This Torah Focus looked at some of the educational systems of the 1st Century. We also looked at Yeshua within the Rabbinic mindset and framework. We took an informal approach to these subjects seeing what we can learn about Yeshua, the Talmidim and the Rabbis of the 1st century.
Live Every Thursday night at 7 CST
Please note that we have upgraded our video format for better viewing.
This Torah Focus Class will looked at the readings associated with Deuteronomy 15:7-16:17.
We will looked at the Commentary on Amos 8:4-10 and 9:13-15 and Our Selection of Mark which looks at the mockery Yeshua went through by the Roman Cohort of Pilate. Mark 15:16-21.
Class materials can be located at Keslev 21, 5772
Please note that we have upgraded our video format for better viewing.
This Torah Focus Class will look at the readings associated with Deuteronomy 15:7-16:17.
We will look at the Commentary on Amos 84-10 and 9:13-15 and Our Selection of Mark which looks at the mockery Yeshua went through by the Roman Cohort of Pilate. Mark 15:16-21
Class materials can be located at Keslev 21, 5772
Live at 7 CST
Please Note that the bad link to the downloads has been fixed Sorry for your troubles.
This Torah Focus looked at Mark 12:28-34 In this pericope of Mordechai Yeshua discusses the relative mitzvot which deals with the Shema and loving ones neighbor. Of course this was not new to Rabbinic thought. Some questions to ponder for tonight’s class will be…
We looked a may relative facets of the Torah Seder and its presented ideas along with connections and things concluded in the Torah Seder.
Torah Seder with Commentary to Mark – Compiled by His Eminence Rabbi Dr, Yoseph ben Haggai
Commentary and translation of Mark by Dr Walter Oakley
Live at 7 CST every Thursday night
This Mesorah of Mark looked at the 104c pericope of Mark. This material is weighed against B’Midbar 22:2-23:9, which contains the story of Balaam and Balak. How does the story of Mordechai 12:18-27 where the Tz’dukim (Sadducees) present the story of the seven brothers and the resurrection. What is the real focus of this pericope? We delve into all of this material and much more.
Torah Seder – Compiled by His Eminence Rabbi Dr. Yoseph ben Haggai
Mordechai – Commentary by Dr. Walter Oakley
Attention Arba4 listeners. It may necessary to click the “Mesorah of Mark 104c” title above to access the Torah Focus website for download.
The three segments of Mesorah of Mark #5 are now available on ARBA4.com
I would like to thank Brian Jones for his help and work in posting these programs. (Thanks Brian)
Mark’s Pericope #60
This material is to be read n conjunction with Shemot 26: 1-30; Yeshayhu 66:1-10 and Tehillim 60: 1-14
Mark 8:31-33 31 ¶ And He began to instruct them concerning the necessity of the Ben Adam’s suffering (Gk. pathien -Pasko) (Heb. לֵעָנוֹת) in a great number of things and be rejected by the elders and the chief priests and scribes, and be killed, and after three days rise again. (קוֹם יָקוּם) – avnasth/nai 32 And He boldly proclaimed these things. And Tsefet took Him aside and trying to usurp his authority, censure his speech. (demonstrate his error) 33 But when He (Yeshua) had turned his back to Tsefet and looked on His disciples, He censured Tsefet’s speech, saying, Go behind Me, adversary! Because (you are thinking only of yourself) your heart is not set on the things of G-d, but of the things of men.
I have tried to bridge the gap between the Greek text and the Delitzsch (Mishnaic) Hebrew text. Trying to make the best of both translations and texts is often very difficult. However, I have tried to carefully bridge this gap. Likewise, this Parsha is permeated with things that can only be understood from the Sod or Midrashic levels of interpretation. Nevertheless, we will endeavor to make a P’shat of the things based upon the literal interpretation, logic and Scriptural hermeneutic.
Not only does this Pericope come on the heels of the revelation that Yeshua is the Messiah. It also comes on the heels of Shabbat Shekelim. These things will influence Mordechai’s narrative.
And He began to instruct them concerning the necessity of the Ben Adam’s suffering…
This event comes on the heels of the revelation that Yeshua is the Messiah. (Mk. 8:27-30) To set the background for our scene we must remember the revelation of Tsefet. Tsefet has just stated that Yeshua is the Messiah. He has reached the level of insurmountable heights in being able to draw this conclusion. Now that Yeshua has laid this foundation of his identity, he goes on to allow his Talmidim further insights into his identity and character. However, he revelation of Messiah is complex to say the least.
to be rejected by the elders and the chief priests and scribes…
The Amplified version of the Bible translates this section as follows… and be tested {and} disapproved {and} rejected by the elders and the chief priests and the scribes
I believe that the Amplified has translated trying to reach into the material contextually as well as literally. Messiah must continue to be tested. Here He is being tested by SOME (I concur with His Eminence) of the elders, chief priests and scribes. I would conclude that Yeshua was tested by some them and they disapproved of his Messiah ship based on preconceived notions and ideas. I believe that the following passages will bear this out in Tsefet’s censure. I concur with His Eminence based on the following thoughts. When we look at the historical data of the first century and the writings of the others who wrote applicable Mesorah we see that great numbers actually did believe that Yeshua was Messiah. It will be relative to this discussion which Messiah they came to believe in and why they believed in that Messiah.
and after three days rise again (קוֹם יָקוּם) – avnasth/nai\[1]
The Greek word anastemai is a word that is loaded with meaning. The Septuagint directly connects this word to our pericope through the LEH[2] Greek Lexicon – Shemot 26:30; to build, to rear up. I am sure that Mordechai was well aware of how his Pericope would fit into the scheme of the Triennial reading schedule. His sermon outline her builds upon the key idea of the Mishkan being raised along with key and varied components that represent various aspects of a persona. This idea goes even deeper when we look at the Hebrew words used by Delitzsch. The Hebrew word קוֹם - qûm bears the idea of rising as the text clearly indicates. And again, the word is connected to the raising of the Mishkan in Shemot 26:30. However, the word קוֹם is also associated with the word ~Aqm‘, m¹qôm which is a synonym for G-d’s Presence. We note this to demonstrate parallel only. However, the plot thickens, as we will see below. Here we also have an illusion to the center rod which is “lifted” or raised into place supporting the entire Mishkan.
And Tsefet took Him aside and trying to usurp his authority, censure his speech. (demonstrate his error)
The Greek text demonstrates the scene clearly. Tsefet takes Yeshua aside trying to usurp his authority. This is VERY inappropriate and demonstrates something a talmid NEVER does to his Master. Far be it for any Talmid to believe that he is greater than his teacher is. Tsefet not only tried to make himself Yeshua’ equal, he tried to usurp his authority. There may be an appropriate time and place to discuss personal opinions and views, however, it is never in view of other so as to appear to undermine the masters authority!
It seems almost humorous to read these words. Tsefet has received this monumental revelation concerning Messiah and now he is the authority. Because he is now the authority he can set (mistaken Yeshua) straight on his Messianic theology. I find it so ironic that the talmid thinks he should try to correct the Master. Again, the closed mind CANNOT receive truth because it is filled with erroneous materials.
But when He (Yeshua) had turned his back to Tsefet and looked on His disciples, He censured Tsefet’s speech, saying, Go behind Me, adversary!
What do we do with the yetzer? We turn away from its impulse. By turning away, we face it head on. Yeshua turned his back to Tsefet showing his disapproval of his actions.
Because (you are thinking only of yourself) your heart is not set on the things of G-d, but of the things of men.
Of mice or mud? This clearly teaches us that the yetzer is primarily focused on the things of men. I will address this more in-depth below.
Tsefet was no different from the multitudes of others who held preconceived notions of whom and what Messiah should be. The elders, chief priests and scribes misjudged Messiah. When we make this statement, we are not talking about ignorant men. These men represent the learned men of that generation. I believe that this pericope serves to demonstrate that Tsefet was stuck in the same mindset of his generation.
Was it “chance” (Pur – the cast of a lot) that Yeshua was the son of a man named Yoseph? (Purim is coming) In a single moment, Yeshua destroyed a lifetime of misconceptions. How does one deal with that? The elders, chief priests and the scribes might simply reject the notion that Yeshua was Messiah based on their misconceptions. Tsefet was not afforded this luxury. He was a Talmid of the Master. He must embrace truth. We are often called upon to abandon preconceived notions in favor of truth. Many of us who are trying to walk this new path can easily relate to Tsefet’s dilemma. Some seem to cope better than others do. However, Tsefet was a man who was true to his passion. He had to speak up.
Why do I offer my thoughts on the Seder in relation to Mordechai? I have ONLY offered these remarks for one purpose. I sent them initially to His Eminence so that he would have a review of my efforts. However, they served also to allow him the opportunity to correct me if I had erred in any way. Now, they are offered to our community so that I may be subject to the entire community’s corrections.
Tsefet needed correction. His blunder, if I may put it mildly served as a lesson for all the Talmidim. I am most certain that some of the others had similar thoughts. Likewise, I am sure that some of them may have sat back and let Tsefet take the brunt of the correction trying to project a “painted image” of surprise that Tsefet would do such a thing.
The Prophetic view of Messiah must be understood as a complete, whole picture. The Prophets saw Messiah as a whole. This means that they saw every aspect of his persona and character. However, interpreting that person is not the profession for the novice. In fact, I believe that the current pericope demonstrates this very fact. The matter of Messiah’s character was and remains a very difficult process to interpret. Tsefet like many of his contemporaries was looking for the political Messianic character that was Davidic in nature. After all, this is what they really needed, right? As is turns out Yeshua went out of his way not to appear as this type of Messiah. He demonstrates redundantly the Messianic character of his father’s namesake, Yoseph. Yeshua’ understanding of his Messianic mission comes from his understanding of the kingdom as we have stated before. He is not overly concerned with the political agenda’s of the nations. He is solely occupied with the Messianic Mission of establishing a Kingdom that is built upon the Mesorah. The dual role of Messiah is difficult to discern. It appears from the Nazarene Codicil that the major mindset of the Sages, Priests, Elders and general populace of Yisrael was that David would return and conquer the Romans. The TRUE followers of Yeshua have already conquered Rome in a matter of speaking. However, a great populace is still under Roman rule. Nevertheless, we know from documents of antiquity that the Son of Yoseph was also a Messianic concept of that period. Many scholars try to postpone the idea of the two appearances of Messiah until Talmudic times or later. The “Gabriel Revelation” as presented in the September/October 2008 issue of Biblical Archeological Review has demonstrated that the idea predated Yeshua by about 200 years. Therefore, the “Son of Ephraim” Ben Yoseph) was very alive during the first century. Yoseph Ben Yaakov was a prototypical Messiah. His suffering and rise to authority over all the known world by his wisdom is mirrored in Yeshua the “raysheet” of the Mesorah. However, we tend to look for what is most aesthetic. Tsefet and the leaders of His day were looking for a different system of relief. It seems so strange that when HaShem promised the outpouring of the Ruach Hakodesh that He said that the Torah (Mesorah) would be written on the hearts of His people. In a manner of speaking all of that may not have happened if Yisrael had not moved into Diaspora. Nevertheless, the Messianic Mission of Yeshua accomplished the will of G-d is a way that has brought the Kingdom to us who desire to be governed by the Torah and its Mesorah.
Levels of sanctity: Our Torah Seder opens with the curtains of the Mishkan. The curtains have a great amount of imagery associated with them. In simple terms, they represent levels of sanctity. These levels of sanctity are not only for the Mishkan. They are to teach us a powerful lesson about personal sanctity. Consequently, we cannot move beyond this level of interpretation in this exposition. However, this lesson fits our pericope perfectly. These levels of sanctity teach us that life is about mastering personal passions.
Whose Yetzer hara was being challenged here? Do not think that Yeshua did not have an inclination to serve himself and his personal desires. Nor should we think that the only time that he ever had to deal with that inclination was when he was driven into the wilderness (Mk. 1:12) . Testing and valleys are a part of the game.
G-d speaks in His Sanctuary: I will be glad, for those of the house of Israel will prevail; I will divide the spoil with the sons of Joseph who dwell in Shechem, and in the plain of Succoth I will measure the measure and divide the booty. (Yeshayhu 60:8 Targum Yonatan)
Tehillim 84:5-7 5 Blessed (happy, fortunate, to be envied) is the man whose strength is in You, in whose heart are the highways to Zion. 6 Passing through the Valley of Weeping (Baca), they make it a place of springs; the early rain also fills [the pools] with blessings. 7 They go from strength to strength [increasing in victorious power]; each of them appears before G-d in Tzion.(AMP)
Notice that we may be forced to “PASS THROUGH” these difficult places but we do NOT have to remain there permanently. Likewise, notice the occupation we are to be involved in while there. WE are to make these difficult places an oasis for those who have to pass through these same valleys. We know that struggle is only the time that we spend between the “strengths.”
An old cliché tells us “what does not kill us makes us stronger.” There is a great truth in this cliché. Abraham suffered several (ten) trials in which his “yetzer hara” was given opportunity to demonstrate itself. Likewise, Yoseph was subjected to many such tests and trial. When G-d said “let us make man in our image” the Sages suggest that the simplest interpretation is that G-d was speaking to the earth.[3] This being the case man was made partly of dirt and partly of G-d. As a result, he has a propensity for dirt. However, the Master, Yeshua demonstrated unflinching control over the evil nature of that dirt. Yet we are shown a picture of a Zealot who struggles with his mud. It seems plausible to believe that both Yeshua and Tsefet were being challenged. I am sure that Tsefet was thinking something like; it sure would be nice if Yeshua had been the Son of David rather than the Son of Yoseph. Tsefet did not want to be squeezed out of his comfort zone. However, pressure always reveals the true character of an object. I often ask the question, what do you get when you squeeze an orange? The answer is orange juice. The point is that we can always tell how far we have come in this process of transformation when we pressured. Our true character will ALWAYS shine. Tsefet is in the process of refinement. The real question for us from this pericope is who is in control? Me or my monster?
When G-d created the earth He created all the animals before He created mankind. The crown of His creation was Adam. One of the most problematic passages in the Chumash is Bereshit 1:26. This passage reads… ” And G-d said, Let Us make man in Our image, after Our likeness.” Volumes have been written on this passage. Theologians have offered their butchery of this passage trying to promote and support their theologies. This text has been well butchered by the best of the butchers. In keeping with the P’shat of this verse, I believe there is a very simple way to interpret this verse. Ramban who has a propensity for the Remez interpretation of the text offers a P’shat solution. This solution goes as follows. When G-d created the earth, He endowed it with certain abilities to produce and reproduce. However, when G-d wishes to make Adam he takes some of that earth and H forms man into an image. ” And G-d said, Let Us make man in Our image, after Our likeness.” The partner in creation need not be angels, deities or any other abstract characters. The partner in man’s creation was the earth itself. Consequently, man is part earth. The remainder is the Breath of G-d. (Bereshit 2:7) One might describe man as dirt over breath. Alternatively, dirt on the outside and G-d’s breath (presence) on the inside. On the other hand, we might follow the analogy of the Mishkan and say animal on the outside and G-d on the inside.
The Torah Seder opens with the colors that would be used in the ten (curious number)curtains. It further describes that fact that five curtains (the Torah) would be coupled one to another. Moreover, these five will be attached or coupled to the other five, telling us that there are two Torahs. Verse nine of the Yonatan tells us that the second Torah is the Mishnah which contains six orders. However, we shall abstain from the more mystical interpretations and look for something a bit more p’shat. In the seventh verse, we are told that the curtains will be made of goat’s skin or hair. Well, I do not ever remember seeing blue, purple or a red (well almost red) goat.
Logic tells us, as does verse 14 that the goat’s skin and hair has to be dyed. I believe that this fits our Mordechai Pericope well coupling this Pericope together with the Torah Seder is yet another way.
Likewise, we see that the skin of the goat had to be processed. It could not be used in its raw state. Her we have a picture of the yetzer. The mitzvot and Torot are a means for refining ones character. Again, we see that the Master has refined his yetzer and uses its ambition in the positive constructive was of a tzadik. His selfless acts would elevate a great number of fallen people. However, Tsefet (please do not think me his critique – I should dream to be so high) is still in the refinement stage.
When I was a young lad, we used to sing a song that went something like this. “It took Him (G-d) just a week to make the moon and stars and earth and sky Jupiter and Mars, but he’s still working on me.” Refinement means first becoming a Korban. Then it means that the hide must be scraped until there is only usable material. I am sure that you get the picture.
As I said above, this Pericope comes on the heels of Shabbat Shekelim. In this shir we learned that it required two Israelites joining together to make this mitzvah work. I believe that we can use similar logic here. One goat was not enough to make a Mishkan. I would like to reiterate the statement I made a couple of weeks ago.
The Ramban, of blessed memory, suggests that the literal meaning of vD”q.mi is that of all the sacred vessels being one entity before HaShem.[4] The spiritual house of HaShem is stone upon stone, a spiritual composition. All of the sacred vessels were requisite for Divine service. The collection of vessels makes a single entity. Moshe is told to make the Mishkan after the “pattern” that he sees in the mount. The Hebrew text uses the word tynIb.T; tabnith – pattern. Most patterns have multiple parts. Therefore, the stones are plural. Are we the pieces of the whole the vessels making the entity of a heavenly house?
The collections of refined animals make one Mishkan.
I believe there is a great deal more to discuss concerning this Torah Seder and its relation to Mordechai. However, for the sake of brevity I have offered these few thoughts from as much a P’shat perspective as I could.
[1] of a building rise, be put up, of the body as a temple erect, put up (Mk 14.58); (Freiburg Greek Lexicon) IThis word is used in LXX Ex 26,30; to build, to rear up
[2] (Lust-Eynikel-Hauspie) This is a lexicon of the Greek in the Septuagint (LXX) and as such is useful for studying LXX usage. In addition, it may be helpful in studying quotes from the Old Testament in the New Testament as many of these appear to be LXX-based.
[3] see Ramban Gen 1:28
[4] The Torah: with Ramban’s Commentary translated annotated and elucidated, Artscroll, pg 187-188
D’varim 6:4-9 4 ¶ “Hear, O Israel! The L-RD is our God, the L-RD is one! 5 “You shall love the L-RD your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your might. 6 “These words, which I am commanding you today, shall be on your heart. 7 You shall teach them diligently to your sons and shall talk of them when you sit in your house and when you walk by the way and when you lie down and when you rise up. 8 “You shall bind them as a sign on your hand and they shall be as frontals on your forehead. 9 “You shall write them on the doorposts of your house and on your gates.
Berachot 1:3 The House of Shammai say, “In the evening everyone should recline in order to recite [the Shema] and in the morning they should stand, “as it says [in the passage of the Shema], When you lie down and when you rise (Dt. 6:7).” But the House of Hillel say, “Everyone may recite according to his own manner [either reclining or standing], “as it says, And as you walk by the way (ibid.).” If it is so [that one may recite however he wishes] why does [the verse] say, When you lie down and when you rise? [It means you must recite the Shema] at the hour that people lie down [night] and at the hour that people rise [in the morning]. Said R. Tarfon, “I was coming along the road [in the evening] and reclined to recite the Shema as required by the House of Shammai. And [in doing so] I placed myself in danger of [being attacked by] bandits.” They said to him, “You are yourself responsible [for what might have befallen you], for you violated the words of the House of Hillel.”
We have already looked at the logic of Hillel in our last post. In this post, I would like to take things to the next level of our understanding in the Mesorah of Mark.
The logic of the Mishnah is often over looked or not presented in Homiletics or by its Theologians. Why is this? As I stated before many have little or no knowledge of the logical and Hermeneutic system used to study the Torah or the logic used to develop the halachic database called the Mishnah.
I also related that Yeshua followed the practice of reciting the Shema just as the Mishnah demonstrated.
Berachot 1:2 From what time do they recite the Shema in the morning? From the hour that one can distinguish between [the colors] blue and white. R. Eliezer says, “Between blue and green.” And one must complete it before sunrise. R. Joshua says, “Before the third hour. “For it is the practice of royalty to rise [at] the third hour. [Thus we deem the third hour still to be 'morning.']” One who recites later than this [i.e., the third hour] has not transgressed [by reciting a blessing at the wrong time, for he is viewed simply] as one who recites from the Torah.[1]
Yeshua’ devotion to halachic practice is seldom addressed or presented in Homilies of Theological lecture. This is because a halachic Yeshua demands something beyond what the lackadaisically minded want to hear. Likewise, it does not sell well at the bookstore.
Likewise, Yeshua’ devotion to Rabbinic Hermeneutic is farther from the Homilies of those same theologians. These practices are glossed over or ignored. Today there are a growing number of commentaries on the life of Yeshua placed on the bookshelves of the Christian bookstore. Where are the books that demonstrate Yeshua as a Halachacialy observant Jewish Orthodox Rabbi? I looked for one the other day. I also looked for a Hebrew Bible. When I was asked if I could be helped, I replied I was looking for a Hebrew Bible. (I did not believe that I would find the other book) The attendant walked over to the shelf I had been browsing for several minutes and picked up a Bible. It was a Greek Bible. I handed the Bible back to him saying this is a Greek Bible. I guess he did not know the difference.
Traditional practice at the dinner table in the western world is to say “Grace” before the meal. Some blessing is invoked to “bless the food.” This was NEVER the Biblical model. The Bible clearly says that “Grace” if we can use this term, is to be said when we have eaten and are satiated.
Deuteronomy 8:10 10 “When you have eaten and are satisfied, you shall bless the L-RD your G-d for the good land which He has given you.
However, Judaism does have several B’racha (blessings) that are said before partaking of various foods. However, it should be noted that the Jew NEVER blesses the “food.” He ALWAYS blessed G-d for the food. An Orthodox Jew would never put anything in his mouth that was not kosher. The western practice of saying “Grace” before the meal may have stemmed from the practice of saying the Brachot over particular foods. Nonetheless, the western practice has circumvented the “Grace” after the meal. (Birkat haMazon)
My point here is not to argue the origins of the western practice. My point is that we are not directly told to say any kind of blessing before eating specific foods.
Nonetheless, the Rabbis of antiquity determined logically that we should make a B’racha before partaking certain foods. This addendum to the Torah’s mentioned “grace” was derived from hermeneutic practice called “Kal va komer.” The logic says that since we are obligated to say a B’racha after eating food we should say a B’racha before eating as well. Actually, this is only good common sense and did not really need much of a hermeneutic to establish this halachic practice. If the western practice were modified just a little, it would be closer to Orthodox Jewish practice, or following the practices that Yeshua followed. However, the Birkat haMazon would still be required after the meal per the Biblical mandate mentioned above.
I have eluded to Yeshua’ practice more than once. How did Yeshua react to this Rabbinic invention, logic and hermeneutic?
Mark 6:41 41 And He took the five loaves and the two fish, and looking up toward heaven, He blessed the food and broke the loaves and He kept giving them to the disciples to set before them; and He divided up the two fish among them all.
I have cited from P’shat to remain faithful to the Mesorah of Mark. Likewise, I have struck out the italicized text. Any first grade theologian knows that the italicized text of the Bible means that it was added by translators to try to clarify the (or make their own point) the text.
The text needs no clarification or additional words to help us understand what Yeshua was doing. He looked up, made the appropriate B’racha and then broke the bread. He did NOT bless BREAD! He DID BLESS G-d!
However, we have noted that this was Rabbinicaly derived and not directly Biblical. If this practice of saying a B’racha before eating food was wrong Yeshua would have simply broken the bread, passed it out and began eating. And or, directly addressed the practice telling us that it was inappropriate. Conversely, we actually have Yeshua’ stamp of approval on this practice in the above cited verse.
Mark 12:28-31 28 ¶ And coming up one of the scribes heard them reasoning, knowing that He had answered them well, he asked Him, Which is the first commandment of all? 29 And Yeshua answered him, The first of all the mitzvot is, “Hear, O Israel, the L-RD our G-d is one L-RD; 30 and you shall love the L-RD your G-d with all your heart, and with all your soul, and with all your mind, and with all your strength.” This is the first commandment. 31 And the second is like this: You shall love your neighbor as yourself. There is no other commandment greater than these.
We cited this passage in the previous article. The above-cited verse tells us that Yeshua believed that the Shema was the first commandment (Mitzvah). This idea needs a bit of clarification. I shall be as brief as possible here.
The Greek text uses the word “protos” for the “first” mitzvah. There are several words for “first” in Greek. For example, the Greek word “arche” mean first in priority. The word “protos” builds upon the idea of being the first thing we do as a priority and a numerical since. It may be best understood as something in front of another. Or, that which is primary. The Hebrew text fir this verse would read (הָרִאשׁנָה לְכָל־הַמִּצְוֹת׃) harishonah hamitzvot. Therefore, we can see that the Shem is first and primary in several ways. Let’s see if we can put this all together in a way that is simplifies out point.
When we look at the Mishnah the first Order is called “Zeraim” (Seeds – Agriculture). There are six orders to the Mishnah. The subsections to each “Order” is called a “Tractate.” The first “Tractate” of Seder (Order) Zeraim is called “Berachot.” The divisions of each tractate are normally called chapters. Each passage of a Tractate is called a “Mishnah.” The first Mishnah opens with the phrase, “From what time may they recite the Shema in the evening?”
This is all very perplexing. The reason it is so perplexing is that we have the Shema’s recital at the beginning of an Oder on Agriculture. It is not until the sixth chapter that we have any connection to agriculture. In this chapter, we have the above mentioned Berachot. (Blessings for various foods)
Why is the Shema in the opening Tractate of the Mishnah.
Rabbinic logic says that logic needs no scripture. In other words we do not need Scripture, Mishnah or otherwise to tell us logical truths. However, the Scripture and Mishnah are filled with good simple logic. Take for an example “You will not steal.” While we are commanded not to steal our neighbor’s possessions, it is simple common sense. To quote a Mishnah we cite Avot 1:7. Nittai the Arbelite says, “Keep away from a bad neighbor.” “And don’t get involved with a wicked man.” “And don’t give up hope of retribution.” This is really only good common sense. We could cite many such example, however I believe this will suffice.
When Yeshua was questioned by the Scribe we are usually told that there is some sort of argument taking place. However, looking at the verses closely we see a sincere interchange taking place. The Sofer (Scribe) wanted a discussion with someone of sensible intelligence. Their interchange answers a question concerning Yeshua’ logic as well as a look into the logic of the Mishnah.
Mark 12:32-34 32 The scribe said to Him, “Right, Rabbi; You have truly stated that HE IS ONE, AND THERE IS NO ONE ELSE BESIDES HIM; 33 AND TO LOVE HIM WITH ALL THE HEART AND WITH ALL THE UNDERSTANDING AND WITH ALL THE STRENGTH, AND TO LOVE ONE’S NEIGHBOR AS HIMSELF, is much more than all burnt offerings and sacrifices.” 34 When Yeshua saw that he had answered logically, (my interpretation) He said to him, “You are not far from the kingdom of G-d.” After that, no one would venture to ask Him any more questions.
Before we comment on these verses we would like to note… “After that, no one would venture to ask Him any more questions.” Why does no one ask any questions after this answer? I believe that Yeshua demonstrates a logic that many had been searching for. They found this logic in a walking Mishnah, Yeshua.
The Sofer gives a profound answer. This answer is often misinterpreted. It is often believed that Yeshua was saying that the sacrifices and offering were of no value. However, it is not Yeshua who makes this statement. These are the words of the Sofer. Likewise, the Sofer was not suggesting the annulment of the offerings and sacrifices. His saying describes ideal life. Actually the key to this response is in Yeshua’ reply. “You are not far from the kingdom of G-d.” Why does Yeshua make this statement?
Mark1:14-15 Now after Yochanan was arrested and put in prison, Yeshuah came into Galilee, proclaiming the good news (the Masorot – the Traditions) of the kingdom (governance) of G-d [through the Hakhamim and Bate Din as opposed to human kings], 15. And saying, The [appointed period of] time is fulfilled (completed), and the kingdom (governance) of God [through Hakhamim and Bate Din] is at hand; repent (have a change of mind and return to Torah wisdom) and faithfully obey the Masorah (Traditions/Oral Law).
I offer this translation of Mordechai (Mark) 1:14-15 to make this point. This verse was translated by His Eminence Rabbi Dr. Yoseph be Haggi. What is the coming Kingdom? The Kingdom is the governance of G-d by the Mesorah – Oral Tradition. The core of this Mesorah would be the Mishnah. Personally, I am convinced that the core of this governance would be through the Mesorah of Yeshua as presented by Mordechai. The Sofer was about to experience the Kingdom as we have it described. Likewise, I believe that the Sofer understood exactly what Yeshua was saying.
Yeshua’ logic is expressed in harmony with the Mishnah in the following way. The beginning of the Biblical day has always been the evening as the Shema itself reports. “When you lie down and when you rise up.” Therefore, Yeshua logically deducts that the first thing to do during the day (evening) is to recite the Shema. However, as the Mishnah states the age-old question (I believe that question was posed LONG before the time of Yeshua) from what time in the evening (the beginning or first part of the day) may we recite the Shema?
What is the most important act of the day? According to Yeshua’s Mishnah, the Shema. When do we recite it? When the day begins. When does the day begin? Just after the Cohanim eat the terumah.
This Mishnah follows Yeshua’ logic. The Mishnah disregarded order (Agriculture) and started with the same logic Yeshua presented to the Soferim. Whose logic does the Mishnah follow?
More to come………
[1] Jacob Neusner, The Mishnah A New Translation, (New Haven & London: Yale University Press) 1988.
The Mishnah of Hillel
Kir’at Shema
D’varim 6:4-9 4 ¶ “Hear, O Israel! The L-RD is our God, the L-RD is one! 5 “You shall love the L-RD your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your might. 6 “These words, which I am commanding you today, shall be on your heart. 7 You shall teach them diligently to your sons and shall talk of them when you sit in your house and when you walk by the way and when you lie down and when you rise up. 8 “You shall bind them as a sign on your hand and they shall be as frontals on your forehead. 9 “You shall write them on the doorposts of your house and on your gates.
Berachot 1:3 The House of Shammai say, “In the evening everyone should recline in order to recite [the Shema] and in the morning they should stand, “as it says [in the passage of the Shema], When you lie down and when you rise (Dt. 6:7).” But the House of Hillel say, “Everyone may recite according to his own manner [either reclining or standing], “as it says, And as you walk by the way (ibid.).” If it is so [that one may recite however he wishes] why does [the verse] say, When you lie down and when you rise? [It means you must recite the Shema] at the hour that people lie down [night] and at the hour that people rise [in the morning]. Said R. Tarfon, “I was coming along the road [in the evening] and reclined to recite the Shema as required by the House of Shammai. And [in doing so] I placed myself in danger of [being attacked by] bandits.” They said to him, “You are yourself responsible [for what might have befallen you], for you violated the words of the House of Hillel.”
Hillel’s Logic
The Mishnah weighs Hillel’s thoughts and logic against the logic of Shammai. Because the text of the scripture says when you lie down and when you rise up Shammi has deduced that Kiriat Shema should be said either lying of standing. Hillel furthers the logic of the text by saying when “you walk by the way.” This logic demonstrates that fact that one may need to recite the Shem. Therefore, one recited the Shema in the manner that is appropriate for him. Hillel’s logic continues with a hermeneutic on the text. One should recite the Shema at the appropriate time. The logic demonstrated here by Hillel is consistent with his seven rules of hermeneutic. The logic is exemplified in the case of Rabbi Tarfon in the related Mishnah to demonstrate the idea of good common logic and that a person is not entitled to endanger himself for the sake of Rabbinic rulings. However, we must also note that this in no way an excuse to abandon the wisdom of the Chazzal[1] (Sages of blessed memory). The Chazzal were not trying to make life a bitter experience by imposing and interpreting halachah. Their goal was to teach the Jewish people how to live the Torah on an everyday basis. The Torah is a VERY complex book. The text of the Torah is filled with complexities. Very few (outside of Orthodox Judaism) really know how to interpret the text according to the Hermeneutic rules. There are those “Theologians” who have their hermeneutic practices. However, few if any really match the hermeneutics of Hillel or any of the other hermeneutic systems of the Chazzal. I am surprised tho see how liberal most Theologians are with their interpretations of the Torah given the fact that Yeshua subscribed to the teaching of Hillel. My point here is that these theologians should also subscribe to the Hermeneutic practices of Hillel like our Majesty Yeshua haMashiach. Likewise, I am surprised at the Karite mentality that has permeated many communities that believe that Yeshua was an Orthodox Jewish Rabbi. Actually, I believe that this is an oxymoron. How can you believe that Yeshua was an Orthodox Jewish Rabbi and then abandon the Teachings and Hermeneutics of the Mishnah? Why do I include the entire Mishnah? I include the entire Mishnah because the stringent rules of Shammai have been abandoned in favor of the rulings of Hillel. This does not make the entire Mishnah a Hillelite document per se. However, the rulings and practices are VERY Hillelite so to speak. Therefore, we need to more clearly re-investigate the Mishnah for appropriate conduct according to the School of Hillel, who was the master of our Master Yeshua.
Next of Kin
Yeshua and the Mikveh
Mark 1:9-11. And it came to pass in those days, Yeshuah came from Nazareth of Galilee, and was immersed by Yochanan the Immerser at the Yarden (Jordan river); 10. And immediately coming up from the water, he saw the heavens dividing, and the Spirit as a dove coming down upon him; 11. and a Bat Qol (daughter of a voice) came out of the heavens [saying] (Psalm 2:7 & Isaiah 42:1), “You are My son, My elect in whom My soul delights.”
This problem has bothered me for the longest time. Only recently have I concluded its meaning and purpose. Before we can fully understand the meaning of this event we need a bit of background information.
Volumes have been written about the final verse in our pericope of Mark. (Mk 8:30) Why would Yeshua tell his Talmidim to keep silent concerning his being Messiah? The other writers who have offered different levels of perspective on Yeshua’ life have recorded this event as well. However, I believe that we have sufficient information in the p’shat of Mordechai to answer this question. Below I offer some possible answers to the problem. I will offer the opinions of other scholars and then my opinion in conclusion.
It is obvious that Yeshua is in a foreign environment as we have already stated. Perhaps Yeshua does not want his Talmidim broadcasting the revelation of Messiah-ship in this foreign environment. The thought goes that Yeshua did not want this “secret” broadcast because there may be a veiled anti-Semitism in this foreign location. However, in my mind this is not really a good answer. Though plausible, I believe that there is a better answer in the history of his life as recorded by Mordechai.
Others suggest that Yeshua was really trying to tell his Talmidim to tell everyone that he was Messiah in some sort of antithetical way. By telling his Talmidim not to tell, he knew that they would tell everyone. Again, while this may be plausible I do not think this is the real crux of the story.
Other scholars go so far as to suggest that this was never really a part of the original story. It was added later to solve some literary problem. Again, I do not buy this thesis. When scholars start hacking up text at their whim they can make any story they like. They can cut and paste until they have the story they want to tell. Beware of the hackers!
There are other examples in the Mesorah of Mordechai where Yeshua follows the same practice. (see 1:34; 7:36; 8:26) While I believe that Mordecahi and his master T’sfet are far more ingenious than we ever gave them credit for, I believe the answer is really quite simple. Why don’t we let Yeshua simply be who he really is? He is a chakham and tzadik. A real chakham and tzadik does not need to advertize his intelligence and wisdom. If you are a real chakham, you do not have to tell anyone. They know it instinctively when they hear you speak. I have translated the relative verse as follows. “And to show his honor he asked them to tell no one about Him.” The Greek word “epitimao” contains the following dictionary trace from the Liddel Scott, which defines the classic Greek, and the Thayer, which is one of the better lexicons of our day.
[Liddell Scott] evpitima,w
Midrashim – with Dr. Walter Oakley Tuesdays on ARBA4 / Torah Focus
This program is aired only in audio. This is the Next Lesson in te Series of Mesorah of Mark. Due to time constraints and file size we are only able to air this file in audio. However, we have posted the appropriate study guide for viewing while auditing this program. A DVD is available for purchase. If you wish to purchase the DVD of this program please contact us through the Torah Focus Website.
Download the Study guide through the E-book file below
The Simple Gospel?Mark always catches the opposition for being the ignorant and simple. However, the fact that Mark laid the foundation for all the succeeding Gospels is seldom conceded. Where did Mark gat all of his wisdom? Here is another one of those oxymorons. Mark turns out to be the scribe of Peter. There again, saying that Mark was Peter’s scribe causes us to think that we should dismiss this book and move on to bigger and better things. However, bigger is not always better. Our world is preoccupied with fast and easy. Well, here you are. Mark is the fast and easy Gospel. On the other hand, is it?
What complexities lay behind the simple text?
We have begun our series labeled the “Mesorah of Mark.” Why have we used this title? Why did we deviate from “Gospel”?
We have selected the title Mesorah because the Hebrew word “Mesorah” means tradition. When most readers read this, they will think that I am referring to the “tradition” that was passed down concerning Yeshua. Quite the reverse, this is not my point. When I refer to “Mesorah”, I am using the genuine Hebraic thought concerning Mesorah.
This being the case, Mark’s book would open with these words. “The beginning of the Mesorah of Yeshua haMashiach son of the judge.” Well, this needs a bit of clarification.
First, the Hebrew word “beginning” used by Mark is “raysheet.” The Hebrew word “raysheet” means beginning. However, it does not mean first in an order of events. This is the case with the Hebrew phrase “braysheet,” “in the beginning” as recorded in the book of Genesis. The Hebrew word “raysheet” means the chief or most important part of something. In other words, Yeshua is the choicest or chief part of the Masorah i.e. Oral Law. This ought to catch some opposition. Many of Yeshua’ followers detest this word and idea.
Before we detest too much maybe, we should look a little deeper. How so? What I am saying here is that Yeshua is the foundation for all of the Oral Law. John suggested that if we loved Yeshua we would keep his commandments (14:15). This being true, we should want to know his commandments. I have heard the old cliché that this means love your neighbor ect. I do not buy this load of bunk. Why? Because Yeshua said far more than just love G-d and neighbor. A life and ministry as great as his is insulted by such a naive remark. I am sure that other will concur that we have far greater truths to learn.
In the coming weeks we will delve into the mystery of Mark, the depth of Peter’s teaching and the power of a single life.
Midrashim – with Dr. Walter Oakley
Tuesdays on ARBA4 / Torah Focus
In this program we begin to look more deeply at the idea of what “Tradition” means in realtion to who and what Yeshua is.
Study Notes available in the Ebook file below.
Midrashim – with Dr. Walter Oakley
Tuesdays on ARBA4 / Torah Focus
This program begins to define “Tradition.” In the next few weeks we will look at the true meaning of “tradition and how it relates to our study and the Book of Mark.
Study Notes available in the Ebook file below.
