The Apocalypse and Daniel

Trump’s peace plan for Israel will be revealed in September[1] shortly after the Jewish New Year and the Day of Atonement fast,[2] which happens in the 70 th year of Israel’s existence. Third Temple fanatics have already pointed out that Donald Trump has a name with the same gematria value as “Messiah of the house of David” (see previous posts) and declaring him the “new Cyrus”.

Now they are producing a coin to raise money for building the “Third Temple”:[3]

 

 

 

 

This is a repeat pattern.  The Jews did the same when they approached Cyrus and showed him that their scripture predicted an early return and rebuilding of the temple. The pagan “Cyrus” was the “Messiah” now it is Donald Trump.

A quick reminder – in my commentary on Daniel, “God is Judge” (GIJ) It was suggested that Isaiah 45 was deliberately manipulated to read KORESH (Cyrus) instead of KARASH (workman). There was no pointing (vowels) in the original Hebrew. The “workman” in Isaiah who would restore Jewish fortunes (after the Assyrian invasion) was obviously Hezekiah (who typified Christ).  In this I find myself in agreement with Thirtle and Whittaker who held the same views. (There are also many other scholars who argue against a Cyrus reading). I recommend reading the relevant chapter in GIJ and the Addendum (which is on the website – it contains additional new material not present in GIJ). To sum up:

 

 

• Cyrus did not rebuild the temple (even Josephus admits this)
• Cyrus issued a decree (that got lost in the archives)
• Darius rebuilt the temple 21 years later

 

So, on all scriptural metrics the prophecy fails (if it refers to Cyrus). The Jews are doing what they always have done when they act unfaithfully – they use scripture to flatter and manipulate Gentile rulers. Some of the people pushing the agenda are Knesset Mp’s.[4]

 

"The days of our years are threescore years and ten; and if by 
reason of strength they be fourscore years, yet is their strength
labour and sorrow; for it is soon cut off, and we fly away" 
(KJV Psalm 90:10).

 

Perhaps the next ten years will be "labour and sorrow"?

[1] Report: 'Deal of the Century' to be unveiled next month PA newspaper reports Trump peace plan to be unveiled during president's speech to UN General Assembly in September.

http://www.israelnationalnews.com/News/News.aspx/250824

[2] Yom Kippur 2018 will begin in the evening of Tuesday, 18 September and ends in the evening of Wednesday, 19 September

[3] https://abcnews.go.com/International/israeli-group-sells-special-edition-trump-coin/story?id=55096698

http://en.hamikdash.org.il/about/we-need-your-support/the-temple-coin/

[4] Jewish Activists, Politicians and Rabbis Reveal the Greatest Step Jews and Christians Can Take to Usher in Geula https://www.breakingisraelnews.com/112478/restore-the-temple-mount-to-its-biblical-intent-and-usher-in-redemption/  The article mentions; Rabbi Pinchas Winston, Rabbi Yehuda Glick and Joshua Wander. Wander is a Republican Jewish American now living in Israel: https://twitter.com/ntarnopolsky/status/997062269577105408?lang=en  Rabbi Yehuda Glick is a sitting member (defence minister) in the Jewish Parliament. Wikipedia contributors. (2018, July 5). Yehuda Glick. In Wikipedia, The Free Encyclopedia. Retrieved 02:03, August 24, 2018, from https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Yehuda_Glick&oldid=848928586 MK Rabbi Yehuda Glick, Likud member and Head of the Temple Mount Heritage Foundation Apr 20, 2017 https://youtu.be/iYluQMhy6aI Rabbi Pinchas Winston: Over the last 20 years, his works have become very focused on the topic "The End of Days" (as evinced by the titles of his later works). He includes Kabbalah, Gemarah and Midrashim in his works; thus, intertwining "ancient texts" with modern issues Wikipedia contributors. (2018, May 21). Pinchas Winston. In Wikipedia, The Free Encyclopedia. Retrieved 02:09, August 24, 2018, from https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Pinchas_Winston&oldid=842283620

 Original Link: https://youtu.be/YW4CvC5IaFI?list=FLbp3rkUf5-hFZRzOirx_EsQ

I hope prophecy day is not indicative of the state of  prophetic understanding as it was predominately a political analysis and a poor one at that, full of factual errors and what the world calls “fake news”.  The problem is that the “analysis” begins with a particular “world view” and all “facts” are made to fit, even if it means ramming a square peg into a round hole.  It is difficult to know where to start as so many skewed perspectives are co-opted and conflated.  The “world view” supposes that Europe is moving closer to Russia and becoming more Catholic which is both counterintuitive (and even contradictory to the narrative presented in the talk itself). The speaker himself highlighted that the problem was Islamisation and mass immigration. If this is placed against future European demographic trends[1] it demonstrates that Europe is becoming more Muslim not more Catholic. If anything Europe is moving away from Christianity. Figures show a majority of young adults in 12 countries have no faith, with Czechs least religious.[2] Some Catholic bishops are even calling for churches to be converted to mosques!  The current Pope is one of the least liked by Catholics, even (especially) in Italy.[3]

Europe is not moving towards Russia, it is nationalism (populism) that is tearing Europe apart not uniting it.[4] Both Salvani (Italy) and Orban (Hungary) are Trump admirers[5] not “Russophiles”. Trump’s ex-campaign manager is on a mission to steer Europe to the right not towards Russia![6] Orban is not an anti-Semite he is simply opposed to George Sorros,[7] the Jewish billionaire who funds the “Open Society” (borderless Europe and mass immigration), Orban even visited Israel[8] and Israel itself is opposed to Sorros.[9]  So, the “prophecy” talk was full of factual errors and fake news.

But this is just the beginning of a faulty political analysis dressed up as “prophecy” with Macron highlighted as the “saviour” of Europe.  Macron wants to push for further integration (of ‘ever more Europe’) and joins such salubrious previous winners (sic) of the Charlemagne prize as the globalists Tony Blair and Bill Clinton.[10] Macron is a globalist banker[11]………a manufactured product[12] whose popularity is already falling.[13]  Merkel is already watering down Macron’s plans.[14] The fight In Europe is not between left and right or Russia and the West or between Christianity and Islam but between nationalists and globalists ---and the tide is turning against the globalists. The facts on the ground contradict the premise of the talk – Europe is becoming more nationalist and Catholicism is losing ground (especially after the abuse scandals) and the nationalist are more orientated to the US and Trump.  

 

Russia – a little history helps

Russia was attacked twice by Europe; during the French invasion of Russia by Napoleon, (known in Russia as the Patriotic War of 1812) and when Nazi Germany invaded the Soviet Union in 1941 (in the largest German military operation of World War II).  No wonder Russia surrounded itself with “satellite states” as a buffer against European aggression! The current annexation of Crimea is a direct consequence of a CIA coupe in the Ukraine.[15]

Russian deception?

The United States has interfered in the elections of at least 85 countries worldwide since 1945.[16]  To depict “Russia” as “the great deceiver” is not a balanced view.[17] Moreover, Trump, derided for his stance on NATO contributions has followed previous presidents in demanding a fair contribution but he is the only one that has been effective in obtaining a better deal.  Trumps remarks regarding German dependence on Russian gas were ruthless and deliberately rude but had the intended effect (increased German contributions to NATO and deals with US – gas suppliers).[18]  Germany may well portray the deal with Russia as “mutually beneficial” but Russia has its hand on the gas-tap and has other outlets for Russian gas.[19]  So, Trump was entirely correct in pointing out German dependence on such a strategically important commodity.

 

Leaving aside nuclear weapons there is no comparison between Russian conventional military might and American. The US spends $554,2 billion dollars a year in comparison to Russia’s $69,2 billion dollars.  The state of Texas has a bigger economy than Russia.[20]   As one military expert remarks-- "The bottom line," he says, is that "while NATO has genuine worries on what a short-term conflict with Russia might look like, the reality is that this is the world's pre-eminent military alliance, at the core of which is still an incredibly potent military power, and a sustained fight would probably end disastrously for Moscow."[21] If Russia were not a nuclear power it would already have been relegated to the dust bin of history (like Libya, Iraq and Iran next). Moreover, the “unprecedented” détente between Trump and Russia is not “shocking” when seen within the historical perspective of attempts by other US presidents.[22]  So, more fake news culled from the likes of CNN and democrat biased media. Russia is just a handy “bogeyman”[23] to justify interventionism and huge military expenditures by the American “deep state” (Military Industrial Complex) to secure its power. So, regarding “deception” and military, economic power the USA wins hands down. Russia is a bit player.

Russia and Assyria?

Russian deception is likened to Assyrian deception in the time of Hezekiah. Assyria was skilful in propaganda and use of deception but the analogy with Russia does not hold water because Assyria declared “Holy War” against Judea. ^YLT Joel 3:9 Proclaim ye this among nations, Sanctify a war, stir up the mighty ones, Come nigh, come up, let all the men of war. This was “Holy war” (cf. Jihad) is a war between the God of Israel and the god of Assyria – between Yahweh and Asshur.  Hezekiah was saved after pleading (in the temple) with his God and Sennacherib was slain by his sons in the temple of Asshur. Russia is interested in expanding its sphere of influence not declaring “holy war” on Israel.  I wonder which peoples would like to proclaim a Jihad against the God of Israel, kill the Jews and take their land?

 

Where is Israel?

Israel was scantly mentioned in the first two talks. This is strange in talks dedicated to “bible prophecy” but hardly surprising as the role of Israel is in the traditional view completely absent in the Apocalypse. 

If we desire to equate “political analysis” with “bible prophecy” what of the enormous Jewish influence of the 6 million American Jews, who drive politics, media and academia and who have shaped the 20th century.  How about the Iraq war which was planned by US neo-conservative think-tanks top heavy with Jewish academics, or, the current Iran problem for which Israel desires to push the US to intervene with either regime change or a military solution. What about the unusual evacuation of the “Syrian white helmets” (good guys sic!) by Israel. How about some analysis on the origins of the good “rebels” (sic) in Syria? Who funds them?  The geo-politics of the Middle East is being shaped by Israel and the US. How about the left-wing identity politics which traces its origins to Jewish cultural Marxists of the Frankfurt school in 1930’s Germany?  Or, perhaps, the role of Jewish billionaire George Sorros in funding left-wing groups who are trying to flood Europe with Islamic immigrants, to deliberately change the face of Christian Europe (and drive European Jews home?).

Should we not take a look at the Yinon plan for a greater Israel? [24] A plan to expand Israeli territory from the “river of Egypt to the Euphrates” the land promised to Abraham in Genesis 15.  A territory which contained ten nations -- the same nations who give their crowns to the “Great Whore” in Revelation 17 – Israel (not the Catholic Church ) is depicted as a whore in the OT. Could we talk about the fact that Israeli Rabbi’s have appointed a Sanhedrin and are preparing temple instruments?  Could we talk about the fact that these ideas are now going main-stream in Israel with members of the Knesset promoting the building of a temple on the Temple Mount?[25]

 

The most frightening thing

The most frightening thing I heard during the talk that was that when Christ returned and started Mosaic sacrifices the world would see him as the “anti-Christ” and attack him (presumably this is Armageddon?).

When Christ returns his presence will be unmistakeable and undeniable -- with clouds --like lightening -- feet on the Mt of Olives -- great earthquake etc. On the other hand the Jews are planning to expand their territory and build a temple.  What does Christ say….if it was possible even the very elect would be deceived.   Do you need reminding?

“As concerning the gospel, they are enemies for your sakes: but as touching the election, they are beloved for the fathers' sakes”. (Romans 11:28)

In Revelation 5 the messiah Jesus Christ is depicted as a “lamb” in Revelation 13 the “false messiah” is depicted as a “lamb with two horns” who speaks like a serpent.  He speaks like the ancient serpent because he repeats the message that “man can be like God”.  This is the depiction of a False Messiah.    The Pope is not a false messiah; he is a false apostle who claims his authority from the apostle Peter.   He does not claim to be a Jew, or the Jewish Messiah.

Conclusion

Brethren and Sisters, if we claim to be watchmen for Zion then we should wake up!  Bad political analysis and “fake news” is not bible prophecy.  The past patterns are about to repeat.

Further Recommended reading:

http://www.biblaridion.info/

 Ezekiel 38-39, Inter-textual analysis (Part-1) http://www.biblaridion.info/resources/Ezk1.pdf

Ezekiel 38-39, Russia (Part-2)

http://www.biblaridion.info/resources/Russia.pdf

Ezekiel 38-39, Stylometric Analysis (Part 3)

http://www.biblaridion.info/Anthology/Ezek38_stylo.pdf

 

 

[1]Europe is dying: Birth rates in the EU are low with the average woman having 1.6 children. The highest birth-rates are found in Ireland with 16.876 births per thousand people per year and France with 13.013 births per thousand people per year. Germany has the lowest birth rate in Europe with 8.221 births per thousand people per year.

[2] 'Christianity as default is gone': the rise of a non-Christian Europe

https://www.theguardian.com/world/2018/mar/21/christianity-non-christian-europe-young-people-survey-religion

[3] Italian irony: New regime’s loudest Catholics don’t like the Pope

https://cruxnow.com/global-church/2018/06/06/italian-irony-new-regimes-loudest-catholics-dont-like-the-pope/

[4] Poland’s Nationalism Threatens Europe’s Values, and Cohesion

https://www.nytimes.com/2018/02/20/world/europe/poland-european-union.html

[5] The Orban-Trump Bromance Is Complicated For Both Hungary And The U.S.

https://www.huffingtonpost.com/entry/the-orban-trump-bromance-its-complicated_us_58ebebc7e4b0145a227cb77a

'Italians first': Italy's far-right leader echoes Trump in election campaign

https://www.thelocal.it/20180124/italians-first-far-right-northern-league-matteo-salvini-donald-trump-2018-election

[6] Steve Bannon is on a far-right mission to radicalise Europe

https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2018/jun/06/steve-bannon-far-right-radicalise-europe-trump

[7] Hungary Passes 'Stop Soros' Laws, Bans Aid To Undocumented Immigrants https://www.npr.org/2018/06/20/622045753/hungary-passes-stop-soros-laws-bans-aid-to-undocumented-immigrants

[8] Hungary’s Orban visits Western Wall to wrap up Israel trip

https://www.timesofisrael.com/hungarys-orban-visits-western-wall-to-wrap-up-israel-visit/

[9] Israel backs Hungary, says financier Soros is a threat

https://www.reuters.com/article/us-israel-hungary-soros-idUSKBN19V1J4

[10] Today Emmanuel Macron received the Charlemagne prize – but I'm not really sure he deserves it

https://www.independent.co.uk/voices/emmanuel-macron-charlemagne-prize-europe-unity-eu-leadership-france-president-a8344731.html

[11] Macron was an investment banker at Rothschild & Cie Banque and did his university thesis on Machiavelli and Hegel

[12] The Financial Elite Created France’s New President, Emmanuel Macron

https://www.globalresearch.ca/the-financial-elite-created-frances-new-president-emmanuel-macron/5589598

Emmanuel Macron is the Hand Crafted Tool of the Neoliberal Globalist Elites

https://americaneveryman.com/2017/04/24/emmanuel-macron-is-the-hand-crafted-tool-of-the-neoliberal-globalist-elites/

[13] Labour, welfare reforms plunge Macron’s popularity ratings to record low

http://www.france24.com/en/20180323-france-macron-popularity-record-low-strikes-reform

[14] Re-elected Angela Merkel curbs Macron’s euro reform plans

https://www.irishtimes.com/news/world/europe/re-elected-angela-merkel-curbs-macron-s-euro-reform-plans-1.3428687

[15] It's not Russia that's pushed Ukraine to the brink of war

https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2014/apr/30/russia-ukraine-war-kiev-conflict

Oliver Stone Exposes US Coup d’etat In Ukraine

https://www.paulcraigroberts.org/2018/01/17/oliver-stone-exposes-us-coup-detat-ukraine/

How and Why the US Government Perpetrated the 2014 Coup in Ukraine

https://www.strategic-culture.org/news/2018/06/03/how-why-us-government-perpetrated-2014-coup-ukraine.html

What America’s Coup in Ukraine Did

https://www.globalresearch.ca/what-americas-coup-in-ukraine-did/5581520

[16] US Interfered in Elections of at Least 85 Countries Worldwide Since 1945

https://www.globalresearch.ca/us-interfered-in-elections-of-at-least-85-countries-worldwide-since-1945/5601481

[17] The US ‘Betrayed’ Russia, but It Is Not ‘News That’s Fit to Print’

https://www.thenation.com/article/the-us-betrayed-russia-but-it-is-not-news-thats-fit-to-print/

[18] Trump touts US energy, will compete against Russia’s gas pipeline to Germany

https://www.foxbusiness.com/energy/trump-touts-us-energy-will-compete-against-russias-gas-pipeline-to-germany

Trump Says U.S. to Compete With Russia for Europe Gas Market

https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2018-07-16/trump-says-u-s-will-compete-with-russia-for-european-gas-market

[19] Russia's Security Council Secretary Nikolai Patrushev states that BRICS countries should boost their cooperation in energy security sector.

Mammoth China-Russia gas pipeline nearing completion – Gazprom

http://thebricspost.com/mammoth-china-russia-gas-pipeline-nearing-completion-gazprom/#.W2V8-8J9jMU

[20] Which Has The Bigger Economy: Texas Or Russia?

https://www.forbes.com/sites/greatspeculations/2018/04/17/which-has-the-bigger-economy-texas-or-russia/#4ebf95f70b93

[21] How much of a threat does Russia pose, and to whom?

https://www.bbc.com/news/world-europe-40428132

[22] Professor Cohen on Why Trump Was Attacked Over Russia

https://youtu.be/6jo24fewsFs

Rethinking Russia: A Conversation With Russia Scholar Stephen F. Cohen

https://www.huffingtonpost.com/dan-kovalik/rethinking-russia-a-conve_b_7744498.html

[23] Remember the Russian Chemical attacks?

UN: UN unable to 'independently verify the allegations' of chemical attack in Douma

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hLtfLw-h4kA

Chemical Attacks in Syria: How U.S. Intel Went Wrong

http://www.mepc.org/journal/chemical-attacks-syria-how-us-intel-went-wrong

 

[24] Yinon plan for a greater Israel http://www.informationclearinghouse.info/pdf/The%20Zionist%20Plan%20for%20the%20Middle%20East.pdf

[25] The rise of the right in Israel and the third Temple

https://www.biblaridion.info/blog/

UPDATE: French President Macron's approval rating has slipped from 50% to 27% in a single year. Meanwhile, Merkel's government dipped below 30% for the first time ever. Globalism is being rejected across the continent.

UPDATE: The Zionists state has passed laws that are increasingly autocratic. Jared Kushner the Jewish son-in-law of Trump is about to reveal a new peace plan for the Middle East. We wait with baited breath -- we can be sure it is to the advantage of Israel.

UPDATE: AP Investigation: US allies, al-Qaida battle rebels in Yemen
https://apnews.com/f38788a561d74ca78c77cb43612d50da/Yemen:-US-allies-don't-defeat-al-Qaida-but-pay-it-to-go-away
Russian deception? The US, Saudi, Israel and al-Qaida are bedfellows. Same as the war in Syria?

UPDATE: Brexit – Will The EU Collapse Anyway?

http://truepublica.org.uk/united-kingdom/brexit-will-the-eu-collapse-anyway/

 

 

The rise of the right in Israel and the third Temple

This year the “black fast” known as Tisha B'av 2018 fell at nightfall on July 21, and concluded at nightfall on Sunday, July 22.  A record 1,200 Jews visited the Temple Mount on Tisha B’av[1]  mainly due to the lifting of the ban imposed by Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on visits by government ministers and Knesset members (KM) to Jerusalem’s Temple Mount (which lasted three straight years).   The far-right especially those in the Knesset are pushing for rebuilding the temple.[2] This must be placed against the background of the recently passed “Jewish-nation-state-bill” on July 19 [3]  which moves the Zionist state in a more autocratic (anti-democratic) direction of an ethno-state.[4] This lurch to the right even has implications for Jewish religious pluralism, giving the orthodox Rabbinate a distinct advantage over other forms of Judaism.[5]

This has been a tumultuous week with the “Jewish-nation-state-bill” passing on the Thursday (July 19 th), the “black fast” ending on the Sunday (22 nd), a stone falling out of the wailing wall on the Monday (23 rd) with the week ending with a blood moon[6] and earthquake (Galilee region)[7] on the “joyous feast of the grape harvest” (27 th)[8] which is meant to close the period of “mourning”. The Cabbalist Rabbi’s interpret the portent of the falling stone as a call to rebuild the temple (sic).[9]

All this must be read against the background of the new “peace plan” by Jared Kushner, the Jewish son in law of Trump. Taken together with the movement of the embassy to Jerusalem in recognition that it is the “eternal Jewish capital”, we await developments. Kushner’s peace plan is closely kept under wraps but will soon be revealed. One can assume that it will be to the advantage of the Jewish Zionist state.[10]

 

Conclusions

Events seem to be “heating up” (in a literal sense as well with global temperature spikes).  The push to rebuild the Third Temple and the lurch to an autocratic religiously intolerant state taken together with the revelation of a new “peace-plan” all seem to fit “historic patterns”.  Will we see the emergence of an Israeli beast with expansionist tendencies? (Iran the next target?). We need to be less sycophantic towards Israel as they still refuse the Messiah.

 

“As concerning the gospel, they are enemies for your sakes: but as touching the election, they are beloved for the fathers' sakes”(Romans 11:28).

[1] More than 1000 Jews enter Temple Mount on Tisha Be'av, two arrested

https://www.jpost.com/Israel-News/More-than-1000-Jews-enter-Temple-Mount-on-Tisha-Beav-two-arrested-563133

[2] Israeli right dreams of third temple in Jerusalem

Read more: http://www.al-monitor.com/pulse/originals/2018/07/israel-palestinians-benjamin-netanyahu-temple-mount-right.html#ixzz5MhK85UsL

[3] Final text of Jewish nation-state law, approved by the Knesset early on July 19 https://www.timesofisrael.com/final-text-of-jewish-nation-state-bill-set-to-become-law/

[4] A New Law Shifts Israel Away From Democracy

http://time.com/5345963/israel-nation-state-law-democracy/

[5] The day the Jewish state became Orthodox

https://blogs.timesofisrael.com/the-day-the-jewish-state-became-orthodox/

[6] Total Lunar Eclipse visible Friday

https://www.jpost.com/Israel-News/A-glint-in-your-eye-Total-lunar-eclipse-visible-from-Israel-on-Friday-563286

[7] Earthquakes in Israel: Tenth Tremor in a Week Shakes North

Maximum measured was 4.5 but scientists believe a “big quake” is overdue as it strikes every 100 years or so. https://www.haaretz.com/israel-news/.premium-earthquakes-in-israel-tenth-tremor-in-a-week-shakes-north-1.6248542

[8] Jewish reading for the day is the Shema (Deuteronomy 6:1-7:11) “Hear, O Israel: The LORD our God is one LORD” and Isaiah 40:1-26; “The voice of him that crieth in the wilderness, Prepare ye the way of the LORD, make straight in the desert a highway for our God”. According to Jewish lore 15 Ab was the day when Hadrian allowed the bodies of the Kochba rebels to be buried: “On the 9th of Av, the inhabitants of the city of Betar were killed. Throughout the entire reign of Hadrian, the burial of these people was forbidden. The corpses, although they all lay exposed, miraculously did not decompose. Finally, years later on the 15th of Av, the bodies were buried, and given the proper respect due to them”.

[9] Western Wall's Fallen Stone: Seed to Grow Third Temple?

"For a stone shall cry out from the wall, And a rafter shall answer it from the woodwork". Habakkuk 2:11 (The Israel Bible™)

https://www.breakingisraelnews.com/111405/kabbalist-stone-falling-western-wall/

100-kilo Dislodged Stone Falls Off Western Wall, Almost Hits Worshipper

https://www.haaretz.com/israel-news/220-lb-stone-falls-off-western-wall-almost-hits-worshipper-1.6296772

 

[10]  Kushner says Trump's 'deal of the century' Mideast peace plan will be unveiled soon

https://www.nbcnews.com/news/world/kushner-says-will-publish-trump-s-mideast-peace-plan-soon-n886096

Jared Kushner’s Middle East Fantasy

https://www.theatlantic.com/international/archive/2018/06/kushner-israeli-palestinian-peace-plan/563606/

 

 

The website Biblaridion.info now has a dedicated You Tube channel that relates the story
of the Bar Kochba revolt and the Seals. There are a number of animations (seven) which are
designed as contemporary news stories or interviews (watch them in order from 1-7).
The channel can be found here:

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCyGOHgxbBIbSB7Ya8YBSuGg/videos?sort=da&flow=grid&view=0

Below are a number of other YouTube video's which I recommend for gaining an insight into the era:

The Siege of Jerusalem (70 AD) - Romans at the Gates (Part 1/4)
https://youtu.be/Hen0wmoj5RU

The Siege of Jerusalem (70 AD) - The Fight for the Walls (Part 2/4)
https://youtu.be/mdE3xz_G4pA

The Siege of Jerusalem (70 AD) - Assault on the Antonia Fortress (Part 3/4)
https://youtu.be/MOo9iJ8RYWM

The Siege of Jerusalem (70 AD) - Assault on the Antonia Fortress (Part 3/4)
https://youtu.be/LywrNNgFVz4

The Siege of Masada (73 AD) - Last Stand of the Great Jewish Revolt
https://youtu.be/11iPrDv8aBE

+++++++++++++
Who Was Bar Kochba? Jewish Biography as History Dr. Henry Abramson
https://youtu.be/O3_Q-pYrbTU

++++++++++++++++++++
Trajan | The Parthian Wars 113AD-117AD - Cinematic Documentary | Total War ROME II
https://youtu.be/c-efAZJwnY8

Trajan | The Kitos War 116AD-118AD (FINALE) - Cinematic Documentary | Total War ROME II
https://youtu.be/t5H2RyCPblU

If Kochba was not a Davidide (descendant of David) how could Rabbi Akiva declare bar Kochba as the Messiah? His messianic credentials were established by referencing the prophecy concerning a star out of JACOB (Num 24.17) not (for example) referencing 2 Sam.7 or the Judah prophecy in Genesis 49.  This makes it unlikely that he was from Judah.

In a previous post we speculated that bar Kochba was from the tribe of Simeon. His origins are not clear and our speculation is based purely on his name (Simeon) and his zeal for the torah possibly making him a member of the “scribal tribe”.    Reland believed that Bar- kochba probably bore this name, as originating from Kokab, a city and region beyond the Jordan. He made his descent of such special importance, because he sought for a deeper meaning in the coincidence of the name of his birth-place with that of the subject of the prediction Num. 24.[1] Michael Avi-Yonah surmised that this new  prince (nassi) of Israel was descended from David, and his kinship  with Rabbi Eleazar of Modein suggests that he had Hasmonaean blood.[2]However, a Davidic descent seems highly unlikely. His status was established not through lineage (which would surely have been mentioned if it were true) but by Rabbi Akiva’s theological support. How then could a Rabbi support a non-Davidic messiah?  Is there a precedent?

It was at this point that I came across the book Messiah ben Joseph by David C. Mitchell.[3]

Mitchell says,

“There is in rabbinic literature, a figure called Messiah ben Joseph. This Messiah comes from Galilee to die, pierced by ruthless foes, at the gate of Jerusalem. Upon his death, Israel are scattered amidst the nations. But his death, as we shall see, confounds Satan, atones for sin, and abolishes death itself. And then he is raised to life again”.

Mitchell quotes Torrey;

“The doctrine of the two Messiahs [i.e. ben David and ben Ephraim] holds an important place in Jewish Theology... It is not a theory imperfectly formulated or only temporarily held, but a standard article of faith, early and firmly established and universally accepted”.[4]

It is obvious that some sections of the Jewish community split the messianic functions into two distinct roles, that of suffering servant (ben Joseph?) and that of victorious ruler (ben David). Some scholars argue that “two messiahs” is a late doctrine (to explain the Kochba failure?) but Mitchell argues that the “two messiahs” doctrine is early. The exact origins of Messiah ben Joseph are a matter of debate among scholars. It has been suggested that Messiah ben Joseph arose out of a Jewish collective memory of Simon bar Kochba.[5]

 

Of course, if Jesus was understood as “messiah ben Joseph” then Kochba could argue that he was “messiah ben David”   (if he was descended from David?).  Kochba would never accept the role of “suffering servant” (ben Joseph?).

The situation is rather confusing because Jesus was not regarded as either messiah ben Joseph or messiah ben David by the nation.  Jesus was simply not accepted at all (by the religious elite).

So, then, the Num 24.17 prophecy suggests a non-Davidide, which would make an identification of Kochba with messiah ben Joseph likely – but in a militant (rather than suffering role).    The situation regarding Jewish messianic belief in the second century is confusing (to say the least) and we cannot discount cross-fertilization (from Christianity).  Perhaps the “doctrine” was more flexible and not as theologically rigid as some scholars presume. For example, Babylonian Talmud Sukkah 52a records of a dispute between Rabbi Dosa ben Harkinas and other unnamed rabbis. Rabbi Dosa takes Zechariah 12:10 to apply to the mourning for Messiah ben Joseph, while the rabbis think the mourning is for the evil inclination. The talmudic redactor sides with Rabbi Dosa: the mourning is for Messiah ben Joseph. (Mourning the Evil Inclination, he adds, would be absurd.) It then speaks of how Ben Joseph's death frightens Messiah ben David, so that he urgently prays for his life to be spared.[6]  Zechariah 12 constantly mentions the “house of David”, “Jerusalem” and “Judah” how then can the rabbi’s apply it to ben Joseph?   Frankly, it is a mess.  However, I have settled for Akiva regarding Kochba as a militant “ben Joseph” or “ben Ephraim” in other words, a non-Davidic “messianic” ruler over all Israel.

[1]   Reland (Geogr. II. p. 727), cited from Christology of the Old Testament by Hegstenberg, Ernst Wilhelm, 1802-1869 (Alexandria, D.C., W. M. Morrison,1836)

https://archive.org/stream/christologyoldt02henggoog/christologyoldt0

[2] Michael Avi-Yonah, ed., A History of the Holy Land (Jerusalem: The Jerusalem Publishing House, Ltd.; and New York: The Macmillan Company, 1969), pp. 162-67

[3] David C. Mitchell, Messiah ben Joseph,(Campbell Publications, 30 May 2016).

[4] Ibid, Mitchell, pg 1 citing, Torrey 1947: 253.

[5] See also, Wikipedia contributors. (2018, April 18). Messiah ben Joseph. In Wikipedia, The Free Encyclopedia. Retrieved 12:50, May 15, 2018, from https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Messiah_ben_Joseph&oldid=837011450

[6] Ibid, Wikipedia

An interesting article appeared on March 21 (2018)[1] concerning an appeal by the “Sanhedrin” to the “Sons of Ishmael” (Arab Muslims) to help build the Third Temple (excerpts below):

“This move is far more than symbolic. It is intended to bring the entire world one step closer to the global peace that will characterize the Messianic era.

“I will bring them to My sacred mount And let them rejoice in My house of prayer. Their burnt offerings and sacrifices Shall be welcome on My mizbayach; For My House shall be called A house of prayer for all peoples.” Isaiah 56:7

 

The rabbi explained that should the quoted Rabbi Elijah ben Solomon Zalman, a foremost Jewish authority from the 18th century known as the “Vilna Gaon.”

 

“If a single sacrifice is brought in the Third Temple,” Rabbi Shtern said, quoting the Vilna Gaon. “The shofar announcing the Messiah will already start to blow.”

 

Of course the “Sanhedrin” is affiliated with the Temple Mount Institute and is a minority fundamentalist group. The Israeli government does not promote such views neither do many religious Jews. However, these developments and undercurrents are interesting and the Rabbi’s are correct – if they ever manage to build the third temple and commence sacrifice (especially together with Muslims) – the trumpet (Shofar) will announce the Messiah…..because it will be the Last Trump.

 

“And the seventh angel sounded; and there were great voices in heaven, saying, The kingdoms of this world are become the kingdoms of our Lord, and of his Christ; and he shall reign forever and ever” (Rev.11.15).

 

Such a structure would be an abomination to God and not a house of prayer.

[1] Sanhedrin Calls on Arabs to Take Their Role in Third Temple as Prophesized by Isaiah
Read more at https://www.breakingisraelnews.com/104480/sanhedrin-calls-on-arabs-to-take-their-role-in-third-temple-as-prophesized-by-isaiah/#rrYeJB4MoeKlt291.99

 

 

 

Question: What do Donald Trump and Cyrus the Great have in common?

Answer:  According to the Jews they are both the Lord's anointed.

 

 

Rabbi Berger[1] believes that President Trump’s election has already begun this process. The rabbi noted that Donald Trump’s name in Hebrew (דונלד טראמפ) in gematria (numerology based on Hebrew letters) equals 424 – which is the same numerical value of the phrase, “Moshiach (Messiah) from the House of David (משיח בן דוד).”

“But Donald Trump is not righteous enough or knowledgeable in Bible to actually be the Messiah,” Rabbi Berger noted.[2] “Trump’s connection to the Messiah is that he will play a role in one of the major functions of the Messiah. He will pave the way for building the Third Temple.”

“Trump will not personally merit building the Temple,” he continued. “Like Cyrus, he will pave the way for men who will begin the construction, and when the time is right, the Third Temple will descend from heaven.”

 

Of course, our commentary on Daniel makes it clear that the "Lord's anointed" in Isa 45 is a reference to Hezekiah (the suffering servant) NOT TO CYRUS.  There was a Jewish exilic faction that pushed an agenda for an early restoration and they deliberately interpreted the “workman” (karash) of the Lord as Koresh (Cyrus). The same strategy is being used 2,000 years later, namely; pointing out to a foreign ruler that they have been chosen to fulfil prophecy and restore Jewish fortunes.

 

In the end Cyrus did very little (as most scholars acknowledge).  It was during the reign of Darius the Great (21 years later cf. Dan 10.) that the temple was restored.[3]

[1] Read more at https://www.breakingisraelnews.com/104682/ancient-jewish-sources-indicate-trump-will-pave-way-for-third-temple-prominent-rabbi/#8G25lPRwvkbujVCX.99

[2] Perhaps the Rabbi should also have mentioned that the “Donald” is not from the tribe of David, that he is a gentile and a Catholic to boot!  I suppose beggars can’t be choosers.

[3] Trump has already done more than Cyrus did….at least he has restored the US embassy to Jerusalem!

The Eschatological Temple

Pop Quiz - does the future temple look like (A) or (B)?

(A)

 

(B) Or like this?

 

Neither A nor B is correct. Explanation: (A) “Sulley’s temple”[1] is a rather unique interpretation of (B) Ezekiel’s temple.[2]  Neither of these will be built.

The correct answer: “And I saw no temple therein: for the Lord God Almighty and the Lamb are the temple of it” (Rev 21.22).  The theology of the NT and the OT point to Jesus and his saints becoming the temple; Reminder to King David “Go and tell my servant David, `This is what the LORD says: Are you the one to build me a house to dwell in? (2 Sam 7.5) …. Reminder to Christians “However, the Most High does not dwell in temples made with hands” (Acts 7.48) and the words of Jesus; “"Destroy this temple, and I will raise it again in three days."(John 2.19).

[1] Wikipedia contributors. (2018, January 1). Henry Sulley. In Wikipedia, The Free Encyclopedia. Retrieved 12:53, March 28, 2018, from https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Henry_Sulley&oldid=818129395

[2] https://youtu.be/YNmERZkT6JM

 

 

 

 

 

In one of his letters Kochba signs his patronymic in Greek as Χωσιβα (Chōsiba) but this is a transliteration (what it sounds like). It is possible to express it as Κοςαβα (Kosaba), which is similar to the known Hebrew variant כוסבא (and phonetically not dissimilar to the more guttural sounding epithet Kochba). If this is placed in the Pauline warning about the mystery of lawlessness (ἀνομίας·) in 2 Thess.2.7 we get the phrase ἀνομίας·Κοςαβα (the lawless Kosaba) which in the Greek Isopsephy system equals 666. This (and the many other routes to equate 666) is hardly coincidental especially as Kochba regarded himself as the embodiment of the law (see previous posts). We can imagine that Christians would have played around with the different variants to achieve either 666 or 616 (instead of Kochba’s own 611 designations –see previous posts). This is of course a game that anyone can play – but what are the probabilities that so many routes lead to the same outcome?

Perspective is important to identifying patterns. If we look down a road to the distant horizon we can see the road “vanishing” into the distance. This is known as the vanishing point.  If we stand directly in front of a road sign we might not see the signs lying behind because our view is blocked but if we shift our viewpoint the new perspective reveals a number of road signs trailing into the distance.

Similarly, “The day of the Lord” is an “eschatological day” that punctuates the equilibrium of history. It is not a single day but rather the in-breaking of divine sovereignty in history that cumulatively forms “The Day of the Lord” until such time that it is revealed in its fullness. The Bible indicates this through typology – i.e., the Egyptian Passover Exodus, the Passover deliverance of Hezekiah and the Passover crucifixion are all part of “The Day of the Lord”.   In similar fashion 70 CE and 135 CE is also the “Day of the Lord” as they allowed for repentance and the return of the messiah but only if the national response was correct. Otherwise, “The Day of the Lord” became a “Day of Judgement”; “Woe unto you that desire the day of the Lord! to what end is it for you? the day of the Lord is darkness, and not light (Amos 5.18).