In this episode of The Original Torah Pearls, Bechukotai (Leviticus 26:3-27:34), we discuss the "if"s and "but"s of the blessings and curses, the meaning and gravity of vows and dedications, and how does one redeem their tithe.
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In this episode of The Original Torah Pearls, Behar (Leviticus 25:1-26:2), we discuss when is Shemitah (the Sabbatical Year) and whether it should be observed outside of Israel, whether the Yovel (Jubilee Year) is in the 49th or 50th year, and we proclaim the “Lord of sabaoth” our Redeemer! Oh, and somewhere in there we mentioned Martin Luther. Michael wrote: “This Torah Portion. WOW brother PREACH IT!
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In Hebrew Gospel Pearls Plus #25, Connecting the Dots, Nehemia and Keith explore the confusion around the words “one jot and one tittle” in Matt. 5:18, discuss one of the major debates of Jewish history – the question of the period Hebrew vowels were written down, and reveal the possibilities of what Yeshua really meant when he said “not one jot or tittle will disappear from the Torah until all is fulfilled” in Matt. 5:18.
Be sure to first watch Hebrew Gospel Pearls #25, before watching this PLUS episode.
In Hebrew Gospel Pearls PLUS #23, Lighting the Lamps, Nehemia and Keith tackle a 2000-year old misconception about one of the vessels in the Temple and consider evidence from archeological artifacts to gain a glimpse at what Moses saw on the mountain.
Be sure to first watch Hebrew Gospel Pearls #23, before watching this PLUS episode.
In Hebrew Gospel Pearls PLUS #19, Sons of God, Nehemia and Keith discuss Yeshua’s line of defense against a mob that wanted to stone him, the richness of meaning of the Hebrew word for God (Elohim), and a bizarre passage in Genesis about divine beings copulating with human women.
Be sure to first watch Hebrew Gospel Pearls #19, before watching this PLUS episode.
In this episode of Hebrew Voices #158, Sassoon Codex Under a Microscope, Nehemia speaks with Nelson Calvillo of the Institute for Hebrew Bible Manuscript Research about the most important Hebrew Bible manuscript in private hands, about to be sold at public auction. They analyze the erasure of God’s name using ultraviolet and infrared technology, show how anyone can access high-resolution photos of this priceless codex from home, and speculate about the exciting new frontiers of biblical studies.
In this episode of Prophet Pearls, Nehemia Gordon and Keith Johnson discuss the Prophets portion of Emor covering Ezekiel 44:15-31. Apparent contradictions about linen garments, wild hair and blue dye are overshadowed by a more challenging textual variance concerning marriage. But should contradictions (apparent or otherwise) cause divisions, excommunications, or worse—the loss of faith? Despite opposing interpretations, Gordon and Johnson think not, as they settle comfortably with the Jewish method of inquiry where questions are as important as answers and where apparent contradictions only drive understanding. They prove it’s a beautiful thing to interact with the word of God—with the goal of knowing him intimately. That being said, the word-of-the-week is “yarah” (yud-reish-hei). They shall teach. They will torah.
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In this episode of The Original Torah Pearls Emor (Leviticus 21:1-24:23), we discuss the standards and conduct of the Priests and acceptable offerings, as well as the appointed times of Yehovah and the issue of the Lunar Sabbath. Lastly, we address the stoning of the blasphemer!
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In this episode of Hebrew Voices #157, SBL Reactions 2022: Part 1, Nehemia joins with Rabbi Dr. David Moster and Nelson Calvillo to discuss a new study about 1st century Christianity in 21st century Africa, whether the Hebrew Bible really talks about hamstringing horses, and how a mysterious Aramaic letter might be related to the pronunciation of God’s holy name.
In this episode of Prophet Pearls, Nehemia Gordon and Keith Johnson discuss the Prophets portion of Kedoshim covering Amos 9:7-15. The nine verses of Kedoshim yield riveting questions for Gordon and Johnson to explore: Why were the Philistines brought from Caphtor? Where is Caphtor? Who is the sinful kingdom? What is David’s fallen booth? What other nations bear the name of Yehovah? And why would God tell his chosen they are the “same to me” as the Cushites? To get closer to understanding this jarring rebuke (or was it a loving affirmation?), Gordon provides biblical references for Cush—from the Tanakh and the New Testament—as well as statements of medieval commentators.
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