypt, is one in which we all partake. Let us remain diligent in testing all things.

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.

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