Delrifkah: HEBREW SAGE MIGHT SAY.

A HEBREW SAGE MIGHT SAY. . . 
In MESSIAH YESHUA dwells the fullness of the GODHEAD BODILY. 

THE STORY OF CHANUKKAH (Part 2 of 4) 12/17/14 
Antiochus enacted a series of harsh decrees against the Jews. Jewish worship was forbidden; the SCROLLS OF THE LAW were confiscated and burned. Sabbath rest, circumcision and the dietary laws were prohibited under penalty of death. Even one of the respected elders of that generation, Rabbi Eliezer, a man of 90, was ordered by the servants of Antiochus to eat pork so that others would do the same. When he refused they suggested to him that he pick up the meat to his lips to appear to be eating. But Rabbi Eliezer refused to do even that and was put to death. 

There were thousands of others who likewise sacrificed their lives. The following is a famous story told of Hannah and her seven son's courage which happened at that time. They were arrested and compelled to eat swine's flesh and thereby assent to the pagan sacrifice. One by one, when they refused to yield, they were tortured. 

The first son had his extremities cut off, was scalped, had his tongue cut out, and still refused to eat pig. Finally he was boiled alive. 

The second son had the skin stripped from his head, and still refused to eat pig. He exclaimed to Antiochus "In-human fiend, you may discharge us from this present life, but the KING OF THE WORLD will raise us up, since it is for HIS Laws that we die, to live again forever." 

Then, third son held out his arms for dismemberment saying  "It was the GOD OF HEAVEN that gave me these limbs; for the sake of HIS Laws I disdain them; from HIM I hope to receive them again." 

When the third son died, the fourth son was tortured. He cried  "Ours is the better choice, to meet death at men's hands, yet relying on ELOHIYM'S promise that we shall be raised up by HIM; whereas for you there can be no resurrection, no new life." 

As they tortured the fifth son, he said  "Do not think that our race has been deserted by YEHOWAH. Only wait, and you shall see in your turn how HIS mighty power will torment you and your race." 

The sixth son died with the words  "We are suffering like this through our own fault, having sinned against ELOHEY, but do not think you yourself will go unpunished for attempting to make war on YEHOWAH." 

Finally the seventh son died with the following words: "Our brothers already, after enduring their brief pain, now drink of ever-flowing life, by virtue of YEHOWAH'S covenant, while you, by the ALMIGHTY'S judgment, will have to pay the just penalty for your arrogance. I too, like my brothers, surrender my body and life for the Laws of my ancestors, calling upon ELOHEY to show HIS kindness to our nation, and that soon." 

Ultimately, Hannah, their Mother was also put to death. All steadfastly refused deliverance in hope of the resurrection. 

THE MACCABEES: In a little village 15 miles NW of Jerusalem, a priest named Mattathias and his five sons rebelled. Before his death, Mattityahu called his sons together and urged them to continue to fight in defense of GOD'S TORAH. He asked them to follow the counsel of their brother Shimon-the-Wise. In waging warfare, he said, their leader should be Yehuda-the-Strong. Yehuda was called "Maccabee (means: hammer)"” a word composed of the initial letters of the four Hebrew words "Mi Komocho bo'Eilim ha’Shem — Who is like unto YOU, O GOD." 

Under the leadership of the oldest son, Judah Maccabees, they launched a guerrilla-style war against Antiochus Epiphanies and his army. Its purpose was to force the Syrians out of Israel and restore worship to YEHOWAH. Mattathias killed all the traitors and then killed the Syrian commissioners. After a 3-year struggle, the Jews drove the Syrian army out of the Promised Land. Their rallying cry from Matthias was "Let everyone who has a fervor for the Law take his stand on the Covenant and come out and follow me. Let us fight unto death in defense of our souls and our Temple!" [1 Maccabeus 2. 27 28] In other words, "return and obey the VOICE OF THE LORD your GOD, and do all HIS commandments. For the LORD your GOD is a COMPASSIONATE GOD; HE will not fail you nor will HE let you perish; HE will not forget the covenant which HE made on oath with your fathers." [Deuteronomy (Devarim) 4. 29 - 31 Tanakh, Torah] 
Exactly 3 years to the very date after the Temple was desecrated, the 24th of Kislev, the triumphant Jews made their entrance into the TEMPLE OF GOD and re-dedicated it to the service of YEHOWAH ELOHEY. 

In the LORD’S TEMPLE, the priests were to leave a light burning in obedience to the command of GOD MOST HIGH, "Command the children of Israel to bring you pure beaten olive oil for the light, to cause the lamp to burn continually. In the Tabernacle of Meeting, outside the veil, which is before the ARK OF THE COVENANT, Aaron and his sons shall tend it from evening until morning before YEHOWAH. It shall be a decree forever to their generations on behalf of the children of Israel throughout the ages." [Exodus (Shemot) 27. 20 - 21 Tanakh, Torah] When the Maccabees prepared to rekindle the Menorah to re-dedicate the Temple of ELOHEY which had been spoiled by the enemy, they discovered only one single jar of olive oil buried beneath the ruins with the seal of the High Priest still intact on its lid. This was tragic because the Jewish people could not carry out YEHOWAH'S command as there was only enough oil to burn one day. 

For olive oil to be dedicated for use in the Lamp, it was to be made by the High Priest and sealed with his seal after being sanctified (set apart) for 7-days; then on the 8th day it was "Holy to the LORD." [Exodus/Shemot 29. 37; Leviticus/Vayikra 12. 3; Ezekiel/Yehezke-El 43. 26 – 27; 2 Chronicles/Dibre Hayamin Bet 29. 17] According to the Jewish tradition, "nes gadol haya shem (a Great Miracle happened there)" ...the small flask of oil lasted for a full eight days! {In Jerusalem, they say: "Nes Gadol Haya Po — a Great Miracle happened here (Jerusalem)."} 

. . . to be continued 


Sha'alu (Pray) for the Shalom (Peace) of Jerusalem and all of Israel! 
The 2nd Light of Chanukah is the LIGHT of TORAH. Israel's BOOK OF LAW: The Commandment is a Lamp and the Law is a Light. 
Chanukkah reminds me that GOD is always there for us, and can help us overcome anything, just as HE helped the Maccabees so many years ago. If we allow HIM to fight our battles — whatever those battles may be — HIS WORD will indeed break our enemy’s sword. That powerful reminder of GOD’S love for us is one reason this Chanukkah/CHRISTmas Season is such a blessed time to remember just how much GOD so loved the world and gave HIS ONLY-BEGOTTEN SON, 
May mercy, peace and love be yours in abundance. And, may you share wonderful holy-days together with friends and family. Our prayer, also, is that the flame of the LORD YESHUA ha'MASHIACH burn brightly in your heart as you share HIS light with others. Happy Chanukkah! 

Praying for the peace of Jerusalem, is praying for the return of our Messiah and Lord and for the Kingdom of God He is bringing when He comes. Then God's Will shall be done on earth as it is in Heaven and the world will experience true godly universal peace which is the fruit of Righteousness. 

Web Page: www.delrifkah.com

A HEBREW SAGE MIGHT SAY. . . 
It is easier for one to raise a myriad of olive trees in Galilee than to bring up one child in the Land of Israel . [MIDRASH Raba] 

THE STORY OF CHANUKKAH (Part 1 of 4) 
Chanukkah means dedication. It is the Jewish Festival celebrating the Maccabees' victory over the Syrian army in 165 BCE (Before Common Era/BC—Before CHRIST). 

The Feast of Dedication, Chanukah, celebrates two miracles: First, the victory of a small greatly outnumbered army of Jews (the Maccabee) over the strong and forceful Greek army. The Jews had taken their stand for their faith, their GOD, and their way of life. . . and won! The Maccabees drove the Greeks from the Promised Land, reclaimed the Holy Temple in Jerusalem (which had been desecrated by the Seleucids) and rededicated it to the service of YEHOWAH ELOHEY. 

The second miracle was that of the Menorah and the light that burned for eight days (which should have lasted only one day), allowing a ritually pure oil to be made as prescribed by those assigned to do so. Having the Menorah lit continually in the Temple was extremely important to worship the GREAT GOD OF HEAVEN as HE instructed. 

Alexander the Great once conquered all the countries around the Mediterranean Sea , creating a vast Greek Empire. At the age of 33, he died broken-hearted, feeling that he had conquered all that was worth conquering. Wherever the Greek army went, Greek culture, language and religion were forced upon the population known as "Hellenism." 

After Alexander died, the Greek Empire was divided among his generals: Antigonus received Asia; Ptolemy, Egypt ; Seleucus obtained Babylon ; Lysimachus acquired Hellespont; and Cassander took over Macedonia . There were wars back and forth continually for years. 

At the time of the Maccabees, Antiochus Epiphanies (means: the deified god) ruled Syria and Ptolemy ruled Egypt . These two warred over the Holy Land . Antiochus launched a military campaign against Egypt in order to bring all of Israel under Syrian dominion. They imposed Hellenistic culture and religion on all they conquered with a vengeance. The Syrians were incredibly barbaric, even the Greek language was imposed upon the people they conquered. It was forbidden to study TORAH, observe Shabbat, use the Hebrew language or perform circumcision. Circumcised baby boys were killed and the mothers were forced to carry the dead infants hanging from their necks. Jews were given the choice to give up Judaism or die, often by torture; pagan temples were built throughout Israel . Then they plundered and desecrated the Temple of ELOHEY on the 24th of Kislev 168 BCE. 

The soldiers even sacrificed a swine on the Temple Altar , the HOLY TORAH was spattered with pig blood and cut into pieces, then burned. Then Antiochus committed the ultimate offense — on the birthday of Zeus, which is the month of Kislev (December) 24. Antiochus had his soldiers erect an idol of Zeus Olympus, the Greek’s supreme deity, in the Holy of Holies of the Temple of ELOHEY . Not surprisingly, the idol bore the face of Antiochus himself. He demanded that the people bow down to worship his idol god. {As described in Daniel/Danyel 9. 27; 11. 30-31; Matthew 24. 15–17} Many Jews would not give allegiance to a heathen deity, and as many as 80,000 people chose to die rather than commit idolatry. 

. . . to be continued 


Sha'alu (Pray) for the Shalom (Peace) of Jerusalem and all of Israel ! 
The 8-Nights of Chanukkah start tonight at sundown, December 16th this year. Prepare to enjoy the Festival of Lights! 
Welcoming the First Light of Chanukkah...The Shehecheyan’u — blessings said over these special Chanukkah lights: MESSIAH YESHUA is shown in the Chanukkah lights as the middle SHAMAS (Servant) Candle. MESSIAH came to minister, serve and save; HE serves mankind with HIS wonderful salvation. Genesis/Bereshith 1. 3-4 describes the creation of the first light: "ELOHIYM said — Let there be light, and there was light. GOD saw that the light was good, and GOD separated the light from the darkness." 
On Chanukkah we express our gratitude for these miracles that were initiated by man. They draw out our admiration because they remind us of the greatest miracle of all, the miracle, as King David put it, that “YOU have made man a little lower than the angels, and have crowned him with glory and honor” [Psalms 8:5] 

Praying for the peace of Jerusalem , is praying for the return of our Messiah and Lord and for the Kingdom of God He is bringing when He comes. Then God's Will shall be done on earth as it is in Heaven and the world will experience true godly universal peace which is the fruit of Righteousness. 


Web Page: www.delrifkah.com

A HEBREW SAGE MIGHT SAY. . . 
Power buries those who wield it. 

AARONIC PRIESTHOOD 
"You shall bring forward your brother Aaron, with his sons, from among the Israelites, to serve ME as priests: Aaron, Nadab, and Abihu, Eleazar and Ithamar, the sons of Aaron." [Exodus (Shemot) 28. 1 Tanakh, Torah] 

The meaning of the names tell a story: Aaron (very high), Nadab (willing), Abihu (my father is HE), Eleazar (help of GOD), Ithamar (land of palms). Or. . . MESSIAH is very high and HE is willing to obey HIS FATHER and GOD helps HIM to be victorious. 

The LORD GOD ALMIGHTY instructs Moses that his brother, Aaron, one of his own flesh and blood, is to be the High Priest for the Israelite people. This is a beautiful prophecy of the LORD YESHUA ha'MASHIACH, the HIGHLY EXALTED SON OF MAN. HE was born into the human family, "chosen" and "called" of the MIGHTY CREATOR GOD to be our GREAT HIGH PRIEST. 

The sons of Aaron were also to be taken from among the Israelites that he might serve in the priest's office. There is an implication here that Aaron is able to minister only if his sons are with him. Aaron does not perform his priestly duties without his sons, and they do not attend to the service of the priesthood without him. They are as one (Hebrew: echad)! 

When an individual receives MESSIAH YESHUA as LORD and SAVIOR, he is given the power to become a son of GOD ETERNAL. Being born into the family he is permitted to minister as a priest with the GREAT HIGH PRIEST. We are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood who do not serve as priests without HIM; HE does not minister without us. We are HIS hands, HIS feet, HIS representatives on earth. 

"And no man takes this honour to himself, but he who is called by GOD, just as Aaron was." [Hebrews 5. 4] Only those who are in the heavenly family can be priests, not man-appointed priests, but the Called of GOD. [Ephesians 4. 1 - 2; 2 Thessalonians 2. 13 - 15] They must be sons of HIS OWN flesh and blood. They cannot buy the priesthood, but they must be born-anew into it. 

"That he may minister unto ME" — not to men but to GOD. [Ephesians 6. 6 - 7; Colossians 3. 22 - 24] The LORD JESUS does not minister to please men, but serves according to GOD'S desire that HE might bring the DIVINE approval. "This is MY BELOVED SON (we are sons in the SON) in WHOM I am well pleased." [Matthew 3. 17; 17. 5] How wonderful it will be at the end of this earthly life to hear those blessed words from THE MASTER. . ."WELL DONE, good and faithful servant...enter into the joy of your LORD." [Matthew 25. 21] 

"They shall approach ME to minister to ME; and they shall stand before ME to offer to ME the fat and the blood." [Ezekiel (Yehezke-El) 44. 15 Tanakh, Nevi'im] One of the primary duties of the priests was the offering of sacrifices. Likewise, we as believer-priests are to offer acceptable, spiritual sacrifices of praise continually to ALMIGHTY GOD with which HE is well pleased. [see Psalms/Tehillym 27. 6; Hebrews 13. 15; 1 Peter 2. 5] 

Let us not be as those who stop in the Outer Court and kneel at the Cross (Altar of Sacrifice) to accept MESSIAH YESHUA as SAVIOR, but let us go on into the Holy of Holies and meet OMNIPOTENT GOD at HIS Throne (Ark of the Covenant) to gratefully accept HIM as LORD & MASTER of our lives! If we gratefully accept HIM as LORD & MASTER of our lives, we can "come boldly to the Throne of Grace, that we may obtain mercy and find grace to help in time of need." [Hebrews 4. 16] Those who are wise are ever blessed with unsurpassed riches of knowing the GREAT OMNISCIENT GOD personally, intimately! 


Sha’alu (Pray) for the shalom (Peace) of Jerusalem and all of Israel ! 
Open your mouth in holiness and purity, with song and psalm, and bless and praise, glorify and revere, sanctify and ascribe sovereignty to the NAME of the DIVINE KING, the GREAT, MIGHTY & AWESOME ONE. . . holy is HE. Take upon yourself the yoke of the Kingdom of Heaven and give sanction to one another to bless the CREATOR. In tranquil joy of spirit, with pure speech and holy melody exclaim: "Holy, holy, holy is the LORD OF HOSTS, the whole earth is full of HIS glory." 
How beautiful that the symbol we choose to commemorate the holiday of Chanukkah revolves around the miracle that GOD selected to perform for those who remained true to the teachings of Moses. The light of the menorah burning far longer than natural law would allow serves as an everlasting reminder that by filling every area of life with purpose and holiness we will never burnout. 
Have a blessed Chanukkah/CHRISTmas – both celebrate the most precious GIFT given, the LORD YESHUA ha’MASHIACH. 

Praying for the peace of Jerusalem , is praying for the return of our Messiah and Lord and for the Kingdom of God He is bringing when He comes. Then God's Will shall be done on earth as it is in Heaven and the world will experience true godly universal peace which is the fruit of Righteousness. 


Web Page: www.delrifkah.com

A HEBREW SAGE MIGHT SAY. . . 
Rejoice with inexpressible joy and be filled with the glory of the LORD. 

CHRISTMAS BELLS 
"In that day, even the bells of the horses shall be inscribed — HOLY TO THE LORD. The metal pots in the House of the LORD shall be like the basins before the altar." [Zechariah (Zecharyah) 14. 20 Tanakh, Nevi’im] 

So, just how did bells become associated with CHRISTmas or with CHRISTianity for that matter one may ask. Bells are never mentioned at all in the NEW COVENANT, yet many churches ring them for weddings, they toll to announce a death, a religious service, a curfew, or to mark time, and even warn ships of dangerous coasts. Songs like "Silver Bells" are sung throughout the CHRISTmas holiday season, and an old tune includes the words, "when they ring those golden bells for you and me." 

The OLD COVENANT, however mentions two kinds of bells. The first being the golden bells on the hem of the robe of the high priest: "You shall make the robe of the ephod all of blue. The opening for his head shall be in the middle of it; it shall have a binding of woven work all around its opening — it shall be like the opening in a coat of mail — so that it does not tear. On its hem make pomegranates of blue, purple, and crimson yarns, all around its hem, with bells of gold between them all around: A golden bell and a pomegranate, a golden bell and a pomegranate, all around the hem of the robe. Aaron shall wear it while he officiating so that the sound of it is heard when he goes into the holy place before the LORD and when he comes out — that he may not die. You shall also make a frontlet of pure gold and engrave on it the seal inscription — HOLY TO THE LORD." [Exodus (Shemot) 28. 31 - 36 Tanakh, Torah] 

The next mention of bells is in the initial text of Zechariah. Apparently ancient war horses, especially among the Assyrians, were fitted with bells which would sound out intensely and ferociously while charging into battle. In that wonderful Kingdom Age that is coming, however, the bells on the horses will ring out clearly glorifying the holiness of our GREAT GOD. 

May the bells of CHRISTmas remind us of both, the holiness of the LORD GOD and our GREAT HIGH PRIEST, the LORD Yeshua ha'Mashiach, the ETERNAL ONE WHO came to give HIS life that we might have life abundantly. 

Sha'alu (Pray) for the Shalom (Peace) of Jerusalem and all of Israel! 
Help us, O our GOD, to banish from our hearts all pride and vain-glory, all confidence in worldly possessions, all self-sufficient leaning upon our own reason. Fill us with the spirit of meekness and the grace of modesty, that we may become wise in the fear of YOU. May we never forget that all we have and prize is but lent to us, a trust for which we must render account to YOU. O HEAVENLY FATHER , put into our hearts the love and fear of YOU, that we my consecrate our lives to YOUR service and glorify YOUR NAME in the eyes of all men. 
Have a joyous & peace-filled Chanukkah and CHRISTmas! Remember always the HOLY ONE WHOM we celebrate and adore this special SeaSON! 

Praying for the peace of Jerusalem, is praying for the return of our Messiah and Lord and for the Kingdom of God He is bringing when He comes. Then God's Will shall be done on earth as it is in Heaven and the world will experience true godly universal peace which is the fruit of Righteousness. 

Web Page:  http://www.delrifkah.com/

A HEBREW SAGE MIGHT SAY. . . 
If we do not regard the work of the MESSIAH above our very lives, it isn't because we can't — it is because we don't want to! 

CUSTOMS THE TALMUD 
The Talmud (from the Hebrew word: lomad meaning to teach, instruction) is a code of laws as well as a record of rabbinical discussions and decisions pertaining to theology, exegesis, philosophy, natural science, medical learning, ethics, political and domestic economy, etc. as these were understood during a period of one thousand years after the Jews returned from the Babylonian exile. It is an encyclopedic work consisting of 36 volumes composed by over one thousand Rabbis, several of the ancient rabbis including some of those who traced their ancestry to Gentiles who had been converted to Judaism. 

It is claimed that Moses received two types of directive on Mt. Sinai, one was the WRITTEN LAW, the TORAH; the other was the Oral Law which was repeated by word of mouth from Moses to Joshua, from Joshua to the elders, from the elders to the prophets, and so on as is stated in the TALMUD itself (Pirke Aboth 1. 1 "Ethics of the Fathers"). It is said that the prophets handed it down orally to the men of the Great Synagogue (perhaps the origin of the name is traced from the assembly in Nehemiah/Nechemah 8 - 10) and so on till Ezra, when it became the possession of the spiritual leaders of that time. 

Rabbi Hillel, who lived from 70 BC/BCE until 10 AD/CE, began to compile the Oral Law so that it could be written. Hillel was the grandfather of Gamaliel, the teacher of the Apostle Paul. He was president of the Sanhedrin — the president was the 71st member of the Sanhedrin (70) and was always the High Priest. Rabbi Hillel laid down six or seven rules for the interpretation of the SCRIPTURES which became the foundation of rabbinical hermeneutics and which, no doubt, was used by the Pharisees in the days of MESSIAH YESHUA. The LORD JESUS referred to this Oral Law as "the traditions of the elders." [Matthew 15. 1 - 9; Mark 7. 1 - 13] 

Since the Temple with its order of priesthood had been destroyed, there needed to be some source of authority to continue the practice of Judaism among the scattered Jewish people. Therefore, a group of 148 Jewish scholars who were called "Tannaim" (repeaters, teachers — scholars from the Mishnaic Period up to 200 AD/CE) gathered in the ancient city of Yabne (located near the present city of Lydda, Israel) and by their discussions, debates and decisions wrote down that which had been orally handed down over almost six centuries. This writing was published about 200 AD/CE under the leadership of Rabbi Judah the Prince (Judah ha'Nasi). The written form is called the Mishneh (repetition, duplicate) — the Second Law. It was the Oral Law of the Pharisees and almost universally accepted as the authoritative legal code of Judaism. 

However, since the Mishneh (or Mishna) was not understood and there was a need for adapting it to the times and to the changing circumstances of life, a group of several hundred rabbis, called Amoraim (expounders) — scholars from the Talmudic Period, 200 - 500 CE/AD — developed the Gemara (completion) which is a commentary on the Mishnah. These two parts of the Talmud are not two divisions or separate books, but the Gemara is included under the Mishna. The Oral law written down is called the Mishna and it is started first, the commentary and application or the Gemara is then stated below it. 

This combination, Mishneh-Gemara, composed the Talmud which was completed in Babylon about 400 AD/CE There is a Jerusalem Talmud (Yerushalmi) written in Jerusalem and a Babylonian Talmud (Babli) written in Babylon.

Along with their work on the Mishna and Gemara the Tannaim and Amoraim developed a running commentary on the actual text of the OLD COVENANT. This is called the Midrash, the name coming from the Hebrew word meaning "to study" or "to investigate." 

Since it was difficult to understand, Rabbi Joseph B. E. Caro devoted years of his life to summarizing, abridging, and codifying the Talmud for the common man. In 1564 he published his work which he called Shulchan Arukh (Prepared Table). However, there are many laws contained in the Shulchan Arukh which have been added to the laws found in the Talmud - for example: There are fourteen laws regulating the lighting of the Sabbath candles, twenty-one relating to the fringes on the Tallith and twenty-six relating to the prayer shawl. There are laws covering every conceivable thing in daily life, even as to the manner of walking, etc. Directions for the practice of present-day Judaism in the rituals and ceremonies for the High Holy Days, Sabbaths, the Passover Seder (order of ceremony), weddings, etc. are all found in the Shulchan Arukh. 

No wonder YESHUA, the ANOINTED ONE called the Pharisees "Hypocrites!" those who draw near to HIM with their mouth, and honor HIM with their lips, but their heart is far from HIM, and their fear toward the LORD JESUS is taught by men, making the commandment of ETERNAL GOD ineffective by their tradition, just as Isaiah prophesied. [Isaiah/Yeshayah 29. 13; Matthew 15. 7 - 9] 

Sha’alu (Pray) for the shalom (Peace) of Jerusalem and all of Israel ! 
Welcome Sabbath — Queen of the week! Praised are YOU, YEHOWAH, our GOD, SOVEREIGN OF THE UNIVERSE, WHO makes us holy with YOUR mitzvoth and favors us with the Holy Shabbat, lovingly and graciously given to us. Assuredly, HE WHO keeps Israel neither slumbers or sleeps! Sabbath blessings to each of you! 
Similar to Sabbath, Chanukkah brings a special light that enables us to move from the ordinary into the extraordinary, from the mundane into the holy, from the finite limits of ourselves into the infinite spaces of others. Enjoy all your holidays and remember, MESSIAH YESHUA is the LIGHT of the world in every season; may HE reside in your heart and life permanently. 

Praying for the peace of Jerusalem , is praying for the return of our Messiah and Lord and for the Kingdom of God He is bringing when He comes. Then God's Will shall be done on earth as it is in Heaven and the world will experience true godly universal peace which is the fruit of Righteousness. 

Web Page: www.delrifkah.com

A HEBREW SAGE MIGHT SAY. . . 
It is a poor thing to fear the inevitable. 

BLOSSOM & BUD 
"If one holds fast to MY strength, MY refuge, he makes ME his friend and he shall make peace with ME. In days to come Jacob shall strike root, Israel shall blossom and bud, and the face of the world shall be covered with fruit." [Isaiah (Yeshayah) 27. 5 - 6 Tanakh, Nevi'im] 

The awesome GOD OF ISRAEL promised HIS people the fertile land, as they obeyed HIS statutes and kept HIS judgments and performed them, safety was also promised. The ETERNAL ONE desired to set HIS Tabernacle among them, to walk beside them, to be their GOD, and they to be HIS covenant people. [Leviticus/Vayikra 26. 4 - 12] This great plan will be obviously manifested when the LORD YESHUA, the DESIRE OF ALL NATIONS rules in righteousness and justice. 

"The LORD put out HIS hand and touched my mouth, and the LORD said to me — Herewith I put MY WORDS in your mouth. See, I appoint you this day over the nations and over the kingdoms: To uproot and to pull down, to destroy and to overthrow, to build and to plant." [Jeremiah (Yirmeyah) 1. 9 - 10 Tanakh, Nevi'im] 

"The arid desert shall be glad, the wilderness shall rejoice and shall blossom like a rose. It shall blossom abundantly it shall also exult and rejoice with joy and singing. It shall receive the glory of Lebanon, the excellence and splendor of Karm'El and Sharon. They shall behold the glory of the LORD, the excellency of our GOD." [Isaiah (Yeshayah) 35. 1 - 2 Tanakh, Nevi'im] 

"Though the fig tree does not bud, and no yield is on the vine; though the olive crop has failed and the fields produce no grain, though sheep have vanished from the fold and no cattle are in the pen — Yet will I rejoice in the LORD, exult in the GOD of my salvation. The LORD GOD is my strength; HE makes my feet like deer's and lets me walk on the heights." [Habakkuk 3. 17 - 19 Tanakh, Nevi'im] 

"For as the earth brings forth her bud and the garden causes the things that are sown in it to spring forth, so the LORD GOD will make righteousness and praise, victory and renown spring up in the presence of all the nations." [Isaiah (Yeshayah) 61. 11 Tanakh, Nevi'im] 

If all people of the world were to acquaint themselves with the ALMIGHTY ONE, THE MASTER OF THE UNIVERSE, and be close to HIM wholeheartedly, accept instructions from HIS mouth and lay up HIS WORDS in their heart. . . If they fully returned to SHADDAI, we would see the entire earth restored. It will blossom (Hebrew: tsoots) and bloom (Hebrew: pa’rach) for HIS glory some day very soon. What is even more splendid, we will be the people of the MOST HIGH and He will be our GOD. [Revelation 21. 3] 

Sha'alu (Pray) for the Shalom (Peace) of Jerusalem and all of Israel! 
Remember, HE WHO keeps Israel neither slumbers or sleeps! Blessed be our GREAT GOD in WHOSE dwelling is joy and through WHOSE goodness we live. 
It’s the beginning of another wonderful Season — remembering our BLESSED SAVIOR coming into this world to save us…be sure to make it a joyous CHRIST-filled time! 

Praying for the peace of Jerusalem, is praying for the return of our Messiah and Lord and for the Kingdom of God He is bringing when He comes. Then God's Will shall be done on earth as it is in Heaven and the world will experience true godly universal peace which is the fruit of Righteousness. 


Web Page: www.delrifkah.com

HEBREW SAGE MIGHT SAY. . . 
Learn a lot from teachers, even more from your colleagues . . .and the most from your pupils. 

THE GUIDING EYE 
"Let ME instruct you and teach you which way to go; let ME offer counsel; I will guide you with MY eye." [Psalms (Tehillym) 32. 8 Tanakh, Kethuvim] 

The title, "Maskil (Hebrew, meaning instruction)" is the heading for Psalm 32 showing the blessedness of forgiveness. This Psalm contains David's personal testimony of intense soul-searing conviction following his awful sin with Bathsheba, with whom he committed adultery; and Uriah, her husband, whom David had murdered in battle so he could have Bathsheba as his wife. 

David said that his "limbs had wasted away" and that ALMIGHTY GOD'S "hand lay heavy on me" [vs. 3 - 4] until finally "I acknowledged my sin to YOU and did not cover up my guilt" and "YOU, LORD forgave the guilt of my sin." [v. 5] Once a sinner has confessed in true repentance, there is real forgiveness and cleansing, and the happiness of salvation is restored. Now they are born-anew and now they are saints. Therefore, David could begin his Psalm with "Blessed is he whose transgression is forgiven, whose sin is covered over!" [Psalms (Tehillym) 32. 1 Tanakh, Kethuvim] The word "blessed (Hebrew: 'esher)" means happy and the only way to relieve guilt and depression is by confession of sin, genuine repentance, and then by restitution to anyone injured by the sin, if possible, and committing to live wholly for CREATOR GOD. 

Truly, this is sensible and reasonable instruction! The MOST HIGH GOD, the HEAVENLY FATHER, desires HIS children not to be "as the senseless horse or mule whose movement must be curbed by bit and bridle forcibly" [v. 9]; but to be so in tune with GOD'S HOLY WRITTEN WORD and HIS will that HE can guide them gently and quietly, like a parent who teaches (directs) an obedient and loving child merely by the look in their eye. "Thus says the LORD, your REDEEMER, the HOLY ONE OF ISRAEL I the LORD am your GOD, instructing you for your own benefit, WHO leads you by the way you should go." [Isaiah (Yeshayah) 48. 17 Tanakh, Nevi'im] 

"Truly the eye of the LORD is on those who fear HIM and hope in HIS unfailing mercy and wait for HIS faithful care to deliver their soul from death, to sustain them from famine." [Psalms (Tehillym) 33. 18 – 19 Tanakh, Kethuvim] The happy (blessed) life is the one of obedience to the guiding eye of the LORD & MASTER ARCHITECT. 


Sha'alu (Pray) for the Shalom (Peace) of Jerusalem and all of Israel! 
Zey yom asaw ADONAI, nagilah ve-neesmechah voh  This is the day the LORD has made, we will rejoice and we will be glad in it! 
Grace, mercy and peace will be with you from GOD THE FATHER and the LORD MESSIAH YESHUA, in truth and love. 
Wishing each of you Indescribable Joy this Chanukkah/CHRISTmas Season and always. 

Praying for the peace of Jerusalem, is praying for the return of our Messiah and Lord and for the Kingdom of God He is bringing when He comes. Then God's Will shall be done on earth as it is in Heaven and the world will experience true godly universal peace which is the fruit of Righteousness. 
Web Page: www.delrifkah.com

A HEBREW SAGE MIGHT SAY. . . 
May our words and deeds revere THE NAME as we celebrate because HE came! 

JUST ANOTHER BABY BOY? 
Just another BABY BOY — born in Bethlehem town. 
One more hungry mouth to feed, and so the world slept on. 
It was a weary, captive world gripped tight in Rome's domain. 
The chilling fear of tyranny fast held them like a chain. 
Another BABY, more or less...what difference could HE be? 

One more soul to bear the pain and share their misery. 
So passed mankind a winter's night, those beaten down by sin, 
Too dull to hear angelic strains that rose above the din. 
Now two millennia have passed since CREATOR GOD took human frame. 
The world runs its appointed course, but nevermore the same. 

HE gathered up the captive's chain 
Once forged for you and me. 
HE broke the foul tyrant's grasp and purchased liberty. 

Now looms above the manager bed a message for all men: 
HE died, HE lives, HE intercedes, HE'S coming back again! 
Then herald forth the joyous word, our voices lift as one. . . 
. . . the BABE WHO slept in the cattle stall 
Is ALMIGHTY GOD'S TRIUMPHANT SON. 


Sha'alu (Pray) for the Shalom (Peace) of Jerusalem and all of Israel! 
May the LORD GOD teach you patience that you may endure every trial HE allows to make you strong. By HIS great mercy, GOD has given us a new birth into a LIVING HOPE through MESSIAH YESHUA! Rejoice and honour the wonder of the ALMIGHTY ONE and HIS HOLY WORD ; receive the BLESSING of Abraham, the SEED of Abraham. . . CHRIST JESUS the LORD. During this festive and holy season, let us join together and praying for God’s Chosen People as they celebrate God’s miracles of victory, provision, dedication, and Light. 

Praying for the peace of Jerusalem, is praying for the return of our Messiah and Lord and for the Kingdom of God He is bringing when He comes. Then God's Will shall be done on earth as it is in Heaven and the world will experience true godly universal peace which is the fruit of Righteousness. 

 
Web Page:  http://www.delrifkah.com/

A HEBREW SAGE MIGHT SAY. . . 
He that keeps the Law brings offerings enough. 

LOVE GOD & MAN 
"You shall not take vengeance or bear a grudge against the children of your people. Love your fellow as yourself; I am the LORD." [Leviticus (Vayikra) 19. 18 Tanakh, Torah] 

The OLD COVENANT is frequently rejected and overlooked by peoples on the basis that it speaks about a harsh, vengeful GOD OF JUDGMENT; in contrast to the NEW COVENANT GOD OF LOVE as manifest in the LORD YESHUA ha'MASHIACH. Definitely, this viewpoint is an obviously completely wrong concept. 

A young lawyer asked the LORD JESUS  "MASTER, which is the greatest commandment of the Law? YESHUA replied  "You shall love the LORD your GOD with all your heart, and with all your soul, and with all your mind. This is the first and great commandment. And the second is like it: You shall love your neighbor as yourself. On these two commandments hang all the Law and the Prophets." [Matthew 22. 36 - 40] 

Both commandments were first recorded in the OLD COVENANT. The first is the most revered of all passages to my Jewish people and quoted, at least, every evening and morning. "Hear, O Israel! The LORD, our GOD, the LORD is ONE. You shall love the LORD your GOD with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your might." [Deuteronomy (Devarim) 6. 4 - 5 Tanakh, Torah] 

The second great commandment is unassuming and hidden in the heart of the most unlikely Book of Leviticus [opening verse] in the OLD COVENANT. In the NEW COVENANT, it is called The Royal Law  "If you really fulfill the royal Law according to the Scripture, you shall love your neighbor as yourself'  you do well." [James 2. 8] 

Therefore, the essential doctrine of the OLD COVENANT is "LOVE"  love for the OMNIPOTENT COMPASSIONATE CREATOR and love for others and this truth is emphasized by the LORD JESUS CHRIST throughout the NEW COVENANT. Even greater is GOD'S eternal love which was ours "from before the world began" and will never end. "The LORD revealed HIMSELF to me of old saying: Yes! I have loved you with an everlasting love; therefore with loving kindness I have drawn and lead you. I will build you again, and you shall be rebuilt, O virgin of Israel !" [Jeremiah (Yirmeyah) 31. 3 - 4a Tanakh, Nevi'im] The everlasting union of beauty, perfection and love is obtainable in the LORD YESHUA ha’MASHIACH. For GOD so loved the world. . . HE offers us HIMSELF. How then shall we give less then our all to HIM? 

Sha'alu (Pray) for the Shalom (Peace) of Jerusalem and all of Israel ! 
Grant peace, welfare, blessing, grace, loving-kindness and mercy to us and to all Israel . Bless us, O FATHER, even all of us together, with the LIGHT of YOUR countenance; for by the LIGHT of YOUR countenance YOU have given us, O LORD our GOD, the Law of life, loving-kindness and righteousness, blessing, mercy, life and peace; and may it be good in YOUR sight to bless YOUR people everywhere at all times and in every hour with YOUR peace. YOU alone are our HOPE. We thank YOU, praise YOU and glorify YOUR HOLY NAME; YOU alone are good. Amen! 
May we look beyond the seasonal presents we hold in our hands to the PRESENCE WHO holds us in HIS eternal nail-pierced hands. 

Praying for the peace of Jerusalem , is praying for the return of our Messiah and Lord and for the Kingdom of God He is bringing when He comes. Then God's Will shall be done on earth as it is in Heaven and the world will experience true godly universal peace which is the fruit of Righteousness. 

Web Page:  http://www.delrifkah.com/

A HEBREW SAGE MIGHT SAY. . . 
When you are getting kicked from behind, that means you’re in front. 

WHEN THE LORD BUILDS UP ZION 
"Arise, shine; For your light has dawned; the PRESENCE (KABOD or GLORY) of the LORD is shone upon you! Behold! darkness shall cover the earth and deep darkness the peoples; but upon you the LORD will arise and shine, and HIS glory will be seen over you. The Gentiles shall come to your light, kings to the brightness of your rising." [Isaiah (Tehillym) 60. 1 - 3 Tanakh, Nevi’im] 

Prophecies of MESSIAH’S return are being fulfilled around the world these tremendous and thrilling days — things foretold thousands of years ago by the Jewish prophets of GOD. We can see by what is now happening to my own Jewish people what time it is according to GOD’S calendar…and the return the MESSIAH OF ISRAEL. "For the LORD has built Zion; HE has appeared in all HIS glory." [Psalms/Tehillym 102. 16] The LORD HIMSELF is going to do the building, perhaps using man as the instrument, but it is GOD WHO will accomplish HIS purpose. The LORD promises that it is HE WHO will build up Zion. 

Zion refers not only to the City of Jerusalem, but to those living in that City. Those who occupied the City of Jerusalem in the days of this prophecy were Jews. In a spiritual sense, this also refers to both Gentile and Jewish believers in MESSIAH. However, this verse is speaking of a literal City and a literal people and HIS literal appearance. There is a day when the LORD will revive the nation of Israel and build her up politically and nationally — but even more so, spiritually. And, HE will come again and appear in "HIS glory." 

Zion is being built up and fulfilled today as recorded in Ezekiel where GOD gave him a vision of a Valley of Dry Bones which were disconnected and scattered everywhere. Though humanly impossible for the bones to live, the ALMIGHTY ONE told Ezekiel to preach to them: "Prophesy, therefore, and say to them: Thus said the LORD GOD: I am going to open your graves and lift you out of the graves, O MY people, and bring you to the Land of Israel...I will put MY BREATH ("RUWACH" - SPIRIT) into you and you shall live again, and I will set you upon your own soil. Then you shall know that I the LORD have spoken and have acted — declares the LORD." [Ezekiel (Yehezke-El) 37. 12, 14 Tanakh, Nevi'im] At the preaching of the WORD OF GOD, the bones came together; GOD put sinews and flesh on the skeletons making them into bodies but with no life in them. Then, the BREATH (SPIRIT) came into them and they stood upright and lived…this is the Whole House of Israel who had been dead, who HE would cause to come up out of their graves and from every land where HE had scattered them. 

The LIVING FAITHFUL LORD then explained to Ezekiel the meaning of the Valley of Dry Bones: "I am going to take the Israelite people from among the nations they have gone to, and gather them from every quarter, and bring them to THEIR OWN LAND. I will make them a single nation in the Land, on the hills of Israel, and one KING (MESSIAH YESHUA) shall be KING of them all…Then they shall be MY people, and I will be their GOD." [Ezekiel (Yehezke-El) 37. 21 - 23 Tanakh, Nevi'im] 

Yes! the EVERLASTING GOD, YEHOWAH, the CREATOR of the ends of the earth will revive Israel and put them back in their own land which HE promised to Abraham and will set one KING over them in that day. "For the LORD will pardon and have mercy on Jacob, and will again choose Israel, and will settle them in their OWN LAND. And strangers will be joined them and they will cling to the House of Jacob. For peoples will take the House of Jacob and bring them to their homeland; and the House of Israel will possess the peoples as slaves and handmaids in the Land of the LORD. They will take them captive whose captives they were, and rule over their oppressors." [Isaiah (Yeshayah) 14. 1 - 2 Tanakh, Nevi'im] 

For nearly two-thousand years our Jewish people have been scattered over the face of the earth — scattered like those bones in Ezekiel’s vision. We have been exiled from the Land GOD promised to our forefathers: Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. The Land had laid desolate and barren, governed by Gentiles just as GOD said it would be. But no longer, the Land once barren is blossoming as the rose; our Jewish people returning and governing it; resources from the Land are being developed; and through agriculture, the Land is cleared, terraced and cultivated, deserts and swamps reclaimed and crops are being grown. 

"I am bringing MY righteousness near; it shall not be far off, and MY salvation shall not be delayed. I will grant triumph in Zion, to Israel, in whom I glory." [Isaiah (Yeshayah) 46. 13 Tanakh, Nevi'im] There is a revival of Land as well as of the people of Zion. They are being revived politically and nationally — but most important — our Jewish people are being revived spiritually. GOD is giving them the very breath of spiritual life — that life that can come only through faith in the PROMISED ONE OF GOD. 

Many of our Jewish people are receiving the LORD YESHUA as their long-awaited MESSIAH, their Soon-Coming KING. They are coming out of their graves of spiritual death and receiving life…becoming "completed Jews" by accepting the fulfillment of all the prophecies in their own HEBREW SCRIPTURES concerning their MESSIAH. They are recognizing that JESUS is THE ONE WHO was promised by GOD to come to Israel WHO will be their REIGNING KING in Zion. GOD promised that ONE KING will rule in that Day when Zion would be built up. Will you be one of HIS people now? Will you let this KING rule in your life now and when HE comes? HE is coming soon! 

Sha’alu (Pray) for the shalom (Peace) of Jerusalem and all of Israel! 
O GOD, keep my tongue from evil and my lips from speaking guile. Be my SUPPORT when grief silences my voice, and my COMFORT when woe bends my spirit. Plant humility in my soul, and strengthen my heart with perfect faith in YOU. Help me to be strong in trials and temptations and to be humble always before YOU, my STRONG-TOWER. Guide me by the LIGHT of YOUR counsel, and let me ever find rest in YOU — my ROCK and my REDEEMER. Praised be the LORD GOD ETERNAL to WHOM all praise is due for ever and ever. Amen 
Wishing each of you our warmest Chanukkah & Christmas blessings! Keep KING YESHUA the center of your focus every day. 

Praying for the peace of Jerusalem, is praying for the return of our Messiah and Lord and for the Kingdom of God He is bringing when He comes. Then God's Will shall be done on earth as it is in Heaven and the world will experience true godly universal peace which is the fruit of Righteousness. 

 
Web Page:  http://www.delrifkah.com/

A HEBREW SAGE MIGHT SAY. . . 
A thousand candles light the earth announcing MESSIAH the SAVIOR'S birth. A thousand universes sing, the coming of our LORD & KING! 

YESHUA CAME DOWN 
"No one has ascended to heaven but HE WHO came down from heaven, that is, the SON OF MAN WHO is in heaven." [John 3. 13] 

Even this secular, materialistic world so far, makes much of the CHRIST CHILD at Christmas time; that BABE WHO was born in a stable and laid in a manger. Yet very few ever recognize that HE had been eternally one (Hebrew: echad) with the FATHER in heaven before HE chose to come down. And, exceedingly less ever stop to learn the reason HE chose to come down. The reasons are replete in HOLY SCRIPTURE as the PROMISED ANOINTED ONE wanted us to know. 

The NEW COVENANT gives the first reference to HIS coming, YESHUA HIMSELF speaks the most significant detailed motivations for HIS coming: "Do not think that I came to destroy the Law or the Prophets. I did not come to destroy but to fulfill. For assuredly, I say to you, till heaven and earth pass away, one jot or one tittle will by no means pass from the law till all is fulfilled." [Matthew 5. 17 - 18] YESHUA, the SOVEREIGN KING was totally committed to HIS FATHER’S will that is recorded in the WRITTEN WORD. This was the first thing HE came to confirm and fulfill. 

"The SON OF MAN has come to seek and to save that which was lost." [Luke 19. 10] "I have not come to call the righteous, but sinners, to repentance." [Luke 5. 32] "Do not think that I came to bring peace on earth. I did not come to bring peace but a sword." [Matthew 10. 34] "For I have come down from heaven, not to do MY OWN will, but the will of HIM WHO sent ME. This is the will of the FATHER WHO sent ME, that of all HE has given ME I should lose nothing, but should raise it up at the last day. And this is the will of HIM WHO sent ME, that everyone who sees the SON and believes in HIM may have everlasting life; and I will raise him up at the last day." [John 6. 38 - 40] 

"HE WHO descended is also the ONE WHO ascended far above all the heavens, that HE might fill all things." [Ephesians 4. 10] "I have come that they may have life, and that they may have it more abundantly. I am the GOOD SHEPHERD. The GOOD SHEPHERD gives HIS life for the sheep." [John 10. 10 - 11] 

MESSIAH then notably expressed the reason for HIS coming — for it was in regards to HIS second coming: "Behold! I am coming quickly, and MY reward is with ME, to give to every one according to his work. I am the ALPHA and the OMEGA, the BEGINNING and the END, the FIRST and the LAST." Blessed are those who do HIS commandments, that they may have the right to the Tree of Life, and may enter through the gates into the City." [Revelation 22. 13 - 14] 

So when asked — "WHO has ascended into heaven and come down? WHO has gathered up the wind in the hollow of HIS hand? WHO has bound the waters in HIS garment? WHO has established all the ends of the earth? What is HIS NAME or HIS SON'S NAME, if you know it?" [Proverbs/Mishle 30. 4]; you can boast in giving them the answer — HE is the MAJESTIC & INEXPLICABLE CREATOR, the BABE of Bethlehem, the GLORIOUS KING of the whole world. 

"HE WHO testifies to these things says — Surely I am coming quickly. Amen. Even so, come, LORD JESUS! The grace of our LORD JESUS CHRIST be with you all." [Revelation 22. 20 - 21] Amen & Amen 

Sha'alu (Pray) for the Shalom (Peace) of Jerusalem and all of Israel! 
Be blessed as we bid farewell to Shabbat! May the ALMIGHTY ONE, WHO separates the holy from the secular, forgive our sins and grant us a good week as we continue in HIS service!! 
May the REDEEMER of all ages make you holy and may you grow in HIS wisdom and favor. Walk boldly in the light and warmth of GOD'S compelling love. And, may the HOLY ONE fill you with HIS perfect peace, wonderful joy and indescribable happiness. 
Have a blessed and joyous CHRIST-filled Chanukkah & CHRISTmas! — Oh come, let us adore HIM, CHRIST the LORD! 

Praying for the peace of Jerusalem, is praying for the return of our Messiah and Lord and for the Kingdom of God He is bringing when He comes. Then God's Will shall be done on earth as it is in Heaven and the world will experience true godly universal peace which is the fruit of Righteousness. 

 
Web Page:  http://www.delrifkah.com/

A HEBREW SAGE MIGHT SAY. . . 
By prayer one may achieve part of one's wish. 

ASK IN MESSIAH'S NAME 
"Whatever you ask in MY NAME, that I will do, that the FATHER may be glorified in the SON." [John 14. 13] "If you abide in ME, and MY WORDS abide in you, you will ask what you desire, and it shall be done for you." [John 15. 7] 

Such promises seem almost too extensive and unconditional to be understood literally. Asking "in HIS NAME" does not mean just beginning or ending a prayer with those words. 

It is only through MESSIAH YESHUA, our MEDIATOR, that we dare enter the presence of the OMNIPOTENT GOD at all. The LORD JESUS declared "No man comes to the FATHER but by ME." [John 14. 6] This being true, it also implies that our prayer must be in agreement with what the ALL-WISE MASTER HIMSELF would pray. No follower of MESSIAH should ask for something he knows to be against GOD'S will. "Now this is the confidence that we have in HIM, that if we ask anything according to HIS will, HE hears us. And if we know that HE hears us, whatever we ask, we know that we have the petitions that we have asked of HIM." [1 John 5. 14 - 15] 

When we come to the HEAVENLY FATHER in JESUS' MIGHTY NAME, we are in a very real sense, representing HIM. Therefore, we must come with clean hands and motives worthy of THE ONE in WHOSE NAME we profess to come. We must confess and repent of all our sins, or we couldn't even speak in HIS NAME nor expect HIM to hear and answer our entreaty. As we acknowledge HIS power and promise, we must come believing, not doubting HIM, the LIVING, LIFE-GIVING WORD. 

Then the LOVING FATHER is glorified as we exalt our GREAT GOD. "Whatever you ask the FATHER in MY NAME HE will give you. Ask, and you will receive, that your joy may be full." [John 16. 23 - 24] This promise is given that GOD THE FATHER may be magnified gloriously in GOD THE SON, YESHUA ha'MASHIACH. 

Sha’alu (Pray) for the shalom (Peace) of Jerusalem and all of Israel! 
May our lips ever declare praises the LORD JESUS our KING, HELPER, SAVIOR & SHIELD for HIS loving kindness is mighty over us. 
Our prayer for each of you is for mercy, peace and love be yours in abundance from our WONDERFUL REDEEMER. 
Remember GOD’S rich blessings as you share wonderful holy-days together with friends and family. 

Praying for the peace of Jerusalem, is praying for the return of our Messiah and Lord and for the Kingdom of God He is bringing when He comes. Then God's Will shall be done on earth as it is in Heaven and the world will experience true godly universal peace which is the fruit of Righteousness. 

Web Page:  http://www.delrifkah.com/ 

A HEBREW SAGE MIGHT SAY. . . 
Endure the truth, though it be bitter. 

CUSTOMS  BAR MITZVAH 
The Jewish boy looks forward to his thirteenth birthday as one of the most important events in his life. It symbolizes the beginning of maturity for him. When the boy reaches Bar Mitzvah (Son of Commandment) age, he is not only old enough to enjoy the ceremony but also to appreciate its importance to himself, to his family and friends, and to his people. 

It is believed by Jews that up to the thirteenth year, the father bears the sins of his son. After that the boy must account for his good or evil actions. The father therefore, recites the following benediction at the Bar Mitzvah ceremony: "Blessed are YOU, our GOD, KING OF THE UNIVERSE, WHO has relieved me from punishment for this one (the son)." 

Many months before this great occasion, the son is taught at the synagogue how to wear the phylacteries and prayer shawl. He is taught his various prayers in Hebrew, his religious duties, the HAFTORAH (a term applied to the passages from the Books of the Prophets  NEVI'IM), after the reading from the Books of Moses  TORAH) and blessings, and how to write and memorize a speech in Hebrew. The young man is now accepted as one of ten necessary for a Minyan (ten adult menâ without whom services cannot be conducted in the synagogue). He is also entitled to be called on to read the TORAH in the public services. 

This Bar Mitzvah ceremony is celebrated in the synagogue and in the home. Relatives and friends come to the synagogue to hear the boy chant the HAFTORAH and deliver the oration. The Rabbi talks to him and blesses him. After the service, the whole congregation is invited by the family to the vestry rooms for refreshments. The boy receives gifts and congratulations from everyone. He is now considered a man who is responsible for his own sins. 

The following prayer is in use in English Sephardic Congregations on the occasion of a lad reaching the age of thirteen his religious majority: "O my GOD, and GOD of my fathers, on this solemn and sacred day, which marks my passage from boyhood to manhood, I humbly raise my eyes to YOU and declare with sincerity and truth that henceforth I will observe YOUR commandments, and undertake to bear the responsibility of all my actions towards YOU. In my earliest infancy I was brought within YOUR SACRED COVENANT with Israel, and today I again enter as an active responsible member, the pale of YOUR elect congregation, in the midst of which I will never cease to glorify YOUR HOLY NAME in the face of all nations. 
Do, O HEAVENLY FATHER, hear this my humble prayer and bestow upon me YOUR gracious blessings, so that my earthly life may be sustained and made happy by YOUR ineffable mercies. Teach me the way of YOUR statutes, that I may obey them and faithfully carry out YOUR ordinances. Dispose my heart to love YOU and to fear YOUR HOLY NAME, and grant me YOUR support and the strength necessary to avoid the worldly dangers which beset the path lying before me. Save me from temptation, so that I may observe YOUR HOLY LAW and those precepts on which human happiness and eternal life depend. Thus I will every day of my life trustfully and gladly proclaim: Hear, O Israel, the LORD is our GOD, the LORD is ONE!" 

The Jewish Prophet Isaiah, speaks of ONE upon whose shoulder is the government, the LAW (TORAH), the blessing, whose NAME is called WONDERFUL, COUNSELOR, THE MIGHTY GOD, THE EVERLASTING FATHER, THE PRINCE OF PEACE. [Isaiah/Yeshayah 9. 6] We find HIM in the Temple at the age of maturity at that time (12) astounding the doctors of the Law with HIS perfect knowledge, HIS wisdom, HIS authority in the SCRIPTURES. [see Luke 2. 45 - 48] JESUS didn't need a ceremony nor a ritual nor a celebration. HE fulfilled not only the Law, but the tradition of the Jews as well. HE had no sins for which Joseph was responsible before HE was twelve, but it was for our iniquities HE was bruised, for our transgression HE was wounded. [Isaiah/Yeshayah 53. 5] Truly, THIS SON did not suffer for HIMSELF as HE hung on that Altar on Golgotha; HE did not bear the punishment of HIS OWN sins, but surely, surely HE bore our diseases and carried our pains! The chastisement for our peace was upon HIM and through HIS bruises was healing granted to us! Blessed be HIS WONDERFUL NAME forever! 

It is interesting to note that Jews use two words for "son" (and so it is in the SCRIPTURES — see Proverbs/Mishle 30. 4; 31. 2). The one word is "ben" which is a general term applied to each male child in a Jewish family. The other is "bar" which has a greater meaning, the term used of a son who has reached maturity; one who has attained to the age of religious duty and responsibility. In other words, he is a qualified, full-fledged, mature Jew! 

In the Second Psalm, considered the MESSIANIC PSALM, the COMFORTER, the HOLY SPIRIT, declares to the people of Israel (and all nations) that the ONE WHO is ANOINTED (the MASSIAH)  the ONLY BEGOTTEN SON OF GOD. In verse seven, YESHUA is called by the term "BEN." Then in verse twelve, Israel is admonished to do homage to HIM ("Kiss the SON") and they are "blessed who put their trust in HIM." In this instance the term "BAR" is used for SON. JESUS, the ANOINTED ONE is the SON (BEN) OF GOD and from the beginning of time, HE is BAR MITZVAH, the SON OF THE LAW as well! 

[Special Note: 1961 was Bar Mitzvah Day in Israel for it was the 13th Independence Day celebration. This was because of the number "thirteen." It is at age 13 the boy is called Bar Mitzvah or Son of the Law. According to Jewish authorities, the reason for 13 is because that is the number of ALMIGHTY GOD'S attributes. {Personally, I find them to be beyond measure!}] 

Sha’alu (Pray) for the shalom (Peace) of Jerusalem and all of Israel! 
Welcome Sabbath! Praised to Almighty CREATOR God! We praise and bless you O GOD for lovingly and graciously giving YOUR Holy Shabbat — the Bride, the Queen...the imagery of beauty & radiance, testifying to the tremendous affection that the Sabbath is enjoyed among YOUR people in YOUR HOLY PRESENCE. 
May yours be a Yom She’Kulo Shabbat — a day which is all-Sabbath! 
May the flame of YESHUA ha'MASHIACH burn brightly in your heart as you share HIS light with others this holiday season, and always. 

Praying for the peace of Jerusalem, is praying for the return of our Messiah and Lord and for the Kingdom of God He is bringing when He comes. Then God's Will shall be done on earth as it is in Heaven and the world will experience true godly universal peace which is the fruit of Righteousness. 

Web Page: www.delrifkah.com http://www.delrifkah.com/

A HEBREW SAGE MIGHT SAY. . . 
In prayer, always associate yourself with others and say, "Our GOD, lead us." 

URIM & THUMMIM 
"Inside the Breastpiece of Decision you shall place the Urim and Thummim, so that they are over Aaron's heart when he comes before the LORD. Thus Aaron shall carry the instrument of decision for the Israelites over his heart before the LORD at all times." [Exodus (Shemot) 28. 30 Tanakh, Torah] 

There is no command of the HOLY LORD GOD to make the Urim and the Thummim, only to place them in the breastpiece. They indicate a kind of oracle, "Eleazar the priest, shall seek the decision of the Urim before the LORD." [Numbers (B'Midvar) 27. 21 Tanakh, Torah] In Hebrew, "Nathan" is the word meaning "put in" which is the same word used for the law to be IN the Ark of the Covenant, with the idea that it is to be covered completely. Therefore, it informs us that the Urim and Thummim were to be put inside the doubled-over pouch of the breastpiece and covered ” even as the Law was inside the Ark. 

No one knows for certain what these were and there is much speculation concerning them. Some translators give these two Hebrew words as "Light & Perfection" others as "Manifestation & Truth." The first time the word "perfect" is found in the HEBREW SCRIPTURES, it is used to speak of a walk or life. [Genesis/Bereshith 6. 9] The word is "tamiym" meaning complete, entire, without blemish, perfect, integrity, truth. The last occurrence of "perfect" plainly refers to the LORD MESSIAH YESHUA, HE is the ROCK, HIS work is perfect. ["The ROCK!  HIS deeds are perfect; Yea, all HIS ways are just; a faithful GOD, never false, true and upright is HE." Deuteronomy/Devarim 32.4] The first and last occurrences of words or subjects in HOLY WRIT are always important indicating a richer meaning that is otherwise overlooked. In this connection, the words "without blemish" ” with references to the Passover lamb and the sacrifices in Leviticus/Vayikra and Numbers/B'Midvar, is the word also translated "PERFECT" and is very similar to the word "THUMMIM (Tamiym)!" 

The first word of this combination (Urim-Thummim) is the plural of UR which means "Light." GOD OMNIPOTENT is the CREATOR OF LIGHT. The LORD YESHUA is the LIGHT OF THE WORLD WHO manifests the FATHER OF LIGHTS. [James 1. 17] YESHUA, the ANOINTED ONE makes the counsels and purposes of GOD known. The mind and will of the HOLY ONE can be perfectly revealed by HIM and communicated by HIM to HIS people. 

These two words are considered to be plurals of MAJESTY (the singular light) and PERFECTION. [Majesty is a metaphor for what is brought to light GUILT, Ephesians 5. 13  whatever makes manifest is light. Perfection is the metaphor for moral perfection  INNOCENCE.] A black stone was given to the guilty at trials in ancient times. [1 Samuel/Shemuel Alef 14. 41 ” "gives a perfect lot."] Urim gives clear evidence. Thummim gives or shows the innocent. 

Only the LORD JESUS is the PERFECT WALK, the PERFECT WORK, the LIGHT, the TRUTH, the INNOCENT ONE WHO was made as the guilty that the guilty might be declared innocent by believing on HIS NAME! 

URIM begins with the first letter of the Hebrew alphabet (Alef). The first letter of THUMMIM, is the last letter of the Hebrew alphabet (Tav) and each of these words is preceded by the combination of the first and last of the Hebrew alphabet. This is the Name of the MESSIAH written many times but hidden in the OLD COVENANT and carried forward into the Greek as "Alpha-Omega." The LORD YESHUA calls HIMSELF by this Name. [Revelation 1. 8, 11; 21. 6] YESHUA, the MESSIAH & SAVIOR is the FIRST and the LAST; HE is the URIM and the THUMMIM. Urim first, the DIVINITY of our LORD. HE is the CREATOR of light which reveals. Thummim equals PERFECTION, the HUMANITY of our LORD. JESUS is the PERFECT HUMAN; HE is the UNBLEMISHED LAMB and the UNDEFILED HIGH PRIEST. 

The MASTER DESIGNER commanded that these items were to be put into the breastpiece. This implies the doubled pouch of the breastpiece since the word for "put in" indicates that it is covered by material of some kind. We find this same implication in Proverbs: "Lots are cast into the lap; the decision depends on the LORD." [Proverbs (Mishle) 16. 33 Tanakh, Kethuvim] Here, bosom is used for the clothing or covering over it. In this same verse, the word for "lot" is "goral (a stone)" âand "the decision (or judgment) is of the LORD". . . from which comes the name "BREASTPIECE OF JUDGMENT." 

The lots or stones of the breastpiece pouch were used or cast as dice; and by their fall somehow revealed the Divine will or judgment. The book by Samuel Midvar supports this, where casting of lots is referred to twice in close association with seeking revelation through Urim and Thummim. [1 Samuel (Shemuel Alef) 10. 19 - 22; 14. 37  42] Casting of lots was known among the Hebrews and other people of antiquity. [see Esther/Ester] It was common practice to use black and white stones, casting them on the ground to decide matters and as a form of gambling (dice  black dots on white). This, no doubt was taken from the sacred lots, the custom of standing before Urim and Thummim to determine the mind of the ALMIGHTY LORD GOD in important matters. Also, in ancient times it was the custom for a white stone to be given to one returning from battle having won a victory and given to a man as a token that he was a free man of the city. 

The Prophecy of the Stones is fulfilled in heaven! The names of the twelve apostles are in the foundation gems of the wall of the New Jerusalem. [Revelation 21. 19] Yes, the sacred lots will be there too. A white stone with a new name will be given to the redeemed. [Revelation 2. 17] We will be fully acquitted, declared "innocent" before all the HOSTS OF HEAVEN. The victory was won through the Testimony of the LAMB and we each will be a "free man" of the Holy City! O what absolute overwhelming joys await us! 

Sha’alu (Pray) for the shalom (Peace) of Jerusalem and all of Israel! 
We bless and praise YOU, LORD YESHUA, the HOLY ONE OF ISRAEL and ask YOU to purify our spirits that in our daily tasks we may be conscious of YOUR PRESENCE. Turn our daily thoughts to YOU and help us to see that no work truly prospers unless it brings blessings to other lives, and no gain truly enriches if it does not add happiness to others. Help us so to live that when we have gathered our final harvest, many shall rise up that we have told or shown the way to YOUR Kingdom. Continue to give YOUR blessings upon us. Teach us to seek YOU evermore within the sanctuary of our souls, within the shelter of YOUR mighty wings. 

Praying for the peace of Jerusalem, is praying for the return of our Messiah and Lord and for the Kingdom of God He is bringing when He comes. Then God's Will shall be done on earth as it is in Heaven and the world will experience true godly universal peace which is the fruit of Righteousness. 


Web Page: http://www.delrifkah.com/ 

A HEBREW SAGE MIGHT SAY. . . 
Break thru obstacles in your life by becoming stronger, challenge–by–challenge — allowing the LORD GOD to stretch you spiritually. 

TAKE HEED 
"JESUS answered and said to them (HIS disciples): "Take heed that no one deceives you. For many will come in MY NAME, saying  I am the Christ and will deceive many." [Matthew 24. 4 - 5] 
MESSIAH'S warning is most critical and relative in these last days when there are multitudes of false christs, and false prophets. "For false christs and false prophets will rise and show great signs and wonders to deceive, if possible, even the elect." [Matthew 24. 24] Therefore, the LORD YESHUA clearly warned, "Take heed!" 
This alarm of concern is frequently emphasized in the NEW COVENANT. The Apostle Paul warned the Ephesians elders  "For I have not shunned to declare to you the whole counsel of GOD. Therefore take heed to yourselves and to all the flock, among which the HOLY SPIRIT has made you overseers, to shepherd the Church of GOD which HE purchased with HIS OWN blood. For I know this, that after my departure savage wolves will come in among you, not sparing the flock. Also from among yourselves men will rise up, speaking perverse things, to draw away the disciples after themselves. Therefore watch! and remember that for three years I did not cease to warn everyone night and day with tears." [Acts 20. 27 - 31] 

Paul also gave warning to the Hebrew believers "Beware, brethren, lest there be in any of you an evil heart of unbelief in departing from the LIVING GOD; but exhort one another daily, while it is called "Today"  lest any of you be hardened through the deceitfulness of sin. For we have become partakers of MESSIAH YESHUA if we hold the beginning of our confidence steadfast to the end." [Hebrews 3. 12 - 14] Paul continues to give warning to anyone who feels overconfident in his own ability to withstand such deceptions and temptations” "Let him who thinks he stands take heed lest he fall." [1 Corinthians 10. 12] 
There are many other similar warnings and we would do well to take heed also to the safeguards that OMNIPOTENT GOD has provided. "Give attention to reading, to exhortation, to doctrine. Meditate on these things; give yourself entirely to them…Take heed to yourself and to the doctrine. Continue in them, for in doing this you will save both yourself and those who hear you." [1 Timothy 4. 13, 15-16] 
CONTINUE IN SOUND BIBLICAL DOCTRINE! "For we did not follow cunningly devised fables when we made known to you the power and coming of our LORD YESHUA MASHIACH, but were eyewitnesses of HIS majesty. For HE received from GOD THE FATHER honor and glory when such a VOICE came to HIM from the EXCELLENT GLORY: "This is MY BELOVED SON, in whom I am well pleased." And we heard this VOICE which came from heaven when we were with HIM on the Holy Mountain. And so we have the PROPHETIC WORD confirmed, which you do well to heed as a light that shines in a dark place, until the Day dawns and the MORNING STAR rises in your hearts; knowing this first, that no prophecy of SCRIPTURE is of any private interpretation, for prophecy never came by the will of man, but holy men of GOD spoke as they were moved by the HOLY SPIRIT." [2 Peter 1. 16 - 21] 
Grow in the grace, knowledge, wisdom, discernment, power and strength of our LORD & KING, that you may fight the good fight, finish the race, and keep the faith. Then a Crown of Righteousness will be given to you by the RIGHTEOUS JUDGE on the Day of HIS glorious appearing. Oh the joy that awaits us. 

Sha’alu (Pray) for the shalom (Peace) of Jerusalem and all of Israel! 
We sing sweet praises to YOUR NAME, O LORD for YOU are a gracious and merciful GOD and KING. We longingly wait for the day when all shall see and be glad, when the just and upright exult, and the devout triumphantly rejoice, for iniquity shall shut it's mouth and all wickedness shall be wholly consumed like smoke. For YOU will make the dominion of arrogance to pass away from the earth and righteousness will dwell evermore. 
You are holy, and awesome is YOUR NAME, there is no god besides YOU. YOU, LORD GOD OF HOSTS are exalted in judgment and sanctified in righteousness. Blessed are YOU, MOST HOLY LORD, our KING. 
Abundant blessing to each of you this special Chanukkah/CHRISTmas Season! 

Praying for the peace of Jerusalem, is praying for the return of our Messiah and Lord and for the Kingdom of God He is bringing when He comes. Then God's Will shall be done on earth as it is in Heaven and the world will experience true godly universal peace which is the fruit of Righteousness. 

Web Page:  http://www.delrifkah.com/

A HEBREW SAGE MIGHT SAY. . . 
Believing is a fine thing, but executing those beliefs is a test of strength. 

MESSIAH'S BIRTHPLACE 
"And you, O Bethlehem of Ephrathah, least among the clans of Judah, from you ONE shall come forth to rule Israel for ME ONE WHOSE origin is from of old, from ancient times." [Micah (Michah) 5. 2 Tanakh, Nevi'im] 

Micah indicates the birthplace of MESSIAH OF ISRAEL as Bethlehem Ephrathah (about 6 miles southwest of Jerusalem) was also the birthplace of King David. Bethlehem means "House of Bread." Ephrathah comes from the root word meaning "fruitful." Both names convey the fertility of the region. The YESHUA ha'MASHIACH (ANOINTED ONE) is that BREAD WHO came down out of heaven, WHO was born in the HOUSE OF BREAD and WHO is the FRUITFUL ONE as it was prophesied. 

In this poor, meager and inconspicuous little town, ONE was to be born WHO could take the foolish things of this world and confound the wise; WHO, by HIS coming, could transform the unlovely into a thing of beauty; WHO could, by HIS very presence, compel the learned to bow in humility before HIM, and kings to lay their authority at HIS feet! 

Though HE was to be RULER (KING) in Israel, the LORD JESUS, GOD'S ONLY-BEGOTTEN SON was meek and lowly in heart. The OMNIPOTENT LORD GOD chose a stable in the smallest town in Judah for birth of HIS UNIQUE SON, rather than a royal palace. But when the SAVIOR was born there, the unlovely, unimportant small town was transformed, and the least became the greatest. Lambs are born in stables, not palaces. GOD'S PRECIOUS GIFT came as the "LAMB OF GOD" to be sacrificed. 

Today, the LORD YESHUA ha'MASHIACH is still searching for a place in the heart of the insignificant, unlovely least of all the people. HE desires to take up HIS abode there withIN such hearts. And when the GREAT & MIGHTY TRANSFORMER does enter, HE will (in a sense) do with our useless, worthless life as HE did with the little town in which HE was born! With GOD, we are no longer just human for HE transforms us into "new creatures" for HIS glory and praise. 

We who have opened the door of our hearts and lives to the LORD JESUS and allowed HIM room to be born there, though poor, needy, lost and unworthy we can rejoice exceedingly! The reason: We realize that GOD MOST HIGH, in HIS infinite, great and boundless love has spoken and fulfilled HIS promise to us touching our individual lives. "But you...though you are little, yet out of you shall HE come forth to ME  THE ONE  to be RULER...WHOSE goings forth are from of old, from everlasting." 

Just as our BLESSED LORD has promised, we are now HIS OWN special people, zealous for good works, who have been called out of darkness into HIS MARVELOUS LIGHT! 

Sha’alu (Pray) for the shalom (Peace) of Jerusalem and all of Israel! 
LORD our GOD, sit on YOUR Throne of Truth, establish mercy, bring justice and hasten righteousness! May all men everywhere praise and glorify YOUR HOLY NAME  Amen! 
Blessings to everyone as you celebrate the coming of our SAVIOR & LORD. 

Praying for the peace of Jerusalem, is praying for the return of our Messiah and Lord and for the Kingdom of God He is bringing when He comes. Then God's Will shall be done on earth as it is in Heaven and the world will experience true godly universal peace which is the fruit of Righteousness. 

Web Page: www.delrifkah.com http://www.delrifkah.com/

A HEBREW SAGE MIGHT SAY. . . 
Set aside your will for the sake of the MASTER'S will. 

SIGNATURE OF GOD 
"In the beginning ELOHIYM created the heavens and the earth." [BOOK OF CREATION — Genesis (Bereshith) 1. 1 Tanakh, Torah] 

In the physical first creation, the TRIUNE GOD (ELOHIYM is a plural word) stamped HIS signature of "three." In the universe HE created, there are. . . 
Three Times: Past — Present — Future 
Three Views: Earth — Sea — Sky 
Three Great Kingdoms: Animal — Vegetable — Mineral 
Three Parts of Man: Spirit — Soul — Body 
Three Forms Matter Can Assume: Solid — Liquid — Gas 
Three Colors To One Ray of Light: Blue — Red — Yellow 

The Tabernacle in the Wilderness [Exodus/Shemot 25 - 40] as a picture of the New Creation, also has this numerical signature of the DIVINE RULER. [Luke 24. 27 — again the signature. Three sections of SCRIPTURE in the OLD COVENANT: Torah (Law), Nevi'im (The Prophets), Kethuvim {Psalms & Writings}] Man was created in the image of GOD THE MASTER, the AUTHOR & FINISHER, and is composed of spirit, soul, and body. Likewise, this Holy Structure has three main parts: The Holy of Holies, the Holy Place and the Outer Court. 

The Holy of Holies represents GOD THE FATHER — GOD'S HOLY PRESENCE and HIS Throne Room. The Holy Place, GOD THE SON, pictures Heaven and Heaven's provisions. The Court, tells of GOD THE HOLY SPIRIT — it shows earth and the judgment for sin. Each part in itself manifests the GOD-HEAD. 

These rooms, collectively and individually, describe the LORD JESUS. They also tell of the believer in YESHUA ha'MASHIACH as well. . . 
The Holiest represents the spirit, or GOD-conscious part of man. It is the innermost shrine, the Holy of Holies of the SPIRIT where the Law of GOD is deposited. [Ephesians 3. 16] 

The Holy Place symbolizes the soul, man's self-consciousness. This is the soul or mind, the "holy place" where the lamps are lighting up the understanding, where the bread is for nourishment and the incense for DIVINE fellowship. 

The Court is significant of the body, that which is world-conscious in man; the external side of his being, that which is seen and recognized by all as the actual person and where it is cleansed, clothed and consecrated for service. [2 Corinthians 5. 1, 4 — used metaphorically of the body as the tabernacle of the soul. Peter speaks about his body as "his tabernacle" in 2 Peter 1.13-14] 

The believer is to be a true Tabernacle of Witness for GOD. We are to be an "active testimony" in this world to the LORD YESHUA, if we are to come into "THE PROMISE" which MESSIAH gave to all who would believe in HIM: "You shall receive power when the HOLY SPIRIT has come upon you; and you shall be witnesses to ME." [Acts 1. 8] And, "when the HELPER (the HOLY SPIRIT, the COMFORTER) comes, WHOM I shall send to you from the FATHER, the SPIRIT OF TRUTH WHO proceeds from the FATHER, HE will testify of ME (JESUS, the BELOVED REDEEMER)." [John 15. 26] 

ALMIGHTY GOD, CREATOR & MASTER DESIGNER of Heaven and Earth wants us to see and know HIS "Triune Signature" in all HIS creation; for all these things were given that you may know and believe. 

Sha'alu (Pray) for the Shalom (Peace) of Jerusalem and all of Israel! 
Praised is YOUR HOLY NAME, O LORD GOD. YOU have made YOUR eternal law our portion, and gave us a goodly heritage. YOU appointed us to proclaim YOUR truth to the nations and to win them for YOUR Law of Righteousness. Sanctify us for the service to which YOU called us, O HEAVENLY FATHER, that YOUR NAME may be hallowed through us in all the world. Gather all YOUR children around YOUR banner of truth that YOUR praise may resound from one end of the earth to the other, and that the entire human family may be blessed with truth and peace! 

Praying for the peace of Jerusalem, is praying for the return of our Messiah and Lord and for the Kingdom of God He is bringing when He comes. Then God's Will shall be done on earth as it is in Heaven and the world will experience true godly universal peace which is the fruit of Righteousness. 


Web Page:  http://www.delrifkah.com/

A HEBREW SAGE MIGHT SAY. . . 
Bless the moment and the years will be their own blessing. 

APPLE OF THE EYE 
"Display YOUR faithfulness in wondrous deeds, YOU WHO delivers with YOUR right hand those who seek refuge from assailants. Guard me like the apple of YOUR eye; hide me in the shadow of YOUR wings." [Psalms (Tehillym) 17. 7 - 8 Tanakh, Kethuvim] The LORD GOD says, "I will instruct you and show you which way to go; let ME offer counsel; I will guide you with MY eye." [Psalms (Tehillym) 32. 8 Tanakh, Kethuvim] 

The apple of the eye is the phrase used to speak of something as being highly valuable to the owner. The Hebrew word 'iyshown means the little man or pupil of the eye and 'ayin is the word for the eye meaning favor, regard or thought. Therefore, to be kept as the Apple of the Eye would be to say, "keep me as the center of YOUR favor, affection, choice, or preference; and in YOUR care and constant consideration." 

The GOD MOST HIGH'S portion is HIS people, Jacob HIS OWN inheritance, and Israel and Jerusalem as being the apple of HIS eye: "HE (ALMIGHTY GOD) found him (Israel) in a desert land and in the wasteland, a howling wilderness; HE encircled him, HE instructed him, HE kept him (Israel) as the apple of HIS eye. Like an eagle rouses his nestlings, gliding down to his young, so did HE (the HOLY ONE OF JACOB) spread HIS wings and take him (Israel), bearing him along on HIS pinions; the LORD alone did guide him, no alien god at HIS side." [Deuteronomy (Devarim) 32. 10 - 12 Tanakh, Torah] 

"Jerusalem shall be inhabited a city without walls, so many shall be the men and cattle it contains. And I MYSELF — declares the LORD — will be a WALL OF FIRE all around her, and I will be "THE GLORY" in her midst. For thus said the LORD OF HOSTS— HE WHOSE PRESENCE sent ME concerning the nations that have taken you to spoil: "Whoever touches you touches the apple of MY eye." [Zechariah (Zecharyah) 2. 4-5, 8 Tanakh, Nevi'im] 

"Shout for joy, Fair Zion! For lo, I come; and I will dwell in your midst —declares the LORD. In that day many nations shall be joined to the LORD and become MY people, and I will dwell in your midst. Then you will know that I was sent to you by the LORD OF HOSTS. The LORD will allot Judah his portion in the Holy Land, and will choose Jerusalem once more. Be silent, all flesh, before the LORD! For HE is roused from HIS holy habitation!" [Zechariah (Zecharyah) 2. 10 Tanakh, Nevi'im] 

To be kept as the apple of the eye of the GREAT ETERNAL LORD GOD requires our essential trust in HIM and HIS LIFE-GIVING WORD. We must keep HIS WORD as the APPLE of our eye. "MY son, keep MY WORDS, and treasure MY commands within you. Keep MY commands and live, and MY Law as the APPLE of your eye." [Proverbs (Mishle) 7. 1 - 2 Tanakh, Kethuvim] How very sweet and nourishing are HIS righteous laws and precepts. 

Sha'alu (Pray) for the Shalom (Peace) of Jerusalem and all of Israel! 
As we bid farewell to Sabbath, our prayer is that GOD, WHO'S PRESENCE dwells within us, bless you abundantly. And, may peace abundant descend from heaven with life for us and to all Israel, Amen 
Quickened by YOUR spirit, MOST HOLY ONE WHO we honor and praise, may we learn how to ennoble the things of earth by sanctifying them to YOUR service. Encourage us to watch and pray because the LORD Messiah YESHUA is coming soon to set up HIS Kingdom. Those who love HIS NAME shall dwell in it, and the descendants of HIS servants shall inherit it. May the REDEEMER of all ages make you holy and may you grow in HIS knowledge, wisdom and favor. Amen 
Allow some of the sweetness of Sabbath be present throughout the week. 


Praying for the peace of Jerusalem, is praying for the return of our Messiah and Lord and for the Kingdom of God He is bringing when He comes. Then God's Will shall be done on earth as it is in Heaven and the world will experience true godly universal peace which is the fruit of Righteousness. 

Web Page:  http://www.delrifkah.com/

A HEBREW SAGE MIGHT SAY. . . 
If at first you don't succeed, re-define success. 

CUSTOMS — THE SYNAGOGUE 
The origin of the Jewish Synagogue is probably to be assigned to the time of the Babylonian exile. Having no Temple, the Jews assembled on the Sabbath to hear the Law read, and the practice continued in various buildings after the return. "They (the enemies of GOD) resolved, 'Let us destroy them altogether!' They burned all GOD'S Tabernacles in the land." [Psalms (Tehillym) 74. 8 Tanakh, Kethuvim] 

Synagogue is a Greek word for "an assembly (gathering together for religious purposes)" and was coined about the middle of the third century BC in Alexandria, where the Jews first came in contact with Grecian culture and adopted Greek as their daily speech. As the term implies, the Synagogue is the House of Worship for the Jews and is considered the means for the preservation of the Jewish religion. Stress is placed upon the congregation to respect the synagogue and therefore, laughing and loud talking is forbidden within its walls. 

GOD OMNIPOTENT calls HIS House (Synagogue, Shul, Temple, Church, Assembly) "THE HOUSE OF PRAYER FOR ALL NATIONS." It is the meeting place for believers whom ALMIGHTY GOD seeks to worship HIM in spirit and in truth. The assembly of the righteous gather together not only to meet with the MOST HIGH, but to encourage one another in the LORD and to preserve their faith in HIM. They are exhorted to gather together "even more so" as they see the day approaching when the "church age" will end because of the return of the LORD MESSIAH YESHUA. 

Maimonides, a famous Jewish Rabbi, wrote of the synagogue: "In every place where there are ten Jews it is incumbent upon them to establish an institution where men may enter to pray on every occasion for prayer — and such an institution is called "Beit Ha'Kneseth." And the Jews in the community compel one another to build for themselves a Synagogue and to acquire a TORAH. And when a Synagogue is built it should be built on a high place in the city — and it should be taller than all the buildings in the community." [Maimonides] 

The majority of Jewish Synagogues are built in such a position that when the people of the congregation stand to pray before the platform where the "Aaron ha'Kodesh (Holy Ark)" — they are praying toward the City of Jerusalem. This opportunity for the worshipers is given because of the SCRIPTURAL injunction, "...pray to You in the direction of their land which YOU gave to their fathers, the City which YOU have chosen." [1 Kings (Melakhim Alef) 8. 48 Tanakh, Nevi'im] 

There is a total absence of all images, portraits and statues in the Jewish House of Worship honoring the second commandment, "You shall have no other gods besides ME. You shall not make for yourself a sculptured image, or any likeness of what is in the heavens above, or on the earth below, or in the waters under the earth." [Exodus (Shemot) 20. 3 - 4 Tanakh, Torah] 

This commandment is so ingrained in the heart of some Jews that even to him who receives his MESSIAH, there is still an aversion, not only in the church, but also in the home and other places, to portraits, etc., which attempt to show a likeness to the LORD GOD! However, inscribed on the walls, are some SCRIPTURAL passages glorifying ALMIGHTY GOD and HIS House in one way or another to keep the interior from being too plain. In some instances the decorations are costly. 

Services in the Jewish House of Worship are conducted twice daily — in the morning a little after sunrise, and in the evening shortly before sunset. On Sabbath and holidays, services are conducted on the eve of the day, the morning, the afternoon, and the evening. In some synagogues, we find no musical instruments. This is to preserve the thought of mourning for the destruction of the Temple. 

In Orthodox (means: thinking straight or devout) Synagogues, the hands are washed before entering and for this purpose a pitcher of water is placed in the anteroom which corresponds to the laver before the Tabernacle and Temple of old. Burial from the Synagogue in most localities, is forbidden because of the defilement of the holy place by the corpse. 

While in the Synagogue, worshipers keep their heads covered (a practice observed also by many persons when reading any and every HEBREW TEXT), because literature written in the so-called "holy tongue" is considered especially sacred and its study is regarded a religious act. Some Jews consider it a sacrilege to go at any time with their head uncovered, as the high priest wore a head covering when officiating in the Sanctuary, so should every Jew when praying. 

During religious services or functions, Jewish men wear what is called Yarmulkuh. The word Yarmulkuh (skull cap) is derived from the Slavic-Tartarian language. It is made in the shape of a Kipah — the dome of heaven. 

Another word for this covering is the German kappel or small cap. A Jew, who follows religious tradition covers his head at all times, even when sleeping! Moses Maimonides wrote that "great men among our sages would not uncover their heads because they believed that GOD'S glory was around and over them." A devout Jew will not pronounce GOD'S REVEALED NAME, recite the Sh'ma, or read from the BOOK OF THE LAW without this or a similar covering. [also called a Mitre (bonnet) in Exodus/Shemot 28. 39 & Leviticus/Vayikra 16. 4] 

Jewish Orthodox women always wore (and still do) a head covering in the synagogue. It was the custom among them to shave their hair off their heads so that it would not be seen by man and to substitute a wig or false hair called sheital or peruk. According to the TALMUD — "A woman's hair is considered nudity" — therefore a woman's hair should be covered. According to an ancient Jewish belief, evil spirits gained power over a woman who went with her head bare! 

The Jewish law states that although the head is to be kept covered, the hands are to be kept uncovered; therefore gloves must be removed during devotion. This custom is based on the synonymous use of praying with the BIBLICAL phrase: "spreading forth the hands." 

The TALMUD states that the priests in ancient times, elevated their hands up to the shoulders in the giving of the benediction. When they were in the Temple they raised their hands up to the forehead. This position, they felt, was in order to follow the expression "the lifting up of the hands." In his writings the Apostle Paul spoke of the worshipers as "men pray everywhere lifting up holy hands, without wrath and doubting." [1 Timothy 2. 8] According to the present practice of the Rabbis, the fingers of the two hands are so joined together and separated as to form five interstices (openings close to another). 

Rabbis today, with their hands in the foregoing described position, pronounce the priestly prayer, "The LORD bless you and keep you; the LORD make HIS face shine upon you, and be gracious to you; the LORD lift up HIS countenance upon you, and give you peace." [Numbers (B'Midvar) 6. 24 - 26 Tanakh, Torah] This benediction is never used to dismiss the congregation! 

Also called the "Aaronic Benediction" — so called because Aaron was the first man whom the ALMIGHTY commissioned to use it. In form, it is symmetrical as a cut diamond. Three times "The LORD" appears, and three times the word "and" serves as a silver link between two golden lines. Each line brings in a new thought. It was spoken to the "children of Israel" yet it is meant for the congregation. But the congregation consists of individuals, hence ultimately it is meant for each individual member thereof. The Benediction is a GOD-inspired poem, full of grace and truth. It is a miniature symphony whose opening movement breathes DIVINE goodness, whose design is the grace of GOD, and whole culmination is peace. It is really an intercessory prayer, dictated by the ETERNAL MIGHTY ONE HIMSELF. Its words are like many angels sent forth from the THRONE OF GOD to guard and guide worshippers on their way. 

In synagogues, suspended immediately in front of the Aaron ha'Kodesh (Holy Ark) is the perpetual lamp. It is constantly kept burning, as the name indicates. The lamp is made either of gold, silver, copper or burnished brass. This lamp is in obedience to the command of GOD: "You shall further instruct the Israelites to bring you pure oil of beaten olives for lighting, for kindling lamps to burn continually. Aaron and his sons shall set them up in the Tabernacle of Meeting, outside the veil which is over the Ark of Testimony, to burn from evening to morning before the LORD. It shall be a due from the children of Israel throughout the ages." [Exodus (Shemot) 27. 20 - 21 Tanakh, Torah] 

An orthodox congregation separates the women from the men in their worship. The women meet in the court for women and the men in the court for men. This dates back to the times of the Temple when the women were not permitted to enter the premises of the sanctuary for fear of distracting the men in their devotions. 

Isn’t it wonderful how the LORD JESUS enlightens us with HIS WORD that elevates women to a honored and distinguished position worth of praise and nobility; a valued creature to be cherished and protected! 

Sha’alu (Pray) for the shalom (Peace) of Jerusalem and all of Israel! 
Joyously Welcoming Sabbath! Praised are YOU, LORD our GOD, SOVEREIGN of the Universe, WHO makes us holy with YOUR mitzvoth and favors us with the Holy Shabbat, lovingly and graciously given to us. Assuredly, HE WHO keeps Israel neither slumbers or sleeps! HalleluYAH! 
May we return to the LORD GOD with all our hearts, mind and souls — seeking HIM while HE may be found and calling upon HIS HOLY NAME. 

Praying for the peace of Jerusalem, is praying for the return of our Messiah and Lord and for the Kingdom of God He is bringing when He comes. Then God's Will shall be done on earth as it is in Heaven and the world will experience true godly universal peace which is the fruit of Righteousness. 

Web Page:  http://www.delrifkah.com/

A HEBREW SAGE MIGHT SAY. . . 
Be deliberate in judgment and raise up many disciples! 

FEASTS OF THE LORD (Part 1 of 2) 
The "Set FEASTS OF THE LORD" (Hebrew: "mo'ed") are found in Leviticus 23. This is the HOLY ONE'S "Calendar of Redeeming Grace." In these forty-four verses are seven feasts (Hebrew: "chag or hag") of the LORD which set the chronological order of GOD'S complete plan of redemption. 

Sabbath [Leviticus/Vayikra 23. 1 - 3] CREATOR GOD ceased from HIS work of creation on the seventh (Sabbath) day and desired those whom HE had created to gather together on that day to "feast" with HIM. YESHUA ha'MASHIACH, the SABBATH OF THE MOST HIGH GOD, is the beginning and the fulfillment of all the FEASTS OF THE LORD. HE alone could say, "Come to ME, all you who labor and are heavy laden, and I will give you rest (Sabbath). Take MY yoke upon you and learn from ME, for I am gentle and lowly in heart, and you will find rest (Sabbath) for your souls." [Matthew 11. 28 - 29] 

Passover (Pesach) [Leviticus/Vayikra 23. 4 - 5] This was to be kept in remembrance of Israel's great deliverance from death and Egyptian bondage through the sacrifice of a spotless lamb. The death of the Passover lamb was to be the starting point of all GOD'S purposes for redemption and the foundation of all that is set forth in the rest of the "FEASTS OF THE LORD." We see prophecy of the COMING ONE WHO, by the offering of HIMSELF as the SUPREME SACRIFICE, would redeem all who would believe on HIS NAME. Upon seeing MESSIAH YESHUA, John the Baptist proclaimed, "Behold, the LAMB OF GOD that takes away the sin of the world!" [John 1. 29] 

Feast of Unleavened Bread (Chag Hamotzi) [Leviticus/Vayikra 23. 6 - 8] This Feast immediately follows Passover and is only to be observed by those who had partaken of the Passover lamb and put away the leaven (represents sin) — thus telling of the holy walk of the believer. The LORD JESUS became as the LEAVENED BREAD (HE was made sin on the Cross) that those believing on HIM might partake of the UNLEAVENED BREAD (the RIGHTEOUSNESS OF GOD). "Indeed MESSIAH JESUS, our PASSOVER, was sacrificed for us. Therefore let us keep the feast, not with old leaven, nor with the leaven of malice and wickedness, but with the unleavened bread of sincerity and truth." [1 Corinthians 5. 7 - 8] 

Feast of First-Fruits (Yom Ha'bikkurim) [Leviticus/Vayikra 23. 10 - 14] Three days after the Passover lamb was slain, the Feast of First-Fruits was to be celebrated. At this time the High Priest was to take a sheaf of the first-fruits of their barley harvest into the Temple and wave it violently before the LORD GOD OF HEAVEN. This looked forward to the fulfillment when YESHUA ha'MASHIACH, our GREAT HIGH PRIEST (the TRUE PASSOVER LAMB) raised from the dead! YESHUA, the GRAIN OF BARLEY that had fallen to the earth to die, now shoots forth (violently shaken) and is raised before the LORD GOD as the FIRST-FRUITS of those that sleep. [1 Corinthians 15. 20] "I am the RESURRECTION and the LIFE; whoever believes in ME, though he may die, he shall live" [John 11. 25 - 26] — was the promise of the LORD JESUS at Lazarus' tomb. 

Feast of Weeks (Shavu'oth/Pentecost) [Leviticus/Vayikra 23. 15 - 22] The Israelites were to remember that seven weeks after leaving the land of death, Moses was called up to Mount Sinai and given the pattern of the Tabernacle, the order of the priesthood, the law and the offerings which were to guide and establish the redeemed nation. Two loaves of bread "baked with leaven" were to be waved before the LORD on that day. Here, ALMIGHTY GOD was teaching HIS people that divine redemption through HIS ANOINTED ONE would be for "whosoever will." These two leavened loaves typify Jew and Gentile, with sin in them both, being brought together. 

When the FIRST-FRUIT (YESHUA ha'MASHIACH) was raised from the dead, HE appeared 40 days to HIS disciples, then ascended into heaven. Ten days later "when the Day of Pentecost (50 Days) was fully come" GOD THE FATHER poured out the GIFT OF THE HOLY SPIRIT and the Church, made up of both Jew and Gentile believers, were empowered, the Law written on the fleshly tablets of their heart, the tabernacles of clay now indwelt by the SPIRIT OF THE LIVING GOD. 

GOD THE SON (YESHUA) honored the FATHER at Passover by dying. GOD THE FATHER honored the Feast of First-Fruits by raising MESSIAH YESHUA from the dead. GOD THE HOLY SPIRIT honors the Feast of Weeks by coming upon the disciples as they waited in the upper room, and dwelling within them and each of us who wholly follow the BELOVED MASTER. 

. . . to be continued 


Sha'alu (Pray) for the Shalom (Peace) of Jerusalem and all of Israel! 
May ALMIGHTY GOD’S love and peace shine out of each of us...as we bow in adoration before the KING OF GLORY. 
. . . bright enough for all to see 
. . . clear enough for all to follow 
O LORD our GOD, may YOUR Kingdom come speedily, so the worship of YOUR HOLY NAME and obedience to YOUR Law may unite all men in brotherhood and peace; that every creature may know that YOU are its CREATOR, and every living being exclaim: The LORD, the GREAT GOD of Israel, rules and HIS dominion endures forever. Amen! 

Praying for the peace of Jerusalem, is praying for the return of our Messiah and Lord and for the Kingdom of God He is bringing when He comes. Then God's Will shall be done on earth as it is in Heaven and the world will experience true godly universal peace which is the fruit of Righteousness. 

Web Page:  http://www.delrifkah.com/ 
A HEBREW SAGE MIGHT SAY. . . 
One man's candle is light for a hundred. 

FEASTS OF THE LORD (Part 2 - Conclusion) 
The "Set FEASTS OF THE LORD" are found in Leviticus 23. This is "GOD'S Calendar of Redeeming Grace." In these forty-four verses are seven "FEASTS OF THE LORD" which set the chronological order of the HOLY ONE'S complete plan of redemption. 

Feast of Trumpets (Yom Tru'ah) [Leviticus/Vayikra 23. 23 - 25] The trumpet is used in HOLY SCRIPTURE to symbolize GOD'S voice. Six months have gone by since the Feast of Passover. Six is the number representing man and his work. Man's "work days" are ended and the kingdoms of this world shall become the Kingdom of our GOD and HIS ANOINTED SON! Seven is the perfect number (GOD'S number) the Day of Rest (Sabbath). The seventh month, when the Feast of Trumpets are to be celebrated prophesies the "second coming" of the LORD YESHUA ha'MASHIACH. 

Day of Atonement (Yom Kippur) [Leviticus/Vayikra 23. 26 - 32] This was the day when the High Priest sprinkled the "blood of the sacrifice" on the Mercy Seat to receive forgiveness of their sins committed through the year. He would also "confess over it all the iniquities and transgressions of the Israelites, whatever their sins." [Leviticus (Vayikra) 16. 21 Tanakh, Torah] YESHUA ha'MASHIACH, our great HIGH PRIEST has entered "into heaven itself, now to appear in the presence of GOD for us, HE has appeared to put away sin by the sacrifice of HIMSELF...CHRIST was offered once to bear the sins of many. To those who eagerly wait for HIM, HE will appear a second time, apart from sin, for salvation." [Hebrews 9. 24 - 28] 

Feast of Tabernacles (Succoth) [Leviticus/Vayikra 23. 34 - 44] This Feast completes the history of redemption. The purpose of CREATOR GOD was the gathering together of a people for HIMSELF that HE might dwell in their midst. . . they can rest in HIS love, and HE can inhabit the praises of HIS people. This was a joyful time when the Israelites dwelt in booths after being delivered from Egypt's bondage and it prophecies rest and glory when we believers will dwell with our BLESSED REDEEMER, the LORD JESUS and go up year-after-year to Jerusalem to celebrate the Feast of Tabernacles, serving HIM with gifts and sacrifices in joy and gladness. [Zechariah/Zecharyah 14. 16 - 21] We will enter into GOD'S perfect rest for one thousand years and continue in rest and glory FOREVER! 

The seven FEASTS OF THE LORD are combined spiritually and experientially in "the Communion (the LORD'S Supper)" which the MESSIAH YESHUA appointed for HIS disciples to observe. We remember (Present) HIS death (Past) until HE comes (Future). 

We celebrate the LORD'S Passover because we are redeemed through HIS sacrifice and we walk in newness of life for MESSIAH is our UNLEAVENED BREAD WHO became the FIRST-FRUITS of those who slept, and at Shavuoth (Pentecost), HE filled us with the COMFORTER, HIS PRECIOUS HOLY SPIRIT. We show the LORD JESUS' death until HE comes at Trumpets, when not only our Atonement will be complete, but we will Tabernacle (Succoth) with HIM for 1,000 years and Sabbath (Rest) in HIM throughout Eternity. 

Sha'alu (Pray) for the Shalom (Peace) of Jerusalem and all of Israel! 
Our GOD & KING, we humbly bow the knee before YOU and ask that YOU sanctify us through YOUR commandments and let us share in the blessings of YOUR Law. Satisfy us with YOUR goodness and gladden us with YOUR salvation. Purify our hearts that we may serve YOU in sincerity and truth. For YOU, O GOD, are truth and YOUR WORD endures forever. Praised are YOU, O LORD, WHO forgives transgressions, RULER of the world, WHO sanctifies those YOU have redeemed. Thank YOU for ruling in holiness, the LORD OF HOSTS WHO is exalted through justice and sanctifies through righteousness. 

Praying for the peace of Jerusalem, is praying for the return of our Messiah and Lord and for the Kingdom of God He is bringing when He comes. Then God's Will shall be done on earth as it is in Heaven and the world will experience true godly universal peace which is the fruit of Righteousness. 

Web Page:  http://www.delrifkah.com/

A HEBREW SAGE MIGHT SAY. . . 
Notice to oneself: Just because it pops into your head does not mean it should come out of your mouth. 

JUDGING DOCTRINAL HERESY 
"Now I urge you, brethren, note those who cause divisions and offenses, contrary to the doctrine which you learned, and avoid them. For those who are such do not serve our Lord Jesus Christ, but their own belly, and by smooth words and flattering speech deceive the hearts of the simple." [Romans 14. 17 - 18] 

We must exercise sound BIBLICAL discernment and judgment in order that we are able to mark and avoid those professing CHRISTian teachers and leaders who are promoting doctrinal heresy, who cause divisions among true CHRISTian believers. This judgment must only be based on the doctrine which you have learned from GOD’S HOLY WORD, "lest anyone should deceive you with persuasive words." [Colossians 2. 4] 

"If they do not speak according to this WORD (the Law & the Testimony), it is because there is no light in them." [Isaiah/Yeshayah 8. 20] "Thus says the LORD — Stand in the ways and consider, inquire about the old paths, where the good way is, walk it; and you will find rest for your souls." [Jeremiah (Yirmeyah) 6. 16 Tanakh, Nevi'im] 

Decisions are not to be based on supposed scholarship, tolerance, or eloquence, for such teachers "by smooth words and flattering speech deceive the hearts of the simple." Instead, we must know and apply GOD’S WORD, the HOLY SCRIPTURES. "The works of the LORD are great, within reach and studied by all who desire and have pleasure in them. HIS work is splendid, honorable and glorious, and HIS righteousness is everlasting." [Psalms (Tehillym) 111. 2 - 3 Tanakh, Kethuvim] We must be like the Bereans who, when they heard new teachings, "they received the WORD with all readiness, and searched the SCRIPTURES daily to find out whether these things were so." [Acts 17. 11] 

Today, sadly but true most who call themselves followers of MESSIAH (CHRIST-like-ones) have compromised with the so-called scientific world view of evolutionary humanism that controls all secular schools and colleges, preferring to remain on good terms with "the rulers of this age" and only understand the "wisdom of this age...being wretched, miserable, poor, blind, and naked" [1 Corinthians 2. 6 w/Revelation 3. 17]; thereby trying to avoid the "the offense of the cross." [Galatians 5. 11] The cross is offensive because it brands man as a hell-deserving sinner; and the only way of salvation is a humbling acknowledgment of YESHUA, the REJECTED CREATOR as their personal SAVIOR WHO died for their sins. 

Deception is done simply for personal gain and prestige serving, "their own belly, and by smooth words and flattering speech deceive the hearts of the simple." [Romans 16. 18] "Let no one deceive you. He who practices righteousness is righteous, just as HE is righteous. Whoever sins is of the devil, for the devil has sinned from the beginning." [1 John 3. 7 - 8] 

The faithfully dedicated BIBLE-believing CHRISTian, will not be deceived by the good words of the deceptive swindlers, but will mark and avoid him. MESSIAH YESHUA even taught this truth by asking questions, "Can the blind lead the blind? Will they not both fall into the ditch?" [Luke 6. 39] 

Be wise in what is good, and simple concerning evil. And the GOD of peace will crush Satan and those who mislead under your feet shortly. [Romans 16. 19 - 20] May the grace of the LORD, YESHUA ha’MASHIACH, be with you always! 

Sha’alu (Pray) for the shalom (Peace) of Jerusalem and all of Israel! 
I praise and thank YOU, ALMIGHTY ONE, for YOU comfort and delight my soul. YOU are my ROCK and my REFUGE, in YOU I have hope and place my trust 

Praying for the peace of Jerusalem, is praying for the return of our Messiah and Lord and for the Kingdom of God He is bringing when He comes. Then God's Will shall be done on earth as it is in Heaven and the world will experience true godly universal peace which is the fruit of Righteousness. 

Web Page:  http://www.delrifkah.com/

A HEBREW SAGE MIGHT SAY. . . 
Obstacles are those frightful things you see when you take your eyes off the goal. 

CUSTOMS ” PURIFYING OF THE MOTHER 
"The LORD spoke to Moses, saying ” Speak to the Israelite people thus: When a woman brings forth seed bearing a male, she shall be unclean seven days; she shall be unclean as at the time of her menstrual infirmity. She shall remain in a state of blood purification for thirty-three days: she shall not touch any consecrated thing, nor enter the Sanctuary until her period of purification is completed. On the completion of her purification, for either son or daughter, she shall bring to the priest, at the entrance of the Tent of Meeting, a lamb in its first year for a burnt offering, and a young pigeon or a turtledove for a sin offering. He shall offer it before the LORD, and make atonement on her behalf; she shall then be clean from her flow of blood. Such are the rituals concerning her who bears a child, male or female. If, however, her means do not suffice for a lamb, she shall take two turtledoves or two young pigeons, one for a burnt offering and the other for a sin offering. The priest shall make expiation on her behalf, and she shall be clean." [Leviticus (Vayikra) 12. 1-2, 4, 6 - 8 Tanakh, Torah] 

Forty days after the birth of a child, the mother was purified by a ceremony in the Temple. She was said to be unclean for seven days after the birth and then thirty three days later she would keep her appointment for her purification. According to the SCRIPTURES the woman must be purified since she brought sin into the world, "And Adam was not deceived, but the woman being deceived, fell into transgression." [1 Timothy 2. 14] And, the children she bears are "born with iniquity — conceived in sin." [Psalms (Tehillym) 51. 5 Tanakh, Kethuvim] Though she brought sin into the world, the HOLY ALMIGHTY ONE HIMSELF in HIS infinite love and grace, allowed her to bear the IDEAL REMEDY for sin. [Genesis/Bereshith 3. 15; Galatians 3. 13] 

The washing of the body for purity was highly important in the service of GOD in the Sanctuary where the sacred vessels were also washed. Later it became a symbol of regeneration, and all proselytes to Judaism underwent baptism as a new birth. Frequently accompanied by confession of sin, baptism was administered to Jews by various Jewish groups such as the Essenes and Baptists; and some made a religious duty of daily bathing. Among the Orthodox, the Mikveh (ritual bath) is taken by women before marriage and after menstruation and childbirth. "You shall be clean" is one of the holy laws of Judaism. 

According to TALMUDIC Judaism, the water of the Mikveh in the mother's purification corresponds to the original living water, the womb of the world, from which all life comes. The unborn child, as it were, is rocked in the womb where is the "living water." To be reborn, one must symbolically re-enter this womb and "go down" in the "living water." Not only mothers, but also Jewish men, for their purification (see Paul's purification in the Mikveh (ritual bath) with four other Jewish men ” Acts 21. 26), enter the "living water" and are submerged entirely until the water covers the head. It is also considered by the Rabbis according to the TALMUD that a Gentile who is a convert to Judaism does the same ” reemerging from immersion in the Mikveh as a final step, the rebirth of a Gentile as a Jew! 

In this purification ceremony for the Jewish mother, we notice a form of baptism which, of course, is Jewish in origin. There were other baptisms for cleansing in the ritual bath (Mikveh) that are recorded in the HEBREW SCRIPTURES. The many washings are called baptisms and this cleansing is implied by the LORD GOD: "I will sprinkle clean water upon you, and you shall be clean; I will cleanse you from all your uncleanness and from all your idol fetishes. And I will give you a new heart and put a new spirit within you; I will remove the heart of stone from your body and give you a heart of flesh. And I will put MY SPIRIT into you. Thus I will cause you to follow MY Laws and faithfully to observe MY judgments." [Ezekiel (Yehezke-El) 36. 25 - 27 Tanakh, Nevi'im] 

According to Rabbinical teachings, which dominated even during the existence of the Temple, baptism, next to circumcision and sacrifice, was absolutely necessary conditions to be fulfilled by a proselyte to Judaism to receive the SPIRIT OF GOD, or to be permitted to stand in the PRESENCE OF GOD (THE SHEKINAH GLORY) man must undergo baptism. [TALMUD, Vol. 2, pg. 499] 

A lamb was to be brought as the mother's sacrifice-offering if she could afford one. {A lamb is innocent, unresisting. . . MESSIAH YESHUA, the LAMB OF GOD, is pure, without blemish, and in HIS unresisting obedience fully satisfied the FATHER'S heart.} If she were too poor to bring a lamb, provision was made for her to bring instead. . . two turtle doves or two young pigeons. Blood must be shed, however, in each case. 

Miryam (Mary), the mother of YESHUA (JESUS), observed this law: "Now when the days of her purification according to the Law of Moses were completed, they brought HIM to Jerusalem to present HIM to the LORD... and to offer a sacrifice according to what is said in the LAW OF THE LORD, a pair of turtledoves or two young pigeons." [Luke 2. 22, 24] 

Miryam was poor, she could not afford a lamb, therefore she brought the pigeons. But, on the other hand, she brought forth the only TRUE LAMB WHO was the BELOVED PRECIOUS SACRIFICE for the entire world! Our LORD JESUS, the MASTER CREATOR OF THE UNIVERSE, did not make HIS appearance here among the rich and noble of earth. JESUS left the splendors of Heaven, became poor being born in a stable — with a manger for HIS crib! If that isn't love, what is? 

Sha’alu (Pray) for the shalom (Peace) of Jerusalem and all of Israel! 
Welcome Sabbath — Queen of the week—our great joy and delight! Praised are YOU, YEHOWAH, our GOD, SOVEREIGN of the Universe, WHO makes us holy with YOUR mitzvoth and favors us with the Holy Shabbat, lovingly and graciously given to us. Zey ha-yom asaw ADONAI, nagilah ve-neesmechah voh…This is the day the LORD has made, we will rejoice and we will be glad in it. 
May GOD'S PRECIOUS WRITTEN WORD be the center of your life. In it, you will find sweet honey in the ROCK. Have a blessed day as you saturate yourself in the sweetness of the CHERISHED MASTER, the SOURCE OF LIFE. 

Praying for the peace of Jerusalem, is praying for the return of our Messiah and Lord and for the Kingdom of God He is bringing when He comes. Then God's Will shall be done on earth as it is in Heaven and the world will experience true godly universal peace which is the fruit of Righteousness. 


Web Page:  http://www.delrifkah.com/ 

A HEBREW SAGE MIGHT SAY. . . 
Wisdom is a work of art sculpted from our ignorance. 

ASK OF HIM 
"To be sure, they seek ME daily, delighted and eager to learn MY ways. Like a nation that does righteousness, that has not abandoned the Law of their GOD: They ask ME for the right way, they are eager for the nearness of GOD." [Isaiah (Yeshayah) 58. 2 Tanakh, Nevi'im] 

"Ask of ME and I will give" says ALMIGHTY GOD and we scarcely heed HIS words. . . PRAY! Our greatest treasures are found in prayer, there is nothing that can equal or compensate for the time we share such intimacy with our LOVING SAVIOR. And, HE is true to HIS WORD, "IF you search for the LORD your GOD, you will find HIM, IF only you seek HIM with all your heart and soul." [Deuteronomy (Devarim) 4. 29 Tanakh, Torah] The ETERNAL ONE loves mankind and promises that those "who love ME I love, and those who seek ME diligently will find ME." [Proverbs (Mishle) 8. 17 Tanakh, Kethuvim] 

That lying thief, Satan, seeks to enslave our souls, then kill and destroy us. Therefore, we should constantly "look to JESUS, the AUTHOR and FINISHER of our faith." [Hebrews 12. 2] Again we are assured that if "you will search for ME and find ME, IF only you seek ME wholeheartedly. I will be at hand for you—declares the LORD—and I will restore your fortunes. I will gather you from all the nations and from all the places to which I have banished you—declares the LORD—and I will bring you back to the place from which I have exiled you." [Jeremiah (Yirmeyah) 29. 13 - 14 Tanakh, Nevi'im] The BLESSED CREATOR promises to gather us from all corners of the earth to HIMSELF. 

The DESIRE OF ALL NATIONS is YESHUA ha'MASHIACH, the SOLID ROCK — turn to Him now and lean on HIM completely. Then, clearly and straightforward ask the LORD YESHUA to transform you for an abundant life in HIM. "Ask, and it will be given to you; seek, and you will find; knock, and it will be opened to you. For everyone who asks receives, and he who seeks finds, and to him who knocks it will be opened." [Matthew 7. 7 - 8] 

Every person in every nation "should seek the LORD, in the hope that they might grope for HIM and find HIM, though HE is not far from each one of us; for in HIM we live, and move, and have our being as also some of your own poets have said— For we are also HIS offspring." [Acts 17. 27 - 28] O the PRICELESS TREASURE we pass up when we turn the LORD away, and HE can be ours for the asking, for HE is mighty to save! 

Sha’alu (Pray) for the shalom (Peace) of Jerusalem and all of Israel! 
As we bid farewell to Shabbat, our prayer is that GOD, WHO'S PRESENCE dwells within us, bless you abundantly. 
Who is like YOU, AWESOME CREATOR GOD? Who is like YOU, glorious in holiness, revered in worship, wondrous in works? Eternal is YOUR power, O LORD, YOU alone are mighty to save. In loving-kindness YOU sustain the living; in the multitude of YOUR mercies, YOU preserve all. YOU uphold the falling, heal the sick; bring freedom to the captives and keep faith with YOUR children in death as in life. Who is like YOU, ALMIGHTY GOD, AUTHOR of life and death, SOURCE of salvation? Truly, there is none like YOU, O LORD my RIGHTEOUSNESS! 
May some of the sweetness of Sabbath be present throughout the week. 


Praying for the peace of Jerusalem, is praying for the return of our Messiah and Lord and for the Kingdom of God He is bringing when He comes. Then God's Will shall be done on earth as it is in Heaven and the world will experience true godly universal peace which is the fruit of Righteousness. 
 
Web Page:  http://www.delrifkah.com/

A HEBREW SAGE MIGHT SAY. . . 
While making a living, be sure to leave room for life. 

BREASTPIECE OF DECISION (Part 2 “ Conclusion) 
"You shall make a Breastpiece of Decision (Judgment), worked into a design; make it in the style of the ephod; make it of gold, blue, purple, and crimson yarns, and of fine twisted linen. The stones shall correspond in number to the names of the sons of Israel: twelve, corresponding to their names. They shall be engraved like seals, each with its name, for the twelve tribes. Aaron shall carry the names of the sons of Israel on the Breastpiece of Decision over his heart, when he enters the Sanctuary, for remembrance before the LORD at all times." [Exodus (Shemot) 28. 15, 21, 29 Tanakh, Torah] 

Different and various-colored stones were on the Breastpiece with the names of Israel according to their tribes. Here we see unity combined with diversity. Each name had its own particular stone. Each stone had its own peculiar colour, glory, and beauty. The redeemed of the MESSIAH YESHUA all are set within "the body" — each one having his own particular beauty and function, yet each one reflecting some ministry of the LORD JESUS. The names were engraved on the stones in the same arrangement as that of the Camps of Israel around the Tabernacle and the order of the march through the wilderness…according to their tribes. The names engraved on them were associated with that particular stone as though descriptive of that tribe. Being engraved tells us of permanency and faithfulness of our LOVING GOD to all of HIS promises involving each tribe. 

The first gem was Sardis. Its colour is red and engraved on it was the tribal name "Judah" which means "praise of YEHOWAH." ALMIGHTY GOD always puts praise first. YESHUA partook of flesh and blood (color red) by becoming a MAN. HE came from the tribe of Judah and HE the personified PRAISE OF GOD. The redeemed of the LORD, first of all come to GOD with praise because they are born of HIM WHO is from the Tribe of Judah. Judah's camp was located on the East side of the Tabernacle, near to the Gate of the Court. The East is where the sun rose toward which the Tabernacle faced. The redeemed of the LORD enter the Gate into salvation's court with praise to HIM WHO is "the SUN WHO rises with healing in HIS wings." [Malachi (Malakhi) 4. 2 Tanakh, Nevi'im] 

The last stone on the Breastpiece was jasper and on it the name "Naphtali" written which means "wrestling." {This wrestling was for certain rest and victory.} The story in this name, as it is associated with the stone in which it is engraved, is likened to MESSIAH in HiS wrestling's on the earth to destroy the work of the enemy for the rest and victory promised to HIS people. It tells of the children of GOD WHO wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against the powers of darkness, the wickedness of the Devil, and who have overcome him in the glorious and mighty "NAME OF JESUS." 

It is striking to notice that the appearance of the MOST HIGH in Revelation 4:3 is likened to the first and last stones of the Breastpiece of Judgment, in reverse. Since names are to be engraved on each stone telling of permanency as well as describing "the precious gem of Heaven and HIS people." This reversed order of the gems, as John saw them, present another glorious truth: "NAPHTALI (engraved on jasper)"  we have WRESTLED and have the victory because of the LORD JESUS CHRIST. "Judah (on Sardis)" we are entered into REST. . . home at last to PRAISE HIM forevermore! 

On Aaron's garments, represented in the stones, we see a double function of the redeemed people as they served in the priesthood; theirs was a shoulder as well as a heart ministry. The shoulder, which is the place of strength, courage and leadership is open. . . public. The breast, being over the heart, signifies love and affection and is secret. . . private. This was how YESHUA ha'MASHIACH, our GREAT HIGH PRIEST served, and how believer-priests should function today. . . with a Heart & Shoulder Ministry. 

The office of the High Priest called for compassion on the ignorant and on them that are out of "THE WAY." [Hebrews 5. 1 - 6, 10] The fulfillment of this was in the BELOVED REDEEMER, the LORD JESUS WHO was "moved with compassion" on innumerable times in HIS earthly ministry. The PERFECT ONE is continuing this incredible compassion through HIS sons, believer-priests, in the NEW COVENANT who minister with HIM in the priest's office. 

Shaâalu (Pray) for the shalom (Peace) of Jerusalem and all of Israel! 
Rejoice and honor the wonders of the ALMIGHTY ONE and HIS HOLY WORD. Remember, HE WHO keeps Israel neither slumbers or sleeps! 

Praying for the peace of Jerusalem, is praying for the return of our Messiah and Lord and for the Kingdom of God He is bringing when He comes. Then God's Will shall be done on earth as it is in Heaven and the world will experience true godly universal peace which is the fruit of Righteousness. 


Web Page:  http://www.delrifkah.com/

A HEBREW SAGE MIGHT SAY. . . 
If you're not living on the edge, you're taking up too much space! 

BREASTPIECE OF DECISION (Part 1 of 2) 
"You shall make a Breastpiece of Decision (Judgment), worked into a design; make it in the style of the ephod; make it of gold, blue, purple, and crimson yarns, and of fine twisted linen. The stones shall correspond in number to the names of the sons of Israel: twelve, corresponding to their names. They shall be engraved like seals, each with its name, for the twelve tribes. Aaron shall carry the names of the sons of Israel on the Breastpiece of Decision over his heart, when he enters the Sanctuary, for remembrance before the LORD at all times." [Exodus (Shemot) 28. 15, 21, 29 Tanakh, Torah] 

Aaron wore the names of the Israelites upon his BREAST as he went into the presence of the Almighty ONE. Messiah YESHUA, our GREAT HIGH PRIEST, bears our names on HIS HEART continually before HIS FATHER. [Hebrews 7. 25; 8. 3-4] 

The precious stones in the Breastpiece of the High Priest (Hebrew: choshen — priestly breastplate) are the same as those spoken of by John in the Revelation on Patmos regarding the foundation walls of the Heavenly City. [Revelation 21. 19] As the names of the Twelve Tribes of Israel were engraved on the stones in the Priest's garments, so the names of the Twelve Apostles are inscribed on the wall gems of the New Jerusalem. The heavens and the earth are expressions of the ETERNAL HOLY GOD, HIS attributes and power. Out of the dust of the earth (the fine earth, ready to be cultivated), CREATOR GOD formed man. And, out of the earth, from the same materials which make up the earth, also come the stones which shine forth in the garments of Aaron and in the Holy New Jerusalem! They reflect the glory, power and nature of OMNIPOTENT GOD HIMSELF. 

Most of the stones listed in the "glory garments" of Aaron and in the New Jerusalem are of a very hard substance, colourful and glittering in appearance. They are common earth particles cut and polished, precious, brilliant, beautiful, transparent and without flaw. The LORD YEAHUA is the STONE (Hebrew: Pinnah) "hewn from the mountain, not by hands." [Daniel (Danyel) 2. 45 Tanakh, Nevi'im] HE came from the earth. [Isaiah/Yeshayah 53. 2 — "a ROOT out of a dry ground."] YESHUA came from ALMIGHTY GOD; HE was cut out of the mountain and set in HIS honored place; HE is the TRIED STONE [Isaiah/Yeshayah 28. 16], the CHOSEN, ELECT and PRECIOUS STONE. [1 Peter 2. 4, 6] CHRIST JESUS is "the STONE with the Seven Eyes" [Zechariah/Zecharyah 3. 9 w/4. 10; Revelation 5. 6], the PERFECT, ALL-SEEING, ALL-KNOWING GOD. 

In the High Priest's Breastpiece, the Sardis gem is mentioned first and in order; and the jasper, last. But, in Revelation 4:3 where GOD'S GLORIOUS SHEKINAH APPEARANCE is described, this order is reversed. The first and last of anything includes all in between. Therefore, these two stones incorporate all the precious gems of the New Jerusalem in describing our WONDERFUL GOD & SAVIOR, as well as describing HIS people who have been given all things in YESHUA ha'MASHIACH! 

The precious stones of the "glory garments" and in the New Jerusalem represent the LORD YESHUA OF NAZARETH in every phase of HIS life, power, and ministry. And they are applicable to each believer who are partakers of the DIVINE nature. The stones were set into the Breastpiece, each one surrounded by gold. [Exodus/Shemot 28. 20] These represent the redeemed children of GOD filled with the same wisdom from above and endued with HIS power and glory. We are identified with the LORD JESUS . . . HE is the LIVING STONE, we are living stones. MESSIAH is the PRECIOUS STONE, we are precious stones. The SON OF MAN is the REJECTED STONE, we are rejected stones. The LORD JESUS CHRIST is the CHOSEN, ELECT STONE; we are chosen stones, the elect of our HOLY, AWESOME, WONDERFUL ETERNAL LORD GOD! 
. . . to be continued 

Shalu (Pray) for the shalom (Peace) of Jerusalem and all of Israel! 
May the HOLY ONE OF JACOB ever be praised for HIS mercy and loving kindness to us as we await to be in HIS PRESENCE in the Promised Land. 
Keep watching and praying. 



Praying for the peace of Jerusalem, is praying for the return of our Messiah and Lord and for the Kingdom of God He is bringing when He comes. Then God's Will shall be done on earth as it is in Heaven and the world will experience true godly universal peace which is the fruit of Righteousness. 
 
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A HEBREW SAGE MIGHT SAY. . . 
Woe! Woe! Woe! to them that call evil — good. . . and good — evil. 

YINNON — THE SUN 
"And you, O Bethlehem of Ephrath, least among the clans of Judah, from you ONE shall come forth to rule Israel for ME — ONE WHOSE origin is from of old, from ancient times." [Micah (Michah) 5. 2 Tanakh, Nevi'im] 

According to the prophet Micah, the MESSIAH was to be born in the city of Bethlehem. HE was to be KING of the Jews, WHOSE goings forth have been from of old from everlasting indicating HE existed before HE came to earth in a human body. "Before the sun was, HIS NAME "YINNON (one of the names-attributes of MESSIAH YESHUA)" had been prepared and all nations will be blessed in HIS merits." [Psalms (Tehillym) 72. 17 Tanakh, Kethuvim] This statement also implies pre-existence. From this passage on YINNON the word "Shiloh" or "Sheloi" comes to which many Jewish scholars admit as referring to MESSIAH. 

"SHILOH" means the exact image and reflection of GOD. "In HIM dwells all the FULLNESS of the GODhead BODILY." [Colossians 2. 9] "SHELOI" is an acrostic meaning "HIS NAME shall be continued as long as the sun." 

"Thus says the LORD GOD — Remove the turban and take off the crown! Nothing shall remain the same! Exalt the humble, and disgrace the exalted. Ruin, an utter ruin I will make it overthrown! It shall be no longer, until HE COMES TO WHOM IT RIGHTFULLY BELONGS; and I will give it to HIM." [Ezekiel (Yehezke-El) 21. 26-27 Tanakh, Nevi'im] "The scepter (a symbol of kingship) shall not depart from Judah, nor the ruler's staff from between HIS feet; until SHILOH comes, so that tribute shall come to HIM and the homage of peoples be HIS." [Genesis (Bereshith) 49. 10 Tanakh, Torah] "In that time, tribute shall be brought to the LORD OF HOSTS from a people far and remote, from a people thrust forth and away — a nation of gibber and chatter, whose land is cut off by streams — at the place where the NAME OF THE LORD OF HOSTS abides, at Mount Zion." [Isaiah (Yeshayah) 18. 7 Tanakh, Nevi'im] 

Yes, to YINNON, SHILOH, LAWGIVER, MESSIAH, SAVIOR, REDEEMER, ALMIGHTY GOD, KING JESUS "all kings shall bow down to HIM and all nations shall serve HIM." [Psalms (Tehillym) 72. 11 Tanakh, Kethuvim] How can one help but serve the LORD YESHUA in awe, and rejoice with trembling; all those who put their trust in HIM are eternally most blessed. 

Sha’alu (Pray) for the shalom (Peace) of Jerusalem and all of Israel! 
O GOD, keep my tongue from evil and my lips from speaking guile. Be my SUPPORT when grief silences my voice, and my COMFORT when woe bends my spirit. Plant humility in my soul, and strengthen my heart with perfect faith in YOU. Help me to be strong in trials and temptations and to be humble always before YOU, my STRONG-TOWER. Guide me by the PURE LIGHT of YOUR counsel, and let me ever find rest in YOU, my ROCK and my REDEEMER. Praised be the LORD GOD ETERNAL to WHOM all praise is due for ever and ever. Amen 



Praying for the peace of Jerusalem, is praying for the return of our Messiah and Lord and for the Kingdom of God He is bringing when He comes. Then God's Will shall be done on earth as it is in Heaven and the world will experience true godly universal peace which is the fruit of Righteousness. 


Web Page:  http://www.delrifkah.com/