This post is from the EBL Archive.

The internet has many detailed articles that teach about the Dead Sea Scrolls. However, if you have limited time and energy, you might not feel like surfing through long, academic works. In this 2-minute read, I will explain the Dead Sea Scrolls, keeping it simple.

What are the Dead Sea Scrolls?

Along the eastern side of the Dead Sea is a desert area called Qumran. In Qumran are many caves. Between 200 B.C. and 100 A.D., Qumran was home to a Jewish community. They called themselves The Community and Followers of the Way.

Traditionally, this Community has been associated with a Jewish sect called the Essenes, although some scholars object to this connection. Some suspect the Qumran Community to be related to the Messianic followers of the Way in the Book of Acts. (Acts 9:2, 19:9, 19:23, 22:4, 24:14, and 24:22)

The Qumran Community claimed to be descendants of the Zadokite priests. You can read about the Zadokite priests in the Book of Ezekiel, chapters 40, 43, 44, and 48. In Ezekiel, YHWH called the Zadokites His servants and instituted them as judges and teachers in Israel.

The Community kept a vast library of different documents. These documents can be divided into 3 categories.

1. Books of the Bible from both the Old and New Testament (Genesis, Isaiah, Psalms, Mark, 2 Peter, etc.)

2. Extra-biblical Books very popular in The Community’s day (1 Enoch, Jubilees, Tobit, Letter of Jeremiah, etc.)

3. Writings that the Community composed themselves

Around 70 A.D., the Romans attacked Qumran and The Community disappeared from history.

Before this, they hid their documents in many of Qumran’s caves. In 1947, these caves were rediscovered along with the hidden library. This library became known as the Dead Sea Scrolls.

I am very thankful for the Dead Sea Scrolls for 3 reasons.

📜 They contain many ancient, biblical documents testifying to the Bible’s authenticity.

📜 They witness to the wide use of extra-biblical documents during the first century.

📜 Their writings give more information about topics like the Torah, the Set-Apart Spirit, Heaven, the Zadokite Priesthood, Elohim’s (God’s) Calendar, and End Times Prophecy.

Where to Start?

For a complete study on the Dead Sea Scrolls—including background on the community who preserved the scrolls and their prophetic relevance for the End Days generation—see my teaching The Dead Sea Scrolls: A Gift to the End Days Generation.

This PDF teaching is available for immediate download for $5. Your contribution supports my work with Extra Biblical Librarian.

The Dead Sea Scrolls: A Gift to the End Days Generation

Who wrote the Dead Sea Scrolls?

What are they?

Why are they important for the End-Days generation?

This teaching answers these questions and more, confirming how these scrolls are a significant gift to those seeking truth in the End Times.

If you are interested in reading the Dead Sea Scrolls, I recommend The Complete Dead Sea Scrolls in English by Geza Vermes. https://amzn.to/3DTtCfp

I also recommend as comparative references both The Dead Sea Scrolls A New Translation by Michael Wise, Martin Abegg, Jr., and Edward Cook https://amzn.to/3E2soOX and The Dead Sea Scrolls Translated: The Qumran Texts in English by Florentino Garcia Martinez. https://amzn.to/4cY9fee

The books above do not contain the biblical documents found in Qumran, as those writings are easily available in the Bible. Instead, these books provide English translations of significant extra-biblical writings that were found. Some scrolls were written by the Community themselves, while others long predated them.

If you are wondering which scroll to start with, I suggest the Temple Scroll (similar to the Book of Leviticus) or the Thanksgiving Psalms (similar to the biblical Book of Psalms).

Have you read any of the Dead Sea Scrolls? What scrolls would you recommend? Comment below.

Leave a comment

Blessings in Messiah,

Sarah

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I recently listened to a podcast where the host spoke on the Book of Jubilees. He objected to the book, claiming that it made Yahushua (Jesus) a sinner. Perhaps you’ve heard this objection too.

Because of the seriousness of this claim, I want to address it in detail.

The Objection

In summary, the objection went like this:

If the Law, according to the Book of Jubilees, contradicts Yahushua’s actions, we should not consider it authoritative.

1 Peter 2:22 “He committed no sin, neither was deceit found in his mouth.” (ESV)

However, is the above objection a valid interpretation of Jubilees?

In this article, I will argue the negative and will provide another perspective for your consideration.

Let’s get started.

Celebrating the Sabbath

First, let’s look at what Jubilees teaches we are to do on the Sabbath.

Jubilees 2:21 “He created therein a sign in accordance with which they [YHWH’s people] should keep Sabbath with us [the angels] on the seventh day, to eat and to drink, and to bless Him who has created all things as He has blessed and sanctified to Himself a peculiar people above all peoples, and that they should keep Sabbath together with us.” (LSV)

The Book of Jubilees presents the weekly Sabbath as a joyful day for eating, drinking, gathering, and blessing YHWH (the Lord). The day was meant to be a celebration.

Another extra-biblical book that reinforces these Sabbath practices is the Didache.

The Didache is an epistle attributed to the twelve apostles, usually dated to the 1st century. It contains teaching for early Messianic communities.

The passage below elaborates on Sabbath gatherings.

Didache 14:1-2 “On the Lord’s Day come together, break bread, and hold Thanksgiving, after confessing your transgressions that your offering may be pure; but let none who has a quarrel with his fellow join in your meeting until they are reconciled, that your sacrifice is not defiled.” (LSV)

Like the Book of Jubilees, this epistle called believers in Messiah to come together on the Sabbath for both food and praise. The opposite of keeping these instructions would be fasting and silence.

What Not To Do on the Sabbath

Jubilees 2:29 and 50:8-9 outline specifics activities that are not appropriate for the Sabbath. Fasting is on the list.

Jubilees 50:12-13a “Every man who does any work thereon...or whoever fasts or makes war on the Sabbaths: the man who does any of these things on the Sabbath will die...” (LSV)

At first glance, this passage presents a problem. Yahushua fasted for 40 days and nights when He was in the wilderness. Obviously, a 40-day fast overlaps with several Sabbaths. So, Yahushua fasted on the Sabbath.

But before we jump to conclusions, other Scriptures need to be considered.

Moses’ Fast

Exodus 34:28 and Deuteronomy 9:9 record that Moses also fasted for 40 days and nights while on Mount Sinai. Jubilees 1:4 acknowledges that Moses was on the mountain for 40 days and does not condemn him for fasting. Thus, we can speculate that lengthy fasts are not a problem.

In addition, the prophet Elijah fasted 40 days in 1 Kings 19:8, King David fasted 7 days in 2 Samuel 12:16-18, and the prophet Daniel fasted 3 weeks in Daniel 10:2-3. All of these fasts overlapped with weekly Sabbaths.

A Guideline for Short-term Fasting

We’ve seen that the weekly Sabbath is a celebration for feasting. We also have examples of godly men fasting longer than 7 days.

Taking all this into consideration, I believe Jubilees 50 only addresses short fasts—likely no more than twenty-four hours. The book opposes brief periods of fasting on the Sabbath, rather than longer ones that would clearly fall on the weekly Sabbath.

If Jubilees strictly prohibited all fasting on the Sabbath, the author would not only be implying that Yahushua was wrong but also Moses. Keep in mind that the Book of Jubilees claims to be written by Moses. Thus, Moses would be a hypocrite.

Even if Moses was not the author, for Jubilees to condemn Elijah, David, and Daniel is absurd. The book would never have received any recognition or authority, and we would not be having this discussion.

As we have already seen, the Sabbath was a day for eating and rejoicing. Short fasts on the Sabbath were simply not done. An example of this can be found in the Book of Judith.

Judith’s Example

Judith 8:6 “She [Judith] fasted all the days of her widowhood, except the eves of the Sabbaths, the Sabbaths, the eves of the new moons, the new moons, and the feasts and joyful days of the house of Israel.” (LSV)

Judith was a widow who spent most of her days fasting and in prayer. However, she specifically broke her fasts on the Sabbaths, new months, and feast days. These days were set-apart for rejoicing. Fasting on them was not considered appropriate.

Putting It All Together

When we examine multiple passages, we see that the Sabbath was consistently recognized as a day for eating and rejoicing. Short fasts on the Sabbath were not done.

However, longer fasts—such as those undertaken by Yahushua, Moses, Elijah, David, and Daniel—obviously overlapped with weekly Sabbaths. These were understood and accepted.

Yahushua’s 40-day fast is not in violation with the Book of Jubilees. Jubilees instituted a guideline for avoiding short-term fasting on the Sabbath. It did not prohibit all long-term fasts.

Anyone who wants to do an extended fast is free to do so. If, however, you plan a fast that is 6 days or shorter, I recommend avoiding the weekly Sabbath.

With that said, I think we would do well to defer all judgment to YHWH, who knows our hearts.

Blessings in Messiah,

Sarah

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In Part 2 of my Jacob and Esau Series, we examined Esau’s “blessing” and what he actually received.

We saw that both the Septuagint and Book of Jubilees provide insight into what Isaac prophesied and why Esau was so unhappy.

If you haven’t read the post, you can do so here.

In this post, we’ll explore an obscure phrase in Esau’s blessing.

What does it mean that Esau would “break Jacob’s yoke from his neck”?

We’ll consider whether this prophecy has been fulfilled and if it means anything for us today.

Esau’s “Blessing”

Let’s take a look at what Isaac said to Esau in Genesis and Jubilees.

Genesis 27:40 “By thy sword shalt thou live, and shalt serve thy brother; and it shall come to pass when thou shalt have the dominion, that thou shalt break his yoke from off thy neck.” (KJV)

In Genesis 27, Isaac prophesied that one day Esau would receive dominion over his brother, Jacob. When that happened, Esau would break Jacob’s yoke off his neck.

The Septuagint translates this similarly, stating “when perchance you brings him down.” The word perchance implies a theoretic situation that may not occur.

Septuagint Genesis 27:40 “By your dagger you shall live, and you shall be subject to your brother, but it shall be that when perchance you bring him down, then you shall loose his yoke from your neck.” (NETS)

Jubilees agrees with Genesis that Esau would break Jacob’s yoke. However, Jubilees adds that Esau will sin a complete sin in doing so. This sin would result in the death of Esau and his descendants.

Jubilees 26:34 “And you will live by your sword, and you will serve your brother. And it will come to pass when you become great, and shake his yoke from off your neck, you will sin a complete sin to death, and your seed will be rooted out from under Heaven.” (LSV)

Next, we’ll take a look at the events leading up to Esau’s death and how they relate to a fulfillment of Esau’s breaking Jacob’s yoke.

Jacob and Esau’s Oath

Prior to Isaac’s death, he summoned Jacob and Esau. Isaac made both sons swear not to take each other’s lands or do evil to each other.

Both Jacob and Esau agreed. Isaac prophesied a curse on any man who went against the oath and attacked his brother.

Jubilees 36:9 “If either of you devises evil against his brother, know that from now on everyone that devises evil against his brother will fall into his hand, and will be rooted out of the land of the living, and his seed will be destroyed from under the heavens.” (LSV)

Isaac’s curse for doing evil against a brother is strikingly similar to Esau’s “blessing.” Did Isaac know something was about to happen?

Isaac then divided his land and possessions between Jacob and Esau, honoring Jacob as the firstborn by giving him a larger portion.

When Esau returned to his children with a smaller inheritance than Jacob, Esau’s sons were furious! They accused their father of being cowardly and subservient to Jacob.

Esau’s sons, believing they were more powerful than Jacob and his sons, determined to attack Jacob’s family and take all the inheritance for themselves.

At first Esau advised his sons not to go through with their plan. However, the more Esau thought about the situation, the angrier he became towards his brother. Eventually, he agreed to go with his sons and attack Jacob’s family. He wanted once and for all to break Jacob’s yoke over him.

Esau’s Declaration of War

When Jacob first heard that Esau was on his way to fight against him, he dismissed the report as an impossibility. Jacob’s wife Leah had just passed, and Jacob was mourning. The idea that Esau would choose that moment to wage a battle—especially after solemnly swearing not to—was too outrageous to believe.

But as Esau approached, Jacob was faced with the somber reality of his brother’s intentions. Grieved, Jacob went to see if he could reason with his brother.

Jubilees 37:17 “He [Jacob] closed the gates of the tower; and he stood on the battlements, and spoke to his brother Esau, and said,

“‘Noble is the comfort with which you have come to comfort me for my wife who has died. Is this the oath that you swore to your father and again to your mother before they died? You have broken the oath, and on the moment that you swore to your father you were condemned.’” (LSV)

Esau wasn’t interested in negotiating. (Please note all the following verses are a part of Esau’s speech.)

Jubilees 37:18 “Then Esau answered and said to him [Jacob], ‘Neither the children of men nor the beasts of the earth have any oath of righteousness which in swearing they have sworn forever, but every day they devise evil against one another, and how each may slay his adversary and enemy.

Jubilees 37:19 “‘And you hate me and my children forever. And there is no observing the tie of brotherhood with you.

Jubilees 37:20 “‘Hear these words which I declare to you, if the boar can change its skin and make its bristles as soft as wool, or if it can cause horns to sprout out on its head like the horns of a stag or of a sheep, then I will observe the tie of brotherhood with you. And if the breasts separated themselves from their mother; for you have not been a brother to me.

Jubilees 37:21 “‘And if the wolves make peace with the lambs so as not to devour or do them violence, and if their hearts are toward them for good, then there will be peace in my heart toward you.

Jubilees 37:22 “‘And if the lion becomes the friend of the ox and makes peace with him, and if he is bound under one yoke with him and plows with him, then I will make peace with you.

Jubilees 37:23 “‘And when the raven becomes white as the râzâ, then know that I have loved you and will make peace with you. You will be rooted out, and your sons will be rooted out, and there will be no peace for you.’” (LSV)

With such a declaration from Esau, Jacob realized he would have to fight his brother. Jacob gathered his sons and went to war.

A Sin unto Death

It’s not a good idea to break oaths made before YHWH.

YHWH remembered what Esau had promised and was not pleased that he took his word so lightly. YHWH gave Esau over to his evil desire.

Esau did go to war with Jacob, but he was not victorious. No sooner had the battle begun before Esau lay dead with Jacob’s arrow in his chest. (Jubilees 38:2)

Even though Jacob’s sons were significantly outnumbered, they strongly pursued Esau’s, eventually imposing tribute on them.

This battle was Esau’s great sin, a sin that brought his death.

Jubilees 26:34 “And you will live by your sword, and you will serve your brother. And it will come to pass when you become great, and shake his yoke from off your neck, you will sin a complete sin to death, and your seed will be rooted out from under Heaven.”

Esau tried to shake off Jacob’s yoke through making war with him. He sinned in doing so and died because of it.

A Message of Hope

Although Jacob and Esau’s story doesn’t appear to have a happy ending, a message of hope is still woven throughout.

Ironically, Esau said that he would not make peace with his brother unless a wolf made peace with a lamb and lion with an ox. This is prophesied to happen during Yahushua’s Reign on Earth.

Isaiah 11:6 “The wolf also shall dwell with the lamb, and the leopard shall lie down with the kid; and the calf and the young lion and the fatling together; and a little child shall lead them.”

Isaiah 11:7 “And the cow and the bear shall feed; their young ones shall lie down together: and the lion shall eat straw like the ox.

Isaiah 11:8 “And the sucking child shall play on the hole of the asp, and the weaned child shall put his hand on the cockatrice’ den.

Isaiah 11:9 “They shall not hurt nor destroy in all my holy mountain: for the earth shall be full of the knowledge of the LORD, as the waters cover the sea.” (KJV)

Perhaps this prophecy in Isaiah has a twofold message.

First, it tells us of a time when all animals and people will be at peace, just as they were before sin entered the world.

Second, it promises that the rift between Jacob and Esau and their descendants will someday be healed.

Under King Yahushua.

What a day that will be!

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Blessings in Messiah,

Sarah

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Philippians 1:9-10 “This I pray, that your love might extend more and more in knowledge and all discernment, for you to examine the matters that differ, in order to be sincere, and not stumbling, until the day of Messiah.” (TS2009)

The Apocrypha is a group of books placed between the Old and New Testaments in the Roman Catholic and Greek Orthodox Bibles. Generally, the books cover the 400-year gap between Malachi and Matthew.

The Apocrypha’s authority, inspiration, and reliability has been frequently questioned. The Apocrypha contains some puzzling passages. Many people who’ve studied it have pointed to possible errors—historical and doctrinal—saying that these books are untrustworthy and misguiding.

In this series, I’m examining common critiques of the Apocrypha. I will evaluate criticisms to see if the passages can be reconciled with the Bible.

Today, we’ll look at whether the Book of Tobit teaches that salvation is through works and how the book compares with other biblical passages.

Giving Alms

In two places, the Book of Tobit says that giving alms purges sins and delivers from death. Giving alms consist of donating food, money, and other resources to those in need.

Tobit 4:10-11 ”Therefore, alms delivers from death and prevents entering into the darkness. For alms is a good gift to those who give them in the presence of the Most High.” (NETS)

Tobit 12:9 “For almsgiving delivers from death, and it will purge away every sin. Those who practice almsgiving and righteousness will have fullness of life.” (NETS)

Charity is encouraged in the Bible; however, some see above verses in direct opposition to Paul’s teaching: Salvation is not by works, but it’s by grace through faith.

Ephesians 2:8-9 “For by grace are ye saved through faith; and that not of yourselves: it is the gift of God: Not of works, lest any man should boast.” (KJV)

Titus 3:5-6 “Not by works of righteousness which we have done, but according to his mercy he saved us, by the washing of regeneration, and renewing of the Holy Ghost; which he shed on us abundantly through Jesus Christ our Saviour.” (KJV)

Salvation and Good Works

The relationship between salvation from sins and the need to perform good works is frequently addressed in the New Testament. The Book of James connected the two.

James 2:14-17 “What does it profit, my brethren, if someone says he has faith but does not have works? Can faith save him?”

James 2:15-16 “If a brother or sister is naked and destitute of daily food, and one of you says to them, ‘Depart in peace, be warmed and filled,’ but you do not give them the things which are needed for the body, what does it profit?”

James 2:17 “Thus also faith by itself, if it does not have works, is dead.”

James 2:18 “But someone will say, ‘You have faith, and I have works.’ Show me your faith without your works, and I will show you my faith by my works.” (KJV)

The Apostle James taught that works demonstrated faith. If we have faith in Messiah, good works, particularly giving to the poor, will follow. According to James, a lack of these works, indicate a lack of faith.

So alms-giving by itself does not save. But when faith is working with good works, we are declared right by Elohim (God). Our sins are purged by the blood of Messiah through faith with the demonstration of works.

The three are in agreement.

Philippians 2:12b “Work out your own salvation with fear and trembling.” (KJV)

Proverbs 19:17 “Whoever is generous to the poor lends to the LORD, and he will repay him for his deed.” (KJV)

Giving alms is a testimony that we are working out our salvation. The Book of Tobit doesn’t teach anything contrary. All Scripture comes together as one message.

Next Up...

In the next part of this series, we’ll look at the Book of 2 Maccabees and whether it supports offerings made for the dead.

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Have you ever read the Book of Tobit? Do you have questions about how it compares with Scripture?

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I appreciate your comments and questions. Even if we don’t always agree, I’m happy to consider different perspectives.

Sarah

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This post is from the EBL Archive.

I recently read a lovely poem about Leah by . The poem highlights how Elohim (God) chose Leah and her significant role in bringing forth the Messiah. You can read the poem here.

heavens declare

Leah

Read more

a year ago · 10 likes · 14 comments · Abbi Bodager

It may seem that Leah got the short end of the stick. In the beginning, Rachael was favored by Jacob, Leah was not. Her marriage started out rocky, but that is not how her story ends.

The Book of Jubilees shows us that Jacob had a change of heart after Rachael’s death.

From Jubilees 36, we learn the following:

🌸 After the death of Rachael, Jacob loved Leah exceedingly

🌸 Leah honored Jacob

🌸 Leah never gave Jacob a harsh word

🌸 Leah was peaceful, gentle, and upright

🌸 Jacob grieved for Leah after her death, for he “loved her with all his heart and with all his soul”

In addition, Leah was blessed with 7 children—the number of completion. From her children came the Levitical priesthood (Levi) and the Davidic kingly line (Judah).

From Leah came Messiah.

Far from being discarded, second-best, Leah was cherished. She had good character. She walked intimately with her husband, Jacob.

I am encouraged by Leah’s testimony as I trust YHWH (the LORD). When I feel rejected and have difficult circumstances, I know Elohim discerns the bigger picture—the beautiful life He’s creating for me.

Elohim knows how everything will turn out. He is perfecting me. I hope to learn the lessons Leah learned which transformed her spirit into one that is peaceful, gentle, and upright.

The same God who authored Leah’s life has written the outcome of yours and mine. If you’re struggling with feeling overlooked or rejected, know that your final chapter hasn’t been revealed yet.

Blessings in Messiah,

Sarah

If you would like to read the Book of Jubilees with a fun online group, I invite you to join my Jubilees chat.

In my Substack chat, I provide links for each chapter along with discussion questions for the group. Participants can read the chapters on their own time and comment as they feel led.

To join the group, click the button below.

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This post is from the EBL Archive.

In my last post, I compared the character and morals of Jacob and Esau.

We saw how, according to the Book of Jubilees, Jacob was an upright man who followed YHWH’s (the LORD’s) commands. Esau, on the other hand, was a fierce man who rejected YHWH’s commands and learned the ways of war.

Knowing their hearts, YHWH favored Jacob over Esau. Abraham and Rebecca also loved Jacob and regarded him worthy to inherit YHWH’s blessing.

From the Genesis account, we know that Isaac favored Esau. The Book of Jubilees reveals that Isaac eventually had a change of heart.

In today’s post, we will look at Esau’s blessing. We will compare the account found in most Bibles with the Septuagint.

Esau’s Blessing

The King James translation is based on a Hebrew manuscript known as the Masoretic Text. It dates to the 11^th century A.D. Esau’s blessing in the King James reads as follows:

Genesis 27:39 “And Isaac his father answered and said unto him, ‘Behold, thy dwelling shall be the fatness of the earth, and of the dew of heaven from above;

Genesis 27:40 “‘And by thy sword shalt thou live, and shalt serve thy brother; and it shall come to pass when thou shalt have the dominion, that thou shalt break his yoke from off thy neck.’

Genesis 27:41 “And Esau hated Jacob because of the blessing wherewith his father blessed him: and Esau said in his heart, ‘The days of mourning for my father are at hand; then will I slay my brother Jacob.’” (KJV)

At first glance, Esau’s blessing doesn’t seem so bad. He received the fatness of the earth and the dew of heaven. The text leaves us wondering why Esau was so displeased.

A Different Version

A different version of Esau’s blessing can be found in the Greek Scriptures, known as the Septuagint. The oldest copy we have today dates to the 4^th century A.D.

Many English Bible translations (ESV, NLT, ISV, CSV, NASB, RSV, and LSB) follow the Septuagint’s wording for this passage.

Septuagint Genesis 27:39 “Then in reply his father Isaak said to him: ‘See, away from the fatness of the earth shall your dwelling be, and away from the dew of heaven on high.

Septuagint Genesis 27:40 “And by your dagger you shall live, and you shall be subject to your brother, but it shall be that when perchance you bring him down, then you shall loose his yoke from your neck.’

Septuagint Genesis 27:41 “And Esau was indignant at Iakob because of the blessing with which his father had blessed him. Then Esau said in his mind, ‘Let the days of mourning for my father come near in order that I may kill my brother Iakob.’” (NETS)

The meaning in the Septuagint is very different from that in the Masoretic Text. In the Masoretic Text, Esau receives the fatness of the earth and the dew of the heavens. In the Septuagint, he is separated from both.

Isaac’s words recorded in the Masoretic Text seem like a blessing, but his words recorded in the Septuagint seem like a curse.

Given that Esau’s response to his “blessing” is consistent in both texts, the Septuagint’s rendition makes the most sense. Additionally, the account in the Book of Jubilees agrees with the Septuagint.

Jubilees 26:33 “And Isaac answered and said to him, ‘Behold, your dwelling will be far from the dew of the earth, and far from the dew of the heavens from above.

Jubilees 26:34 “And you will live by your sword, and you will serve your brother. And it will come to pass when you become great, and shake his yoke from off your neck, you will sin a complete sin to death, and your seed will be rooted out from under Heaven.’

Jubilees 26:35 “And Esau kept threatening Jacob because of the blessing with which his father blessed him, and he said in his heart, ‘May the days of mourning for my father now come, so that I may slay my brother Jacob.’”

Staying in YHWH’s Favor

Jacob, the one who walked with YHWH and followed His commands, received the true blessing from his father. Esau was cursed. His defiance alienated him from YHWH and His favor.

Hebrews 12:15-16 “See to it that no one falls short of the favour of Elohim, that no root of bitterness springing up causes trouble, by which many become defiled, lest there be anyone who whores, or profane one, like Ěsaw, who for a single meal sold his birthright.”

Hebrews 12:17 “For you know that afterward, when he wished to inherit the blessing, he was rejected, for he found no place for repentance, though he sought it with tears.” (ISR)

Jacob and Esau are examples for us. Their lives illustrate the results of following YHWH and the consequences of rejecting Him. Believers in Yahushua stay in Elohim’s favor by keeping His commandments.

John 15:10a “If you guard My commands, you shall stay in My love.”

Do you believe keeping YHWH’s commands brings forth blessing? I’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments.

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In the next post of this series, Jacob and Esau Part 3, I’ll explore the meaning of Esau breaking Jacob’s yoke from his neck and whether this prophecy has been fulfilled.

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Blessings in Messiah,

Sarah

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Philippians 1:9-10 “This I pray, that your love might extend more and more in knowledge and all discernment, for you to examine the matters that differ, in order to be sincere, and not stumbling, until the day of Messiah.” (TS2009)

The Apocrypha is a group of books placed between the Old and New Testaments in the Roman Catholic and Greek Orthodox Bibles. Generally, the books cover the 400-year gap between Malachi and Matthew.

The Apocrypha’s authority, inspiration, and reliability has been frequently questioned. The Apocrypha contains some puzzling passages. Many people who’ve studied it have pointed to possible errors—historical and doctrinal—saying that these books are untrustworthy and misguiding.

In this series, I’m examining common critiques of the Apocrypha. I will evaluate criticisms to see if the passages can be reconciled with the Bible.

Today, we’ll look at Tobit 6 and question whether it condones magic.

Tobit 6

Tobit Chapter 6 starts with two men journeying together: Tobias and Azarias. Tobias was a man. Azarias was the angel Raphael disguised as a man.

While walking along the Tigris River, Tobias caught a large fish. Raphael told him to save the heart, gall, and liver as remedies for sickness and exorcisms.

Tobit 6:5 “Then the angel said to him, ‘Cut open the fish, and take the heart and liver and gall, and put them away safely.’”

Tobit 6:6 “So the young man did as the angel had told him. Then, roasting the fish, they ate. And they both journeyed until they drew near to Ecbatana.”

Tobit 6:7 “And the young man said to the angel, ‘Brother Azarias, of what use is the fish’s liver and heart and gall?’”

Tobit 6:8 “And he said to him, ‘As for the heart and liver, if a demon or evil spirit troubles somebody, one must burn these things to smoke before a man or woman, and he will never be troubled again.’”

Tobit 6:9 “But as for the gall, anoint a person who has white films in his eyes, and he will be cured.” (NETS)

Many have taken issue with Tobit 6 as an example of the Apocrypha condoning magic. But is this what was happening?

Unique Healings in the Bible

Using natural medicine from plants and animal products has been a common part of healing for centuries. Biblically, there is nothing wrong with this.

Many equally strange healings were performed in the Bible. Here’s a small list.

• Yahushua (Jesus) healed a blind man by making mud with His saliva and applying it to the man’s eyes. (John 9:1-7)

• Naaman’s leprosy was cured by washing 7 times in the Jordan River. (2 Kings 5:1-14)

• Many people were healed by Peter’s shadow falling on them. (Acts 5:15)

None of these healings were considered magic. Although Raphael’s instructions to use fish gall for healing was unusual, it was not magic.

Exorcism

Exorcisms were a common biblical practice. Yahushua performed many.

Here are some examples.

• Mark 1:21-28 & Luke 4:31-37

• Matthew 8:28-34, Mark 5:1-20, & Luke 8:26-39

• Mark 1:39

• Matthew 15:21-28 & Mark 7:24-30

• Matthew 12:22-30 & Luke 11:14-26

• Luke 8:2-3

• Matthew 8:16-17 & Mark 1:32-34

If we believe demons are real, naturally we would want to send them away from our presence.

Certain things attract demons and others repel them. For example, they love sin and transgression of Elohim’s law. They hate repentance and humility.

In the case of the Tobit story, the idea was that demons disliked the smell of burning fish heart and liver. Later in the book, when Tobias burned these fish parts, the demons that haunted his wife departed.

Tobit 8:1 “When to they had finished dining, they led Tobias in to her [Tobias’s wife].

Tobit 8:2 “As he went he [Tobias] remembered the words of Raphael, and he took the embers of incense and put the fish’s heart and liver upon them and made a smoke.”

Tobit 8:3 “Now when the demon smelled the odor, it fled to the uppermost part of Egypt, and the angel tied it up.” (NETS)

Raphael’s instructions weren’t magic but rather what appears to be a heavenly condoned exorcistic procedure.

Next Up...

In the next part of this series, we’ll examine another passage from the Book of Tobit.

Does the book teach that salvation is through works? How does Tobit compare with other Bible passages?

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Have you ever read the Book of Tobit? Do you have questions about how it compares with Scripture?

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I appreciate your comments and questions. Even if we don’t always agree, I’m happy to consider different perspectives.

Sarah

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This post is from the EBL Archive.

From a quick read of the Genesis account, the story of Jacob and Esau raises some challenging questions.

• Was Jacob an evil deceiver who stole Esau’s birthright and blessing?

• Why did Esau want to kill Jacob?

• And why did YHWH (the LORD) favor Jacob over Esau?

To gain deeper insight into the moral disparity between the two brothers, we turn to the extra-biblical Book of Jubilees.

Jubilees 19:13-14

“And in the sixth week, in the second year thereof, Rebekah bore to Isaac two sons, Jacob and Esau, and Jacob was a smooth and upright man, and Esau was fierce, a man of the field, and hairy, and Jacob dwelt in tents.

“And the youths grew, and Jacob learned to write, but Esau did not learn, for he was a man of the field and a hunter, and he learned war, and all his deeds were fierce.” (LSV)

The account in Jubilees 19 does not contradict Genesis’s account, but it does reshape our impression of the twins.

Jacob walked upright and studious, whereas Esau was fierce and combative. Furthermore, Jacob learned YHWH’s commands and was diligent in keeping them.

(See Jubilees 22:15-22, 25:1-19, 27:17, 29:20, 32:14-18, 35:12-13, 36:20)

Jubilees 36:20

“And Jacob dwelt in the mountains of Hebron, in the tower of the land of the sojournings of his father Abraham, and he worshiped the LORD with all his heart and according to the visible commands according as He had divided the days of his generations.” (LSV)

YHWH Favored Jacob

Jubilees clarifies why YHWH favored Jacob. With its additional context, we can more clearly interpret other Scriptures such as Malachi:

Malachi 1:2b-3a “I have loved Jacob but Esau I have hated.” (ESV)

Psalm 11:5 “יהוה tries the righteous, but His being shall hate the wrong and the one who loves violence.” (ISR 2009)

Who did Abraham, Rebecca, and Isaac favor?

Jubilees 19:15-16

“And Abraham loved Jacob, but Isaac loved Esau.

“And Abraham saw the deeds of Esau, and he knew that in Jacob should his name and seed be called; and he called Rebekah and gave command regarding Jacob, for he knew that she [too] loved Jacob much more than Esau.” (LSV)

Abraham, having observed the boys’ contrasting characters, believed Jacob should inherit YHWH’s blessing and covenant. Rebecca agreed.

Initially, however, Isaac favored Esau because he was the firstborn. Even so, over time, Isaac had a change of heart as Esau’s nature became more evident.

For example, when Jacob left to find a wife, Esau stole all his father’s herds and abandoned his parents. He left them with nothing! Jacob, on the other hand, constantly sent his parents food, animals, clothes, and whatever else they needed.

(See Jubilees 29:18-20)

Jubilees 35:13

“And Isaac said to her [Rebecca], ‘I, too, know and see the deeds of Jacob who is with us, how that he honors us with all his heart, but I formerly loved Esau more than Jacob, because he was the firstborn, but now I love Jacob more than Esau, for he has done manifold evil deeds, and there is no righteousness in him, for all his ways are unrighteousness and violence.’”

In the end, YHWH, Abraham, Rebecca, and Isaac were united. Jacob was favored because of his character.

In the next post in this series, Jacob and Esau Part 2, I’ll present a unique perspective on their blessings and the implications they have for us today. Click on the picture below to read it.

Blessings in Messiah,

Sarah

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This summer, I’ve been focusing on the Book of Jubilees. In my Substack chat, I’m posting 4 chapters of Jubilees each week and inviting discussion.

We’ve had some intriguing conversation ranging from the role of angels to the YHWH’s (the Lord’s) feast days.

If you haven’t visited the chat, you can do so here. 👇 Everyone is welcome to join at any time.

This week, we’re reading chapters 13-16. In this portion, we’ll encounter a man named Ishmael.

From the Book of Genesis, we learn that Ishmael was the oldest son of Abraham. He and his mother were sent away from Abraham’s presence. He became an archer. Like Jacob, Ishmael was the father of 12 sons. His sons are recorded in Genesis 25:13-16.

However, there’s more to Ishmael than meets the eye. Today, we’ll compare the Book of Jubilees, the Septuagint, and the Masoretic Text to learn a little more about this man.

Ishmael’s Birth

In the Book of Genesis, Elohim (God) promised Abraham a child in his old age. After years of trying to conceive, Sarah gave her servant Hagar to Abraham to have children through her. This was a common practice in ancient middle-eastern cultures. (Gen. 16:1-3)

When Hagar conceived, she despised Sarah. Sarah treated Hagar harshly, causing Hagar to flee and wander in the wilderness. (Gen. 16:4-6)

The angel of YHWH met Hagar and told her to return to Sarah. He assured Hagar that YHWH had heard her. She was to call her son’s name Ishmael, meaning God hears. Through the angel, YHWH promised to increase and bless Ishmael. (Gen. 16:7-16)

Comparing Multiple Sources

Thirteen years later, YHWH promised Abraham another son through Sarah. At first, Abraham hesitated to believe. He asked Elohim to let Ishmael live before Him. Abraham loved Ishmael and wanted the best for him.

Genesis 17:18 “Abraham said to God, ‘Oh that Ishmael might live before you!’”

Genesis 17:19 “God said, “No, but Sarah your wife shall bear you a son, and you shall call his name Isaac. I will establish my covenant with him as an everlasting covenant for his offspring after him.” (ESV)

The above version of Genesis comes from the Hebrew Masoretic Test.

At first glance, it appears that YHWH rejected Ishmael. We are left to wonder why.

Let’s consult another source: the Septuagint, the Greek Old Testament.

Septuagint Genesis 15:18 “Abraam said to God, ‘Let this Ismael live before thee.’”

Septuagint Genesis 15:19 “And God said to Abraam, ‘Yea, behold, Sarrha thy wife shall bear thee a son, and thou shalt call his name Isaac; and I will establish my covenant with him, for an everlasting covenant, to be a God to him and to his seed after him.’”

Septuagint Genesis 15:20 “And concerning Ismael, behold, I have heard thee, and, behold, I have blessed him, and will increase him and multiply him exceedingly; twelve nations shall he beget, and I will make him a great nation.” (Brenton’s Translation)

In the Septuagint, Abraham makes the same request: Let Ishmael live before You. And Elohim answers yes, not no. It’s a both-and, not an either-or. Elohim received Ishmael, and He also established His covenant with Isaac.

Both of these versions are credible biblical translations. So how can we know which is the better rendering of this verse? We’ll have to dig a little deeper.

Let’s look at the Book of Jubilees.

Jubilees 15:18 “Abraham said to God, “O that Ishmael might live before you!”

Jubilees 15:19 “And God said, “Yes, and Sarah will also bear you a son, and you will call his name Isaac, and I will establish My covenant with him, a perpetual covenant, and for his seed after him.”

Jubilees 15:20 “And as for Ishmael, I have also heard you, and behold, I will bless him, and make him great, and multiply him exceedingly, and he will beget twelve princes, and I will make him a great nation.” (LSV)

The Book of Jubilees agrees with the Septuagint.

YHWH chose Isaac and confirmed His covenant with him. But YHWH did not reject Ishmael. He never pitted the brothers against each other. Instead, YHWH blessed Ishmael and accepted him as someone who would live before Him.

Why Was Ishmael Sent Away?

So, if Ishmael was accepted by YHWH, then why was he sent away? The Septuagint and Book of Jubilees provide understanding.

According to Genesis 21, Abraham held a great feast when Isaac was weaned. During the feast, the Masoretic Text records Ishmael “mocking.” Sarah saw Ishmael and told Abraham to send him away.

Genesis 21:9 “And Sarah saw the son of Hagar the Egyptian, which she had born unto Abraham, mocking.”

Genesis 21:10 “Wherefore she said unto Abraham, ‘Cast out this bondwoman and her son: for the son of this bondwoman shall not be heir with my son, even with Isaac.’” (KJV)

Now, let’s look at the Septuagint and Jubilees.

Septuagint Genesis 21:9 “But when Sarra saw the son of Hagar the Egyptian, who had been born to Abraam, playing with her son Isaak...” (New English Translation of the Septuagint)

Jubilees 17:4 “And Sarah saw Ishmael playing and dancing and Abraham rejoicing with great joy, and she became jealous of Ishmael and said to Abraham, ‘Cast out this bondwoman and her son, for the son of this bondwoman will not be heir with my son Isaac.’” (LSV)

According to the Septuagint and Jubilees, Ishmael was not mocking but “playing and dancing” with his father. Sarah saw the bond that Abraham had with Ishmael and feared it would interfere with Isaac’s inheritance. She, therefore, demanded that Ishmael be sent away. (Gen. 21:11-14)

From consulting all 3 sources, we learn that Ishmael wasn’t sent away for any fault or malice on his part. He was sent away because of Sarah’s jealousy.

Elohim instructed Abraham to listen to Sarah, not because He rejected Ishmael, but because He had special purposes for Isaac that required Abraham’s heart to be fully attentive to Isaac.

Ishmael in the Wilderness

Although Ishmael was sent away, Elohim’s eyes were on him. When Ishmael and Hagar needed water in the wilderness, an angel met them and miraculously provided a well. The angel confirmed YHWH’s promise to make Ishmael a great nation. (Gen. 21:15-19) Ishmael later named his first-born son after this encounter.

Jubilees 17:13 “And the child [Ishmael] grew and became an archer, and God was with him; and his mother took a wife for him from among the daughters of Egypt.”

Jubilees 17:14 “And she bore him a son, and he called his name Nebaioth, for she [Hagar] said, ‘The Lord was near to me when I called on Him.’” (LSV)

Ishmael’s Relationship with Abraham

After his encounter in the wilderness, Ishmael mostly disappears in the Genesis account.

In Jubilees 22:1-6, Ishmael visited Abraham and his brother Isaac during the Feast of Shabuot (Pentecost). The three celebrated YHWH’s set-apart day together, indicating that Ishmael kept the ordinances of his father and worshiped the same God. Jubilees records no problems or hostility between Isaac and Ishmael, rather a positive kinship.

After examining multiple sources, we have a positive image of Ishmael.

We see peace between Ishmael and Isaac as well as evidence that they worshiped the same God. As the Septuagint recorded, YHWH blessed and received Ishmael; Ishmael lived and worshiped before Him.

If you have any insights about Ishmael, please share them in the comments below. And please join us in the EBL chat this week as we read Jubilees chapters 13-16.

Hope to see you there.

Sarah

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The Apostle Jude used a word-for-word quote from the Book of 1 Enoch in his epistle.

But did he intend to quote it as Scripture?

Some believe Jude’s quote demonstrates that he read Enoch and considered it valuable for establishing doctrine.

Others say Jude simply quoted historical literature. They claim that he quoted Enoch in the same way the Apostle Paul quoted pagan poets. (Acts 17:28,1 Cor. 15:33, & Titus 1:12) Arguing that Jude never called Enoch Scripture, they hold that Jude didn’t consider 1 Enoch inspired.

Jude’s intention behind his quote either supports or disregards 1 Enoch’s legitimacy. Jude was an apostle and his book canonized. These two facts weigh heavily into how we view the book today.

In this post, we are going to take an honest evaluation of Jude’s exact words, what he was trying to communicate in his epistle, and how he treated the Book of Enoch.

Enoch, 7^th from Adam

Jude 1:14 “It was also about these that Enoch, the seventh from Adam, prophesied, saying, ‘Behold, the Lord comes with ten thousands of his holy ones,

Jude 1:15 “‘To execute judgment on all and to convict all the ungodly of all their deeds of ungodliness that they have committed in such an ungodly way, and of all the harsh things that ungodly sinners have spoken against him.’” (ESV)

1 Enoch 1:9 “And behold, He comes with myriads of His holy ones to execute judgment on all, and to destroy all the ungodly, and to convict all flesh of all the works of their ungodliness which they have ungodly committed, and of all the hard things which ungodly sinners have spoken against Him.” (LSV)

Firstly, Jude credits Enoch as the seventh from Adam. So we know exactly which Enoch he’s talking about.

Enoch, A Prophet

Jude 1:14a “It was also about these that Enoch, the seventh from Adam, prophesied, saying...”

Secondly, Jude affirmed Enoch as a prophet and Enoch’s words as prophecy.

This is not a small statement. If Jude quoted Enoch in the same way Paul quoted pagan poets, he would not have affirmed Enoch’s prophetic role.

Jude either affirmed a true prophet or a false prophet. There is no in between.

If Jude affirmed a false prophecy, then he would be a false teacher and his epistle invalid. Since, of course, this was not the case, we are left to understand Jude’s words as a confirmation of Enoch’s prophecy.

The Rest of Jude’s Epistle

While Jude affirmed Enoch’s prophecy, he didn’t use the words “Scripture” or “the inspired Word.”

So is there evidence from the rest of his epistle that he held the Book of Enoch as authoritative?

The answer is YES. In his short epistle, Jude made 3 more references!

1. Jude 1:4 mentions the judgment, written long ago, of those who denied the Master YHWH and Yahushua Messiah. This is a reference to 1 Enoch 48:8-10.

2. Jude 1:6 mentions fallen angels that are currently locked up as told in 1 Enoch 10:11-12.

3. Jude 1:12-13 mentions fallen angels as “staying stars.” His wording and concept was taken from 1 Enoch 18:14-16.

For more on these references and how they directly relate to 1 Enoch, see my post The Epistle of Jude: “Cliffs Notes” for 1 Enoch. As this article shows, the content that Jude was interacting with is not from the 66-book Bible. It is ONLY found in 1 Enoch.

Out of all the texts available, Jude chose to build his epistle on the historic and prophetic material in 1 Enoch. Knowing this changes how we interpret his direct quote in verses 14-15.

The quote is no longer trivial. Jude’s opinion of Enoch is clearly displayed. He used the book as his desired authoritative source for his letter.

Objection: But We Don’t Have the Book Jude Had

Now I understand that many believe that Jude’s Book of Enoch is not the same as the book we have today. I have studied the historical credibility of 1 Enoch extensively and would love to address this objection fairly in a future article. If you’re interested, let me know in the comments.

Leave a comment

Interpreting Jude’s Quote in Light of the Evidence

So back to our original question: Did Jude quote Enoch as Scripture?

What we know:

• Jude attributed the quote to Enoch the seventh from Adam.

• Jude affirmed Enoch’s prophetic role, confirming that Enoch’s words were authoritative.

• Jude used 1 Enoch as the foundation for his epistle.

It is my belief that the evidence favors Jude quoting Enoch as prophetic Scripture. But at the end of the day, this is my opinion. Each person must weigh the evidence for themselves.

Let me know what you think in the comments.

Leave a comment

Blessings in Messiah,

Sarah

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Exodus 4 contains a bizarre story.

In the beginning of the chapter, YHWH (the Lord) met with Moses at the burning bush and commissioned him to deliver His people from Egypt. YHWH promised to be with Moses and teach him what to say.

Moses departed for Egypt with his wife and children. On the way, they spent the night at a lodge. This is where the narrative becomes confusing.

The above passage was taken from the English Standard Version (ESV). The ESV is based on a Hebrew manuscript called the Masoretic Text, dating to the 11^th century A.D.

In the Masoretic rendition, the Lord sought “him,” presumably Moses, with the intention to kill him. What’s puzzling is that YHWH attempted to kill Moses directly after commissioning and promising to protect him.

Moses’s wife, Zipporah, perceived the threat and connected it to the fact that her son was uncircumcised. We are not told why their son was uncircumcised.

Zipporah immediately circumcised her son and threw the foreskin at Moses. Apparently, this act eliminated the threat to Moses’ life.

To understand this passage better, I’ll examine this story in 4 other manuscripts.

1. The Septuagint

The Septuagint is the Greek translation of the Old Testament, dating to the 4^th century A.D. The Septuagint out dates the Masoretic Text by 7 centuries, making it very valuable!

The Septuagint differs from the Masoretic Text in a few places.

1. “An angel of the Lord” tried to kill Moses instead of YHWH Himself.

2. Zipporah brought the foreskin before the angel, not Moses.

3. Instead of accusing Moses of being a “bridegroom of blood,” Zipporah stated that her son’s circumcision was accomplished.

But important questions remain.

• Who is this angel?

• Why did he want to kill Moses?

• Why was Moses’ son not circumcised when he was young?

• And which translation is more trustworthy, the Septuagint or the Masoretic Text?

Let’s see what else we can learn from our 2^nd manuscript.

2. The Targum

The Targum is an Aramaic translations of the Old Testament, dating to the 1^st century A.D. Interpretations were added throughout the text to make it easier to understand. The version we’ll be looking at is called Targum Jonathan.

The Targum agrees with the Septuagint that an angel was the one trying to kill Moses. It also adds several new details.

1. Moses made an agreement with his father-in-law, Jethro. The agreement was that Moses’s oldest son, Gershom, would not be circumcised, while his youngest son, Eliazer, would be circumcised.

2. The Targum called the angel “the Destroyer.”

3. The passage ended with Zipporah giving thanks instead of accusing Moses of being a “bridegroom of blood.”

The extra information in both the Septuagint and Targum change the story dramatically. Notably, the same account is found in the Book of Jasher.

3. Jasher

A few different “Books of Jasher” exist. The one we will be looking at was first printed in 1552. It is unrelated to the biblical book of Jasher in Joshua 10:13 and 2 Samuel 1:18. This book contains Jewish commentary and tradition, possibly going back to the 6^th century A.D.

The account in Jasher shows that the traditions found in the Targum and Septuagint were propagated among Jews for many centuries.

While the Targum and the Book of Jasher agree as to why Moses’s son was not circumcised, the identity of the destroyer angel is still ambiguous. For this, we’ll turn to our final manuscript: The Book of Jubilees.

4. Jubilees

The Book of Jubilees covers the history of mankind from Creation to Mt. Sinai. It contains many details that help “fill in the gaps” in the biblical narrative. Jubilees is generally dated to the 2^nd century B.C., although the oldest complete copy dates to the 15^th and 16^th centuries A.D.

The Book of Jubilees adds the following details:

1. The angel of destruction was identified as Mastema. Mastema, meaning enmity, is another name for Satan in the Book of Jubilees. In Revelation 9:11, Satan is called the Angle of Destruction, the same name used for the angel in the Targum and Jasher.

2. The reason Satan wanted to attack Moses is so he could prevent the deliverance of the Israelites from Egypt.

3. Another angel, the same one speaking to Moses, delivered Moses from Satan. Whether this was in connection with Zipporah’s actions was not stated in Jubilees.

From the Book of Jubilees, we gather that a lot of angelic warfare was going on behind the scenes.

Putting It All Together

Combining the information from all these manuscripts, a clearer picture emerges.

The Angel of Destruction, Satan, met Moses at the lodge. He wanted to kill Moses to prevent him from delivering the Israelites. Satan knew that Moses had not kept the covenant of circumcision at Jethro’s request. Moses’ disobedience opened the door for Satan to attack him.

Zipporah saw the Destroyer, perhaps through the help of another angel. She knew that Moses was vulnerable on account of their son’s circumcision. She immediately circumcised their son, eliminating Satan’s opportunity.

Which Translation Is Most Reliable?

Although the above versions differ from the one found in most Bibles, they are based on multiple reliable witnesses.

The Septuagint predates the Masoretic Text by 7 centuries. The Targum predates the Masoretic by 10 centuries.

While the Books of Jubilees and Jasher are not older than the Masoretic Text, they support the narratives found in the Septuagint and Targum, adding complementing information.

The story of Moses and Zipporah at the Lodge exemplifies the blessing of having multiple manuscripts. Not only do these witnesses help us better understand the story, but they serve as a serious reminder of how the enemy can use our disobedience to hinder us from the works YHWH calls us to do.

Like Zipporah, we need to stay vigilant, both for ourselves and our loved ones. Only through obedience to YHWH’s commands is the Destroyer bound. By the grace of Messiah we follow His commands.

Blessings in Messiah,

Sarah

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What do we know about Adam and Eve?

From Genesis, we know they were the first man and woman. All humanity can be traced back to them.

Adam and Eve ate from from the Tree of Good and Evil. Breaking YHWH’s (the Lord’s) commandment, they were responsible for the curse of sin placed on creation. Because they sinned, YHWH sent His Son as an atoning sacrifice for the redemption of mankind.

After their sin, they were removed from the Garden of Eden. The Bible says little else about them.

The extra-biblical Book of Jubilees provides more insight into their lives.

Today, we will look at 6 things that Jubilees reveals about Adam and Eve.

Adam and Eve Facts

1. Genesis 1 and 2 tells us that Adam was created on Day 6 on the 1^st week of Creation. Jubilees concurs.

From Jubilees 3:1-8, we learn that Eve was created on Day 6 of the 2^nd week of Creation. Adam was created exactly 1 week before Eve.

2. Adam and Eve didn’t enter the Garden of Eden right away. Jubilees 3:32 says they both were created in the Land of Elda. (Different opinions exists on the location of Elda.)

40 days after Adam was created, he entered the Garden of Eden. Eve entered 80 days after she was created. (Jubilees 2:9)

Eden was a very special place, the holiest location on earth. YHWH specifically chose Eden for Adam and Eve.

3. Adam and Eve were in the Garden of Eden 7 years before the Fall. (Jubilees 3:15,17) Undoubtedly, those years were marked by profound peace and tranquility.

4. The serpent deceived Eve on the 17^th day of the 2^nd month on the biblical calendar. (Jubilees 3:17)

From the Book of Genesis, we known that the Flood also started on the 17^th day of the 2^nd month. (Genesis 7:11) It’s no coincidence that these events occurred on the same day. Both mark dark days in history related to the sin of mankind.

5. Adam and Eve were removed from the Garden of Eden 43 days after eating the forbidden fruit. (Jubilees 3:32) They left on the 1^st day of the 4^th month on the biblical calendar. This was the Summer Day of Remembrance.

On that day, all animals were also removed from the Garden. (Jubilees 3:29) Adam and Eve resettled in the land of their creation, Elda.

Before reading Jubilees, I had assumed that YHWH confronted Adam and Eve directly after they sinned. These 43 intermediate days dramatically change the story. Sitting with the effects of their sin for over a month must have affected them significantly.

6. The birth dates of Adam and Eve’s children are also found in Jubilees. The dates are given in relation to the year Adam and Eve were created. A couple of their daughters are mentioned by name.

Adam and Eve had Cain approximately 64 years after they were created. (Jubilees 4:1)

Abel was born approximately year 71. (Jubilees 4:1)

Their oldest daughter Awan was born approximately year 78. (Jubilees 4:1)

Seth was born year 132. (Jubilees 4:7)

And their daughter Azura was born approximately year 139. (Jubilees 4:8)

After that, Adam and Eve had 9 more sons and likely at least this many daughters. (Jubilees 4:10) This puts the number of Adam and Eve’s children somewhere between 14 and 30.

Jubilees Group Chat

The Book of Jubilees contains even more information on Adam and Eve as well as numerous other historical individuals from Genesis and Exodus. It is a very interesting and enlightening read.

If you would like to read this book with a fun online group, I invite you to join my Jubilees chat. In my Substack chat, I provide links for each chapter along with discussion questions for the group. Participants can read the chapters on their own time and comment as they feel led.

To join the group, click the button below.

Blessings in Messiah,

Sarah

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This study is for both first time readers and anyone who wants to study the book further with a group.

We’ll read 4 chapters of Jubilees a week. Participants can read the chapters, and share what stood out to them.

I will include a few discussion questions along with comments and insights from my reading.

Any questions or testing of the content is welcome.

I will post links to websites where you can read the chapters on Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays. But you are welcome to read them whenever works for you.

The study starts today on Monday, June 14^th, and will end the week of September 7^th.

You are welcome to come and go from this study as works for your schedule. If you miss a chapter, no worries.

To join this study, click the button below.

Join the Jubilees Study

How to get started

1. Get the Substack app by clicking this link or the button below. New chat threads won’t be sent sent via email, so turn on push notifications so you don’t miss conversation as it happens. You can also access chat on the web.

Get app

2. Open the app and tap the Chat icon. It looks like two bubbles in the bottom bar, and you’ll see a row for my chat inside.

3. That’s it! Jump into my thread to say hi, and if you have any issues, check out Substack’s FAQ.

Looking forward to seeing you there!

Sarah

If you’ve been following Extra Biblical Librarian, you know that I love the Book of Jubilees!

Of all the extra-biblical books I’ve read, I believe Jubilees is one of the most intriguing and relevant. A companion to the Book of Genesis, Jubilees covers history from Creation to Mt. Sinai. It provides insights into the biblical narrative, truly breathing new life into familiar stories.

Significant themes include the following:

• Lives of the patriarchs

• YHWH’s Calendar

• Establishment of feast days

• Angels, watchers, and demons

• End Times prophecy

Credibility

Jubilees is historically credible. At least 15 fragmented copies have been found among the Dead Sea Scrolls in the Qumran caves. Only 5 other biblical books exceeded its number of copies. The Qumran Community placed Jubilees in high honor.

Given the copies among the Dead Sea Scrolls, Jubilees is generally dated to the 2^nd century B.C. Many, myself included, believe that these copies were likely based on much older manuscripts.

Jubilees continued to be held in high esteem by early Christian writers, historians, and Church Fathers. Today, the Ethiopian Orthodox Church and Ethiopian Jews include Jubilees in their Bibles.

If you have ever wanted to read this book or learn what it is all about, I invite you to an online Jubilees study!

Summer Jubilees Study

In the weeks ahead, I will be hosting a online Jubilees study.

Who: Both first time readers and anyone who wants to study the book further with a group

Where: In the Extra Biblical Librarian Substack chat

What: We’ll read 4 chapters of Jubilees a week. Participants can read the chapters, and share what stood out to them.

I will include a few discussion questions along with comments and insights from my reading.

Any questions or testing of the content is welcome.

When: I will post links to websites where you can read the chapters on Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays. But you are welcome to read them whenever works for you.

We will start on Monday, June 14^th, and end the week of September 7^th.

You are welcome to come and go from this study as works for your schedule. If you miss a chapter, no worries.

To join this study, click the button below.

You are welcome to share this invite.

Share

I’m looking forward to studying with you!

Sarah

If you would like to support my work, please consider becoming a paid subscriber or founding member. 👇

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The Book of Jubilees chapter 23 describes a time of great tribulation on Earth. This is known in Scripture as the End Days and proceeds the return of Yahushua (Jesus).

Similar to biblical prophetic passages, such as Matthew 24, Jubilees 23 lists signs and events for which to watch. Moses wrote them as a testimony to future generations. (Jubilees 23:32) When they see the signs, they will know that the end is near.

In this post, I examined 10 end-times signs from Jubilees and evaluated whether we are witnessing them today. I also listed correlating Scripture references for each sign.

1. Shortened Life Spans

Jubilees 23:11 “All the generations which will arise from this time until the Day of the Great Judgment will grow old quickly before they complete two jubilees [98 years], and their knowledge will forsake them by reason of their old age.”

Jubilees 23:12 “And in those days, if a man lives for a jubilee and a half of years [74 years], they will say regarding him: ‘He has lived long, and the greater part of his days are pain, and sorrow, and tribulation, and there is no peace.’” (LSV)

Today most people do not live to be 90. Between 70-80 years has become the average life span, and many don’t make it that far.

Correlation Scriptures: Psalm 90:10

2. Wars and Blood Shed

Jubilees 23:22 “A great punishment will befall the deeds of this generation from the Lord, and He will give them over to the sword, and to judgment, and to captivity, and to be plundered and devoured.”

Jubilees 23:23b “Much blood will be shed on the earth, and there will be none to gather and none to bury.” (LSV)

We are watching an increase of wars everywhere. Watch the news. Every day, much blood is shed, and it will only increase until Messiah returns.

Correlating Scriptures: Matthew 24:6-7, Mark 13:7-8, Luke 21:9-10

3. Overthrow of Governments

Jubilees 23:19a “They will strive with one another, the young with the old, and the old with the young, the poor with the rich, and the lowly with the great, and the beggar with the prince.” (LSV)

The above verse describes common people turning on people of power. In the End Days, governments will be overthrown. A World Government run by Satan will replace each national government.

To learn more about this, see my teaching The Three Woes.

With the world’s current unrest, it’s not hard to foresee a One World Government in the near future.

Correlation Scriptures: Revelation 13

4. Increased Wickedness

Jubilees 23:14 “All these will come on an evil generation, which transgresses on the earth: their works are uncleanness, and fornication, and pollution, and abominations.” (LSV)

Many Scriptures prophecy the lawlessness and wickedness that will increase in the End Days. Yahushua foretold it. Daniel dreamed it. John described the wickedness in detail.

Wickedness on earth is rampant and increasing at an alarming rate. Fornication, homosexuality, murder, idolatry, rebellion, pride—these are all part of the deception that is to fall upon the end-days generation.

Correlation Scriptures: Matthew 24:12, Daniel 12:9-10, 2 Timothy 3:1-5

5. Unrepentance

Jubilees 23:21a “Those who have escaped will not return from their wickedness to the way of righteousness, but they will all exalt themselves to deceit and wealth, that they may each take all that is his neighbor’s.” (LSV)

As wickedness increases, a lack of repentance will follow. The wrong will continue to do more wrong.

Correlation Scriptures: Revelation 9:20-21, Revelation 22:11

6. Famine

Jubilees 23:13 “For calamity follows on calamity, and wound on wound, and tribulation on tribulation, and evil tidings on evil tidings...famine, and death, and sword, and captivity, and all kinds of calamities and pains.” (LSV)

Every time I go to the store, I notice the price of groceries increasing and the package size decreasing. You probably have too. Many, like myself, struggle to buy basic groceries.

Parts of the world are experiencing severe famine. With the American—Iranian escalation in the Strait of Hormuz, energy is skyrocketing. With the present situation, we are headed to worldwide food shortages.

Correlation Scriptures: Matthew 24:7, Mark 13:8, Luke 21:11, Revelation 6:5-8, Revelation18:8

7. Terrible Illnesses

Jubilees 23:13a “For calamity follows on calamity, and wound on wound, and tribulation on tribulation, and evil tidings on evil tidings, and sickness on sickness, and all evil judgments such as these, with one another.” (LSV)

The health of the average population has become significantly worse in recent years. Sickness and health problems are the norm. Illnesses that were rare a few generations ago, like cancer, heart diseases, respiratory illnesses, autism, food allergies, diabetes, and obesity are now common place.

Correlation Scriptures: Matthew 24:7, Luke 21:11

8. Destruction of the Earth

Jubilees 23:18a “Behold, the earth will be destroyed on account of all their works, and there will be no seed of the vine and no oil, for their works are altogether faithless.” (LSV)

Man is destroying the earth. The evidence of this is all around us. Chem trails. Huge amounts of garbage dumped in the seas. Purposeful destruction of oil pipe lines. Purposeful crop destruction. GMOs. Bio-weapons. EMFs—5G towers, our phones, and electronic devices. The list goes on and on.

What would you add to this list?

Leave a comment

Correlation Scriptures: Revelation 8:7-11, Revelation 11:8

9. Destruction of the Animals

Jubilees 23:18b “They will all perish together: beasts, and cattle, and birds, and all the fish of the sea, on account of the children of men.” (LSV)

Along with destroying the earth, man has been killing the animals, fish, and birds. Whether through pollution, sterilization, food contamination, jet spaying, EMFs, or intentional mass slaughter; the animal population is decreasing at an alarming rate.

A few years ago, I began reading about the intentional mass slaughter of poultry and livestock. One day the reason given is regulating diseases. The next it is climate control. Regardless, it’s all part of the destruction of animals in the End Days.

Correlation Scriptures: Revelation 8:8-9, Jubilees 7:24 with Matthew 24:37

10. Forgetting YHWH’s Commands

Jubilees 23:19 “They will strive with one another...on account of the Law and the Covenant, for they have forgotten command, and covenant, and feasts, and months, and Sabbaths, and jubilees, and all judgments.” (LSV)

Yahushua said, “If you love Me, you will keep My commands.” (John 14:15) His commands can be found in the Bible, starting with the first 5 books. Today, many either don’t know YHWH’s (the Lord’s) commands or believe they don’t apply. Both are a problem.

When people forget the commands of YHWH, cultural deterioration follows. For example, many have adopted the world’s ways regarding calendars and holidays. Most people are unaware of YHWH’s instructions regarding the weekly sabbath, set-apart holidays, and how to track time.

Those of us who have been shown the importance of these matters are challenged to figure out how to follow His commands and keep His sabbaths in this fallen world. The “right way” was not taught to us because the generations before disregarded it and forgot. Now, everyone must do what is right in their own eyes.

Correlation Scriptures: Deuteronomy 31:16-18, 2 Kings 17:37-38, Isaiah 51:13, Lamentations 2:6, Hosea 4:6

End-Days Salvation

We are seeing many of these signs now. Although we are living in dark times, I’m comforted that Yah’s message of destruction is never without hope for His people. He has a plan of salvation.

The End-Days plan of salvation is very close to my heart, and one that my family has spent years studying. We have written many teachings and e-books on the End Times and YHWH’s plan to gather and save a remnant in a particular location.

For further study, please consider the following recommendations. They all are about the salvation of YHWH’s people in the End Days.

The Three Woes Teaching

What are the Three Woes?

How do they relate to current world events?

How do they help us understand

what needs to happen before Yahushua’s reign?

This study explores these questions and more. It examines possible interpretations of the Three Woes and suggests that they have already started.

Watch and Be Ready Teaching

“What I say to you, I say to all: Watch!” (Mark 13:37)

Yahushua called us to be anchored in the Word, stay vigilant, and be ready for His return.

This teaching explores end-day events Yahushua warned us to watch for.

• The “falling away”

• False teachers

• Persecution

• World war

• Rise of the Anti-messiah

• A location protected from the Anti-messiah

• And much more

  ---

The Call to Jordan

The Call to Jordan: An Invitation for Messiah’s Bride is a thorough exploration of prophetic Scripture that reveals how, when, and where YHWH’s people will be gathered in the final days. This book offers a unique and deeply scriptural perspective—unlike anything you’ve read before.

Blessings in Messiah,

Sarah

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This post is from the EBL Archive.

This coming Sunday, my family will celebrate Shabuot. Shabuot, also known as Pentecost and the Feast of Weeks, is one of God’s set-apart holidays in Leviticus chapter 23.

Shabuot is a day when YHWH (the Lord) has made covenants. We recognize the giving of the Ten Commandments at Mt. Sinai and the Set-apart Spirit as recounted in Acts. The Ten Commandments are the terms of YHWH’s covenant with His people. The Set-Apart Spirit is His gift that helps us keep the commandments.

On Shabuot, we remember the covenant and the outpouring of YHWH’s spirit. My family also has a tradition of making large brownie sundaes. 😋 🍨

The Book of Jubilees records many significant events that occurred on Shabuot throughout the lives of Noah, Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. Jubilees is a historical account that overlaps with the Book of Genesis.

7 Historical Events on the Day of Shabuot

1. The Rainbow (Genesis 9:8-17, Jubilees 6:15-22)

When Noah left the Ark, YHWH promised that He would not destroy the earth again with a flood. He set the rainbow in the sky as a sign of this covenant. YHWH established the celebration of this day as an everlasting law for His people.

Interestingly, I have often seen rainbows around the time of Shabuot. In fact, this is usually the only time I see rainbows. 🌈 🌈

2. Abraham’s Dream and Animal Sacrifice (Genesis 15:7-18, Jubilees 14:7-20)

In Genesis 15, Abraham wanted confirmation that he would possess the land of his sojournings. Abraham offered a heifer, a goat, and a ram. YHWH told him to split the animals in half. That night, Abraham fell into a deep sleep.

In Abraham’s dream, YHWH foretold the slavery of Abraham’s descendants and their exodus from Egypt. YHWH promised Abraham that He would give his descendants the land of Canaan.

3. Covenant of Circumcision (Genesis 17:1-27, Jubilees 15:1-24)

Abraham offered the first fruits of his grain harvest to YHWH. As a result, YHWH met him and gave him the covenant of circumcision. Abraham was circumcised that day.

The same Shabuot, YHWH foretold the birth of Isaac through Sarah “at this appointed time next year.”

4. Birth of Isaac (Genesis 21:1-3, Jubilees 16:12-13)

True to YHWH’s promise, Isaac was born on Shabuot the following year.

5. Abraham Blessed Jacob (Jubilees 22:1-6, 10-30)

According to the Book of Jubilees, shortly before Abraham’s death, Isaac and Ishmael both visited him on Shabuot. They all celebrated the feast together.

At that time, Abraham blessed Isaac’s young son Jacob. Abraham’s prayer was twofold. He prayed that YHWH would establish His covenant with Jacob and be Jacob’s Elohim. His prayer was answered.

6. Birth of Judah (Genesis 29:35, Jubilees 28:15)

Jubilees recorded the birthdays of the 12 sons of Jacob. A few of his sons were born on set-apart days. Judah, from whose line Messiah came, was born on Shabuot.

When I shared this with my younger brother, he asked me, “If your birthday is on Shabuot, would you get a cake and brownies and ice cream?”

“Well, in our house, you would,” I told him. 😀

7. Jacob and Laban’s Covenant (Genesis 32:1-55, Jubilees 29:4-7)

For 21 years, Jacob faithfully served his father-in-law, Laban. As Jacob’s wealth increased, Laban observed him with evil intent. YHWH called Jacob to return to the land of his fathers. Gladly, Jacob left, but without telling Laban.

When Laban learned of Jacob’s departure, he was enraged and pursued Jacob. They met up in Gilead and had a big confrontation. In the end, Jacob and Laban agreed to separate. Each one swore they would not pass over Gilead to harm the other. Jacob made a feast and offered a sacrifice in honor of their agreement.

For those of you who observe Shabuot, I hope you have a blessed day. May YHWH fill you with His Spirit.

If you have never observed Shabuot, I encourage you to consider it. Read Exodus 20, Leviticus 23, Numbers 28, Acts 2, and Jubilees 6. See if this feast is something YHWH wants you to observe as an expression of your commitment to Him.

Blessings in Messiah,

Sarah

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This post is from the EBL Archive.

There once was an old man - a priest
Many years, he lived serving the Lord
Until a wicked emperor came - proclaiming peace
But the price to pay, the man could not afford

Eat the meat, the emperor said
Pig is tasty, don’t reject what’s good
And if you transgress just this once
To forgive, the power above surely would

O king, please understand
This is no trifling offense
For all commands have equal value
My job is to guard them like a fence

For I believe the Law was established by Elohim
And that in giving it, He sympathizes with our nature
He knows what is good, what is life-giving and clean
In Him I trust as my Creator

O king, my body you do control
So prepare your tools of torment
But you will never lord over my soul
Though my bones be broken and flesh rent

I will not betray you, O Law, my instructor
Or forsake you, beloved self-control
Confidently, I will greet my Maker
For my name's written in His scroll

And so the old man departed
A victim of the emperor's wrath
But his words live in the wise-hearted
An example for those who’ll take the same path

The man’s name was Eleazar. The emperor was Antiochus Epiphanes.

Eleazar believed it was better to die than to break Elohim's (God’s) Law. This was true of all Elohim’s prophets and servants in Scripture.

You can read Eleazar’s powerful testimony in 2 Maccabees 6:18-31 and 4 Maccabees 5:1-6:35.

https://www.biblestudytools.com/nrsa/2-maccabees/6.html

https://www.biblestudytools.com/nrsa/4-maccabees/5.html

Blessings,

Sarah

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Luke 1:1-2 “Inasmuch as many have undertaken to compile a narrative of the things that have been accomplished among us, just as those who from the beginning were eyewitnesses and ministers of the word have delivered them to us,”

Luke 1:3-4 “It seemed good to me also, having followed all things closely for some time past, to write an orderly account for you, most excellent Theophilus, that you may have certainty concerning the things you have been taught.” (ESV)

In last week’s post, I explored the history of the 4 canonical gospels and presented evidence that they all were written in the 1^st century.

Were these the ONLY gospels?

The above quote from the Gospel of Luke implies that many had undertaken to compile a gospel narrative. If this is so, there were more than 4 gospels.

Today, I will share about a gospel used widely among early Messianic believers in the 2^nd century and afterward: The Gospel of the Hebrews.

The Gospel of the Hebrews

Like its name suggests, The Gospel of the Hebrews was written in Hebrew. It is traditionally attributed to the Apostle Matthew.

It went by many names.

• The Gospel According to the Hebrews

• The Hebrew Gospel

• The Gospel of the Nazarenes*

• The Gospel of the Ebionites*

• The Gospel of Matthew

The Gospel of Matthew that we have today was likely related to the Gospel of the Hebrews in some way. One of these gospels probably served as a source for the other.

Evidence suggests that the Gospel of the Hebrews was slightly longer than today’s Gospel of Matthew. Because of this, scholars have proposed that the Gospel of the Hebrews harmonized the 4 canonical gospels. In other words, it was a compilation of the four. Others believe it was a source for the 4 gospels.

Regardless of which gospels came first, we can deduct that the Gospel of the Hebrews was closely related to Matthew’s Gospel as well as Mark, Luke, and John.

Church Fathers

Today, the complete Gospel of the Hebrews is lost. However, around 50 quotations and citations have survived from various sources. Most of these quotes are from Church Fathers who mentioned and taught from this gospel. Among those who mentioned this gospel are the following:

• Jerome

• Eusebius

• Hegesippus

• Clement of Alexandria

• Origen

• Papias

• Epiphanius

Overall, most of the Church Fathers held the Gospel of the Hebrews in high authority. Epiphanius and Jerome quoted from it extensively. Both used it as another name for the Gospel of Matthew. Here are a few quotes from the above Christian theologians, philosophers, and historians.

• “Among them [books of questionable authority] some have placed the Gospel according to the Hebrews which is the especial delight of those of the Hebrews who have accepted Messiah.”

  Eusebius (approx. 260-339 A.D.)

• “They [Ebonites] made use only of that which is called the Gospel according to the Hebrews; very little esteeming any other.”

  Eusebius (approx. 260-339 A.D.)

• “They (the Nazarenes) have the Gospel of Matthew most entire in the Hebrew language, among them: for this truly is preserved among them; as it was at first in Hebrew characters.”

  Epiphanius (310-403 A.D.)

• “They (the Ebionites) also receive the Gospel according to Matthew. For this, both they and the Cerinthians [sic] make use of, and no other. They call it the Gospel according to the Hebrews; for the truth is, that Matthew is the only one of the New Testament writers who published his Gospel and preaching in the Hebrew language and Hebrew characters.”

  Epiphanius (310-403 A.D.)

• “In the Gospel which the Nazarenes and Ebionites use, (which I lately translated out of Hebrew into Greek, and which is by most esteemed the authentic Gospel of Matthew).”

  Jerome  (approx. 342–420 A.D.)

  ---

*Note: Nazarenes were Messianic Jews who accepted both Yahushua (Jesus) as Messiah and practiced the Torah. Ebionites were another Jewish sect who accepted Yahushua as Messiah but rejected the Apostle Paul and his teachings.

Unique Material

From the 50 preserved citations of the Gospel of the Hebrews, we find unique material not included in the 4 canonical gospels. Below are some examples.

• A detailed account of Yahushua’s childhood conversation with scholars in the Temple

• Yahushua turning clay into living sparrows

• Names and extra details of people Yahushua healed

• Yahushua kissing his disciples’ feet when He washed them

• Additional details of the passion narrative

• Yahushua making a special appearance to James after He was resurrected

In addition, there are several places where the wording of The Gospel of the Hebrews is slightly different than the canonical gospels, which changes the meaning. Here are 2 examples.

Gospel of the Hebrews 6:11 “Give us today our bread for tomorrow.”

Matthew 6:11 “Give us today our daily bread.” (ESV)

Gospel of the Hebrews 27:65 “Now on the next day, which was following the search for leaven, the Chief Priests and Pharisees came together to Pilate.”

Matthew 27:62 “On the next day, which was after the preparation, the chief priests and Pharisees gathered together to Pilate.” (ESV)

Note: The above Gospel of Hebrews verse references were taken from James Trimm’s reconstruction.

What We Have Today

Although we do not have the original Gospel of the Hebrews, we do have the next best thing.

Scholar and fellow Substacker econstructed the Gospel of the Hebrews using the Gospel of Matthew and citations from the Church Fathers. After decades of study, Trimm is convinced that if the Gospel of the Hebrews was ever found, it would agree very closely with his reconstruction.

If you have never read the Gospel of the Hebrews, I recommend this version. It reads smoothly and offers extra details and alternative wording. Most importantly, this gospel provides a glimpse into what early Messianic believers read and believed about our Savior.

If you would like to read James Trimm’s reconstruction, you can purchase it here. 👇

https://www.amazon.com/Gospel-according-Hebrews-Reconstructed-Ancient/dp/B0FM3GG163

A PDF version is also available for Scribd members. (free 30 day trial offered) https://www.scribd.com/document/246294642/Gospel-of-the-Hebrews-pdf

Blessings in Messiah,

Sarah

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A few years ago, I read a book called The History of the Christian Religion to the Year Two Hundred. The author, Charles B. Waite, argued that the 4 canonical gospels were not written by Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John. Instead, he proposed they were written around the 4^th century. He believed the gospels were based on older accounts which were lost.

Waite presented a thought-provoking case that caused me to do some research. I wanted to see if there was convincing evidence that the gospels were written by the men to which they are attributed.

My research supported the authenticity of the gospels. I believe they WERE indeed written by Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John.

Today, I’ll share 2 manuscripts that shed light on the gospels’ authors and how the books came to be.

1. The Muratorian Fragment

The Muratorian Fragment, also known as the Muratorian Canon, is a parchment discovered in Italy in the 1700s.

The fragment, dating to the second (2^nd) century, is a list of New Testament writings that early Messianic believers accepted. It also contains commentary. The list is one of the oldest known records of New Testament books.

The beginning of the list is missing. The fragment starts abruptly, speaking of the Gospel of Luke, calling it the third gospel. Matthew and Mark were likely included in the missing section. The fragment attributes the fourth gospel to the Apostle John.

The Gospel of John

According to the Muratorian Fragment, the Gospel of John started as a community effort. A group of believers, including the apostles Andrew and John, agreed to write a gospel together. Their account was to be based on all their memories and insights.

However, one night Andrew had a revelation that John alone was to write the gospel. The rest of the group would help by reviewing John’s account.

This story provides understanding into how the Gospel of John reads. In this gospel, the author is both singular and plural. The Gospel of John is also the only gospel written in both first and third person. This is best observed in the closing verses of the book.

John 21:24-25 “This is the taught one who bears witness about these matters, and wrote these matters. And we know that his witness is true. Now there is much else that יהושע did. If every one of them were written down, I think that the world itself would not contain the written books. Aměn.” (TS2009)

The Gospel of Luke

The fragment ascribed the Gospel of Luke to Luke the Physician, travel companion of Paul. It described Luke as “one zealous for the law.”

Even though Luke had never seen Yahushua, he learned a great deal about Him while accompanying Paul on his missionary journeys. During their travels, Luke composed his gospel account. The fragment also attributes the authorship of the Acts of the Apostles to Luke.

2. Exposition of the Oracles of the Lord

The supposed section describing Matthew and Mark’s gospels is missing from the Muratorian Fragment. However, another document recorded their origins: Exposition of the Oracles of the Lord.

This manuscript is attributed to Papias of Hierapolis. He was said to be well-acquainted with contemporaries of Yahushua. His work dates to around one hundred (100) A.D.

Matthew and Mark

According to Papias’s exposition, Mark was Peter’s interpreter. Later, Mark wrote what he remembered from what Peter taught about Yahushua’s life.

Mark did not write the events in exact order but “took special care, not to omit anything he had heard, and not to put anything fictitious into the statements.” (Exposition of the Oracles of the Lord, Fragment 6 Verse 8)

Further, Papias recorded that Matthew “put together the oracles of the LORD in the Hebrew language, and each one interpreted them as best he could.” (Exposition of the Oracles of the Lord, Fragment 6, Verses 9-10)

Some believe that Matthew’s original Hebrew gospel is synonymous with the lost Gospel of the Hebrews spoken of by several Christian historians.

Why These Testimonies Matter

The Muratorian Fragment and Papias’ work date between the 1^st and 2^nd centuries. They were written shortly after the “eye-witness period” of those who had seen Yahushua.

This means that the canonical gospels could not have been written during the 4^th century. The 4 gospels must date earlier than both the Muratorian Fragment and Papias.

The Muratorian Fragment and Papias’ work testify that the 4 Gospels were written shortly after Yahushua’s death, resurrection, and ascension. They quickly circulated and were accepted by early Messianic believers. They were attributed to Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John by those who knew them personally.

If you have been told that the gospels are pseudonymous writings and untrustworthy, I hope this information has re-established your confidence in the biblical account.

The gospel accounts are trustworthy along with the Savior they proclaim!

Blessings in Messiah,

Sarah

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If you ask people where Yahushua/Jesus was born, the majority will say in a stable in Bethlehem. This belief comes from the Gospel of Luke.

Luke 2:6 “While they [Mary and Joseph] were there [Bethlehem], the time came for her to give birth.”

Luke 2:7 “And she gave birth to her firstborn son and wrapped him in swaddling cloths and laid him in a manger, because there was no place for them in the inn.” (ESV)

Luke 2 records that Mary gave birth while in Bethlehem and laid Yahushua in a manger. However, the text doesn’t say that Yahushua was born in a stable.

According to the Gospel of James, Yahushua was born in a cave.

The Gospel of James

The Gospel of James (a.k.a. The Protevangelion or Infancy Gospel of James) is a short gospel usually attributed to James the Just, the brother of Yahushua. Scholars traditionally date the book to the early 2^nd century.

The Gospel of James covers the following:

• Mary’s birth, parents, and early life

• Mary and Joseph’s betrothal

• Yahushua’s birth

• Events directly following Yahushua’s birth

Note: The Gospel of James is unrelated to the biblical Epistle of James in the New Testament.

The Gospel of James does not contradict any of the canonical gospels. It gives extra details, creating a more comprehensive picture.

Let’s take a look at what the Gospel of James reveals about Yahushua’s birth.

Born in a Cave

Chapter 17 of the Gospel of James begins with Mary and Joseph traveling to Bethlehem. Midpoint in their journey, Mary went into labor. They were in the middle of a desert on the outskirts of Bethlehem. The sun was setting. Joseph looked for shelter and found a cave.

Most likely the cave had been used by shepherds pasturing their sheep. Joseph left Mary in the cave while he searched for a midwife.

While Joseph was gone, Mary gave birth. Alone, in the wilderness, she delivered Messiah.

When Joseph returned to the cave, he saw a bright light shining inside. The light was so bright that he could not see anything. Eventually, the light subsided, and Joseph beheld his wife nursing their new son.

After Yahushua’s birth, Mary and Joseph continued their journey to the city of Bethlehem. Upon arrival, they did not find room in an inn and camped in a stable. There, they received a visit from local shepherds.

Luke 2:16 “They [the shepherds] went with haste and found Mary and Joseph, and the baby lying in a manger.” (ESV)

Some time passed, and better lodging was available. When the wise men arrived searching for the King of the Jews, the family was in a house.

Matthew 2:9b-10 “Behold, the star that they had seen when it rose went before them until it came to rest over the place where the child was. When they saw the star, they rejoiced exceedingly with great joy.”

Matthew 2:11a “And going into the house, they saw the child with Mary his mother, and they fell down and worshiped him.” (ESV)

Yahushua’s Birth: A Prophetic Symbol

What is the significance of Yahushua’s birth in the wilderness?

In the Book of Revelation, Yahushua’s birth is used as a prophetic symbol.

At the beginning of Revelation 12, John saw a woman in the wilderness ready to give birth. Like Mary, she was alone. Like Mary, the woman birthed Messiah. This occurred in the context of the Great Tribulation.

Revelation 12:1 “A great sign was seen in the heaven: a woman clad with the sun, with the moon under her feet, and on her head a crown of twelve stars.”

Revelation 12:2 “And being pregnant, she cried out in labour and in pain to give birth.” (TS2009)

Revelation 12:5 “And she bore a male child who was to shepherd all nations with a rod of iron. And her child was caught away to Elohim and to His throne.” (TS2009)

We know from other Scriptures that the woman’s child is Yahushua. The birth description fits Mary’s delivery. Like Mary, the woman was in the wilderness.

Revelation 12:6 “And the woman fled into the wilderness, where she has a place prepared by Elohim, to be nourished there one thousand two hundred and sixty days.” (TS2009)

It’s possible John’s readers knew the details of Yahushua’s birth and equated the woman with Mary. However, the woman in Revelation 12 also represents the bride of Messiah.

The Bride of Messiah

Just as Mary birthed Yahushua in the wilderness, so the bride will “birth” or bring forth Messiah during the Tribulation.

Below is an except from A Series of Important Doctrine: Defining Scriptural Israel.

Mary gave birth alone, in a cave, in the wilderness. In the same way, the bride will be protected, bringing forth Messiah in the wilderness.

Where Is the Wilderness?

The bride’s destiny in the wilderness, raises important questions:

• Where is this wilderness?

• When does the woman flee there?

• How does this fit with other prophetic Scripture and the events in Revelation?

These questions go beyond the scope of this post. For further reading, I highly recommend A Series of Important Doctrine: Defining Scriptural Israel.

This 4-part series highlights key misunderstandings critical for the End Days, the Tribulation, and the gathering and protection of the Bride of Messiah.

It is available for immediate download for $12.

A Series of Important Doctrine: Defining Scriptural Israel

This extensive 4-part series examines popular doctrine testing them with the Scriptures.

Part 1: The Wilderness of the Peoples

Part 2: Two Places of Protection

Part 3: The Modern State Vs. Scriptural Israel

Part 4: Israel—Doctrine Matters

Blessings in Messiah,

Sarah

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