TORAH and GLORY SCHOOL
Torah and Glory School Parsha Commentary Course
Word and Spirit
An education ministry of Bless the Land
Written by Hutch Church
March, 2012
Introduction: The Torah and Glory School lessons are based upon the whole Word of God—the Torah (Pentateuch, the first five books of the Bible, the Tanakh (includes the remaining books of the Old Testament, also referred to as the Prophets and Writings), and the Apostolic Scriptures (entire New Testament of Brit Chadashah). Throughout our lessons we exalt Yeshua and emphasize the nature, value, and necessity of living and serving within the full, active ministry of the Holy Spirit. We believe the return of Believers to (a) the study and standards of the Torah, (b) the fullness of the Holy Spirit (Ruach HaKodesh), and (c) their Hebraic heritage will usher the Body of Messiah into greater intimacy and identification with Yeshua, separate His people from the spirit of the age, and equip us more completely for discipleship and service in the end-times.
We invite you to invest one year of your life in study and spiritual growth. The Torah and Glory School offers two levels of association: 1. Reader level. The lessons are available for use to everyone. 2. Student [Talmidim] level. Here, people actually enroll in the school, commit to working our program, and invest one year of their lives into intense spiritual transformation. For information concerning the Torah and Glory School, and the process, requirements, and advantages of enrollment, click HERE. You will be taken to our school's Introduction Page where the program will be explained.
Parsha Lesson Number Twenty: Tetzaveh ("You shall command")
Torah: Exodus [Sh'mot] 27:20-30:10
Haftorah: Ezekiel [Yechezkel ] 43:10-27
Brit Chadashah: Hebrews [Irvim] 13:10-17
Sections: 1. Welcome 2. Weekly Commentary 3. Study and Hearing 4. Prayer 5. Conclusion
Section 1: Welcome to the Word
ט
Tet. Tet, letter number nine of the Hebrew Alef-Bet, is one of several Hebrew letters that can be adorned with a crownlet. This is a little three-pronged crown-like feature placed atop the left shaft of the letter that resembles the Hebrew letter sheen-ש. Thus tet can be viewed as a person bowing down before the crowned Messiah, the royal Son, subjecting his soul to Him and bearing the fruit of the Spirit. With this picture in mind, the letter conversely suggests that the person who does not bow before the Savior becomes constricted, bound by the nature of the serpent [Satan], living only for self, and not getting elevated to heavenly spiritual life. Such a person remains on his belly—earthbound, and eats the dust of the earth (Gen. 3:14). Tet appears least frequently in the Scriptures. Yod י , the letter we will cover next, appears most often.
“Their [the arrogant; the unbelieving mockers] hearts are callous and unfeeling [fat and dull, like grease], but I delight in your law. It was good for me to be afflicted so that I might learn your decrees. The law from your mouth is more precious to me than thousands of pieces of silver and gold” (Psalm 119:70-72).
The Almighty allows the Saints to experience troubles, trials, and tribulations. Difficulties can serve to bring the Believer to the Word (Pr. 3:11-12; Heb. 12:5). The psalmist, a man who followed God’s Word, was not like the brutes and pagans around him. His heart was different from theirs. YHVH’s Law was a delight and hope to him. [The author of the psalm was probably a captive in Babylon and suffered various chastisements and persecutions there.] He knew that all the riches of the earth could not compare to the enrichment which abounded in YHVH’s Holy Word. “O the depth of the riches both of the wisdom and knowledge of God!” (Rom. 11:33a).
The psalmist's persecutors were many, and they had almost made an end of him. But his trials and persecutions made him cling ever more tightly to the Law of Elohim. He called upon the Most High to strengthen him with life-giving grace which alone enables the Believer to know and walk in the prosperity of His commandments. "He is a shield to them that walk uprightly" (Prov. 2:7). Remain bowed before the Redeemer. Keep His Word in your heart all week. Tamid kadima—Always forward! Shalom.
Section 2: Weekly Commentary
Last week: "Speak unto the children of Israel that they bring me an offering; of every man that giveth it willingly with his heart ye shall take my offering" (Exo. 25:2).
In Parsha T'rumah, Moses was still on the Mount. There, YHVH commanded Moses to take an offering from the children of Israel and gave him instructions regarding the construction of the Tabernacle, its courtyard and its furnishings. The Tabernacle would become YHVH's "home" on earth. Once the Tabernacle and all its furnishings were constructed and set in place, the next stage would be (1) consecrating a priesthood, and (2) teaching them how to serve in the Tabernacle and utilize its components.
This week: In Parsha Tetzaveh we find Moses still on Mount Sinai (Mount Horeb) continuing to receive instructions. The parsha contains the divine directives on how the priests were to serve in the Tabernacle once it was built and erected, and thereby change it from an empty edifice into a functioning reality for Adonai and the people of Israel. Tetzaveh means "you will command." The word also means "you will connect." The instructions ["commands"] of Moses would "connect" the people to the Tabernacle service and the purposes of YHVH through the Levitical priesthood. The priesthood would (1) provide a spiritual example for Israel to emulate and (2) serve the people as mediators according to the ordinances of YHVH.
Tetzaveh opens with instructions for providing olive oil for the lamps and proceeds by describing in detail the garments of the priests, and then their inauguration. The parsha concludes with instructions regarding the Altar of Incense: "There shall be perpetual incense before the YHVH throughout your generation. You shall not offer any strange incense on this altar...Aaron shall make atonement on its horns once a year...with the blood of the sin offering of atonement..." (Sh'mot 30:8-10). When everything was in place, the divine Presence manifested and descended as the holy incense [representing thanksgiving and prayer] was offered up and the aromatic smoke arose.
Note: The word for the regular offering/sacrifice is Korban, which means "sacrifice," and "a means of coming close." The incense offering, which was made every morning and evening in conjunction with the trimming and kindling of the lamps in the Holy Place, was different. It is called Ketoret, which is interpreted as "a means of binding." One purpose of the incense offering was to bind the soul [unite the heart] of Israel to Elohim. As noted, burning incense in the Holy Place was a type of worship and prophetic intercession. It was a vital function of the priesthood and a sweet savor to YHVH. Thus Paul exhorts the saints: "Rejoice always; pray without ceasing, in everything give thanks" (1 Thess. 5:16-18). [2] Let the fragrant smoke of your prayers and praise rise day and night.
Torah
Torah Note # 20: "For this is the commandment which I command thee this day, it is not hidden from thee, neither is it far off. It is not in heaven...neither is it beyond the sea...but the Word is very nigh unto thee, in thy mouth, and in thy heart, that thou mayest do it" (Deut. 30:11-14).
The pashat level of interpretation takes the Scripture at its plain or literal meaning. At this level, the passage tells us that YHVH's commands are not burdensome or overwhelming to His people, but have been made known, are understandable instructions, and not hard to follow. "The covenant demand is not beyond human reach or understanding but has been graciously revealed...'the word is near you.' " [New Oxford Annotated Dictionary, Deut. 30:14] According to Moses, it was/is not beyond the reach of common people to perceive and appreciate the wisdom of the Torah, which wisdom is not distant, but readily accessible and practical (James 1:5-7).
1. " And thou shalt command the children of Israel, that they bring thee pure olive oil beaten for light, to cause the lamp to burn always" (Sh'mot. 27:20).
As we have mentioned, Tetzaveh means "to command" and "to connect," or "bond." The title reveals the essence of the parsha's teaching. It is this: By following the command to establish and consecrate the Tabernacle and the priesthood, Israel would be further bonding, or connecting, with YHVH their Elohim. We do a similar thing by walking in His Light and remaining vigilant in our daily prayers and study. In this way, we also strengthen our connection with His Truth, invigorate our bond with the Father, renew fellowship with Yeshua, and refresh our communion with the Spirit.
The Torah reading begins with YHVH speaking to Moses about the Israelites bringing Him "clear oil of beaten olives [unripe fruit was the best kind] for the light, to make the lamp [Menorah] burn continually." It would be the duty of the people to supply the Menorah, which would be situated in the Holy Place of the Tabernacle, with a regular supply of pure, beaten olive oil, their best! The oil supply was not to fail, be lacking, or even run low. It had to be kept in abundant supply for the lamps, which were to be kept burning. We are reminded of the Master's words in Matthew concerning the Ten Virgins, where He warned, "...but the prudent took oil in flasks along with their lamps" (Matt. 25:4). Be filled and refilled with the Spirit daily!
It would be the duty of the priests to trim and tend the lamps (the lights of the Menorah), to cleanse the bowls at the top of the stem and six branches, refill each of them with pure beaten olive oil offered by the people, and keep the soaked wicks lit. This presents a lesson to the Ecclesia, the Body of Messiah. Believers are His royal priesthood (1 Pet. 2:9) today and His oil-filled branches. It is our responsibility to cleanse our bowls (“walk in the light,” 1 John 1:5-10), trim our own wicks ("forgetting those things that are behind"), be filled up with the Holy Spirit ("oil of anointing"), proclaim His truth ("in demonstration of the Spirit and of power"), and in so doing, burn brightly, as the ("light of the world"). See: Phil. 3:13; Lev. 8:10; 1 Cor. 2:4; Mt. 5:14.
We, born-again, Ruach-regenerated Saints, have been given the most pure "oil" in creation, holy “oil” for which Yeshua was beaten. Our Messiah paid the price--shedding His pure Blood, unstained by sin--for our salvation and for the precious gift of the Holy Spirit. He was "pierced through for our transgressions, He was crushed for our iniquities...and by His scourging we are healed" (Isa. 53:5). Healing and restoration begin with the Spirit of Grace. After His resurrection Yeshua told His disciples, "...but you will receive power after the Holy Spirit has come upon you" (Acts 1:8). They believed, waited, and were filled with the Oil of anointing, touched by holy fire, and ignited for service. Accordingly, may we gratefully respect the promise (preserved for us also), receive the fullness of His Spirit, and be ever watchful and attentive to our "oil" supply and wicks. Let us esteem His blessed anointing which has come with a very high price, and be filled afresh day and night. "But we have this treasure in earthen vessels..." (2 Cor. 4:7).
2. "And take thou unto thee...even Aaron, Nadab and Abihu, Eleazer and Ithamar, Aaron's sons. And thou shalt make holy garments for Aaron thy brother for glory and for beauty" (Sh'mot 28:1-2).
Next, Moses received instructions concerning the garments and consecration of the priests/kohanim. This takes up over one half of the parsha. Tetzaveh mentions eight priestly garments which only the descendants of Aaron would be allowed to wear, and then, only when performing their service in the mishkan [tent of His presence]. They were: (1) the full-length tunic--ketonet, (2) the breeches/short pants--michnasayim, (3) a linen turban--mitznefet, and (4) a very long sash that wrapped around the waist--avnet. These four items the priests (kohanim) wore. In addition, the High Priest (Kohen Gadol) wore (5) a cloak, or coat of blue with bells and cloth pomegranates on the bottom hem--meil, (6) an apron-like garment--ephod, (7) a gold breastplate with a pouch/pocket to hold the twelve stones, arranged in four rows of three, inscribed with the names of the tribes--choshen, and (8) a gold crown inscribed with the words, Kadesh la-Adonai, or "Holy onto YHVH"--tzitz.
Note: The choshen, the breastplate of the Kohen Gadol, was worn over the ephod [apron]. It contained two special stones called urim v'tummin, which means "lights and perfections." They pointed to Messiah, "the true Light, which lighteth every man that cometh into the world" (Ex. 28:30; Lev. 8:8; Num. 27:21; Deut. 33:8; Jn 1:9; 14:9). The Urim and Tummin were, at certain times anyway, used to determine the will of YHVH (1 Sam. 14:41; 28:6; Ezr. 2:63; Neh. 7:65). It is believed that Elohim would cause the Urim and Tummin to light up the twelve gemstones which represented the twelve tribes in such a way as to convey answers to the priest's questions. On this side of the Resurrection we have a better means of guidance. "For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, they are the sons of God" (Rom. 8:14). True sons/children of Elohim, those who have received and been activated by the Spirit through faith in Yeshua, mortify the lusts of the flesh and are led inwardly by the Holy Spirit. Being a child of the Most High comes with an inheritance--a share in the glorified eternal, supernatural life of Messiah.
3. "And thou shalt make the robe of the ephod all of blue...and beneath upon the hem of it thou shalt make pomegranates of blue, and of purple, and of scarlet, round about the hem thereof; and bells of gold between them round about: a golden bell and a pomegranate, a golden bell and a pomegranate, upon the hem of the robe round about" (Ex. 28:31-34).
The Robe of the Ephod would be worn by the High Priest. The Ephod and Breastplate were to be worn over the Robe, which had a hole at the top for the head. The Robe was to be woven without any seam. Around the bottom edge would be placed alternating tassels (in the shape of pomegranates) and small golden bells. Explanations of their numbers and symbolism vary. For instance, some teach that there were 12 bells; others teach that there were 72; some say 365! The Chumash, Stone Edition, pages 471-472, says: "Aaron was to wear a Robe, a full garment, from the neck to the ground. It is described as the Robe of the Ephod (v. 31) because the Ephod, which was worn over it, kept it snug by means of its belt. The Robe was made entirely of turquoise wool, a color that is reminiscent of heaven, and which symbolizes God's heavenly Throne of Glory... like the Breastplate and the Ephod that were worn over it, the Robe caused [was intended to cause] God to remember His people (Rashbam). Alternatively, since the Robe atoned for the sin of evil speech (Zevachim 88b), its color caused people to reflect on the sea that stayed within it bounds and the heavenly bodies which never diverged from their assigned orbits and tasks. Man, therefore, should surely learn from them and not stray from his divinely ordained role as a creature who must keep his power of speech pure and holy (Kli Yakar). The bells that were attached to its hem (v. 35) reminded listeners that some kinds of speech should never be heard." [1]
Easton's Bible Dictionary states that there were 72 bells and 72 pomegranates. We are told that the bells attracted the attention and heart-participation of the people--whose thoughts tended to wander--to Aaron's divinely orchestrated and inspired worship activities on the Day of Atonement. The pomegranates represented effective fruitfulness.
The Robe teaches us who are living in the latter days of our need to: (a) daily present ourselves before YHVH our Elohim arrayed with inner peace and purity (uniform blue hue), (b) pray and labor toward our greater unity (seamless weave) with Yeshua and all Israel, and (c) keep in remembrance (bells and pomegranates) the divine, fruitful ministry of our true High Priest, Yeshua, and ascend to join daily with Him in praise, worship, and intercessions.
4. "For Aaron's sons you shall make tunics; you shall make sashes for them, and you shall make caps for them, for glory and beauty" (Sh'mot 28:40).
Moses described the official apparel which the ordinary priests would wear. The apparel would consist of linen pants, a tunic, a linen girdle, and a head covering. All the ministers of the Tabernacle had to be fitted with the holy attire. Though simple, the garments were for "glory and for beauty." We have read that the ordinary priest's clothing was white. Thus the attire represented beauty and simplicity. Of Yeshua's attire, it is written: "His raiment became shining, exceeding white as snow so as no fuller on earth can white them."
5. "Now this is what you shall do to them to consecrate them to minister as priests to Me..." (Sh'mot 29:1).
The holy garments were aptly described and would be a necessary investiture [something that adorns] in the consecration of the priests. According to the divine directive, the week-long inauguration of Aaron and his sons would involve (a) preparation of offerings, (b) ablutions, or washings, (c) the adornment of Aaron and his sons with sacred attire, (d) anointing with oil, (e) prescribed sacrifices and how they should be offered. During the ritual, the blood of a sacrificed ram would be applied to the right ear, right thumb, and right big toe of the priests. This act signified complete dedication of the priest to YHVH. The flesh of the ram of consecration was to be boiled and eaten with bread by Aaron and his sons at the doorway of the tent of meeting [the Tabernacle would be raised up] as part of the ceremony. The procedure of consecration would be repeated daily, for seven days. Every day of the week, the Brazen Altar was to be consecrated along with Aaron and his sons.
6. "Thus shall you do to Aaron and to his sons, according to all that I have commanded you; you shall ordain them through seven days. Each day you shall take a bull as a sin offering for atonement, and you shall purify the altar when you make atonement for it, and you shall anoint it to consecrate it. For seven days you shall make atonement for the altar and consecrate it; then the altar shall be most holy, and whatever touches the altar shall be holy" (Sh'mot 29:35-37).
Aaron, the High Priest, is viewed as a type of Messiah Yeshua for a number of reasons of which we include four. First, Messiah was appointed by His Father. "Thou art a priest forever..." (Ps. 110:4). Thus, Yeshua "...glorified not Himself" (Heb. 5:5). Aaron did not seek the priesthood but was appointed by YHVH (Sh'mot 28:1-38). Secondly, Yeshua was/is called the Messiah, the anointed one. "God gave not the Spirit unto Him by measure" (John 3:34). Aaron was anointed with oil in abundance/profusion. When Moses poured the holy ointment over him, it "...ran down upon the beard...that went down to the skirts of his garments" (Ps. 133:2). Thirdly, it is written of Messiah Yeshua that He has "all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge hid away in Him" (Col. 2:3). He declared the Word of Elohim to man. Aaron, Israel's Kohen Gadol, carried the Urim and Thummin hidden away in the fold of the breastplate. It was by these that he could obtain the will of YHVH pertaining to a matter, and make it known to Israel. Fourthly, Yeshua is the divine Mediator between YHVH and man (Mt. 26:26-28; 1 Tim. 2:5; Heb. 8:6; 12:24) Who intercedes for His people (Heb. 7:25) and has made atonement for them, reconciling them to the Father (2 Cor. 5:18-19; Heb. 2:17). Aaron, functioning as High Priest, represented the true Mediator to come. He mediated between the people of Israel and YHVH by making continual atonement for their sins with the sacrifices and rites established by the Law (Lev. 16:2-27).
But, Aaron was also a pattern for ministers today! As was Aaron, we too are set apart for Yeshua through regeneration and baptism. By His grace, we have been invested with authority, anointed with the Holy Oil of the Spirit, dressed in a Robe of Righteousness, appointed to minister continually, and called to back up our the profession [confession], with "Holiness unto YHVH." [Adapted. Source: Pulpit Comm., The Book of Exodus, p. 298.]
7. "Now this is what you shall offer on the altar: two one year old lambs each day, continuously..." (Sh'mot 29:38).
Once the priests and the Brazen Altar were sanctified and consecrated, the daily sacrifices would begin. They would consist of one lamb in the morning and another lamb in the evening (v. 39), day after day, unto YHVH. The sacrifices were to include some flour, olive oil, and a little wine. In this way, they would constitute "a continual burnt offering" (v. 42), a twice-a-day acknowledgement of the people that their lives belonged to YHVH and that they were perpetually bound to be a holy, living sacrifice to Him Who had blessed them with daily advantages.
8. "It shall be a continual burnt offering throughout your generations at the doorway of the tent of meeting before YHVH, where I will meet with you, to speak to you there...it shall be consecrated by My glory. I will consecrate the tent of meeting and the altar; I will consecrate Aaron and his sons to minister to Me" (Sh'mot 29:42-44).
YHVH promised He would meet with Moses and the people at the tent of meeting, the Tabernacle, once it and the priests were consecrated. There He would receive offerings, commune with them, answer prayers and grant requests. He would indeed settle and dwell among the people, be their Elohim and not hide or be at a distance, but be gracious and make Himself known. YHVH is faithful and loves His people. He abode with them for centuries, despite their inconsistencies and short-comings, before the House of Israel and, later, the House of Judah, were dispersed. Our Elohim defended ancient Israel, instructed the people by Levites and prophets, honored them before other nations, and provided for them. He has never broken a promise. He remains "faithful and true" (Rev. 19:11) to His people to this day, and will forever. Therefore, continue in prayer and believe for great things for all Israel, yourself included.
9. "And I will dwell among the children of Israel, and will be their Elohim. They shall know that I am YHVH their Elohim Who brought them out of the land of Egypt, that I might dwell among them; I am YHVH their Elohim" (Exodus 29:45-46).
Israel would come to know in their inmost hearts YHVH's love, abundance, protection, and care as He came to dwell among them. He had brought them out from Egypt to Sinai for the very purpose "that I might dwell among them", which purpose would be realized by the Tabernacle in the midst of the camp. He pledged Himself to them, by His own sacred oath, to bestow on them divine favor and blessing. No other (so called) "god" would do, or could do, what the Almighty (Israel’s Elohim) has done for the seed of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. He, Who is faithful to fulfill His promises, is long-suffering and full of mercy. Consequently He is "called faithful and true" (Rev. 19:11).
Basically, the Tabernacle would be a portable tent built around a wooden framework. Its three planned parts were the (a) courtyard, (b) altar of sacrifice, and (c) the Tabernacle itself, consisting of the Holy Place (Hekhal) and Holy of Holies (Kodesh Hakodashim). These two sections of the Tabernacle would have their own articles, and be separated by a curtain called simply the "Veil". The objects closest to the Holy of Holies were to be made of precious metals and fine, costly materials. That which would be placed furthest away from the Holy of Holies would be made from bronze and other common materials. The Tabernacle courtyard area was to measure 150 feet long by 75 feet wide. The curtain around it, supported by 60 pillars, was designed to be seven and one-half feet high. The Tabernacle would always be situated at the west end of the courtyard and was to measure 45 X 15 feet. Its opening always faced east. The Israelites were to learn, by way of the physical structure, the articles, sacrifices, the priesthood rituals, the Sabbaths and feasts, clean foods, and such--that YHVH, their Holy Elohim, was indeed sojourning with them. The Tabernacle was intended to become a visible, physical object lesson that revealed many spiritual truths which pointed to the Messiah, Who would come and be the Savior of the world. Everything in and about the Tabernacle would speak of Yeshua, the coming Redeemer.
The Tabernacle was eventually replaced with Solomon's Temple. Solomon's Temple was built about 960 B.C. It was destroyed several centuries later by Babylon when Judah went in to captivity. Upon the return of the remnant of Judah to the land of Israel and Jerusalem, a second temple was built. The Second Temple, as it was known, lasted from 516 B.C. until 70 C.E., when it was destroyed by Rome. Many believe a third temple will be built before the coming of Messiah. Elohim's temple on earth now is His Spirit regenerated and indwelt New Covenant Israel, the world-wide congregation of born-again believers. "Now you are no more strangers and foreigners, but fellow citizens with the saints, and of the household of Elohim; And are built upon the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Yeshua Messiah himself being the chief cornerstone; In whom all the building fitly framed together groweth unto an holy temple in YHVH: In whom ye also are builded up together for an habitation of Elohim through the Spirit" (Eph. 2:19-22).
Thus, the Tabernacle et al was a visible, physical reminder to Israel in the Wilderness that YHVH was dwelling in their midst and fulfilling His covenant with them. Elohim's ultimate desire, His goal, has been from the beginning to live with His people, and to put His word and Spirit within them (Jer. 31:31-33). Toward that end He provided them with an abundance of statutes, traditions, liturgy, ceremonies, and other reminders enshrining Him so they would readily recognize Him when He came as Messiah. But Scripture states, "He came unto His own and His own received Him not" (John 1:11). Israel had become so enamored and focused on their rituals, laws, interpretations, and traditions that those who should have known Yeshua could not recognize Him when He appeared, and the people over-looked the time of their visitation (Luke 19:44). Getting caught up in the minutiae [trifles, details, etc.] of religion and becoming overly fascinated with new expressions of faith are common religious stumbling blocks which deter Believers from incorporating restoration truth and receiving revelation. This is not new. It is usually a remnant that goes forward, moving out of the established religious camp to embrace what the Most High is revealing. Traditions, liturgies, sacred ceremonies, religious celebrations, and rituals have their place. They are necessary for developing and sustaining affections and reverence for divine truth. They are effectual in retelling important historical events, inculcating doctrine, encouraging the continuance of religious lifestyles, uniting communities and families, and reinforcing identity. Though one may find comfort with tenets, rituals, liturgies, traditions, ceremonies and such, he cannot build a relationship with them. They have value as long as they harmonize with truth and are seen as only representatives of divine realities. But when we elevate them above that which they represent, and forget they are road signs that keep us on the right pathways to Zion, they can become "brass shields" (2 Chron. 12:10), the representation of godliness "but denying [lacking] the power [reality] thereof" (2 Tim. 3:5). Ultimately, customs and traditions have eternal value only so far as they inspire and direct people to a greater knowledge, revelation, faithfulness, intimacy, and experience with Yeshua HaMashiach.
"But as many as received Him, to them gave He power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on His name" (John 1:12).
10. "Moreover, you shall make an altar as a place for incense; you shall make it of acacia wood. Its length shall be a cubit, and its width a cubit, it shall be square, and its height shall be two cubits...overlay it with pure gold...top and its sides all around, and its horns" (Sh'mot 30:1-3).
The Brazen Altar and the Altar of Incense were similar to one another in form. Both were foursquare, made of wood, and had horns. The smaller altar's [Altar of Incense] wood, however, was overlaid with gold, not brass. And it was positioned in the Holy Place, not the outer Court. Its name revealed it purpose, which was to offer incense to Almighty Elohim.
11. "Aaron shall burn fragrant incense on it...every morning when he trims the lamps. When Aaron trims the lamps at twilight, he shall burn incense. There shall be perpetual incense before YHVH throughout your generations" (Sh'mot 30:7-8).
The remainder of the parsha (ten verses) is devoted to the Altar of Incense. Moses was told, "You shall put this altar in front of the veil that is near the ark of the testimony, in front of the mercy seat that is over the ark of the testimony, where I will meet with you" (Ex. 30:6). Incense was burned on the coals of the Altar of Incense in the morning and evening. The coals came from the fire of the Brazen Altar of the Courtyard. The smoke would waft up and permeate the veil and Holy of Holies, where the glory of YHVH dwelt, with a sweet aroma. On Yom Kippur, the blood of the atonement sacrifice was placed by the High Priest on the "horns" (prominent corners) of the Altar of Incense. The rising of incense smoke symbolizes the pleasing odor of the earnest, sincere praise and prayers of the saints as they ascend before Elohim. Prayer brings us close to the heart of the Most High. The "horns" of the altar signified power. We learn from them that the soul that will wrestle in prayer with Elohim, as did Jacob, and obtain the Almighty’s blessing, has power with the Most High. "The fervent, effectual prayer of a righteous man availeth much" (James 5:16). The Altar of Incense also represents the believer's heart and the faith that rises from it, faith that causes hope [promises of the Word] to become a reality in the earth. "Whosoever shall say to this mountain, be thou removed, and be thou cast into the sea; and shall not doubt in his heart, but shall believe that those things which he saith shall come to pass, he shall have whatsoever he saith" (Mark 11:23).
12. "Aaron shall make atonement upon the horns of it once a year" (Sh'mot 30:10).
Horns on the Altar of Incense are symbols of the power of prayer. Through prayer the human heart has great influence with YHVH. By prayer we can wrestle with the Almighty as did Jacob, and if we persist the sought-after blessing will come forth (Gen. 32:26). The example of the persistence of the importunate widow comes to mind as an illustration of the power of fervent prayer. The parable is an exhortation for believers to pray and faint not. "Yet, because this widow troubleth me, I will avenge her" (Luke 18:1-8). Some say their prayers go unanswered. But He says, "Ask [means a continual seeking], and you shall receive." Faith is the currency of the Kingdom. Elohim has not promised to answer faithless, doubting, wobbling prayer. "Evening, and morning, and at noon, will I pray, and cry aloud: and He shall hear my voice" (Psalm 55:17).
Haftorah
1. "And if they be ashamed of all that they have done, show them the form of the house...this is the law of the house; Upon the top of the mountain...this is the law of the house...these are the measures of the altar after the cubits..." (Ezek. 43:10-13).
After the destruction of the first Temple, the prophet Ezekiel had a vision of a third Temple that many believe will be built by Messiah. Ezekiel envisions the altar of the coming Temple and its elaborate, seven-day dedication ceremony, which parallels the discussion of the ancient Tabernacle's altar and its dedication found in this week's parsha, Tetzuveh. Ezekiel shared this holy vision with the people with hope that they would become ashamed of their deeds and unholy lifestyles that eventually brought about the invasion of Babylon and the destruction of the first (Solomon's) temple. The vision was a forecast of good things to come for Israel. YHVH’s goodness precedes our repentance and stirs the heart, thereby making a way for a return to Him.
Yeshua: The Living Torah "I did not come to abolish but fulfill" (Mt. 5:17).
1. "For had ye believed Moses, ye would have believed Me: for he wrote of Me" (John 5:46).
Yeshua is correcting His antagonists in this passage, telling them [in essence] that if they had read the Scriptures with reverence for their origin and authority, they would have understood the writings of Moses, and thus recognized, revered, and accepted His words as well. After all, in the Ten Commandments Moses had placed before the Israelites a portrait of the perfect man, a portrait which Messiah walked out before all Israel. Moses, the Tabernacle, and the priesthood, all witness to Yeshua HaMashiach as the promised Seed, Sacrifice, and Savior—the Living Torah. "And Moses verily was faithful in all his house, as a servant...but Messiah as a Son over His own house; whose house we are, if we hold fast the confidence and the rejoicing of the hope firm to the end" (Heb. 3:5-6).
2. "While He yet spoke, behold, a bright cloud overshadowed them: and behold a voice out of the cloud, which said, This is My beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased; hear ye him" (Mt. 17:5).
The event on the mountain was an acknowledgement by His Father of Yeshua's faithfulness and obedience to the divine will, and a foretaste of the glory yet to come. He "was transfigured before them" as He prayed. It was the Father's assurance that was also intended to encourage and strengthen the faith of the three inner-circle apostles, and comfort them in their concern over the fate of their beloved Master. Thus, Peter, John, and James were given a glimpse of His glory, which revealed that His suffering and crucifixion would bring no defeat or shame to Him, but would instead open the way to His victory over death and future exaltation. With the appearance of Moses and Elijah they also perceived that the Law and the prophets were in submission to Him. A divine voice spoke from heaven to confirm Yeshua's Sonship. The Father was well-pleased with His Son, even from eternity, but also with His humility and self-sacrifice. All the acceptable sacrifices and offerings in the Mosaic economy found their fulfillment in Messiah's sacrifice at Calvary. Every word of prophecy spoken by the prophets finds its fulfillment in Him as well. Moses and Elijah together paid homage to Him on the mount. From there He steadfastly set His face to go to Jerusalem. The glorified state of the Messiah, which the three disciples had witnessed, would one day--by His humiliation, death, and resurrection-- be secured for all those who would believe in Him. For this great redemption, a heaven-sent Mediator would be needed. The installation of such a Figure would require not only that the former mediators should resign their office, but that the real, long-awaited Mediator should be nominated. Therefore a voice is heard from the cloud saying, 'This is My beloved Son...hear ye Him.' At that point, Moses and Elijah stepped back into the heavenly realm, and the three disciples saw and heard no man, only Yeshua. Abba wants us, disciples of Yeshua who are being returned to our Hebrew roots, to see and hear with unwavering focus His divine Son as He is, the sinless Lamb of God and Lion of the Tribe of Judah…and be transformed by the visage into His likeness. He is our all-sufficient Savior, Mediator between YHVH and man, the only One Who connects us to the Father, and Husbandman who grafts Believers into the olive Tree, which is Israel.
At the descent of the Spirit at the Jordan River and on the mount of Transfiguration Yeshua received a public proclamation of approval by His heavenly Father. One of our Messiah's premiere characteristic on earth was His joy in doing His Father's will. The great satisfaction of His life must have been to receive the divine signs, words, and tokens of His Father's approval. It is by faith in Yeshua and His words that we please the Father. Paul wrote of the person whose heart had been circumcised [regenerated spirit] by the Holy Spirit through faith: “…and his praise is not from men, but from God” (Rom. 2:29).
Yeshua, in His earthly role, had a “special relationship with the Holy Spirit, a relationship that is vitally important for our own personal lives…many OT prophecies about the coming of Messiah (i.e., the “Anointed One,” Savior, Christ) specifically predicted that He would be guided and empowered by the Holy Spirit (see Isa. 11:2; 61:1-3; Mt 3:16).” [2] The Holy Spirit was active in Yeshua’s birth, baptism, temptation by Satan in the wilderness, His ministry, resurrection, ascension, in His nearness to Believers (Jn. 16:14-15; Rom. 8:14-16; Gal. 4:6), and will be in His return (2 Cor. 1:22; 5:5; Eph. 1:14; Rom. 8:23; Rev. 22:20).
The Holy Spirit "...but you shall receive power..." (Acts 1:8).
The Holy Spirit appoints leaders for the Body of Messiah (Ac. 20:28; Eph. 4:11). He works with and through Spirit-filled Believers (Ac. 6:3-8; 8:6-12; 15:28, 32; Nu. 27:18; Jud. 6:34; 1 Sam. 16:13; Zech. 4:6). The Ruach anoints and empowers teachers and preachers (1 Cor. 2:4). The Spirit of Messiah also commissions Believers for service (Acts 13:2-4) and missionary endeavors (Acts 8:29, 39; 16:6-7; 20:23). The Holy Spirit warns against apostasy (1 Tim. 4:1), guards us from error and deception (2 Tim. 1:14), and equips us [Believers] for spiritual warfare (Eph. 6:10-18).
1. "Then you shall take the anointing oil and pour it on his head and anoint him" (Ex. 29:7).
In the Old Testament the Holy Spirit generally came upon a person for a specific purpose, such as with the Judges, such as Deborah and Samson. The establishment of the Tabernacle, its equipment, and the Aaronic priesthood was the result of the inspiration and empowerment of the Holy Spirit on the whole nation, its leaders and people. He united and enabled Israel for this important reason--raising up His Tabernacle (His "House") and sacrifice system over which He would preside. But the Holy Spirit had not yet been given to regenerate, indwell, and abide with all individual Believers. The time for that universal blessing, the latter days (Jer. 31:31-33; Joel 2:28), had not yet come. Thus, we can better understand David, who prayed, "Do not cast me away from Your presence and do not take Your Holy Spirit from me" (Ps. 51:11).
In the fullness of time Yeshua came. He said to Nicodemus, "Truly, truly, I say to you, unless one is born again [born from above] he cannot see the kingdom of God...unless one is born of water and the Spirit he cannot enter the Kingdom of God" (John 3:4-5). On Pentecost, when the gift of the Spirit was made available universally, Peter instructed the multitude, "...be baptized in the name of Yeshua for the forgiveness of your sins; and you will the gift of the Holy Spirit" (Acts 2:38). Believe and you shall receive His indwelling and abiding presence.
The referenced Scripture is prophetic. "You shall take the anointing oil and pour it on his head [not simply "dab" his head] and anoint him." The oil represents the Holy Spirit and the pouring represents the outpouring of the Spirit. Yehsua was called the Messiah, which means anointed One, because "...Elohim anointed Him with the Holy Spirit and with power, and... He went about doing good and healing all who were oppressed of the devil, for Elohim was with Him" (Acts 10:38). That which is anointed is most holy. We, who are sanctified, must desire to be heavily anointed, as was our Redeemer, and thus we should welcome the Spirit, not resist, ignore, or grieve Him. Our relationship with Yeshua can be quenched, as can any other relationship. Read Ephesians 4:22-32. Let us not quench or grieve the Spirit. Such behavior would weaken our intimacy and fellowship [not relationship] with the Savior. Instead, our priority must be to receive Him and yield to His Word and leadership. The outcome is good fruit (Mt. 7:15-23; Jn. 15:1; Gal. 5:22). The closer our communion is with the Spirit, the closer will be our fellowship with Yeshua. Read Mt. 7:17-20.
Surrender, and let the Holy Spirit do all He wants with you. Let Him: Indwell you (John 14:7; fill you (Acts 2:1-4); teach you (Jn. 14:26); search you (Rom. 8:27); intercede through you (Rom. 8:26); remind you (Jn. 14:26); talk to you (Acts 13:2; 16:6-7); redeem you (Tit. 2:14); restore you (Joel 2:25); give you revelation, power, and inspiration (1 Cor. 12:4-11); heal you (Ex. 15:26; 23:25-26; Isa. 53:1-6; Mt. 8:17; 1 Pet. 2:24); give you Yeshua's peace (Col. 1:20-22; Phil. 4:7); transform you (Rom. 12:2). "This I say then, Walk in the Spirit, and you will not fulfill the lust of the flesh" (Gal.5:16).
2. "You shall speak to all the skillful persons whom I have endowed with the spirit of wisdom..." (Exodus 28:3).
Glory and beauty were required in the making of the priestly garments. Nothing shoddy would be tolerated. The development of materials and their tailoring would demand high artistic talents, skills, expertise, and creativity divinely interwoven and ably employed. It would require the unseen hand of Providence guiding the artisans, giving them patience and transcending skill. Without the Spirit quickening the workers for the construction of the Tabernacle and all its components, the outcome would not have been as exact, beautiful or meaningful.
Believers today are in similar need for divine assistance if our labors are to be effective and fruit-bearing. Yeshua, understanding our need for wisdom and power, promised His people, "...you shall receive power when the Ruach HaKodesh has come upon you; and you shall be My witnesses both in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and even to the remotest part of the earth" (Acts 1:8). Being His effectual witnesses, His love-ambassadors in the world, demands that we hear His voice as clearly and regularly as possible, discern His word, perceive His directions, and proclaim the Word with power, signs, and wonders. This higher-level ministry requires knowing and following His Spirit. In this way, all things work together for good and in accordance with His purposes.
The Holy Spirit is heard by spiritual discernment, usually not by the natural wisdom or hearing. See 1 Cor. 2:14. An event in the life of Apostle Paul illustrates this point. He had "assayed to go into Bithynia [logic; mental wisdom]: but the Spirit suffered [allowed] them not [discernment; revelation]" (Acts 16:7). It is important therefore for Believers to be attuned to the Spirit, or to be in the Spirit, and thereby avoid time-consuming blunders, embarrassing mistakes, and faulty ministry, etc. John wrote, "On the Lord's Day I was in the Spirit, and I heard behind me a loud voice like a trumpet..." (Rev. 1:10). To be in the Spirit means one is in the Word and in a state to receive spiritual revelation. There is no striving involved. To start, we get in the Spirit and remain in the Spirit by abiding in His truth. No grief in this. Faith.
YHVH continued to speak to Moses, and Moses listened attentively and responded to the instructions. "Now this is what you shall do to them to consecrate them to minister as priests to me" (Ex. 29:1). The passage informs us that the priests (Aaron and his sons) were to be consecrated in a solemn ceremony that included (a) washing by water--the symbol of purification, (b) being robed in holy garments--the symbol of actual installation, and (c) anointing with holy oil--the symbol sanctification, and of union and communication with the divine influences of the Almighty Himself.
The priesthood of ancient Israel was composed of sinful, impure men. Therefore, Aaron and his sons--Nadab, Abihu, Eleazar, and Ithamar--were in need of having sin-offering, burnt-offering, and peace-offering sacrifices offered up for them. This was also part of their consecration ceremony. By way of the prescribed purification-consecration ritual, the priests were conducted, or elevated, from a place of impurity, guilt, and condemnation to a spiritual plateau of peace and communion with YHVH their Elohim!
The Aaronic priesthood continued until the destruction of the Second Temple in 70 C.E. But since His resurrection and ascension, Yeshua has become our High Priest and Intercessor, "Who needeth not daily, as those high priests, to offer up sacrifice, first for his own sins, and then for the peoples': for this He did once, when He offered up Himself" (Heb. 7:27). Through faith in the shed Blood of Messiah Yeshua, we have forgiveness for sin and cleansing from unrighteousness. "But if we walk in the light, as He is in the light, we have fellowship with one another, and the Blood of Yehsua Messiah cleanseth us from all sin" (1 John 1:7). Through the Blood of Yeshua we are sanctified and cleansed. It's important to recall these New Testament realities. Their truth helps keep our hearts and minds clean from offenses toward YHVH and man, and want to really live in the control of the Spirit. Our manner of life affects our sensitivity to His leading. Thus, for growth in discerning His voice, His word, each of us must guard our conscience. The conscience can be offended, even seared, scarred, and made calloused by ongoing coarseness and unrepentant sin. Our capacity to hear him clearly grows as we walk with Yeshua in His light.
Elohim's personal direction, encouragement, exhortation, and comfort for Believers often come directly from the Ruach HaKodesh, and are always inspired and initiated by Him. Constant personal divine attention to us has been made possible by our Redeemer. Yeshua has placed His precious Blood on the Mercy Seat in the Heavenly Sanctuary, and the wonderful gift from above is the Ruach, Who is sent to regenerate, indwell and commune with those who believe. We are ordained to be intimate in our communications with the Most High. What a glorious privilege! We can ask ourselves: what can we do this week to enhance this glorious blessing, one which makes intimacy with the Master possible?
First: Seek always to be "in the Spirit" and become increasingly sensitive, in step with, attuned to the voice/communication of the Ruach HaKodesh of YHVH. Second: Keep a clean conscience. "The goal of this command is love, which comes from an pure hear, and a good conscience and a sincere faith" (1 Tim. 1:5).
Here are some good things to remember:
A. Earnestly desire and expect to be led by the Spirit. B. Compare everything you hear or sense with the standard of truth, the Scriptures. C. Listen to the input, the voice that is "born of the Spirit", not of the flesh. D. His voice will exalt Yeshua. E. Make praying in tongues (your personal prayer language) a part of your devotional life. This will help your discern the Ruach's voice. F. Listen for His leading during praise, worship, prayer, study, and fasting. G. Practice "being in the Spirit" by resting in His manifest presence. Now, look into (study) the perfect law of liberty and see what directions He has for you today.
Glory Note # 20: The prophet spoke to the disheartened exiles who had returned to build the second Temple which was not as large or spectacular as Solomon's Temple had been. "And I will shake all nations, and the desire of all nations shall come: and I will fill this house with glory, saith YHVH Sabaoth" (Haggai 2:7). The glory of the Elohim of Israel is His goodness, holy character, divine attributes, and many other excellent qualities which He can exhibit before people according to His will and promises. "The heavens declare the glory of God; and the firmament showeth His handiwork" (Ps. 19:1). It is also His Shechinah, the radiance of His manifested presence. "...the glory of YHVH shown around about them..." (Lk. 2:9). The latter, second Temple was actually blessed with greater glory than was the first by the light of the presence of Yeshua Himself Who visited it many times, beginning with His dedication at eight days old. The promise of Haggai may apply to every place Believers gather to worship Him in Spirit and in truth. Yeshua said, "Where two of three are gathered together...there am I in the midst of them" (Mt. 18:20).
Parsha Summary
1. "You shall command the people of Israel..." (Sh'mot 27:29).
Parsha Terumah (last week) provided us with a general blueprint of the Tabernacle and its components. Parsha Tetzaveh provides us with the preparation of the priesthood that would serve as the intermediary between YHVH and the people. The parsha opens with Moses being instructed by Elohim to command the Israelites to provide pure olive oil to sustain the "everlasting flame" of the Lampstand, the Menorah. [Interestingly, it was the "first fruits" of the olive oil that was used--the first few drops that were squeezed from the olive(s). This first portion of oil (shemen) was considered the brightest and purest. The garments of the priests and their consecration to holy service are also described, and finally the Altar of Incense.
2. "We have an altar, whereof they have no right to eat which serve the Tabernacle" (Heb. 13:10).
The altar referred to is the cross upon which Yeshua, our great High Priest, who appears for us in a "greater and more perfect" Tabernacle in heaven, after offering Himself as the perfect atoning Sacrifice for our sins. His cross is superior, and has set all other altars aside. The sacrifice of Yehsua, the Lamb of Elohim, makes repetition unnecessary. Under the Law, certain portions of the sacrifices were eaten by the priests and Levites (Lev. 6:14-18,24-30; Lev., chapter 7; Nu. 18:8-11; 1 Cor. 9:13). By faith, believers today, the royal priesthood of 1 Peter 2:9, may partake of His life through the Spirit, which is divine, spiritual Sustenance for the soul. The priceless Gift is free, and available to everyone by faith. "I am the living Bread...if any man eat of this Bread, he shall live forever" (Jn. 6:51). But some are excluded, having no right to partake of this provision. They would be those who remain with the shadows and do not proceed to the Sustenance to which the Mosaic economy pointed. Yet, the directive [command] of Scripture is clear: “Repent, and each one of you be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ [Yeshua HaMAshiach] for the forgiveness of your sins; and you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit [connect to eternal life]” (Acts 2:38).
Hear His Voice
“Like a shepherd He will tend His flock, in His arm He will gather the lambs and carry them in His bosom; He will gently lead the nursing ewes” (Isa. 40:11).
The Spirit does not scream at or push His people. It is with gentleness that He guides us, speaks to us, leads us. Start each day in prayer. Wait upon His word. His word imparts faith and power.
Section 3: Parsha Study and Vision
Torah and Glory School Method: "...search for Me..." (Jeremiah 29:13). This section is provided to help the student read beyond the basic commentary that we have presented, and study carefully all the Scriptures in the week's parsha for themselves. As each reader presses more deeply into the Word and learns to depend more consistently on the Spirit in his/her search for greater knowledge and intimacy with Yeshua, increased personal enrichment and spiritual transformation will be experienced and enjoyed. Section 3 contains a review of the weekly parsha's Scriptures, their topical content, and our questions. Working with each week's Scriptures and Questions is very important to our purpose. They are designed to assist the student to (1) develop a vision for the restoration and reconciliation of the whole house of Israel, (2) grow in foundational knowledge of the Torah, (3) recover the principles, practice, and Holy Spirit power of the early, first-century Nazarene believers, and (4) experience and enjoy greater dimensions of the kingdom, power, and glory of Yeshua.
The assigned Scriptures and Questions, along with Section Four's prayer and bless activities, comprise (5) the heart of the Torah and Glory School's study program by which the student can be most edified and advanced spiritually. By them the student learns on his/her own while depending on, and thereby coming to know more personally, the Holy Spirit. We strongly encourage each student to rely upon the Spirit/Ruach--for understanding, revelation, insight, illumination of the Word, edification, and divine fellowship--during prayer, worship, and study. He is the close-at-hand primary Teacher of the course, not this author. Learning the Almighty's voice and experiencing His manifest glory, not just acquiring more information, are central goals of the Torah and Glory School. The Scriptures--reading them while listening for the Holy Spirit, and the Questions--writing answers while under the Spirit's unction and receiving divine input, work together to comprise (6) the student's chief means of personal practice/exercise/training in seeking, waiting on, listening for, and promptly responding to the voice/word of Elohim. And by such seeking, faith-motivated students position themselves [spiritually, mentally, and emotionally prepare themselves] for experiencing a visitation of Yeshua's presence and glory through the Spirit. In this way the Scriptures and Questions also become (7) the channels through which the Spirit of Messiah will directly communicate personal instruction, direction, wisdom, and comfort to each engaged person. The students who faithfully follow the "game plan" and remain committed to do so for the year, will be transformed. They will enjoy much closer fellowship with the Father, and Yeshua, His Son, and hearing the voice of the Holy Spirit, especially by the end of Deuteronomy.
Scripture Review and Questions: Now, read through the parsha while allowing the Spirit to illuminate the Scriptures, and then answer the questions using your own words.
Prayer: "Open my eyes that I may behold wonderful things from your law" (Psalm 119:18).
Exodus 27:20-30:10: Olive oil/priests and garments (for beauty and distinction)/the breastplate, robe, ephod, miter, and tunic/inauguration of priesthood/food/Altar of Incense.
Ezekiel 43:10-27: Ezekiel's temple vision embodies teaching on purity and holiness, and contains insights about ascending to YHVH's presence.
Hebrews 13:10-17: Yeshua, our sacrifice, suffered outside the gate. Let us go outside the camp for we are seeking the city which is to come. We are called to offer up sacrifices of praise, do good, and honor spiritual leaders.
Study Questions: "...be ready always to give an answer..." (1 Peter 3:15). Trace the theme, the main idea, through each question.
1a. In your opinion, what is the main theme or teaching of each of the listed readings individually? Starting with the Torah: What is its title? What is the interpretation? What truth/idea does the interpretation of the title suggest? What is the Torah section's main truth, as you see it?
1b. What is the corresponding idea in the Haftorah? In the Brit Chadashah?
2. What is the outstanding, central idea or subject that runs through and unites all the individual readings, as you see it?
3. Find in the Gospels where and how Yeshua declares, demonstrates, exemplifies, or exhibits the parsha's central truth, and explain. Give chapter and verse.
4. In what way was the glory of YHVH [manifestations of His goodness] revealed in the parsha lesson?
5. What does the parsha teach you about your Hebrew roots, your identity, your destiny, your duty?
6. In what way did the Holy Spirit/Ruach HaKodesh personally speak to you during prayer and study this week? Did He impress you about how to apply the parsha lesson directly to your life? Explain.
7. "...because of practice [by reason of use] have their senses trained [exercised] to discern..." You and I are called to return to hearing the voice of Elohim and to functioning in the ministry of the Holy Spirit. Progressing in these vital areas will require spiritual hunger, faith, and practice. He is waiting for us to approach Him. Ask the Holy Spirit to speak into your spirit/heart as you pray each day. Look for opportunities to lay hands on the sick, or to be used in prophesy. Faithfully record the prophetic words and experiences you receive, and be sure to share them with your brethren.
Section 4: Prayer, Declaration, and Blessing
The prayer and declaration Scriptures are changed with each book of the Torah. For instance, in Exodus we will have new Scriptures on which to focus. And others will appear in Leviticus, and so on. However, the Song of the Lord/Prophetic Worship teaching section is progressive and new each week. So, be sure to use this section. Shalom.
Important: Participate each week in the Bless the Land prayer, benediction, and singing exercises/activities, both individually and with your group. This is important for yourself and others. Your joining in with vocal participation--blessing and strengthening Israel with your spoken words, prophetic utterances, sung psalms, and intercessions--will also help develop and enlarge your prophetic anointing and sensitivity to the Holy Spirit. Daniel, who daily faced Jerusalem and Israel from his house in exile to pray, is an example of what we can do weekly from our homes today. "...Daniel...entered his house(now his roof chamber had windows open toward Jerusalem); and he continued kneeling...praying and giving thanks before his Elohim" (Daniel 10).
Bless the Land: "On this wise shall ye bless the children of Israel, saying unto them [declaring the Word to and over them], the Lord bless thee...keep thee..." (Num. 6:23). YHVH wanted to bless, keep, and place His glory upon His people. So He had his priests stand in His place [stand in for Him] and proclaim the blessings, which He in turn would perform for the believing recipients. Believers have a similar role today, as did Aaron and the priests in ancient Israel. "But you are...a royal priesthood..." (1 Pet. 2:9). When we take our place as a responsible priesthood and begin to declare the written and prophetic word and will of YHVH, even spontaneous songs, over His people, He will rise up and perform that which has been declared. He works in partnership with his set-apart royal priesthood. Therefore, "...bless, for to this you were called, that you may receive a blessing" (1 Pet. 3:9).
Note: "The mouth of a righteous man is a well of life" (Prov. 10:11). Born-again believers' mouths are connected to the spiritual power that created the universe. His Spirit and Word are in our hearts and minds (Jer. 31:31-33; Ezek. 11: 19-20; Joel 2:28-29; John 3:5-8; Acts 2:38; etc.). Our words possess/carry both constructive power (building up) and destructive (tearing down) power. Job 22:28; Luke 4:18-19; Mt. 21:21; 28: 18-20; Acts 1:8; 2:4; Rom. 12:6-8; 1 Cor. 12: 1-11; Eph. 6:17-19; Rev. 8:3). "Death and life are in the power of the tongue" (Prov. 18:2). Therefore, let us fulfill our priestly role by blessing one another and declaring with confidence His Word over Jerusalem, Israel, and your nation this week.
"And I will bless them that bless thee" (Gen. 12:3).
1. Pray for Israel.
Numbers 6:23-26. "This is how you shall bless Israel..." Each week. Memorize, and lift up your voice and bless the land.
"The counsel of the Lord stands forever, the plan of His heart from generation to generation. Blessed is the nation whose God Is the Lord, the people whom He has chosen for His inheritance" (Ps. 33:11-12). YHVH has chosen Israel to be His peculiar people, to know and love Him. His counsel stands, His purposes are unchangeable. Prayer avails much. It does not change the Almighty's purposes, but it is the appointed means for the fulfillment of His promises. Prophesy life!
2. Pray for Jerusalem.
Psalm 122:1-9. Memorize. We recommend speaking this passage over the Holy City each Sabbath, and bless it.
3. Pray for America/Pray for your nation.
Joel 2:28-29. Spiritual awakening. A great outpouring of the Spirit.
4. Sing the Song of the Lord/Prophetic songs. [Teaching/Exhortation]
"And when Aaron lighteth the lamps at the evening, he shall burn incense upon it, a perpetual incense before the Lord throughout your generations. Ye shall offer no strange incense thereon, nor burnt sacrifice, not meat offering; neither shall ye pour drink offering thereon" (Ex. 30: 8-9).
At the end of the morning and evening sacrifices the priest would offer incense on the Altar of Incense. This indicated that prayer was needed as regularly as expiation (sacrifice), and that both would be perpetually required, without intermittent breaks. No strange incense, that which was not prepared in accordance with verses 34-38, would be tolerated. The gold-covered Altar of Incense, with its pure incense, teaches us, among other things, that pleasing, availing prayer proceeds only from a pure (sincere) heart. David understood this and therefore as King sought to institute such prayer and praise in Jerusalem, to which he brought the Ark of the Covenant.
"And David was clothed with a robe of fine linen, and all the Levites that bare the ark, and the singers, and Chenaniah, the master of the song and singers; David also had on him an ephod of linen" (1 Chron. 15:27).
Chenaniah comes from two Hebrew words: kanan, a "primitive root; vineyard"; and Kenanyah, meaning "has planted." Chenaniah's name means "something that is planted in the vineyard by YHVH, and has potential for vital, notable growth." He was a skillful instructor, a master teacher in song and music for King David. He was master of the song. Song is translated as "Massa" in Hebrew. Massa means, "a burden, an utterance, chiefly and especially singing, carry away, prophecy, song, tribute". We learn by this Levite's name and calling in David's Tabernacle worship ministry that he (and others taught by him) carried a prophetic burden and released the prophetic anointing through the singing and music when they sang the Song of the Lord, a song which lifted the listeners/recipients of the Song into higher realms of the Spirit. The psalmists trained under Chenaniah, who had some prophetic ability himself, were able to sing about YHVH, to YHVH, with YHVH and for YHVH. So can we who have the Spirit. Look at Psalm 91 as an example.
Psalm ninety-one has no title. But it describes the man who thoroughly trusts in the Holy One of Israel. In verses 1 and 2 we note that he dwells in "the secret place of the Most High", and abides "under the shadow of the Almighty." His confesses that YHVH is his Refuge, Fortress, Joy, and Confidence. In verses 3 through 13, he extols YHVH's beneficial works and commends Him to his listeners/readers. From verse 14 through 16, there is a transition. The Holy One of Israel, Who is very pleased with the psalmist's testimony, begins to speak. "Because he has loved Me... because he has known My Name" (verse 14). He (1) declares His will, His heart toward His servant-writer and (2) endorses his testimony for those who would read his words. The Spirit (inspiration), psalmist (writer), his readers and listeners (congregation), and YHVH (the Most High responding) are all interacting in this psalm.
Note: "...he has known My Name." The character qualities that YHVH mentions favorably, valuing highly, are: (a) Knowing His Name. In the Old Testament that was the equivalent of knowing His character, nature, intentions. This has been revealed to us more fully now through the Person and work of Messiah Yeshua. See: Hebrews 1:1-14. (b) Setting our love upon Him. See: Deuteronomy 6:4-5.
"Let us all prophesy according to the proportion of faith" (Rom. 12:6). If we have the faith, we can all operate in the gift of prophesy, by both speaking and singing. Prophecy is a supernatural message inspired by the Spirit to be spoken or sung through a person. According to 1 Corinthians 14:3, the purpose of this gift of the Spirit (1 Cor. 12:10) is "for edification, and exhortation, and comfort." While it can console, it can also convict sinners (1 Cor. 14:25). John writes, "...for the testimony of Yeshua is the spirit of prophecy" (Rev. 19:10). Note: To hold to the "testimony of Yeshua" (see also Rev. 1:2, 9; 12:17) means to understand and proclaim the truth of YHVH, in word and by example, particularly in the face of ignorance or outright opposition.
"And it shall come to pass in the last days I will pour out of My Spirit upon all flesh; your sons and daughters shall prophesy... and upon my menservants and maidservants will I pour out of My Spirit and they shall prophesy (Acts 2:17-18). There are no exalted, super-spiritual people who alone have been set aside by Yeshua to operate in the gifts of the Spirit. Every born-again, Spirit-filled Believer is a candidate. With regard to the gift of prophesy, not everyone is a prophet or prophetess, but everyone can prophesy edification, exhortation, and comfort by the Spirit. It is such an edifying ministry--when ministered by those who have had their senses exercised--that Yeshua wanted it available to all His menservants and maidservants. Thus, we are exhorted by Scripture: (1) "Be eager to prophesy" (1 Cor. 14:39). (2) "For you can all prophesy" (1 Cor. 14:31). (3) "...desire spiritual gifts, especially the gift of prophecy" (1 Cor. 14:1). (4) "Do not hold prophecy in low esteem" (1 Thess. 5:20). [This is an especially needed encouragement, since many will make mistakes as Believers ascend in maturity and accuracy.] Step out. Sing in the Spirit and with His inspiration.
Section 5: Conclusion
1. "In the tabernacle of the congregation without the veil, which is before the testimony, Aaron and his sons shall order it from evening to evening before the Lord: it shall be a statute for ever unto their generations on the behalf of the children of Israel" (Ex. 27:21).
Obedience on the part of the priesthood to the commandments, and faithful, continual fulfillment of their responsibilities, were required for YHVH's manifest presence to continue in the Tabernacle and in the midst of His people.
The Tabernacle of the congregation was the "tent of meeting." It was the tent where the earthly ruler of the Israelite people (Ex. 25:22), Moses and the Kohen Gadol, would meet with YHVH to receive instructions and directives before the actual Tabernacle was set in place. It was not the place of meeting for the people of the congregation themselves. They could not go beyond the entrance of the structure. It was Aaron and his sons, by the command of the Most High, who were responsible to maintain the ordinances of the Tabernacle day and night once it was erected. This service included "hearing from YHVH" through wearing the Urim and Tumim.
The Kohen Gadol (High Priest), Aaron, would wear the Breastplate as part of his uniform when he went into the Tabernacle to minister. The Breastplate was folded in half and formed a type of pocket into which Moses inserted a slip of parchment containing the Name(s) of Elohim. This Name (according to Rambam there were more than one Name) was (1) called Urim, meaning "light", because it would cause the individual letters of the tribal names on the Breastplate to light up; and it was (2) called Tumim, meaning completeness, because, when read in the correct order the [somehow] illuminated letters gave complete and accurate answers to questions that the Kohen Gadol would ask Elohim. [Adapted from Rashi/Yoma 73b]
High positions carry serious responsibilities. Moses enjoyed great privileges, as did Aaron and his sons. Yet they had responsibilities--faithfully keeping all the commandments privately and publically--that were in proportion to their privileges. Any disobedience on their part, personal or managerial, was not only a personal sin, it was a serious offense to their sacred office, a violation against the people they were entrusted to represent, a rejection of nearness to YHVH, a repudiation of privilege, and a gross transgression against His Law. "But Nadab and Abihu (Aaron's first two sons) died before the Lord when they offered strange fire before the Lord in the Wilderness of Sinai" (Numbers 3:4).
Aaron and the priests represented the people of Israel, even the whole congregation (nation), the body of which YHVH was the Head. The official position of priest, especially of High Priest, was one of authority, dignity, and solemnity, and therefore carried special accountability. We, who are Messianic ministers should keep these things in mind as motivational. The purity of those returning to their Hebraic roots will be vital on at least two fronts: First, it will have much to do with the growth and spiritual strength of the movement. Secondly, it will have everything to do with a divine visitation of the Shechinah Glory upon the leaders and congregations of Israel. Isn't this is what we need most?
2. "You shall charge the son of Israel that they bring you oil of beaten olives for the light..." (Ex. 27:20).
In the parsha Moses was given three responsibilities. They were: (a) obtain prepared oil, (b) designate and consecrate the Kohanim, and (c) select wise-hearted and able people to make the articles needed for the Tabernacle economy. The fulfillment of these three commandments, with which Moses would be personally involved ("You...bring you; Now you..."), was not a light matter. Keeping these orders [commands] would result in the elevation of human activity to a divine level, that of co-laboring with the Creator for the redemption of mankind! [Ex. 27:20; 28:1.]
Responsibility for ourselves and others is a serious matter. Just for the record, here are several things that will increase your responsibilities before Yeshua: A. Knowledge of His commandments. B. relationships (with Messiah, His people, and others). C. official positions. D. family and social influence. E. hearing His voice. F. knowing the consequences of cowardice and neglect (Rev. 21:8). We do not fear failure, though. We press forward. Why? Because His commandments are our strength, our success in life, and our joy! "How blessed is the man who does not walk in the counsel of the wicked...But his delight is in the law [Torah, instructions] of the Lord (YHVH)..." (Psalm 1:1-2).
The Jews living in the time of Yeshua made distinctions concerning the commandments of YHVH. Some were regarded as "light", others were "weighty", and some were considered "small,” and others "great." There was debate among them about which commandments were the "greatest", and whether there was one that stood above the rest. Some Jews have contended that the Sabbath commandment was the greatest. Others favored sacrificial laws, some circumcision, and still others heralded the wearing of phylacteries. They asked Yeshua to address this question. He startled them when He gave precedence to the matter of love. In the Torah we are told three hundred sixty-five commandments are negative, two hundred and forty eight affirmative, but Yeshua spoke of two only that fulfilled the Law. "And He said unto them, 'You shall love the Lord your God (YHVH your Elohim) with all your heart, and with all your soul, and with all your mind.' [Deut. 6:5] This is the great and foremost commandment. The second [Lev. 19:18] is like it, 'You shall love your neighbor as yourself.' On these two commandments depend the whole Law and the Prophets" (Mt. 22:37-40).
Moses was commanded to collect oil, make garments, and consecrate the priests. Aaron was commanded to attend to the wicks, bowls, and incense. All were very important responsibilities. The Pharisees were told to love YHVH their Elohim and one another, for starters. As for us? "A new commandment I give to you, that you love one another, even as I have loved you, that you also love one another. By this all men will know that you are My disciples, if you have love for one another" (John 13:34-35).
Yeshua gave us a simple commandment but a big responsibility. It is the condition for our joy, and for an abiding visitation of His manifest glory. Renew your connection each day--tetzaveh. Trim and rekindle the flame of the Spirit. Offer up fresh incense each day. Love!
Pray: "Let me see Your glory." His glory is in you by the Holy Spirit. Pray and believe for His presence to rise up and envelope your soul with His goodness, and the revelation of His heart. You are a child of the Most High and He desires you to experience intimate spiritual communion with Him.
Next week: Parsha Ki Tisa ("When you elevate"); Torah portion: Sh'mot 30:11-34:35
Keep in mind. Growth for spiritual strength takes "lifting." Be sure to complete your answers and exercises. They represent the "weights" that the Holy Spirit will use to equip you with a strong, well-proportioned, balanced, spiritual physique of Spirit and Truth.
References: Weekly references generally include, but are not limited to, the following: Kehot Chumash; Spirit-Filled Life Bible; Pulpit Commentary, H. Spence and J. Exell, Eerdmans; Torah Club; Restoration Scriptures, Your Arms to Israel Publishing; Chumash, Stone Edition; Hearing from God, J. Meyer; Chabad.org. Parashah; Old Testament Survey, K. Conner; www.familybible.org/BeitMidrash/FAQ/Torah.htm; Torah, A Modern Commentary, W. G. Plaut; Fodor's Exploring Israel, A Sanger; Judaism 101 Torah; The Hebrew-Greek Key Study Bible, AMG Publishers; Restoration: Returning the Torah of God to the Disciples of Jesus, D.T. Lancaster; Christianity Reconsidered, W.L. Bowles; Living Israeli Hebrew, Dr. D. Ben-Gigi, Living Israeli Hebrew Publications; Hebrew Word Pictures, Dr. F. Seekins, Living Word Pictures, Inc.; Torah Insights, R. Fischer; FireBible, Student Edition, NIV, Life Publishers International; Internet Sites; Jewish Encyclopedia. com.
Footnotes: 1. Chabad.org. Kehot Chumash, Midrash Tanchumah, Tetzaveh 15, end. 2. Firebible, p. 1408, Life Publishers.
