First let us define Torah. The Hebrew word “Torah” means “Teaching, instruction and discipline.” There is no doubt that the Torah is the first of all Biblical texts. As a result, the core of all Biblical understanding is found within the Chumash. The Hebrew word Chumash means “five,” indicating the first five books of the Bible or the work of Moshe. Therefore, all Biblical texts are related to the Torah. Bible study demands a solid knowledge and understanding of this foundational text before proceeding to subsequent texts.

Therefore, the best possible hermeneutic demands that we begin with the foundation for all Biblical text.

The unfortunate truth of contemporary history is our abandonment of this vital foundation for fear of legalism. The truth is that we have nothing to fear. A Jewish maxim states, “All is in the hands of Heaven except for the fear of Heaven.”

We must ask ourselves one vital question. Why was the Torah given?
The truth is that the Torah was given for the establishment of a theocratic society. All who would be a part of this theocratic society must embrace the Torah. Herein lays a truth of great import.

All believers want to be a part of HaShem’s community.  However, within that community there are rules of conduct.  These rules are found within the Torah.

Is this being legalistic?

By no means!  Living a Torah based life is liberty from sin and death.  Living a Torah based lifestyle is the key to genuine spirituality.  

Shalom