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# The Messianic Light

## Sitemaps

- [XML Sitemap](https://messianiclight.com/sitemap.xml): Contains all public & indexable URLs for this website.

## Posts

- [Blog](https://messianiclight.com/blog/) - Information on feasts, feast dates, and how to celebrate them. Bible and book reviews, and other topics of interest to Messianic and Hebrew Roots believers.
- [Focusing on Yeshua in the Fall Feasts](https://messianiclight.com/focusing-on-yeshua/) - As believers in Yeshua, we understand the Appointed Times, present a picture of the Messiah. So It is important to keep Yeshua as the focus of our celebrations.
- [The ISR Scriptures Revisited](https://messianiclight.com/the-isr-scriptures-revisited/) - The ISR Scriptures is one of the most popular Bible translations in the Messianic and Hebrew Roots movement. What makes it different from any other translation?
- [History and Observance of Tisha b'Av](https://messianiclight.com/history-and-observance-of-tisha-bav/) - Tisha b'Av, or the Ninth of Av, is a day woven from the stories of pain, destruction, and resilience that have shaped Jewish identity for generations.
- [NRSV Updated Edition Apocrypha](https://messianiclight.com/nrsv-updated-edition-apocrypha/) - This compact edition of the NRSV Updated Edition Apocrypha preserves the accuracy of the NRSV while giving consideration to newer understanding of texts.
- [NRSVue Diadem Reference Edition Review](https://messianiclight.com/nrsvue-diadem-reference-edition-review/) - The Cambridge Diadem Reference Edition of the New Revised Standard Version Updated Edition brings an accurate, contemporary translation together with essential reference tools in an elegant and sophisticated Bible for worship and study. This is a beautiful choice as a cherished gift or as an investment in your personal devotions.
- [Shavuot - The Undated Holiday](https://messianiclight.com/shavuot-the-undated-holiday/) - One of the Appointed Times does not have a fixed date in the Torah. Determining the date for Shavuot is dependent on another event and requires some counting.
- [Answering Objections to the Hebrew Roots Movement](https://messianiclight.com/answering-objections-to-the-hebrew-roots-movement/) - Not everything you read on the internet about the Hebrew Roots Movement is true. If you've Got Questions, be very careful where you get your answers.
- [The Ark, the Mercy Seat and the Restoration - Psalm 80](https://messianiclight.com/psalm-80/) - After bringing His people out of Egypt to Mount Sinai, Yahweh, the God of Israel, gave Moses the instructions for the Tabernacle and its furnishings.
- [Why Does Easter Sometimes Come Before Passover?](https://messianiclight.com/why-is-easter-before-passover/) - How is it that this year (2024) Easter, on March 31, occurs over three weeks before Passover on April 22? Shouldn't the resurrection be after the crucifixion?
- [The United States in Prophecy](https://messianiclight.com/the-united-states-in-prophecy/) - I've heard many teachers proclaim the role of the US in end-time events. Here is an exhaustive list of every time the United States is mentioned in Scripture.
- [The Blindness of Jacob (Israel)](https://messianiclight.com/the-blindness-of-jacob/) - Paul in Romans describes the mystery as this: that blindness in part has happened to Israel until the fullness of the Gentiles has come in. What does he mean?
- [Jehu’s Revival or Real Revival?](https://messianiclight.com/jehus-revival/) - Jehu became the tenth king of the northern tribes of the divided kingdom of Israel. He claimed to have a “zeal for the LORD” and his actions seem to confirm it.
- [Aviv Barley and the Biblical Year](https://messianiclight.com/aviv-barley-and-the-biblical-year/) - What does Scripture say about the beginning of the year? All Biblical signs are celestial, so what part does agriculture play? Is searching for barley merely tradition?
- [That Crazy Calendar - When Do We Start?](https://messianiclight.com/when-do-we-start/) - Biblically speaking, when do we start the year? The month? The week? The day? This is one of the most controversial topics we face. Can we know for sure?
- [Sabbath for Believers in Yeshua](https://messianiclight.com/sabbath-for-believers-in-yeshua/) - How does someone keep the Sabbath? We are instructed to "remember the Sabbath day" (Exodus 12:8) and to "observe the Sabbath day" (Deuteronomy 5:12). So how do we keep this commandment? What should we do?
- [Hanukkah for Believers in Yeshua](https://messianiclight.com/hanukkah/) - The Festival of Hanukkah (Chanukah) is celebrated for eight days beginning on 25 Kislev. This year it begins Friday night, December 4, and ends Sunday, December 12.
- [Sukkot for Believers in Yeshua](https://messianiclight.com/sukkot-for-believers-in-yeshua/) - Sukkot begins on the fifteenth day of Tishrei, Saturday, September 26, 2026, and is celebrated for seven days. Shemini Atzeret is on Saturday, October 3, 2026.
- [Yom Kippur for Believers in Yeshua](https://messianiclight.com/yom-kippur-for-believers-in-yeshua/) - Yom Kippur, the Day of Atonement, is observed on the tenth day of the seventh Biblical month, Tishrei. It is an annual Sabbath, the only one on par with the weekly Sabbath.
- [Yom Teruah for Believers in Yeshua](https://messianiclight.com/yom-teruah-for-believers-in-yeshua/) - Yom Teruah, or Rosh Hashanah, is celebrated on the first day of the seventh Biblical month, Tishrei. This year it falls on Saturday, September 12, 2026.
- [Shavuot for Believers in Yeshua](https://messianiclight.com/shavuot/) - The Feast of Shavuot, or Feast of Weeks, is celebrated in late spring at the time of the early wheat harvest in Israel. The exact Hebrew date is not specified in Scripture. Shavuot is at the end of a period of counting fifty days, or seven weeks - thus the name Shavuot, a Hebrew word meaning "weeks," or Pentecost, from a Greek word meaning "fiftieth."
- [First Fruits for Believers in Yeshua](https://messianiclight.com/first-fruits-for-believers-in-yeshua/) - The Feast of First Fruits as a common designation among Messianic followers of Yeshua for the Day of the Wave Sheaf, a day described only in Leviticus 23:10-11.
- [The Feast of Unleavened Bread for Followers of Yeshua](https://messianiclight.com/feast-of-unleavened-bread/) - Chag haMatzot, The Feast of Unleavened Bread, is a week-long celebration from 15 Aviv to 21 Aviv. It begins immediately following the Passover Seder.
- [Passover for Believers in Yeshua](https://messianiclight.com/passover-for-believers-in-yeshua/) - Passover and the Feast of Unleavened Bread are inseparable. The term Passover is sometimes used to refer to Passover and the Feast of Unleavened Bread together.
- [Purim for Believers in Yeshua](https://messianiclight.com/purim/) - The Festival of Purim is celebrated on 14 Adar. For the Gregorian year 2025 it is Friday, March 14 Many Jewish congregations will celebrate for two days. and Saturday, March 15.
- [O God Our Help In Ages Past](https://messianiclight.com/o-god-our-help-in-ages-past/) - This beautiful hymn based entirely on Psalm 90 was composed at a time when songs sung in church services were almost always the actual words of Scripture.
- [The Stone Edition Chumash - A Review for Believers in Yeshua](https://messianiclight.com/the-stone-edition-chumash/) - The Stone Edition Chumash Why would followers of Yeshua be interested in this work written for the Jewish community that does not believe Yeshua is the Messiah?
- [Two Messianic Hanukkah Devotionals](https://messianiclight.com/two-messianic-hanukkah-devotionals/) - Here are a couple of devotional guides for Messianic believers as we celebrate Yeshua, the Light of the World, during Hanukkah, the Festival of Lights.
- [Jeremiah's Christmas Tree](https://messianiclight.com/jeremiahs-christmas-tree/) - The modern Christmas tree appears to have originated in Germany around the time of the Protestant Reformation. Does Jeremiah 10 forbid Christmas Trees?
- [A Bible Reading Plan for 5786 (Updated)](https://messianiclight.com/one-year-bible-reading-plan/) - This Bible Reading Plan for 5786 (2025-2026), published by Bney Yosef North America, follows the Torah cycle along with the complete Old and New Testaments.
- [What is the Hebrew Roots Movement?](https://messianiclight.com/what-is-the-hebrew-roots-movement/) - When looking at the “Hebrew Roots Movement” you will find a wide range of perspectives. As with any religious movement, it has its devotees and its detractors.
- [Are You New To This Walk?](https://messianiclight.com/ask-for-the-ancient-paths/) - So there is a stirring in your heart and you feel drawn to the Ancient Paths mentioned by Jeremiah. Are you asking yourself, “How could I have missed this?”
- [PowerPoint for Messianic Liturgy](https://messianiclight.com/powerpoint-for-messianic-liturgy/) - To assist in maintaining an order of worship (1 Corinthians 14:40) The Messianic Light is pleased to offer a PowerPoint presentation for Messianic services.
- [Review of the ESV with Apocrypha](https://messianiclight.com/a-review-of-the-english-standard-version-with-apocrypha/) - I recommend the English Standard Version Bible (ESV) with Apocrypha as a great resource for Messianic readers who want these additional historical books.
- [2026 Feast Dates](https://messianiclight.com/2026-feast-dates/) - Here are the Gregorian dates for the Biblical Feasts in 2026 based on the Jewish (Hillel) calendar. All observances except Passover begin the prior evening.
- [Torah Portion Calendar for 5786](https://messianiclight.com/torah-portion-calendar-for-5786/) - Download the 5786 Messianic Torah Portion calendar. Messianic and Hebrew Roots believers are encouraged to think in terms of the Torah and Biblical Feast cycles.
- [Thoughts on Prayer](https://messianiclight.com/thoughts-on-prayer/) - Here is another article written by my friend Tom. He writes from a Messianic Jewish perspective and has been studying the concept of prayer.
- [Create In Me A Clean Heart](https://messianiclight.com/create-in-me-a-clean-heart/) - One of my favorite worship songs is "Create In Me A Clean Heart" by the late Keith Green. The words are taken directly from Scripture out of Psalm 51.
- [His Name Is Wonderful](https://messianiclight.com/jesus/) - In the English-speaking world the Messiah is called Jesus. Since coming into a Hebraic understanding, I've come to call him by his given Hebrew name, Yeshua.
- [Summer Observance and Tradition](https://messianiclight.com/summer-observance-and-traditions/) - And if you look at the Biblical calendar, there isn't a lot going on from Shavuot to Yom Teruah. Historically, though, a lot happened.
- [Is Sabbath Always on Saturday?](https://messianiclight.com/is-sabbath-always-on-saturday/) - The Sabbath (Shabbat) is traditionally observed on Saturday. But how do we know this was the original design? Has it changed over time?
- [The Other Ark and the Broken Pieces](https://messianiclight.com/the-other-ark/) - During a study of Torah portion Ekev, a gentleman in our group asked me about the “other ark.” Honestly, I had no idea what he was talking about.
- [The Feasts of Israel for Christians](https://messianiclight.com/the-feasts-of-israel-for-christians/) - This small book can be helpful with introducing Biblical Feasts to mainstream Christians. But you may not be comfortable with some of what is presented.
- [Counting The Omer](https://messianiclight.com/counting-the-omer/) - Are you ready to begin counting the Omer? During Passover and the Feast of Unleavened Bread, some things we do are traditions. But this is a command.
- [A Brief Look at the New American Bible](https://messianiclight.com/new-american-bible/) - The New American Bible is the prominent English translation used in the Roman Catholic Church. Messianic and Hebrew Roots believers may find it valuable.
- [A Simple Messianic Sabbath Liturgy](https://messianiclight.com/a-simple-messianic-sabbath-liturgy/) - This Sabbath liturgy doesn't require knowledge of Hebrew, using simple words and phrases that will be more meaningful as you worship.
- [(Another) Messianic Passover Haggadah](https://messianiclight.com/another-messianic-passover-haggadah/) - Here it is, yet another Messianic Passover Haggadah. This Haggadah has been prepared for a small group of offenders in the Indiana Department of Corrections.
- [Discovering Hope in a Corrupt World](https://messianiclight.com/discovering-hope-in-a-corrupt-world/) - Robin Sampson looks at the lives of heroes like Daniel, Joseph, Ruth, Stephen, and others in her book Discovering Hope in a Corrupt World.
- [Passover and the Second Exodus](https://messianiclight.com/passover-and-the-second-exodus/) - Are you eagerly anticipating the Second Exodus? This future event, like the time when the children of Israel left Egypt, is closely connected to the Passover.
- [Preparing for the Spring Feasts 2025](https://messianiclight.com/preparing-for-the-spring-feasts-2025/) - The Spring Feasts are fast approaching. Are you ready? The timing of Passover this year is a little challenging so don't wait until the last minute.
- [Key Word Study Bible Review](https://messianiclight.com/key-word-study-bible-review/) - I've been using the Key Word Study Bible for more than 15 years. I won’t say it is my favorite Bible, but there are features that sometimes make it invaluable.
- [Counting The Omer Devotional](https://messianiclight.com/counting-the-omer-devotional/) - In just a few days it will be time to begin Counting the Omer, counting up to the day of Shavuot. Here is a new daily devotional to encourage you as you count.
- [Exploring Torah Portion Tetzaveh: Incense and Light](https://messianiclight.com/incense-and-light/) - Two passages in Torah Portion Tetzaveh describe items in the Tabernacle that also reflect our relationship to our Father and to our fellow man.
- [Complete Jewish Study Bible (Review)](https://messianiclight.com/complete-jewish-study-bible-review/) - The Complete Jewish Study Bible is a valuable resource for followers of Yeshua filled with study helps from the perspective of Jewish culture and understanding,
- [The Greater Exodus by Monte Judah - A Review](https://messianiclight.com/the-greater-exodus/) - This book leaves you in anticipation of the Greater Exodus with an excitement that we will soon see the sign of the Son of Man coming on the clouds of heaven.
- [Paul Wilbur Live Recordings - A Review](https://messianiclight.com/paul-wilbur-live-recordings-review/) - The early concert recordings of Paul Wilbur are among my favorites. These were some of the first Messianic CD’s I ever listened to, and I still enjoy them today.
- [theWord Bible Software](https://messianiclight.com/the-word-bible-software/) - theWord is a free, easy-to-use yet very powerful Bible software program. Some modules make it particularly useful for study from a Hebraic perspective.
- [Walk! Messianic Devotionals](https://messianiclight.com/walk-series-review/) - I have been using the Walk! Messianic Jewish Devotional Commentaries since very near the beginning of my pursuit of the Messianic Torah-obedient lifestyle.
- [They Loved The Torah - Book Review](https://messianiclight.com/they-loved-the-torah-book-review/) - Here is a book that recognizes and highlights how Yeshua and his early followers lived according to the instructions God had originally given to his people.
- [Two Messianic Siddurs (Siddurim)](https://messianiclight.com/two-messianic-siddurim/) - Here are two editions of the Siddur for you to consider that keep the beauty of Jewish traditions while recognizing that Yeshua is the promised Messiah.
- [A Review of The ISR Scriptures](https://messianiclight.com/a-review-of-the-isr-scriptures/) - Should the ISR Scriptures be your primary Bible? This translation from the Institute for Scripture Research has some unique characteristics. Is it a good one?
- [Blessing the King of the Universe](https://messianiclight.com/blessing-the-king-of-the-universe/) - Most of us ask God to bless us. The ancient practice, however, is that we first “bless” God. In this book Irene Lipson expresses the importance of blessing God.
- [Eth CEPHER Review](https://messianiclight.com/eth-cepher-review/) - When I first decided to look at Eth Cepher, I expected to see just another sacred-name Bible with an agenda. I was somewhat surprised to find much more.
- [Cultural Backgrounds Study Bible Review](https://messianiclight.com/cultural-backgrounds-study-bible-review/) - In the Cultural Backgrounds Study Bible, the bible student can find historically and culturally based study notes without undue influence from doctrinal bias.
- [Messianic Music from Steve McConnell](https://messianiclight.com/messianic-music-from-steve-mcconnell/) - I've been blessed by Steve McConnell's music since I first began this walk. Here are some of my favorite Steve McConnell songs.
- [Tree of Life Version Bible Review](https://messianiclight.com/tree-of-life-version-bible-review/) - The Tree of Life Version is based on a rich understanding of the Hebraic roots of faith held by first century followers of Yeshua the Messiah (Jesus Christ).
- [Review of The Jewish Annotated New Testament](https://messianiclight.com/review-of-the-jewish-annotated-new-testament/) - Exactly what the title suggests: The New Testament with notes and commentary from Jewish scholars. These Jewish scholars do not believe Yeshua is the Messiah.
- [The Songs of Keith Green](https://messianiclight.com/the-songs-of-keith-green/) - I bought my first Keith Green album, No Compromise, in 1979. Printed inside was Keith's testimony, "It was in the spring of 1973 that I first prayed to Jesus…"
- [The Greatest Commandment](https://messianiclight.com/the-greatest-commandment/) - In this book author Irene Lipson takes a look at each phrase of the Sh'ma, a beloved passage Yeshua calls "The Greatest Commandment."
- [TLV Journey Bible App](https://messianiclight.com/tlv-journey-bible-app/) - Besides publishing the TLV, The Tree of Life Bible Society has also published the TLV Journey Bible App, a free app for Android and iOS devices.
- [The Israel Bible Review](https://messianiclight.com/the-israel-bible-review/) - Every Messianic believer should have the Bible in Hebrew and in a translation not created by Christian scholars. Consider The Israel Bible for your library.
- [The NET Bible Review](https://messianiclight.com/net-bible-review/) - According to the NET Bible publisher, there are more than 60,000 notes. That is an average of two notes on every verse in the Bible.
- [The Jewish Gospels](https://messianiclight.com/the-jewish-gospels/) - Boyarin presents the culture of the Gospels not just from the idea the Jewish people were expecting a messiah, but that many were expecting a divine messiah.
- [Reading The Bible With Rabbi Jesus](https://messianiclight.com/reading-the-bible-with-rabbi-jesus/) - Lois Tverberg shows us if we aren't sensitive to how the Bible might be speaking from a different culture, we may fill in the gaps with our own "reality."
- [The Paradigm](https://messianiclight.com/the-paradigm/) - Jezebel... Perhaps no other Biblical woman invokes so vivid an image of evil. Is Hillary Clinton the modern day antitype of this ancient Queen?
- [Messianic Siddur for Shabbat (Review)](https://messianiclight.com/messianic-siddur-for-shabbat/) - This Messianic Siddur covers the service, blessings and prayers most applicable to followers of Messiah Yeshua while maintaining traditional Jewish liturgy.
- [A Christian Guide to the Biblical Feasts (Review)](https://messianiclight.com/christian-guide-to-the-biblical-feasts/) - This book will be a valuable resource for anyone just beginning to celebrate the Biblical Feasts. David Wilber takes a fresh, no-nonsense approach.
- [Testing the Sacred Name Bibles](https://messianiclight.com/testing-the-sacred-name-bibles/) - What are "Sacred Name" Bibles? Do they accurately reflect the name of God in the Hebrew Bible? Check out this evaluation of the most popular Sacred Name Bibles.
- [John Price: The End Of America](https://messianiclight.com/john-price-the-end-of-america/) - I first read this book back in 2014 during the reign of b hussein o. A lot has happened since I read this book, so I decided to look at it again.
- [New American Standard Bible 2020 Update - Review](https://messianiclight.com/nasb2020-review/) - In 2020 The Lockman Foundation, publishers of the New American Standard Bible, released an update to the text. Like it or not, the English language has changed.
- [The English Standard Version Catholic Edition with Deuterocanonicals](https://messianiclight.com/english-standard-version-with-apocrypha/) - The English Standard Version (ESV) is highly regarded for its accuracy and readability. It was first published in 2001, with updates in 2007, 2011, and 2016.
- [Interlinear Bibles](https://messianiclight.com/interlinear-bibles/) - Interlinear Bibles help fill the gap for those of us in the English speaking world read our Bibles as translated for us from the original ancient languages.
- [The Apocrypha - English Standard Version](https://messianiclight.com/the-apocrypha-english-standard-version/) - The ESV Apocrypha preserves the accuracy of the RSV in modern English usage, including a new translation of Tobit based on the longer Greek text.
- [Sabbath As Resistance - A Review](https://messianiclight.com/sabbath-as-resistance-a-review/) - Even when we pause on the Sabbath, most of the time we are still thinking, planning, making lists and checking them twice, and waiting for the Sabbath to end.
- [Do Muslims and Christians Worship the Same God?](https://messianiclight.com/do-muslims-and-christians-worship-the-same-god/) - Do Muslims and Christians Worship The Same God? Using "scripture" - the Bible and the Quran - Andy Bannister demonstrates that their gods cannot be the same.
- [CSB Holy Land Illustrated Bible Review](https://messianiclight.com/csb-holy-land-illustrated-bible-review/) - Anyone with an interest in the Holy Land will appreciate the pictures and the extensive articles. But what about the Christian Standard Bible translation?
- [ESV Diadem Reference Edition Review](https://messianiclight.com/esv-diadem-reference-edition-review/) - The perfect size for reading, study, or public worship - the ESV Diadem Reference Edition unites convenience with one of the best translations available today.
- [7 Year Apocalypse by Michael Snyder](https://messianiclight.com/7-year-apocalypse-by-michael-snyder/) - 7 Year Apocalypse is a book about both Bible prophecy and current events. Published in 2021, some of the things described are now happening or have already happened.
- [Remember The Sabbath (Review)](https://messianiclight.com/remember-the-sabbath-by-david-wilber-review/) - Remember The Sabbath takes an in depth look in the New Testament to frame a proper view of the Sabbath for Christians - those who choose to follow Jesus Christ.
- [The Complete 54-Book Apocrypha](https://messianiclight.com/the-complete-54-book-apocrypha-review/) - This is one of the largest collections of Apocrypha and Pseudepigraph available. Here are modern literal translations of non-canonical and non-gnostic writings.
- [Messianic Mo'adiym Devotional (Review)](https://messianiclight.com/messianic-moadiym-devotional/) - The Messianic Mo'adiym Devotional offers devotionals from a Messianic perspective for all of the Appointed Times, including each day of Counting the Omer.
- [New Jerusalem Version (Bible Review)](https://messianiclight.com/new-jerusalem-version-bible-review/) - The New Jerusalem Version is a literal, word-for-word translation, a brand new addition to the Messianic Bible arena, Here are our thoughts and recommendations.
- [The Complete Dead Sea Scrolls in English by Geza Vermes](https://messianiclight.com/the-complete-dead-sea-scrolls-in-english/) - The Dead Sea Scrolls were first discovered in Judean desert caves in 1947. Geza Vermes' translation into English is considered to be one of the best.
- [NRSV Updated Edition Bible Review](https://messianiclight.com/nrsv-updated-edition-bible-review/) - This update brings the respected NRSV current with clarity of language and up-to-date consideration of critical texts. Here is a new text edition from Cambridge..
- [The Biblical Feasts and the Return of Jesus](https://messianiclight.com/the-biblical-feasts-and-the-return-of-jesus/) - The Spring Feasts are already fulfilled by Yeshua, and the Fall Feasts will be with his Second Coming. Right? Author Travis Snow sees things a bit differently.
- [Jesus in the Biblical Holidays](https://messianiclight.com/jesus-in-the-biblical-holidays/) - In Jesus in the Biblical Holidays, Robin Sampson challenges the reader to think beyond the history and prophetic meaning behind the Feasts to truly see Yeshua.
- [2025 Feast Dates](https://messianiclight.com/2025-feast-dates/) - Here are the Gregorian dates for the Biblical Feasts in 2025 based on the Jewish (Hillel) calendar. All observances except Passover begin the prior evening.
- [The Feasts of the LORD](https://messianiclight.com/the-feasts-of-the-lord/) - For many, the Feasts of Adonai are our first exposure to things Hebraic, even before coming to an understanding that they are times we ought to be observing.
- [Yeshua (Jesus) In The Biblical Feasts](https://messianiclight.com/yeshua-jesus-in-the-biblical-feasts/) - The annual cycle of Biblical festivals was a central part of life in ancient Israel. These Feasts come together to present God's redemptive plan through Yeshua.
- [Daylight Saving Time](https://messianiclight.com/daylight-saving-time/) - While Daylight Saving Time shifts the hours to create a more convenient evening, the Jewish Calendar shifts the days to create more convenient holidays.
- [Charoset and Mixed Up Dates](https://messianiclight.com/charoset-and-mixed-up-dates/) - Can we as a community of believers come together and celebrate the Appointed Times, even knowing that at least some of the dates are mixed up?
- [Adar II - The Thirteenth Month](https://messianiclight.com/adar-ii-the-thirteenth-month/) - This year, 5782 on the Hebrew calendar, is a “leap” year. We are adding an additional thirteenth month, the month of Adar II. Is this mentioned in the Bible?
- [Thoughts On Passover](https://messianiclight.com/thoughts-on-passover/) - A Passover Seder is a beautiful experience. There are many traditions associated with Passover, just as there are with other Biblical celebrations.
- [Greek and Hebrew Thought: The Calendar](https://messianiclight.com/greek-and-hebrew-thought-the-calendar/) - Which thought process - Greek or Hebrew - is your mindset as you consider the calendar? Are you focused on its form, or its function?
- [Sabbath - First of the Feasts?](https://messianiclight.com/sabbath-first-of-the-feasts/) - We sometimes hear the weekly Sabbath day referred to as the “first of the Lord’s feasts.” But should the Sabbath be thought of as the first of the feasts?
- [Course Correction - Making Teshuvah](https://messianiclight.com/course-correction/) - Have you ever wondered where you might be today if you had made a past decision differently? Do you ever look back with regret? Is a course correction needed?
- [Should We Call It Rosh Hashanah?](https://messianiclight.com/should-we-call-it-rosh-hashanah/) - The secular world knows this name, which is on most calendars. Religious Jews including the majority in Messianic Judaism call it by this name. Is it correct?
- [When Do We Celebrate The Resurrection?](https://messianiclight.com/when-do-we-celebrate-the-resurrection/) - Yeshua told us to remember his death when we celebrate Passover. He did not give any instructions about how to remember his resurrection. What should we do?
- [When Is Passover?](https://messianiclight.com/when-is-passover/) - When is Passover? When is the Passover Seder? Scripture says "in the first month, on the fourteenth day of the month at twilight." What does that mean?
- [Purim - How To Handle Persecution](https://messianiclight.com/purim-how-to-handle-persecution/) - Esther, pleading for the lives of the Jewish people amidst the evil plot of Haman, did not know if she would be successful. But she did not go in unprepared.
- [Best Bible with Restored Names](https://messianiclight.com/best-bible-with-restored-names/) - I was recently asked, "Can you suggest the best Bible with Restored Name?" The debate over names can get pretty heated. What is the best "Restored Names" Bible?
- [The Question of Christmas](https://messianiclight.com/the-question-of-christmas/) - Often the first things new Messianic and Hebrew Roots believers embrace are the Sabbath and the Biblical Feasts. But what do we do when Christmas comes around?
- [The Return of the Gods (Review)](https://messianiclight.com/the-return-of-the-gods/) - Jonathan Cahn shows how, behind what is taking place in America and the world, is a mystery: The Return of the Gods of the ancient world.
- [Mi Kamocha - Who Is Like You?](https://messianiclight.com/mi-kamocha-who-is-like-you/) - Over the past several years I have come to love and appreciate the Mi Kamocha. No, this is not something served up from the coffee bar in the church lobby.
- [After Shavuot: Wine and Oil](https://messianiclight.com/after-shavuot-wine-and-oil/) - Shavuot marks the end of what we typically call the Spring Feasts. What happens between the Spring and Fall Feasts? Here are two more Feasts you may not know.
- [The Feasts in the Gospels](https://messianiclight.com/the-feasts-in-the-gospels/) - What Biblical Feasts did Yeshua and his disciples observe? The obvious answer would be, "all of them." But how and where are they recorded in the Gospels?
- [The New Covenant vs. The Old Covenant](https://messianiclight.com/the-new-covenant-vs-the-old-covenant/) - What is the relationship between the Old Covenant and the New Covenant? What is the difference? Here are some things to consider from the Scriptures.
- [5784 Calendar with Gregorian Months](https://messianiclight.com/5784-calendar-with-gregorian-months/) - In addition to our Hebrew month calendar, we also publish a Torah Portion Calendar for 5784 that follows the familiar Gregorian months.
- [Give Thanks - English and Hebrew](https://messianiclight.com/give-thanks-english-and-hebrew/) - Christian worship leader Don Moen and Messianic recording artist Joshua Aaron teamed up on the well-known song in both English and Hebrew.
- [The Appointed Times of Adonai](https://messianiclight.com/the-appointed-times/) - The 23rd chapter of Leviticus provides a concise summary of the Appointed Times of Adonai, the Biblical Feast celebrations . Here is a brief overview.
- [2024 Feast Dates](https://messianiclight.com/2024-feast-dates/) - Here are the Gregorian dates for the Biblical Feasts in 2024 based on the Jewish (Hillel) calendar. All observances except Passover begin the prior evening.
- [Yeshua in the Feast of Unleavened Bread](https://messianiclight.com/yeshua-in-the-feast-of-unleavened-bread/) - The Feast of Unleavened Bread is a temporary removal of leaven from our homes. See how this fits into the prophetic picture of Yeshua in the Spring Feasts.
- [2023 Feast Dates](https://messianiclight.com/2023-feast-dates/) - Here are the Gregorian dates for the Biblical Feasts in 2023. Feast dates are based on the Jewish (Hillel) calendar for 5783/5784.
- [Preparing for the Spring Feasts](https://messianiclight.com/preparing-for-the-spring-feasts/) - Now is the time to begin planning for the Spring Feasts. The end of the calendar year is when many will need to let employers know the days they need off for next year.
- [Original Sin?](https://messianiclight.com/original-sin/) - Is all of mankind cursed because of Adam's sin? The truth is, I am not a sinner because I was born that way. I am a sinner because I have sinned.
- [On Tithing](https://messianiclight.com/on-tithing/) - Is tithing for today? In this post, we are going to list every Biblical reference on the subject, making a few observations but without drawing any conclusions.
- [How To Subscribe to Our RSS Feed](https://messianiclight.com/how-to-subscribe-rss-feed/) - Are you missing new posts from The Messianic Light? You can get new posts through an RSS feed in your browser, in an app on your phone, or in your email client.
- [The Lying Pen of the Scribes](https://messianiclight.com/the-lying-pen-of-the-scribes/) - Can we trust the Bible? Is the Torah really holy instruction from God, or is it a fabrication from the lying pen of the scribes? Yes, we can know for sure!
- [2022 Feast Dates](https://messianiclight.com/2022-feast-dates/) - Here are Gregorian dates for the Biblical Feasts in 2022 and helpful resources for followers of Yeshua. Feast Dates are based on the Jewish (Hillel) calendar.
- [Sabbath in the Bible](https://messianiclight.com/sabbath-in-the-bible/) - Here is every reference in both the Old and New Testaments where the Hebrew and Greek words for "Sabbath" occur, no matter how they are translated.
- [Jude](https://messianiclight.com/jude/) - This past week when I went into the living room my 10-year old grandson was sitting on the couch. He looked up at me and said, "I'm reading the Bible."
- [Following Yeshua](https://messianiclight.com/following-yeshua/) - What does it really mean to be a believer, a follower of Yeshua? Most of us who claim Yeshua as our Master think we know. Do we put it into practice?
- [Ordered Prayer - Psalm 5](https://messianiclight.com/ordered-prayer-psalm-5/) - I’ve often struggled with prayer, especially when there wasn’t an immediate, pressing need or a situation that called for a prayer (for instance, a meal).
- [Out Of The Pit - Psalm 40](https://messianiclight.com/psalm-40/) - Joseph spent time in the pit – twice. King David wrote about being in a “pit.". Yeshua experienced the lowest pit possible – dead in the grave.
- [The Shelter of the Most High](https://messianiclight.com/the-shelter-of-the-most-high/) - The shelter of the Most High - what is it? Where is it? How do I get to the shelter of the Most High? "Tom" has a few thoughts on this I want to share.
- [The Refiner's Fire and Fullers' Soap](https://messianiclight.com/the-refiners-fire/) - Sterling silver is 92.5% pure silver. Ivory Soap is "ninety-nine and forty-four one hundredths percent pure." That means each contains something impure.
- [The Greatest Experience](https://messianiclight.com/the-greatest-experience/) - Living with Yeshua is the greatest experience. In the words of the late Andrae Crouch, "Living in a world of darkness, he came along and brought me the light."
- [How to Build a Sukkah with PVC](https://messianiclight.com/build-a-sukkah/) - Here is a lightweight, easy to assemble Sukkah you can build yourself. It ls also easy to disassemble and store, the use again next year!
- [The Return - The Significance of the Date](https://messianiclight.com/the-return-significance-of-the-date/) - The day itself is the Sabbath between Yom Teruah and Yom Kippur, a Sabbath that has a special designation – Shabbat Shuvah, the Sabbath of Return.
- [Praying the Amidah](https://messianiclight.com/praying-the-amidah/) - Tefillat Amidah, or the Standing Prayer, is the most commonly referenced liturgical prayer in the Jewish faith. It is traditionally prayed three times a day.
- [Using English and Hebrew in Documents](https://messianiclight.com/using-english-and-hebrew/) - Do you ever need Hebrew characters mixed with your English text? Here is a method I have discovered to easily insert Hebrew letters and vowels into a document.
- [A New Cart](https://messianiclight.com/a-new-cart/) - It was an exciting day - the worship team, praise band, and the whole congregation was lifting their voices and hands in heart-felt worship. Then someone died.
- [Essential Doctrine](https://messianiclight.com/essential-doctrine/) - If someone wants to be identified as a follower of Messiah Yeshua, what doctrine is essential? Who makes that determination? Did Yeshua have anything to say?
- [Count - But Don't Count Down](https://messianiclight.com/count-dont-count-down/) - Counting the Omer is a count "up." The instructions are clear - count seven weeks "from" the day of the Omer, fifty days "to" the day after the seventh Sabbath.
- [Guess What Day It Is](https://messianiclight.com/guess-what-day-it-is/) - Not everyone agrees on the timing of the Feasts. Sometimes we're going to gather on a day that we don't happen to think is the right one. We'll get over it.
- [Should We Postpone Passover?](https://messianiclight.com/should-we-postpone-passover/) - Given the current situation with COVID-19 (April, 2020) some have suggested that the Passover should be postponed. So how should we approach this Passover?
- [You Shall Not Kindle A Fire](https://messianiclight.com/you-shall-not-kindle-a-fire/) - Fiery conversations and tense situations are just a part of life. They don't need to take place on the Sabbath. This day is set apart from the rest of the week.
- [Coming Together In Worship](https://messianiclight.com/coming-together-in-worship/) - I sang words out of order. Sometimes I strummed the wrong chord or got lost in my printed song sheets. But as a corporate body, we were not random or haphazard.
- [Sanctuary](https://messianiclight.com/sanctuary/) - Enjoy this popular Christian chorus along with additional lyrics from the Hebrew Scriptures. Lord, prepare me to be a living sanctuary for You.
- [Sabbath – Saturday or Sunday or Not At All?](https://messianiclight.com/sabbath-saturday-or-sunday/) - When is the Sabbath? For many, the issue of the Sabbath is one of the first things they encounter when they begin to discover the Hebrew roots of their faith.
- [Why I Read The Torah Portion](https://messianiclight.com/why-i-read-the-torah-portion/) - Reading the Torah portions has long been a practice in the Jewish community and Messianic Judaism has continued the custom. Many more have joined in as well.
- [Praise, Worship, and Giving](https://messianiclight.com/praise-and-worship/) - During the time of teaching we are being fed. God is giving to us. Worship is when we give to God, and we selfish humans would rather receive than give.
- [Is Masturbation A Sin?](https://messianiclight.com/is-masturbation-a-sin/) - You probably know that there is not a direct reference in Scripture to masturbation. But is there a solid, direct answer that can be found? I think there is.
- [Who Was Melchizedek?](https://messianiclight.com/who-was-melchizedek/) - In Genesis 14 we are introduced to a man who will make just one brief appearance on the Biblical scene, but who's legacy will be heralded down through history.
- [Thanksgiving Day](https://messianiclight.com/thanksgiving-day/) - Many Messianic believers will enjoy Hanukkah and Purim. But there is one other celebration that we should not overlook: Thanksgiving Day.
- [Our Tashlich Service](https://messianiclight.com/our-tashlich-service/) - A few days ago on Yom Teruah, also called Rosh Hashanah or the Feast of Trumpets, our family was privileged to be part of a Tashlich service.
- [What To Do on Yom Kippur](https://messianiclight.com/what-to-do-on-yom-kippur/) - Yom Kippur has long been considered the holiest day of the year. You might be surprised to find out just how little the Bible actually says about it.
- [Time To Move On](https://messianiclight.com/time-to-move-on/) - "Adonai our God spoke to us ... saying: 'You have stayed long enough at this mountain. Turn, journey on…'" Are we listening when God says it is time to move?
- [The Historical Present](https://messianiclight.com/the-historical-present/) - There is an interesting marking on some New Testament verbs in the New American Standard Bible. In the Greek, they are actually in a different tense.
- [Singing Songs In Hebrew](https://messianiclight.com/singing-songs-in-hebrew/) - I like to sing songs in Hebrew. Since I don't speak that language, I'm not very good at it, but I like to do it anyway. Here are a few of my favorites.
- [His Love Endures Forever](https://messianiclight.com/his-love-endures-forever/) - Chesed is one of the most intriguing words in Scripture. Translated as love, lovingkindness, and mercy, there isn't just one English word to convey its meaning.
- [Tea and Coffee](https://messianiclight.com/tea-and-coffee/) - It wasn't coffee; it was tea. It was a gracious act of hospitality, offering what she believed was what I wanted; but the truth was, it was something else.
- [The Promises Of God](https://messianiclight.com/the-promises-of-god/) - “'For I know the plans I have for you,' declares the LORD." What does that really mean? Do you know the context in which Jeremiah gave this prophecy from Yah?
- [Tom on Torah Portion Vayikra](https://messianiclight.com/tom-on-vayikra/) - God instructs Moses on five different kinds of sacrifices to be offered in the sanctuary. They allow the people to be brought near and experience his love.
- [I Dare You To Move](https://messianiclight.com/i-dare-you-to-move/) - But You, O LORD, are a shield about me, My glory, and the One who lifts my head. (Psalm 3:3) David wrote those words during one of his many troubled times.
- [Beit Shammai and Beit Hillel](https://messianiclight.com/shammai-and-hillel/) - Beit Shammai and Beit Hillel (the House of Shammai and the House of Hillel) were central to Judaism at the time of Yeshua’s ministry.
- [International Holocaust Remembrance Day](https://messianiclight.com/international-holocaust-remembrance-day/) - On January 27, 1945, the Auschwitz concentration camp, the largest of the Nazi death camps, was liberated by the Russian Red Army.
- [The Apocrypha for Believers in Yeshua](https://messianiclight.com/the-apocrypha/) - One of the most well-known Jewish celebrations can\'t even be found in the Hebrew Bible. Of course, I\'m talking about the Feast of Dedication, Hanukkah.
- [Is It Bible, or Not?](https://messianiclight.com/is-it-bible-or-not/) - How many of the common sayings we hear are found in the Bible? If so, do you know where? If not, do you know where they come from?
- [Why Prison Ministry](https://messianiclight.com/why-prison-ministry/) - Remember the prisoners, as though in prison with them, and those who are ill-treated, since you yourselves also are in the body. (Hebrews 13:3)
- [When Was The New Testament Written?](https://messianiclight.com/when-was-the-new-testament-written/) - It seems like an easy question to answer. If roughly half of the New Testament was written by Paul, then it follows that most of it was in the first century.
- [5 Ways to Read The Bible In One Year](https://messianiclight.com/5-ways-to-read-the-bible-in-one-year/) - With the new calendar year right around the corner, now is the time to prepare for a structured Bible reading plan for the year. Decide now what you will do.
- [The Making of Messianic Bibles](https://messianiclight.com/the-making-of-messianic-bibles/) - While browsing at a thrift store I came across a copy of The Living Scriptures Paraphrased – Messianic Edition of the Living Bible. I had to buy it.
- [Hebrew Roots and Christianity](https://messianiclight.com/hebrew-roots-and-christianity/) - Let's take a look at some of the distinguishing characteristics of the Hebrew roots movement and how they relate to traditional mainstream Christianity.
- [Abraham Wasn't a Rolling Stone](https://messianiclight.com/chayei-sarah-the-life-of-sarah/) - At the end of his life, “Abraham breathed his last and died in a ripe old age, an old man and satisfied with life; and he was gathered to his people."
- [Considering the Septuagint](https://messianiclight.com/considering-the-septuagint/) - The New Testament either quotes the Septuagint or a non-extant Hebrew text from which the Septuagint is translated. This is important to believers in Yeshua.
- [Book, Chapter and Verse](https://messianiclight.com/book-chapter-and-verse/) - Attention! Draw Swords! Charge! Those were the commands for the “Sword Drill” competitions that I remember from my childhood.
- [Our World and World of Noah](https://messianiclight.com/psalm-14/) - Psalm 14 and Psalm 53 are nearly identical Psalms of David. Reading the same thing twice might be an indication it should be given a little more attention.
- [Season Of Our Joy](https://messianiclight.com/season-of-our-joy/) - Sukkot, the Feast of Tabernacles, has often been called The Season of Our Joy. This is the only one of the Feasts where we are commanded to have a good time.
- [Ten Days of Awe – Ten Days of Prayer – Day 10](https://messianiclight.com/ten-days-of-awe-ten-days-of-prayer-day-10/) - Day 10: Pray that the sons of Israel who are pursuing this work of restoration for the Kingdom would be strong and courageous.
- [Ten Days of Awe – Ten Days of Prayer – Day 9](https://messianiclight.com/ten-days-of-awe-ten-days-of-prayer-day-9/) - Day 9: Pray for the peace of Jerusalem, and that they who love her would prosper, pray that peace would be within her walls.
- [Ten Days of Awe – Ten Days of Prayer – Day 8](https://messianiclight.com/ten-days-of-awe-ten-days-of-prayer-day-8/) - Day 8: Pray for both houses to see the Father’s plan to have a pure, overcoming army, and to give themselves to becoming that army.
- [Ten Days of Awe – Ten Days of Prayer – Day 7](https://messianiclight.com/ten-days-of-awe-ten-days-of-prayer-day-7/) - Day 7: Pray that the hearts of Ephraim and Judah might be circumcised with a love for each other. Pray that each will learn.
- [Ten Days of Awe – Ten Days of Prayer – Day 6](https://messianiclight.com/ten-days-of-awe-ten-days-of-prayer-day-6/) - Day 6: Pray that the Father will use the tragic events of our time to bring His people to repentance and faith in Him through the shed blood of Messiah Yeshua.
- [Ten Days of Awe – Ten Days of Prayer – Day 5](https://messianiclight.com/ten-days-of-awe-ten-days-of-prayer-day-5/) - Day 5: Pray for the safety and well-being of those of Judah who have returned to the Promised Land; pray their hearts will be turned toward their fathers.
- [Ten Days of Awe – Ten Days of Prayer – Day 4](https://messianiclight.com/ten-days-of-awe-ten-days-of-prayer-day-4/) - Day 4: Pray that the sheep of Israel would be delivered from wicked shepherds who muddy the waters and feed themselves rather than the flock.
- [Ten Days of Awe – Ten Days of Prayer – Day 3](https://messianiclight.com/ten-days-of-awe-ten-days-of-prayer-day-3/) - Day 3: Pray that all whom the Father has chosen to instruct Ephraim in this time will arise, and that Ephraim will come to repentance.
- [Ten Days of Awe – Ten Days of Prayer – Day 2](https://messianiclight.com/ten-days-of-awe-ten-days-of-prayer-day-2/) - Day 2: Pray that all Israel will see the truth about the melo hagoyim promised to Ephraim, and that the fullness of Gentiles will come in.
- [Ten Days of Awe – Ten Days of Prayer – Day 1](https://messianiclight.com/ten-days-of-awe-ten-days-of-prayer-day-1/) - Day 1: Pray that all Israel might come to true repentance, that they might be saved. Pray that they would put away all of their idols.
- [Preparing for the New Torah Cycle](https://messianiclight.com/preparing-for-the-new-torah-cycle/) - Make your commitment now that you will read and study the Torah portions this coming year. Now is the time to prepare and have everything ready to start.
- [What is Yom Teruah?](https://messianiclight.com/what-is-yom-teruah/) - This is an exciting time – the fall Appointed Times are fast approaching! The first day of the seventh Biblical month is right around the corner.
- [Biblical Time - Elul](https://messianiclight.com/biblical-time/) - Are you thinking Biblically when you think about time? With the beginning of Elul, the sixth month, we are just one month away from Yom Teruah (Rosh Hashanah).
- [I Love You, Lord](https://messianiclight.com/i-love-you-lord/) - I was asked a question about a prayer by one of the offenders I meet with at a nearby prison. The Holy Spirit granted his the desire before I could answer.
- [The Haftarah Portions](https://messianiclight.com/the-haftarah-portions/) - The Haftarah is a selection from the Prophets that generally corresponds to at least one of the main subjects of the Torah portion. That is about to change.
- [Rabbah Emunatecha](https://messianiclight.com/great-is-your-faithfulness/) - Simply marked as “Upon Rising” in the weekday siddur, this prayer is intended to be said while still in bed and before one\'s feet hit the floor:
- [Are You a Kosher Christian?](https://messianiclight.com/kosher-christian/) - Many Christians are awakening to the understanding that Jesus, whose Hebrew name is Yeshua, did not come to start a new religion. He lived his life as an example for us, showing us how to live according to the commandments of Yahweh given in the Torah and written down by Moses. He even said that
- [When He Killed Them - Psalm 78](https://messianiclight.com/when-he-killed-them-psalm-78/) - In perfect hindsight we wonder how our forefathers could be so dense – surely we would have acted differently. Or would we? .
- [Speaking in Tongues](https://messianiclight.com/speaking-in-tongues/) - On the day of Shavuot, or Pentecost, after Yeshua’s resurrection, something spectacular happened as they were "filled with the Holy Spirit."
- [The Love of God](https://messianiclight.com/the-love-of-god/) - This beautiful hymn was composed in 1917 Frederick M. Lehman. The third verse has long been one of my favorites, and its origin is even more interesting.
- [On Shavuot (A Letter from Tom)](https://messianiclight.com/on-shavuot/) - As we approach the Appointed Time of Shavuot, I want to share a portion of a letter I received from a friend some time back. "Tom" is currently incarcerated.
- [Ministering to Those in Prison](https://messianiclight.com/ministering-to-those-in-prison/) - It is Sabbath morning and in just a few minutes I will be meeting with my regular group for an in-depth study of this week’s Torah portion.
- [Why Do You Keep The Sabbath?](https://messianiclight.com/why-do-you-keep-the-sabbath/) - If you are a Sabbath keeper, I have a question for you. Why do you keep the Sabbath? There are probably multiple reasons, and some of them are easy answers.
- [The Lord's Prayer](https://messianiclight.com/the-lords-prayer/) - The most well-known prayer in the Brit Chadashah (New Testament) is commonly called The Lord’s Prayer, part of Yeshua’s teaching in the Sermon on the Mount.
- [I Will Deliver You?  Yeah, Right.](https://messianiclight.com/yeah-right/) - That’s probably what the Israelites thought when they heard those words. Things had gone from bad to worse since Moses had appeared on the scene. Yeah, right.
- [Starting a Home Fellowship](https://messianiclight.com/starting-a-home-fellowship/) - If there is no Sabbath gathering near you, consider hosting a home fellowship yourself. Here are some simple suggestions to get started.
- [Read Your Bible Through In 2018](https://messianiclight.com/read-your-bible-through-in-2018/) - Have you ever read the Bible? That probably sounds like a silly question to ask someone reading this blog on a Messianic and Hebrew Roots web site.
- [Standing Firm - Vayeshev and Hanukkah](https://messianiclight.com/standing-firm-no-compromise/) - This week's Torah portion Vayeshev tells us of the young Joseph, betrayed and sold into slavery by his brothers, serving his master in the land of Egypt.
- [Tol'dot (Generations) and Psalm 116](https://messianiclight.com/toldot-generations/) - Only two people in the book of Genesis are said to have called on the name of the LORD: Abraham and Isaac. Torah Portion Tol'dot tells us the story of Isaac.
- [Things I (Don’t) Know](https://messianiclight.com/things-i-dont-know/) - “The more I learn, the more I realize how much I don’t know.” That quote has been attributed to Albert Einstein, although I don’t know if he really said it.
- [Religion and Relationship](https://messianiclight.com/religion-and-relationship/) - “It isn’t about religion, it’s about relationship.” This seems to be a pretty popular phrase among today's Christians. Is there something wrong with “religion?”
- [A Very Special Fortieth Day](https://messianiclight.com/fortieth-day/) - On the fortieth day from the waving of the first fruits, the day of the resurrection, Yeshua gathered his followers together giving them His final instructions.
- [The Feast of Unleavened Bread](https://messianiclight.com/the-feast-of-unleavened-bread/) - As we celebrate the seven days of Chag haMatzot, the Feast of Unleavened Bread, here are a few things to ponder about leaven and the instructions we are given.
- [Wearing Tzitzit - Those Tassels](https://messianiclight.com/wearing-tzitzit/) - This is a community as well as a personal thing. We wear tassels both as a reminder to the wearer and a reminder to those who see others wearing them.
- [Using Names and Titles](https://messianiclight.com/names-and-titles/) - When in a public setting, we need to be respectful of our brothers and sisters around us without violating our own convictions on this subject.
- [God's Appointed Times](https://messianiclight.com/leviticus-23/) - Some people think of these days as the Jewish Feasts. Many have referred to them as the Feasts of Israel. God just calls them His Appointed Times.
- [Are Yahweh and Allah the Same God?](https://messianiclight.com/are-yahweh-and-allah-the-same-god/) - Is the Muslim Allah, revealed in the Quran the same as the God of Israel revealed in the Hebrew Bible - the Old Testament - revered by both Christians and Jews?
- [They Comfort Me (Psalm 23)](https://messianiclight.com/psalm-23/) - The Twenty-Third Psalm may be the most well known of all Psalms. Yeshua used the same word picture to describe himself. He said, "I am the good shepherd."
- [Hallelujah - Holy or Broken?](https://messianiclight.com/hallelujah/) - I’ve watched the video of the IDF soldiers singing Leonard Cohen’s “Hallelujah” in Hebrew several times now. They are truly talented. 
- [So Far Has He Removed Our Transgressions From Us](https://messianiclight.com/psalm-103/) - Psalm 103 is not just a song of encouragement. It is song of self-encouragement, meant to strengthen not just the congregation but also the singer himself.
- [Psalm 68 - Let God Arise](https://messianiclight.com/psalm-68/) - Psalm 68 is a song of triumph by King David. God arises. His enemies scatter, and those who hate Him flee His presence.
- [Shavuot/Pentecost, the Feast of Weeks](https://messianiclight.com/shavuot-pentecost/) - Counting 50 days (inclusive) from the day after the Sabbath following Passover, seven complete Sabbaths and one day, brings us to the Feasts of Weeks.
- [Vayetze – Nearer My God To Thee](https://messianiclight.com/nearer-my-god-to-thee-vayetze/) - As Jacob sets out from the Promised Land, he has two purposes in mind: to escape his brother Esau and to find a wife. God had another purpose in mind.
- [Be Holy - Torah Portion Kedoshim](https://messianiclight.com/be-holy-torah-portion-kedoshim/) - It has been the practice of the Jewish people to read through the Torah – the first five books of Scripture – on either a one-year or three-year schedule.
- [Why I Hang Out With Criminals](https://messianiclight.com/why-i-hang-out-with-criminals/) - You probably do as well. In fact, you may be one. The majority of us have, at one time or another, transgressed the laws of the land. Sometimes we get caught.
- [Questions On the Book of Esther](https://messianiclight.com/questions-on-the-book-of-esther/) - Recently I received a letter from a prison inmate who has been reading the book of Esther before Purim. Here are his questions and my responses.
- [Chazaq Chazaq v'Nitchazeq](https://messianiclight.com/chazaq/) - After concluding each book of the Torah, it is traditional to recite the phrase “Chazaq! Chazaq! v’Nitchazeq! – Be strong! Be strong! And let us be strengthened!”
- [A Sabbath Song - Psalm 92](https://messianiclight.com/a-sabbath-song-psalm-92/) - It is good to give thanks to the LORD, And to sing praises to Your name, O Most High; To declare Your lovingkindness in the morning And Your faithfulness by night
- [Read the Bible in 2016](https://messianiclight.com/read-the-bible-in-2016/) - Reading through the Bible in chronological order is amazing. Here are some ideas for reading the Bible chronologically during the upcoming year.
- [Celebrating The Passover](https://messianiclight.com/celebrating-the-passover/) - If you are new to a Hebraic understanding of your faith or have never celebrated a Passover, I encourage you to make plans to observe Passover this spring.
- [The Prayers of the Saints - Psalm 141](https://messianiclight.com/the-prayers-of-the-saints/) - In Torah portion Tetzaveh we read the instructions for tending the Menorah and the altar of incense. These were probably on David’s mind as he composed this Psalm.
- [Esther and the Decree of the King](https://messianiclight.com/purim-esther/) - The Greek version of Esther in the Apocrypha includes a letter - an "Executive Order" - from King Artaxerxes. Read it substituting the names of current political figures.
- [Psalm 1, Torah Portion Mishpatim, and Lemmings](https://messianiclight.com/psalm-1/) - In Torah portion Mishpatim we have a directive from the Father to us, his children: “You shall not follow the masses in doing evil” (Exodus 23:2).
- [Psalm 119 - Torah Portion Yitro](https://messianiclight.com/psalm-119/) - As you read through this most precious Psalm, realize that every portrayal and description of Yah’s words of instruction are vivid images of Messiah Yeshua.
- [How To Increase Your Faith](https://messianiclight.com/how-to-increase-your-faith/) - Have you ever felt as if you didn’t quite have enough faith? Yeshua’s (Jesus’) disciples once came to Him with the request, “Increase our faith!” (Luke 17:5).
- [The Ma Tovu Prayer](https://messianiclight.com/the-ma-tovu-prayer/) - Ma Tovu is found in the Siddur at the beginning of the Sabbath service. It is traditionally recited upon entering the synagogue or other place of worship.
- [The War on Christmas](https://messianiclight.com/the-war-on-christmas/) - Is there really a war on Christmas? I don’t know, but I doubt it. Rather, I think it more accurate to say there is a war on Christians.
- [Psalm 121 - Shomer Israel](https://messianiclight.com/psalm-121-shomer-israel/) - As the children of Israel sang this Psalm of Ascent, they were on their way into Jerusalem to celebrate one of Yahweh’s festivals, celebrations He gave them when he brought them out of Egypt.
- [More About Food - Are All Foods Clean?](https://messianiclight.com/more-about-food/) - Sometimes those new to the Messianic movement or a Torah-obedient lifestyle face a dilemma when it comes to eating. Here are some things to consider.
- [Killing Shechem](https://messianiclight.com/killing-shechem/) - This is not the time, while new people are still experiencing the agony of the “circumcision,” to attack, wound and kill our brothers and sisters.
- [What About Thanksgiving?](https://messianiclight.com/what-about-thanksgiving/) - It is thrilling to discover the Biblical Holy Days and begin celebrating them. At the same time, many who study the Feasts of the Lord also come to the realization that some of the other days they have observed in the past may not really be pleasing to God. A growing number of Christians, learning
- [The Sons of Korah](https://messianiclight.com/the-sons-of-korah/) - Buried in the book of Numbers with all the names so difficult to pronounce is one short but remarkable sentence: But the sons of Korah did not die (Numbers 26:11).
- [Is Hanukkah Biblical?](https://messianiclight.com/is-hanukkah-biblical/) - The next “feast” is Hanukkah, the Feast of Dedication. But is Hanukkah Biblical? Should a Messianic believer, especially someone who isn't Jewish, celebrate it?
- [How to Keep the Sabbath](https://messianiclight.com/how-to-keep-the-sabbath/) - Many of us have a tendency to make things more complicated than they need to be. God never intended for the Sabbath to be difficult or confusing.
- [The Last Great Day](https://messianiclight.com/the-last-great-day/) - Sukkot is a joyous celebration from the first day to the "Last Great Day." But when is that? Where does this phrase come from, and what happens on this day?
- [Thanksgiving for Believers in Yeshua](https://messianiclight.com/thanksgiving-for-believers-in-yeshua/) - Thanksgiving is an American holiday observed on the fourth Thursday in November. Should believers in Yeshua observe this tradition?
- [Who Wrote The Bible? Exploring the Documentary Hypothesis](https://messianiclight.com/who-wrote-the-bible-documentary-hypothesis/) - Who wrote the Bible? Where are the originals? Everything in existence today is either a copy or translation of a copy. What is the Documentary Hypothesis?
- [How Many Feasts Are There?](https://messianiclight.com/how-many-feasts-are-there/) - If you ask most Messianic and Hebrew Roots believers how many Feasts there are, they will reply with “seven.” Is that really the best and most complete answer?
- [Leaves](https://messianiclight.com/leaves/) - Playing outside before dinner Still wearing her Sunday best She gathers up foliage Held tightly to her chest
- [A Biblical Look at Homosexuality](https://messianiclight.com/a-biblical-look-at-homosexuality/) - When the patriarch Jacob awoke to find he was married to the wrong sister, he was told, "It is not the practice in our place to marry off the younger before the firstborn." Sometimes what people view as acceptable in relationships is largely a cultural issue.
- [Read the Gospels in One Month](https://messianiclight.com/read-the-gospels-in-a-month/) - My challenge is to read the four Gospels, the accounts of the life of Yeshua the Messiah, in each of these two months of Av and Elul leading up to the Fall Feasts.
- [Back On Track](https://messianiclight.com/back-on-track/) - After more than 16 months absence, today was my first time back inside the correctional facility since the COVID-19 pandemic began. Mid-March, 2020, was the last time we had been able to meet.
- [Change Is In The Air](https://messianiclight.com/change-is-in-the-air/) - I pulled up to the correctional facility this morning with great anticipation. The first week was a chance to regroup with the guys, find out who was still interested in having a service, and see what resources were available for us there. But I wasn't prepared for what I would find this week.
- [One-On-One](https://messianiclight.com/one-on-one/) - This week our meeting in the prison Chapel room was a bit of a challenge. With some of the men being transferred to another facility, we are now down to just four guys, and they are not always regular in attendance. How many of them will come today, and how long will we be allowed to continue?
- [Another One-On-One](https://messianiclight.com/another-one-on-one/) - The walks closed and I found myself in the room with only one other gentleman, the guy who I had first met two weeks ago. No one in our group is ethnically Jewish - until now, that is. This man told me of his childhood experiences in the Synagogue.
- [The Missing Haftarah](https://messianiclight.com/the-missing-haftarah/) - One has to ask, were any of these once a part of the Haftarah readings but later removed? We do not know exactly when the practice of reading from the Prophets and Writings started.
- [Understanding Peter's Vision](https://messianiclight.com/peters-vision/) - The account of Peter’s vision in Acts 10 is often used to show that the food laws in the Torah are no longer applicable. What did Peter have to say about it?
- [Does Your Bible Pass The Test?](https://messianiclight.com/how-to-take-a-test/) - What Bible translation is the best? When we study, we should have one primary translation while using several different versions for comparison.
- [It's OK To Say Jesus](https://messianiclight.com/its-ok-to-say-jesus/) - Is the name "Jesus” an accurate rendering of the Messiah's name in our English New Testament? What is the difference between translation and transliteration?
- [Resources For Those New to Hebrew Roots](https://messianiclight.com/new-to-hebrew-roots/) - Are you new to Hebrew Roots? How can you better understand the Jewish context of the New Testament? What do you need to be doing differently?
- [The Dead Sea Scrolls](https://messianiclight.com/the-dead-sea-scrolls/) - The Dead Sea Scrolls have a lot to tell us about life in Israel during the time of Yeshua. These recent discoveries may challenge some of our sacred traditions.
- [Hashkiveinu](https://messianiclight.com/hashkiveinu/) - Hashkiveinu is a Hebrew prayer to lie down in peace at night and arise alive in the morning. Here are three beautiful renditions of this prayer.

## Pages

- [Home](https://messianiclight.com/) - Helpful information, links, and resources for anyone exploring or just beginning their journey into the Hebrew Roots of the Christian faith.
- [About Me](https://messianiclight.com/about-me/) - I hope the things on this site will encourage you in a deeper walk with the Creator and strengthen your faith in the Jewish Messiah.
- [Calendar Download](https://messianiclight.com/calendar-download/) - Download the 5786 calendar with Hebrew months here. Download the 5785 calendar with Hebrew months here.
- [Messianic Light Free Resources](https://messianiclight.com/messianic-light-free-resources/) - MessianicLight.com is not supported by paid advertising. When you purchase products from Amazon, ChristianBook or others through links on this site, we may receive a small affiliate commission fee. This does not affect the price you pay, but does help us host MessianicLight.com and MessianicTorahPortion.com. The resources below are provided free of charge. This is
- [Home Two Houses](https://messianiclight.com/home-two-houses/) - The Two Houses of Israel The story of the Bible is a story of redemption. From Genesis 12 on, it is the story of the Hebrews, those who have "crossed over," and the story of God's chosen people, Israel. Israel was always a mixed multitude (Exodus 12:38) of those directly descended from Jacob and those
- [Home Feasts](https://messianiclight.com/home-feasts/) - Celebrate the Feasts of Adonai Passover Matzot (Unleavened Bread) First Fruits Count The Omer Shavuot (Pentecost) Yom Teruah / Rosh Hashanah Yom Kippur (Day of Atonement) Sukkot (Tabernacles) Hanukkah Purim Recommended Reading: (links will open in a new Amazon tab) God's Appointed Times by Barney Kasden A Christian Guide to the Biblical Feasts by David
- [Home Sabbath](https://messianiclight.com/home-sabbath/)
- [Home Reviews](https://messianiclight.com/home-reviews/) - More Bible Reviews More Book Reviews
- [Tree of Life Version](https://messianiclight.com/tree-of-life-version/) - RECOMMENDED Publisher: Messianic Jewish Family Bible Society From the Publisher The Tree of Life Version (TLV) speaks with a decidedly Jewish-friendly voice - a voice like the Bible authors themselves - to recover the authentic context of the Bible and the Christian faith. Jesus's death and resurrection were not the beginning of a new religion
- [The Original Passover Story](https://messianiclight.com/the-original-passover-story/) - Now ADONAI spoke to Moses and Aaron in the land of Egypt saying, “This month will mark the beginning of months for you; it is to be the first month of the year for you. Tell all the congregation of Israel that on the tenth day of this month, each man is to take a
- [The ISR Scriptures](https://messianiclight.com/the-isr-scriptures/) - The Scriptures (2009 Edition) Publisher: Institute for Scripture Research The Old Testament is translated from Kittle’s Biblia Hebraica, a Masoretic Text. According to the publisher, “"The Scriptures" were originally translated by Dr. C.J. Koster, with the aid and support of other scholars and textual experts from both Jewish and non-Jewish backgrounds in different parts of
- [Messianic Sabbath Liturgy](https://messianiclight.com/messianic-sabbath-liturgy-download/) - Read about this liturgy on my blog post here. A Simple Messianic Erev Shabbat Liturgy One Page (download here) [pdf-embedder url="https://messianiclight.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/06/A-Simple-Messianic-Erev-Shabbat-Liturgy.pdf" title="A Simple Messianic Erev Shabbat Liturgy"] A Simple Messianic Sabbath Liturgy Two Pages - be sure to scroll (download here) [pdf-embedder url="https://messianiclight.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/07/A-Simple-Messianic-Sabbath-Liturgy.pdf" title="A Simple Messianic Sabbath Liturgy"]
- [Messianic Bibles](https://messianiclight.com/messianic-bibles/) - Recommended Bible translations for Messianic and Hebrew Roots believers.
- [Liturgy Download](https://messianiclight.com/liturgy-download/) - PowerPoint Shows Download the full Sabbath Service for Followers of Yeshua PowerPoint Show here. Download the abbreviated Sabbath Service for Followers of Yeshua PowerPoint Show here. Download the Daily Prayers for Followers of Yeshua PowerPoint Show here. Download the Amidah for Followers of Yeshua PowerPoint Show here. These PowerPoint presentations are copyrighted material in order
- [Contact Us](https://messianiclight.com/contact/) - Have a question about The Messianic Light? Shalom and thank you for visiting The Messianic Light. If you have a question or if you have a book or other product you would like us to review, leave us a note below. Due to an overwhelming amount of spam, we've disabled the contact form. You can
- [About Posts from Tom](https://messianiclight.com/about-posts/) - #post_contentFrom time to time I will post articles written by my friend Tom. Tom is currently incarcerated for a crime committed during a dark period of his life. Now he is following Yeshua
- [One New Man Bible](https://messianiclight.com/one-new-man-bible/) - Publisher: True Potential Publishing From the Publisher: Why The One New Man Bible? Brings a greater understanding of and appreciation for the power given to believers for their daily walk. Brings out much of the power that has commonly been omitted from traditional English translations. The Jewish Roots of Christianity come to life in The
- [Ten Days Of Awe](https://messianiclight.com/ten-days-of-awe/) - Here are some suggested prayers for the Ten Days of Awe taken from Batya Ruth Wootten's book "Israel's Feasts and Their Fullness."
- [Amidah](https://messianiclight.com/amidah/) - Daily Prayers for Followers of Yeshua Upon Rising מוֹדֶה אֲנִי לְפָנֶךָ מֶלֶךְ חַי וְקַיָּם שֶׁהֶחֱזַרְתָּ בִּי נִשְׁמָתִי בְּחֶמְלָה רַבָּה אֱמוּנָתֶךָ modeh ani l’faneicha melech chai v’qa-yam shehechezarta bi nishmati b’chem’lah rabbah emunatecha I give thanks before you, O King living and eternal, for you have restored my soul within me with compassion – Great is
- [Complete Jewish Study Bible](https://messianiclight.com/complete-jewish-study-bible/) - RECOMMENDED Complete Jewish Study Bible Publisher: Messianic Jewish Publishers From the Publisher Christians and Messianic Jews who are interested in the rich spiritual traditions of their faith will be thrilled with this brand new study Bible. "The Complete Jewish Study Bible" pairs the updated text of the Complete Jewish Bible translation with extra study material,
- [Key Word Study Bible](https://messianiclight.com/key-word-study-bible/) - Hebrew-Greek Key Word Study Bible Publisher: AMG Publishers The Details This is not specifically a Messianic Bible. It is offered in several translations, including the English Standard Version (ESV) and New American Standard Bible (NASB77). Because these are mainstream Christian translations, the Divine name is generally rendered as LORD and the name of the Messiah
- [Akdamut](https://messianiclight.com/akdamut/) - This is an English translation of the Aramaic poem Akdamut Milin (Introductory Words). It is traditionally read on Shavuot prior to the reading of the Ten Commandments. This song is an acrostic poem). It was written in the late 11th or early 12th century CE by Rabbi Meir Ben Isaac Nehorai in Worms, Germany.
- [Download the Messianic Passover Haggadah](https://messianiclight.com/download-the-messianic-passover-haggadah/) - Download the Messianic Passover Haggadah here. [pdf-embedder url="https://messianiclight.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/03/Messianic-Haggadah.pdf" title="Messianic Haggadah"]
- [theWord Screen Shots](https://messianiclight.com/the-word-screen-shots/) - Click on any image for a larger view.

## Categories

- [Sabbath](https://messianiclight.com/category/sabbath/) - Blog posts related to the Biblical seventh-day Sabbath. How Messianic and Hebrew Roots believers in Messiah Yeshua can celebrate the Sabbath.
- [Feasts](https://messianiclight.com/category/feasts/) - Blog posts related to the Biblical Feasts. How Messianic and Hebrew Roots believers in Messiah Yeshua can celebrate the Appointed Times of the Yahweh.
- [Torah Portions](https://messianiclight.com/category/torah-portions/) - Blog posts related to the weekly Torah portions. How Messianic and Hebrew Roots believers in Messiah Yeshua can apply insight from the Portions.
- [Reviews](https://messianiclight.com/category/reviews/) - Reviews of Bibles and other books of interest to Messianic and Hebrew Roots believers in Messiah Yeshua.
- [Prison Ministry](https://messianiclight.com/category/prison-ministry/) - Blog posts about ministry to Messianic and Hebrew Roots believers in Messiah Yeshua who are incarcerated. Some posts are written by incarcerated believers.
- [Two Houses of Israel](https://messianiclight.com/category/two-houses-of-israel/) - Posts to help Messianic and Hebrew Roots believers in Messiah Yeshua understand their position in the whole House of Israel.
- [World Events](https://messianiclight.com/category/world-events/) - Blog posts related to the world events of interest to Messianic and Hebrew Roots believers in Messiah Yeshua.
- [Messianic Life](https://messianiclight.com/category/messianic-life/) - General blog posts to encourage Messianic and Hebrew Roots believers in Messiah Yeshua to live according to the Torah and example of Yeshua.
- [Book Reviews](https://messianiclight.com/category/book-reviews/)
- [Bible Reviews](https://messianiclight.com/category/bible-reviews/)