We’ve been exploring the figure of the Hidden Messiah in Jewish literature. We have seen him enthroned in the heavens in apocalyptic writings, in Daniel, and in the books of Enoch; we have seen him quietly concealed in the sectarian visions of Qumran. But now we arrive at a more central and fascinating question: was […]
The Hebrew Bible presents a vivid vision of divine kingship. The mashiach—the anointed one—was always a real, tangible figure: a reigning monarch or consecrated priest, chosen to rule or serve visibly among the people. This is the world of David and Solomon, of priests and temple rituals, all conducted within the historical and geographical frame […]
Years ago, when I first began writing about the “Hidden Messiah” in Jewish thought, I didn’t yet realize how deep and wide this motif would run through the texts of the Second Temple period. The idea that the Messiah might be concealed, unrecognized, or even rejected—while still fulfilling his divinely appointed mission—runs counter to many […]
Years ago, when I first began writing on this blog, I started with a series about the Hidden Messiah. Even then, it felt like a deep and urgent theme. Since then, years have passed. Much has changed in the world, in Israel, and in me. I’ve rethought many things, and wrestled with old questions in […]
My readers know that I love showing how much our understanding of the New Testament can be enriched when we read it through the Tanach. I hope that this post will help you see the continuity between the Testaments – and maybe, also help you understand some details of the Gospels in a much fuller […]
In the New Testament, we see different people who either knew Jesus personally or followed Him after His resurrection. The names of some of these people are well known, others are somehow overlooked, but all of them were real people, with their own stories, challenges and decisions. Today, we will try to see some […]
It’s April and it’s also Nisan, the first month of the Biblical calendar, the month of Israel’s exodus from Egypt. As I think of Christians celebrating Easter, and of Israel celebrating Passover, I am reminded of the Parable of Long Spoons: a man asked God to show him Heaven and Hell, and God showed him […]
Shabbat Zachor This year, when we entered the month of March, we entered the last month of the Hebrew calendar as well – Chodesh Adar, the month of Purim. In Adar, we have one of those Special Shabbatot that are referred to by a special name: “Shabbat Zachor”. Shabbat Zachor (“Sabbath [of] remembrance שבת זכור) is […]
MIZRAIM – MORE THAN JUST A NAME We are still discussing Biblical names, and we are now in the book of Exodus. As you know, the very title of this book refers to Exodus from Egypt (…bring My people, the children of Israel, out of Egypt)[1] – therefore, it is crucially important for us to […]
TL;DR: Reading Joseph’s Egyptian name Zaphenath-Paneah through Hebrew roots reveals it likely means ‘one who decodes hidden things,’ which perfectly fits his role as a dream interpreter and revealer of secrets. JOSEPH’S NEW NAME Readers who have been following this blog for a while know that I love series. It made more sense, to do […]
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