Body Va'Etchanan

Still Bound by a Living Covenant

by with No Comment Deuteronomy

Parashah va'Etchanan

Deuteronomy 3:23 – 7:11

Yehovah as the Supreme Authority in the Universe, establishes a Constitution by which His creatures are to live in His Kingdom and by which He will govern them. The Commandments, decrees, statutes, ordinances, memorials, instructions, testimonies, and all else given by Yehovah are eternally valid, for they express His unchanging character. Therefore, they cannot lose their validity. This is why Yeshua said that He had NOT come to abolish the Torah but to fulfill it (Matthew 5:17).

Now therefore, O Israel, listen to the statutes and judgments which I teach you, that you may live and go in and take possession of the land which Yehovah, the God of your fathers, gives you.

Deuteronomy 4:1

Let us make a distinction between statutes and decrees. Statutes come before decrees, and the latter are derived from the former. Thus we can see that the statutes given by Yehovah were the Ten Words (Commandments); they are the Constitution of His Kingdom and contain within themselves everything that is to be regulated as needs arise. Let us remember the words of Yeshua to the scribe in Matthew 22:40 when he explains that the basis of these commandments is love. Love for the Father and for one’s neighbor. Love was the root from which Yehovah generated the Torah, which was given in summary form on Mount Sinai to the ears of all the people.

Now, Moses declares to the people the advisability of observing, that is, carefully obeying such statutes and decrees in order that they may live; and this is not a reference to not dying physically, but to the quality of life that a person acquires when he decides to submit his life to the Torah: A life of freedom, growth, healthy relationships, and prosperity in every sense.

Refresh your memory and set an example for your children

…be careful not to forget Yehovah, who brought you out of Egypt, out of the land of slavery. You shall fear Yehovah your God, serve Him, and take oaths in His name.” Deuteronomy 6:12–13

When our lives stabilize and our anxieties pass, our faith and attention toward Yehovah tend to dissipate. This is a call to remain conscious of our Father’s presence by developing a heart of gratitude for every detail He brings into our lives. Now, since we have to deal with various commitments and conversations on a daily basis, we are urged to swear by Yehovah if necessary to give credibility to our words. See Matthew 5:33-37 and compare; is Yeshua “changing” this commandment?

Throughout this portion, Moshe does not cease to reiterate the importance of both fearing Yehovah and obeying His commandments and statutes, “doing what is right and good in the sight of Yehovah, so that it may go well with you…”

Notice that we are warned of the importance of answering our children correctly when they ask questions. This implies that parents, that is, elders, will be performing a series of practices and rituals which will cause children to ask, “Why do we do this?” It is time to answer them by telling them who Yehovah is and the great works He has done for us. But if we obey “dragging our feet” and reluctantly, how can we respond to our children? The answers will probably be like those given to some of us: “That’s our custom,” “Don’t ask, just obey,” “That’s how it’s always been done,” etc. It is not surprising that the younger generations hate religion. At least we must acknowledge that they are authentic.

Header Devarim

Remainder of the Covenant and Obedience

by with No Comment Deuteronomy

Parashah D'varim

Deuteronomy 1:1 – 3:22

The Parashah Devarim is the first section of the book of Deuteronomy, which serves as a summary of the Torah of Yehovah. It focuses on Moses’ speech to the people of Israel, in which he reviews the events and lessons from the forty years of wandering in the wilderness. Moses recalls the journey of the people, the instructions of Yehovah, and the decisions that were made, including the appointment of leaders and judges.

This takes place shortly before Moses’ death, in the region of Moab, specifically on the eastern side of the Jordan River, across from the city of Jericho. The account serves as a preparation for entering the Promised Land and reminds us of the importance of obedience to the Most High and observance of His commandments.

The story of Moses, who was not allowed to enter the Promised Land because of a mistake he made, reminds us that we are all responsible for our actions, regardless of our position or status. The justice of Yehovah is impartial, and we must be aware of the consequences of our decisions and actions.

Teaching: Learning from mistakes.

The fact that Moses carefully reviews the faults and complaints of the people shows his desire for them not to repeat the same mistakes in the future. In the same way, as Paul says in his first letter to the Corinthians:

“Now these things happened to them as examples, and they were written for our admonition, upon whom the ends of the ages have come.” — 1 Corinthians 10:11.

Copy of Blog Tetzavé [cabecera]

The Benefit of Hardship in the Desert

by with No Comment Numbers

Parashot mattot-massei

Numbers 30:1 – 36:13

The Parashot Mattot and Massei are read together this week and cover Numbers 30:2-36:13. Having arrived in the valleys of Moab, across the Jordan River, Moses recaps the “journeys” (masei) during the 40 years the Israelites spent in the desert.

This experience offers us a profound insight into the challenges and spiritual lessons they faced. But more importantly, and this is something that is not often emphasized, this period of transition from slavery in Egypt to entry into the Promised Land is not only a historical narrative, but also a powerful analogy for our own spiritual journey and the tribulations we may encounter on our path to redemption.

Below, we will look at some parallels between the biblical story and its relationship to our own spiritual journey and development:

It is very common to “question” the Creator when things happen in our lives that we judge to be ‘negative’ or “obstacles,” but if we take into account the pattern established in Scripture, not only with the journeys of the children of Israel through the desert, but also with Abraham, Yeshua, etc., we can appreciate that these difficulties were not decreed upon us to destroy us, but to strengthen us.

Just as a student must undergo difficult evaluations to assess whether he has learned the material and is ready to move on to the next level, we too need to go through trials, just as the Israelites did in the desert, to prove whether we truly have that faith in our hearts.

Questions for study and reflection:

1. How can we apply the lessons of obedience and faith in our daily lives?

2. What similarities do you find between the tribulations of the people of Israel in the desert and the challenges we face today as believers?

3. How can Joshua and Caleb’s perseverance inspire us in times of uncertainty?

4. What current trials can you see as opportunities for spiritual refinement and strengthening of your faith?

Header Pinjas

Righteous Zeal for Yehovah

by with No Comment Numbers

Parashah Pinchas

Numbers 25:10 – 29:40

Bilam’s plan had finally succeeded: The men of Yisrael had fallen into the seductive traps of the Moabite women, even going so far as to participate in the idolatrous rites they practiced. In doing so, they had removed themselves from the protection of Yehovah. Now, they themselves would be cursed because of their actions.

The Second Census, conducted in the plains of Moab near Jericho before crossing the Jordan River, allows us to see that the population of Israel had remained stable despite the judgment upon the generation that had left Egypt—those who were over 20 years old at that time. A comparative chart of the two censuses is included.

Another key aspect in this portion of the Torah is Moses’ attitude in asking Yehovah to be the one who appoints his successor. Moses did not seek to have his sons or close relatives take on such a responsibility. This reveals that he was truly a humble man—emptied of self—who sought only the good of Israel while faithfully obeying Yehovah.

About the daily sacrifice

This offering was presented at the beginning of the daylight period—between dawn and the third hour of the day—as the first sacrifice, even though the day had technically begun the evening before. The second sacrifice was presented at the end of the day as the final offering, and thus the sheep remained on the altar as a tamid (תמיד) offering—that is, a continual offering.

In addition, the morning incense had to be offered, and the maintenance of the Menorah lamps carried out: trimming the wicks, refilling the oil containers, and relighting the flames. A grain offering (bread) was also to be brought, along with the libation—the pouring out of oil and wine in the specific quantities required for each sacrifice.

People would attend these services, as testified by the apostles in Acts 3:1, where it is said that Kefa (Peter) and Yochanan (John) went up to the Temple at the hour of prayer, the ninth hour—the time when the afternoon daily sacrifice was offered. It should be noted that the ninth hour corresponds to mid-afternoon, which in our terms would be between 3:00 and 5:00 p.m.

Finally, it’s important to remember that these daily sacrifices were to be offered regardless of any festival being celebrated or even the Shabbat; all other sacrifices or offerings mentioned in this chapter were in addition to the daily ones.

Header Balak

Whe the supernatural manifest itself

by with No Comment Numbers

Parashah Balak

Numbers 22:2 – 25:9

Have you ever heard an animal speak? This is why this particular parashah is so interesting and peculiar, because this is what happened to the prophet Balaam… Let’s look at the details.

Parashah Balak is a section of the Torah that spans from Numbers 22 to chapter 25. It focuses on Balak, king of Moab, who, fearing the expansion and power of the Israelites, hired the prophet Balaam, known for his ability to effectively bless or curse, in hopes of weakening his enemies, the people of Israel.

The interaction between these two characters is key to this story. Balaam is seduced by Balak’s offer of great riches in exchange for fulfilling his desire. Balaam finds himself caught in a conflict due to the instructions he receives from Yehovah. Throughout his journey to Moab, Balaam experiences several divine signs, including a supernatural conversation with his donkey, who sees an angel blocking his path. This story highlights themes of obedience and the sovereignty of the Most High, as despite Balak’s attempts, Balaam ends up blessing Israel, thus fulfilling the divine will rather than the wishes of the king of Moab.

This story teaches us several valuable lessons. First, it reminds us of the importance of emunah (faith) and trust in Yehovah, especially in times of difficulty and danger. It also highlights the need for integrity and honesty, as Balaam, despite his initial intentions, ultimately obeys Yehovah’s Word and utters the words He commands him to say. Furthermore, the intervention of Balaam’s donkey teaches us to be sensitive to the signs and manifestations of the Almighty, which can come from the most unexpected sources. In summary, the parashah of Balak invites us to reflect on the sovereignty of our Father, His protection of His people, and the importance of acting with integrity and obedience to His commandments.

Exhortation: Let us be humble before the Creator and not allow our stubbornness to reach such a point that Yehovah has to speak to us through a donkey!

Header Chukat

The Snake – A Messianic Figure?

by with No Comment Numbers

Parashah Chukat

Numbers 19:1 – 22:1

Although the serpent has had a bad reputation among believers, given the story of the Garden of Eden, we can see in Scripture that the serpent is not always used in a negative connotation.

Yeshua referred to its cunning to exhort his followers to imitate it. He also recalled the event in the time of Moses, comparing himself to the serpent when it was lifted up and used as a symbol of healing. Even in modern times, this symbol of the serpent raised above the staff is used in the field of health and modern medicine throughout the world.

This event originally took place around 3,400 years ago and is recorded in this section of the Hebrew Scriptures.

This parashah recounts events that took place at the end of Israel’s 40 years in the desert. As they approach the reward of the Promised Land, new challenges arise that will cause the entire people to question their faith in the promises of the Almighty.

The role of faith plays a very important role throughout Scripture. Such as the faith that was counted to Abraham as righteousness, the faith necessary in the promises of the Creator in the desert for 40 years, and the faith that Yeshua exhorted His disciples to have in Him and in the One who sent Him.

Idolatry of the Serpent in the Days of Hezekiah

King Hezekiah, in his effort to purify worship in Israel and eliminate idolatry, destroyed the bronze serpent that Moses had made. Although the serpent had originally been a means of healing and a symbol of faith in God, over time the Israelites began to worship it instead of God Himself, burning incense to it and worshipping it as an idol.

“He removed the high places, broke the images, cut down the Asherah poles, and broke into pieces the bronze snake Moses had made, for until that time the people of Israel had been burning incense to it. He called the place Nehustan.”
2 Kings 18:4

Reflection Questions

1. What lessons of faith and obedience can we learn from the event of the bronze serpent?

2. How can we apply the teaching of looking to God in times of crisis in our daily lives?

3. How can the messianic symbolism of the bronze serpent deepen our understanding of redemption through Yeshua?

4. How can we avoid idolizing religious symbols and figures and instead focus our devotion on the Almighty, as Yeshua taught?

Header

Defiance of Authority

by with One Comment Numbers

Parashah Korach

Numbers 16:1 – 18:32

It is noteworthy that the trap the group of rebels fell into was essentially the same as in Eden, though shaded by different circumstances. Their complaint, put in other words, was: “Why is it only you—Moses and Aaron—who exercise authority (defining what is good and evil)?” In other words: “Why do only you have the right to define good and evil? We want that right too!”

In today’s reading, observe carefully and identify the pattern—one you’ve likely seen repeated at some point in your life:

  • Who were the ones who rebelled at the beginning? (Numbers 16:1–2)

  • What was the motive behind the rebellion? (v. 16:3)

  • Consider how valid and just the arguments presented by the rebels were. (vv. 16:3 and 13–14)

  • Now observe how the rest of the congregation reacted to this issue. (v. 16:19)

Summary of Ordinances for the Tribe of Levi

The Levites (non-Cohanim) were not to approach the holy utensils or the altar.

They were to guard and protect the Sanctuary (vv. 4–5) in every sense. Later, in the books of Chronicles, we see the organization established for gatekeepers, guards, and other related roles.

They were to strictly oversee everything concerning the Sanctuary so that no judgment would come upon Israel (v. 5).

No outsider (to the priesthood) was allowed to approach, under penalty of death (v. 7), including the Levites.

Benefits of the Cohanim (Priests)

Since the Levites did not receive a land inheritance, Yehovah provided another means of sustenance for them: the offerings, sacrifices, and other gifts that the people brought to Him. This was the way they were paid for their service in the ministry. The Cohanim received the most sacred offerings — kadosh: sin offerings, guilt offerings, and grain offerings. Additionally, they received the wave portion of the Peace Offerings.

Outside the sanctuary, the Cohanim also received the terumah — a portion — from the fields, vineyards, and orchards. The people were to bring them the first part of the harvests, the pressed oil, wine, and the sheared wool from the sheep. They also received portions of the dough, the firstborn of animals, and in addition, the shoulder, the cheeks, and the stomach lining (qeva, the final chamber of a ruminant’s stomach) of every sacrificed animal (Deuteronomy 18:3).

The Levites, on their part, received the tithes from all Israel (v. 24).

However, neither the Cohanim nor the Levites were to have an inheritance, because Yehovah is their inheritance.

The distinction between the roles of the Cohanim and the Levites is clearly established. The Cohanim were responsible for duties such as: burning the offerings on the altar, sprinkling the blood, making libations of wine, oil, or water — and many other tasks. None of these could be delegated to the Levites; it was strictly the responsibility of the Cohanim to carry them out.

Header Shelach Lekha

Vision and Courage

by with No Comment Numbers

Parashah Shelach Lekha

Numbers 13:1 – 15:41

The parashah Shelach Lecha is found in Numbers 13:1–15:41 and reveals an exciting prophetic picture for the end times. It is like holding in our hands a glimpse of what will happen to the children of Israel when Yeshua returns. At the same time, this portion calls us to believe and trust in the promises that the Almighty has made to His people.

This segment of Scripture provides us with a powerful and relevant teaching for our walk of faith today. The twelve spies returned from the land with two different reports: one filled with fear and pessimism, while Caleb and Joshua offered a message of faith and hope.

In our daily lives, like the ten spies who brought back the negative report, we face situations that can seem overwhelming. The “giants” and “walled cities” of our day can take the form of financial problems, illness, personal conflicts, or global uncertainties. However, Caleb and Joshua show us another way of looking at circumstances. Their positive report did not ignore the difficulties, but it focused on Yehovah’s faithfulness and His power to overcome any obstacle. They reminded the people that the Most High had promised to give them the land and that His word is trustworthy!

Questions to ponder

Let’s think about these four aspects that are very important in our lives:

  1. Ten spies returned and brought back a negative report, and only two spies had the vision to see God’s promise coming true in their lives and in the lives of their families. Which group would you belong to?
  2. Yehovah promised that He would raise up a man like Moses whom we should listen to and obey… Are you ready to follow and listen to Yeshua as He leads us back to obeying the commandments of the Almighty regardless of what others say or think?
  3. The fourth commandment says that we must remember the Shabbat day to keep it holy, because Yehovah blessed it and sanctified it. Is the Shabbat truly a sign between you and the Most High as He established in His Torah? (Ex 31:13).
  4. Perhaps you profess to be a follower of Yeshua the Messiah, wear tzitzit daily, and keep the Sabbath and the Creator’s diet. But do you truly behave like an ambassador of the Kingdom of Heaven? Let us remember Paul’s words to the Romans when he said that it is not the hearers of the Torah who would be justified before God, but the doers.

Let us love Yehovah with all our hearts and our neighbors as ourselves, just as Yeshua said, and in doing so we will fulfill the Torah and the prophets!

Header

The Divine Connection of Israel

by with No Comment Numbers

Parashah BeHa'alotkha

Numbers 8:1 – 12:16

A very relevant event is recounted in this Torah portion; in the second year, in the second month, the children of Israel departed from the wilderness of Sinai (Num 10:11). The previous month (the first month of the year following the Exodus), the Tabernacle had been erected (an event originally recorded in Exodus 40 but recalled again in this parashah, in Num 9:15).

The people of Israel, having been freed from slavery in Egypt, had a supernatural encounter with the Almighty on Mount Sinai. There they remained for almost a year, even several months after they had received the Torah through Moses. The main reason they stayed there was to materialize the commandment to build the Tabernacle.

The Tabernacle was to become the portable experience of Mount Sinai for the children of Israel for generations to come. The Ark of the Covenant, also called the Ark of the Testimony, would carry with it the cloud that all the people witnessed at Sinai. The same cloud that guided the Israelites in the wilderness for forty years.

The connection between the cloud, the Ark of the Covenant, and the experiences at Mount Sinai and the Garden of Eden shows us the continuity of divine guidance and protection throughout biblical history. According to rabbinic commentators such as Rashi, the cloud not only provided physical guidance, but was also a symbol of the constant and protective Divine Presence (Rashi on Numbers 9:15). This narrative invites us to reflect on the importance of relying on divine guidance in our own spiritual journey.

Questions for reflection

1. Trust in Divine Guidance: In what areas of your life can you learn to rely more on divine guidance, just as the Israelites relied on the cloud and the Ark?

2. God’s Continuing Presence: How do you experience God’s presence in your daily life? What practices help you feel that presence more tangibly?

Symbolism of the Cherubim: What meaning does the image of the cherubim over the Ark of the Covenant have for you in relation to divine protection?

4. Lessons from Sinai: What lessons can you apply from Moses’ experience on Mount Sinai when he ascended the cloud to receive the Law?

Naso Header

Each one takes their place

by with No Comment Numbers

Parashah Nasso

Numbers 4:21. 7:89

The portion that occupies us on this occasion allows us to glimpse an aspect of the character of our father Yehovah: the order and organization to carry out the different tasks that were proper to the service to Him.

Rarely do we stop to reflect on what it meant to dismantle the Tabernacle, and shortly afterwards to raise it again in an impeccable manner. This task required a great deal of organization to know in what order the pieces of the Tent were disassembled, how they were transported and who should begin to put it back together again. No. Moses had to train each group to instruct them about all the details, including the order of departure, so that when they arrived at the place that the Cloud would indicate when it stopped, everything would fit together without delay. Besides, the lives of those who did this task were at risk, so they could not improvise or do things carelessly.

This motivates us to organize our lives in every sense: time management, finances, relationships, etc. Only in this way can we be efficient in the mission that Yehovah our Father entrusts to each one of us.

“God bless you”, has been the refrain with which we pretend to bless other people; it is very frequently used between parents and children or between close people when saying goodbye. However, the instruction of our Father Yehovah is very clear: Thus shall you bless the children of Yisrael.

During the days that the House of Yehovah stood, this blessing was pronounced twice a day: once in the morning and once in the evening, after the ascending smoke offerings or burnt offerings; then the cohanim gathered in front of the Sanctuary, raised their hands and pronounced the blessing over the assembly gathered there.

Later, in the services of the synagogues, the ceremony of pronouncing the blessing was incorporated at the end of the teaching. The cohen present, passed to the front of the congregation, raised his hands and sang the Aharonic or Priestly blessing.

The Talmud informs us that for the pronunciation of this blessing the cohen raised his hands placing his fingers in such a way as to form with them the letter Shin, which symbolizes the name of Yehovah.