Noahide Laws-A Historical and Theological Exploration Part 1

by | Dec 21, 2024 | Podcasts

by Rod Thomas | The Messianic Torah Observer

Greetings, saints of the Most High! Welcome to another installment of the Messianic Torah Observer. Today, we delve into the fascinating topic of the Noahide Laws, exploring their origins, development, and implications for both Jews and Gentiles.

Introduction to Noahide Laws

The concept of Noahide Laws originates from Rabbinic Judaism and its literature, particularly the Talmud. These laws were developed by the Talmudists between the 4th and 6th centuries CE, although hints of these precepts existed even earlier.

The Misinformation

Modern Orthodox Judaism teaches that non-Jews who keep the seven Noahide Laws will be granted a place in the world to come. However, this principle is not found in scripture but was developed during the Mishnaic and Talmudic eras. The Mishnah and the Talmud, which house Jewish oral law and commentary, played a significant role in shaping these laws.

The Jerusalem Council’s Edict

The Jerusalem Council’s edict to Gentile believers was not based on the Noahide Laws but on established Jewish halachah for resident aliens living among Jews. Resident aliens were Gentiles who lived and worked among Jews and adhered to community standards without converting to Judaism.

God Fearers

The term “God Fearers” refers to Gentiles who feared Yehovah and walked according to Torah, not necessarily those who kept the Noahide Laws. The earliest reference to the Noahide Laws is found in Tosefta Avoda Zara 8.4, part of the Mishnah, which outlines seven requirements for the children of Noah.

Expansion and Rabbinic Debates

Over time, the Noahide Laws expanded to include additional prohibitions, reflecting the complexities of life and the need for more comprehensive guidelines. Rabbinic debates on the Noahide Laws continued for centuries, focusing on their application and the distinction between Jews and Gentiles.

The Book of Jubilees

The Book of Jubilees suggests that Noah and his descendants were given the whole of Torah, challenging the idea that the Noahide Laws were separate from Torah. This perspective argues that the laws passed down to Noah were, in fact, the whole of Torah, reserved for the children of the covenant.

Conclusion

The Noahide Laws have a complex and debated history within Rabbinic Judaism. They were developed to create a distinction between Jews and Gentiles and to provide guidelines for Gentiles living among Jewish communities. Understanding these laws helps us appreciate the historical and theological context in which they were developed.

 

From Noah to Nations: Unveiling the Prophetic Journey — Thoughts and Reflections on Torah Reading 8

by | Dec 13, 2024 | Podcasts

by Rod Thomas | The Messianic Torah Observer

In this Torah Reading Discussion, “From Noah to Nations-Unveiling the Prophetic Journey-Thoughts and Reflections on Torah Reading 8,” we delve into the profound insights of Torah Reading 8. This study explores Genesis 9.18-10.32, Isaiah 49.1-13, and Revelation 5.1-14, highlighting pivotal moments in human history and the prophetic implications of Noah’s sons.

Noah’s sons, Shem, Ham, and Japheth, played crucial roles in restarting the human population after the flood. Their actions set the course for nations and influenced the flow of history. The paper examines the significance of Noah’s vineyard, his subsequent intoxication, and the actions of his sons, particularly Ham’s transgression and its consequences. We also explore the prophetic blessings and curses pronounced by Noah, which have far-reaching implications for the descendants of Shem, Ham, and Japheth.

The haftarah reading from Isaiah 49.1-13 and the apostolic reading from Revelation 5.1-14 provide a broader context, revealing the Plan of Salvation, Redemption, and Restoration that Yehovah would work through Shem. This includes the prophetic vision of Yehovah’s presence dwelling with the descendants of Shem and the ultimate redemption and restoration of Israel.

Please check out the audio as we go into many historical, spiritual, and halachic areas that will enhance your walk in Messiah. Shabbat Shalom beloved by the Most High Elohim.

Reference Post: Marring the Image of the Creator Yehovah Through Rebelliousness: Thoughts and Reflections on Torah Reading 4.

From Flood to Faith: The Enduring Promise of the Noahic Covenant — Thoughts and Reflections on Torah Reading 7

by | Dec 6, 2024 | Blog, Podcasts

by Rod Thomas | From Flood to Faith: The Enduring Promise of the Noahic Covenant-Thoughts and Reflections on Torah Reading 7

The Noahic Covenant: Humanity’s Path to Redemption

Greetings, saints of the Most High. Welcome to another installment of the Messianic Torah Observer. I’m Rod Thomas, coming to you on a beautiful Shabbat in the DFW area. I hope this message finds you and your loved ones well and blessed.

Today, we delve into the Noahic Covenant, the second rung on Yehovah’s ladder leading to our redemption. This covenant, established after the Great Flood, is foundational to our understanding of redemption and renewal.

Our Torah Reading for this week is contained in Genesis 8.15-9.17, with the haftarah reading to be found in Isaiah 42.7-21, and the apostolic in 2 Timothy 2.8-19. I’ve chosen to entitle this post: “From Flood to Faith—The Enduring Promise of the Noahic Covenant – My Thoughts and Reflections on Torah Reading 7.”

Key Concepts:

  1. Covenant (Brit): Yehovah’s plan to redeem humanity.
  2. Renewal: The command to repopulate the Earth and renew the original Edenic/Adamic Covenant.
  3. Burnt Offerings: Noah’s offerings on a rebuilt altar, leading Yehovah to resolve never to curse the ground or destroy all living creatures again.

Yehovah acknowledges humanity’s inherent evil but blesses Noah and his sons, reasserting human dominion over creation and lifting the prohibition against consuming animals for food. However, the consumption of blood and murder are strictly prohibited, with severe consequences for violators.

The Noahic Covenant is a unilateral covenant, with Yehovah doing the heavy lifting to restore the broken relationship between Him and humanity. This covenant lays the groundwork for humanity to develop a “yetzer tov” (good inclination) and fulfill its purpose as Yehovah’s image bearers on Earth.

Significance of the Covenant:

  • Unconditional Blessings: Despite humanity’s shortcomings, Yehovah honors His covenant promises, symbolized by the rainbow.
  • Foundation for Redemption: The Noahic Covenant is crucial for humanity’s full redemption, reaffirming our inherent value as Yehovah’s imagers and paving the way for future covenants.

In conclusion, the Noahic Covenant is a testament to Yehovah’s grace and commitment to humanity’s redemption. As we reflect on this covenant, let us strive to overcome our “yetzer ra” (evil inclination) and walk in righteousness, fulfilling our purpose as Yehovah’s image bearers.

Shabbat Shalom.

 

Faithfully submitted,

 

Rod Thomas, The Messianic Torah Observer

 

Offering Unblemished Animal Sacrifices – Idolatry and Paganism Warrants Capital Punishment – God’s Choice of King to Reign Over Us-Thoughts & Reflections on Torah Reading 139

by | Jul 5, 2024 | ,

This is the 139th Reading of our 3-year Torah Reading cycle that is found in Deuteronomy/Devarim 17:1-20. It is a continuation of Reading 138 (the previous week's reading). I've entitled this teaching: "Offering Unblemished Animal Sacrifices-Idolatry and Paganism...

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Why Aren’t We Keeping the Feast of Rosh Chodesh-Thoughts and Reflections on the Torah Reading for the 9th Rosh Chodesh

by | Dec 2, 2024 | Blog, Podcasts

by Rod Thomas | The Messianic Torah Observer

Greetings, Saints of the Most High!

Welcome to another installment of the Messianic Torah Observer. I’m Rod Thomas, coming to you on a crisp fall afternoon in DFW. Thank you for taking the time to fellowship with me. I hope this post finds you and your loved ones well and blessed.

Today’s Date and Significance

As I publish this, it’s the 29th day of the 8th biblical month, which translates to Monday, December 2nd, 2024. We are just a few hours away from the start of the 9th biblical month. The 9th renewed moon was sighted in Yisra’el, so we will begin the 9th month at sundown this evening.

Torah Reading for Rosh Chodesh

Our Torah reading for today is from Numbers 28:1-15, focusing on verses 11-15. Yah, through Moshe, instructs the Sons of Yisra’el to present offerings made by fire at the beginning of each month. These offerings are a fragrant appeasement to Yah and are to be done at their appointed times.

Key Concepts

  • Ram (a-yil): Symbolizes a ruler or mighty one.
  • Gift (min-ha(h)): Represents veneration, thanksgiving, and homage.
  • Sacrifice (o-la(h)): Refers to offerings wholly burnt upon the altar.
  • Chodesh: Refers to the renewed moon.
  • Sin (hat-ta’t): For expiation and purification.
  • Libation (ne-sek): A drink offering.

The Importance of Rosh Chodesh

Rosh Chodesh, or the “head of the month,” is a significant day on Yah’s calendar. It involves blowing shofars, offering sacrifices, and conducting worship services. Despite the absence of a functioning temple, the day remains relevant and sacred. We now offer sacrifices of praise, service, and gifts in accordance with the Holy Spirit’s leading.

Observing Rosh Chodesh Today

Many Messianic and Jewish congregations observe Rosh Chodesh with services and meals. Yah has declared that Rosh Chodesh will be a mandated set-apart day in the Kingdom Age (Isaiah 66:23).

Encouragement to Observe Rosh Chodesh

I encourage you to prayerfully consider observing Rosh Chodesh each month. Hilary and I welcome each Rosh Chodesh with the blowing of shofars, special meals, and worship services. Let us keep this day with joy, focusing on Yeshua as our redeemer and soon-coming King.

Rosh Chodesh Tov, beloved of Yeshua Messiah. Take care.

 

Offering Unblemished Animal Sacrifices – Idolatry and Paganism Warrants Capital Punishment – God’s Choice of King to Reign Over Us-Thoughts & Reflections on Torah Reading 139

by | Jul 5, 2024 | ,

This is the 139th Reading of our 3-year Torah Reading cycle that is found in Deuteronomy/Devarim 17:1-20. It is a continuation of Reading 138 (the previous week's reading). I've entitled this teaching: "Offering Unblemished Animal Sacrifices-Idolatry and Paganism...

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And God Remembered Noah — Thoughts & Reflections on Torah Reading 6 — Reboot

by | Nov 29, 2024 | Blog, Podcasts

by Rod Thomas | The Messianic Torah Observer

And God Remembered Noah

 

This week’s Torah reading, “And God Remembered Noah,” is from Genesis 8:1-14, the 6th Parashah in our 3-Year Torah Reading Cycle.

 

The Power of the Ruach

 

In Genesis 8:1, Elohim remembered Noah and sent a wind (ruach) over the earth, causing the waters to subside. The term “ruach” is also used for the Holy Spirit, symbolizing Yah’s power to bring order out of chaos, as seen in Genesis 1:2 and Exodus 14:21.

 

The Great Flood: Global or Regional?

 

Debates continue over whether the Great Flood was global or regional. Genesis 7:17-24 describes a flood covering the earth for 40 days, extinguishing all life except Noah’s family. Some believe the flood caused the supercontinent Pangea to split into today’s continents. Artifacts and geological evidence support a global flood.

 

Noah’s Ark: Fact or Fiction?

 

In the 1980s, Ron Wyatt claimed to have found Noah’s Ark in Eastern Turkey. Despite skepticism, his findings involved the Turkish government and various scientists. Wyatt’s organization continues to research this discovery.

 

The Covenant with Noah

 

Genesis 8:1 states, “And Elohim remembered Noah.” This phrase signifies Yah’s steadfast loyalty to His covenant. Yah’s covenant with Noah, the first mentioned in Scripture, ensured the survival of Noah’s family and the animals. This covenant foreshadows the Renewed Covenant through Yahoshua, who is our ark of salvation.

 

Yah’s Faithfulness

 

Yah’s remembrance of His covenant with Noah highlights His righteousness and faithfulness. The Renewed Covenant, recorded in Jeremiah 31:31-34 and Hebrews 8 and 10, promises Yah’s Torah written on our hearts and minds, and our sins remembered no more. Through Yahoshua, we enter into an obedient, trusting relationship with Yah.

 

Conclusion

 

This week’s Parashah teaches us about Yah’s unwavering faithfulness to His covenants. Despite humanity’s propensity to break covenants, Yah remains steadfast. The Holy Spirit helps us stay in covenant with Yah, transforming us into the image of Yahoshua Messiah.

 

Offering Unblemished Animal Sacrifices – Idolatry and Paganism Warrants Capital Punishment – God’s Choice of King to Reign Over Us-Thoughts & Reflections on Torah Reading 139

by | Jul 5, 2024 | ,

This is the 139th Reading of our 3-year Torah Reading cycle that is found in Deuteronomy/Devarim 17:1-20. It is a continuation of Reading 138 (the previous week's reading). I've entitled this teaching: "Offering Unblemished Animal Sacrifices-Idolatry and Paganism...

read more