The Shadows of Hebrew (Part 6)

If we were to look back, over the past 6 Weeks, one common thread that we have been taught is that, "The End is not far from the Beginning," and vice-versa.  Meaning that, although Hebrew Thought may appear to entertain some forms of linear thinking, it tends to remain cyclical in nature.  "The Last shall be first, and the first shall be last."

My point is that we must learn to wrap our "Greek Minds," around this Ancient form of Hebrew Thinking.  Let this Mind be within you, which was also within Messiah Yeshua.  In such thought, we begin to understand the importance of "The Father and I, are One" - " Echad.  Therefore, as we had learned from a previous installment, the objective of Hebrew Math, is for everything to return to an "Echad" (Unified) state.  

The Universe is a complex, yet a simple Existence.  Sometimes it is the way that we see things, that blinds us from actually "Seeing" what we are looking at.  Therefore, in Love, and desire for "The Quest for Truth," let us learn to humble ourselves to the notion that God Chose this Language to convey His Message - "The Gospel."

Now, to keep within the context of "Truly seeing what is being proclaimed," understand that I am not "Greek" bashing or "Gentile" bashing, for that matter.  What I am simply trying to convey is that there are Dynamics within The Shadows of Hebrew, that serve a purpose of telling the story in more detail, but those details have been "Hidden," in plain sight, for a reason.  Keep in mind the Words of Yeshua, when asked about why He taught in Parables:

¹⁰ The disciples came to him and asked, “Why do you speak to the people in parables?”

¹¹ He replied, “Because the knowledge of the secrets of the kingdom of heaven has been given to you, but not to them.¹² Whoever has will be given more, and they will have an abundance. Whoever does not have, even what they have will be taken from them. ¹³ This is why I speak to them in parables:

“Though seeing, they do not see;
    though hearing, they do not hear or understand.

As one of our Midrashim had once declared, upon revelation in a study: "They have not been hidden FROM us, but FOR us!"  Amen!

Much like the event between Elisha and his servant;

"And Elisha prayed, "Open his eyes, LORD, so that he may see." Then the LORD opened the servant's eyes, and he looked and saw the hills full of horses and chariots of fire all around Elisha."  2 Kings 6:17

Although the servant could not see the Hosts of Heaven, it didn't mean that they were not there.  This is that amazing design of YHVH's Universe.  Light frequencies allow us to see things, as well as, hide them from us.  It is also these oscillating light frequencies that determine structure on a sub-atomic level, and it is similar to the idea of coloured sand in a jar.  When oscillated at a high frequency, the sands can pass by each other, creating the illusion that solid objects are passing through each other.  

This is also like the stuttered affect of a strobe light flashing, and with each strobe blast, matter is pulsing in and out of structural existence.  Therefore, as long as the frequencies remain in rhythmic harmony, it would appear that two objects can actually occupy the same "Space," at the same time.  To further illustrate this phenomenon, we only need to look at the engineering behind a Propeller driven Fighter Plane.  The on board machine gun system, is timed that the bullets are only fired through the propeller  at the precise rhythm that they do not hit any of the four spinning blades - Cosmic Harmony on a practical level.

The point is that, if 2 objects can exist within the same space simultaneously, (if "existing" at different frequencies) or matter and anti-matter can share the same space, based up which Sub-Atomic particle is "On" within this realm, and which one is "Off," it is this dance of equilibrium that maintains the sub-atomic structure of what we call, "Existence."   - Let there be Light!

Therefore, if Elisha is tuned into "The Spiritual Realm," he is able to experience things within that frequency of that existence.  If his servant is not tuned in, he is only aware of the things of the Flesh.  However, once Elisha prayed that The LORD would open his eyes, the servant could see this other realm, as well.

Now, I pray that this does not appear that, by using explanations through Theoretical Physics, that I am belittling this "Spiritual" event.  My intent is not to belittle, but rather share some acquired insight.  In the same way that "Science" explains how the Sun, Moon and Stars work in relation to each other (regarding gravitational dynamics), this does not take away from the fact that YHVH made this happen.  I just want to make you aware that YHVH is not offended by our desire to Know Him, and the Marvels of His Creation.  All I'm saying is that, it doesn't all have to be a Mystery, in order for it to be Sacred.  - Hidden FOR us.


Shalom, and welcome back to The Shadows of Hebrew.  In Part 6, we are going to look at Mankind after Death.  I use the term "Death," more so to illustrate a deeper point.  Much in the same way that we refer to the event of the Setting and Rising of the Sun, as "A Day,"  in reality, "A Day" is merely Darkness to Light, to Darkness again, which can represent any "Era of Existence."  Although this happens on a Cosmic and Spiritual level, we rarely refer to this as "A Day," even though this is the true meaning behind the Word "Yom" (Day).

"The Great and Terrible DAY of The LORD" - This is a reference to an Era, apposed to a 24 hour period.

In modern times we only look to the rising and setting of the Sun, to be "A Day." We use this "Pet Name," without even a second thought, that this is not it's primary meaning.  Therefore, in the same manner, I want us to understand the concept of "Death."

Although we associate "Death" with the end of one's Life, "Death" is merely an experience of transition from one form to another, or one realm to another.  Just as we were in one "Form" within the Garden of Eden, when we were exiled, we experienced a whole "New Form," of existence, outside of Eden - "Death."  For this reason, YHVH gave us "Skins" (Flesh) to exist outside of The Garden. (Genesis 3:21)

This explains that when YHVH stated in Genesis 2:15-17, this was not simply to be taken "Metaphorically," When He declares:

16 ... "Of every tree of the garden thou mayest freely eat;

17 but of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil, thou shalt not eat of it; for in the DAY that thou eatest thereof thou shalt surely DIE."  Genesis 2:15-17

The Eating of the Fruit, began the end of an Era of a Relationship with YHVH, and began an Era of a Separation (Death) and subsequently, a need for a journey back to Him - The Quest for Echad.
⁵⁵ 
Our removal from The Garden, because of our Sin, was to be considered a "Death" -or- a "Transition" from One Form (Existence), to another.

However, without attempting to go too far into the metaphysical hints of Scripture, I just want to point out one thing that gives a glimpse of how we can begin to understand the workings of the Universe.

In Parts 2 and 3, we looked at the building blocks of the Universe, and the effects of Darkness and Light on our very "Existence."  We also looked at the "Tohu - Bohu" or the coming together of Space and Matter.

Now, before we proceed into the next stage of the Human Experience, let's look back at something that sheds some "Light" on the matter of "Death."

In Genesis 3:24 it reads:

24 So He drove out the man; and He placed at the east of the garden of Eden the cherubim, and the flaming sword which turned every way, to keep the way to the tree of life. {S}

This is to say that He has installed "A Barrier," making it impossible to return, at this time.  Here it describes a "Flaming Sword."  The Word for Flaming is "Lahah."  The first letter is a Lamed, in Paleo Thought it depicts "The Sheppard's Rod of Correction or Guidance."  As we study this reaction to our Sin a little closer, we learn that this is not as much a curse of punishment, as it is a "Protection" for ourselves.  The Question is, "What is He 'Protecting' us from?"

This next verse explains it:

22 And the LORD God said: 'Behold, the man is become as one of us, to know good and evil; and now, lest he put forth his hand, and take also of the tree of life, and eat, and live for ever.' Genesis 3:22 - AKA: "An Eternal Continuance within the state of Sin."

Isn't that the objective of Scripture?  Isn't this the ultimate Goal and Purpose of our Salvation?

We must "Die" to Self, in order to Return (T'Shuva) to Him!

Therefore Mashiach proclaims:

⁷ Whoever has ears, let them hear what the Spirit says to the Kehilot. To the one who is victorious, I will give the right to eat from the tree of life, which is in the paradise of God. Revelation 2:7

The point is that within our Fallen State, should we have eaten of the Tree of Life, we would have remained within this State, without hope of redemption.

Therefore, He casted us Out - To Protect us, from ourselves.  This was the Plan of Redemption, all along.  

"Death, for the purpose of Resurrection!"

This is why Yeshua teaches:

²³ Yeshua replied, “The hour has come for the Son of Man to be glorified. ²⁴ Very truly I tell you, unless a kernel of wheat falls to the ground and dies, it remains only a single seed. But if it dies, it produces many seeds. ²⁵ Anyone who loves their life will lose it, while anyone who hates their life in this world will keep it for eternal life. ²⁶ Whoever serves me must follow me; and where I am, my servant also will be. My Father will honor the one who serves me. John 12:23-26

Paul also teaches this concept in 1 Corinthians 15

“Where, O death, is your victory?
    Where, O death, is your sting?" 1 Corinthians 15:55

This "Glory," that they speak of, is found within the Ancient Hebrew.  We discovered this Word last year, in "The Song of Moses," almost by accident.

There is a verse from The Song of Moses, found in Deuteronomy 32;


יג  יַרְכִּבֵהוּ עַל-במותי (בָּמֳתֵי) אָרֶץ,  {ס}  וַיֹּאכַל תְּנוּבֹת שָׂדָי;  {ר}  וַיֵּנִקֵהוּ דְבַשׁ מִסֶּלַע,  {ס}  וְשֶׁמֶן מֵחַלְמִישׁ צוּר.  {ר} 


13 He made him ride on the high places of the earth, and he did eat the fruitage of the field; and He made him to suck honey out of the crag, and oil out of the flinty rock... D'varim 32:13

Now, I have copied The Hebrew as well, so that you can see this secret hidden within the Ancient Hebrew.  Notice the Hebrew Word within Parenthesis?  "Bet Mem Tav Yud" - "Bemteh," it means "Heights" or "High Places."  

This is "Glory," to be "Made to Ride," -or- "Glorified to High Places!"  How High?  The Highest!  Therefore, the Word is "Bemteh."

Now, look at the word BEFORE the Word in parenthesis.  "Bet Mem Vav Tav Yud." - "B'Moteh," it means "Ba" (In), Mot (Death), Yud (Grammatical Possessive) = "In my Death."

What Character differentiates the two concepts between "Bemote" and "Bemte?"  The Vav...  In Paleo Hebrew concept, "The Nail."

In this discovery, we questioned the use of the parenthesis and the removal of the Vav.  It was explained to us that, the Vav version is for "Printed" use, but the Non-Vav is for "Spoken" use.  The Scribes simply wanted to "Point that out."

I have two issues with this explanation:  

1) Why is the Verbal indicator used within this context, and not in other aspects of Scripture, to differentiate the Written form from the Verbal applications?  

2) "Did the Ancient Hebrews 'Invent' the Parenthesis?"  or were they "Added" after the fact?

The point is that, the Ancient Hebrew only used the Vav - "B'moteh" version.  There were no Parenthesis in Ancient Hebrew.  The Original Scripture did not have a "Bemteh" (without the Vav).  The Original Text would have only read "Bet Mem Vav Tav Yud." - "B'moteh" - "In My Death."  Therefore, regardless of the "Modern" addition of the Parenthesis, and the "Explanation," the Ancient Hebrew Thought ("As it was Written"), would have understood this as it was meant to be read, without the "Added" assistance.  "B'Mote" - "In My Death."

Now this creates an even Greater Paradox.  Although this context is referred to "The Song of Moses," upon reading the Narrative, we realize that this is actually The Song of YHVH, and Moses is merely scribing from dictation.  Therefore, if this is YHVH speaking through Moshe, then why would YHVH speak in 1st Person, "In My Death?"  This is impossible, and therefore, the Scribes felt is necessary to explain this Scriptural Anomaly by adding the parenthesis - "Bemteh" (High Places)  Ironically, in doing so, they inadvertently explained what the removal of the nail from Mashiach lead to - "Bemteh!"

OK, then let's revisit this notion for a moment.  If this is the Personal Expression of YHVH, merely dictated by Moshe, and within the context, the Ancient Hebrew (By the Pen of Moshe) writes, "In My Death," then How is this even possible?  This makes no "Theological" sense!  Exactly, then this is why the Scribes had to do what they did...  Right?

Unless, we are misunderstanding the concept of "Death" itself.

If Death is merely a Transition from one form to another, then is it possible that Death is merely that "Translation," from one state or realm to another?

We know that YHVH visited Abraham in a Fleshly state, so "Real," that He ate with him (Genesis 18), but He wasn't Born, and didn't "Die," to have this encounter.

My point is that "Heaven" isn't so far away - just as the Beginning is not so far from The End.

"The Kingdom of Heaven is near."  Matthew 3:2 and Matthew 10:7

In fact, this is the concept of Eden.  It's still there... Here on Earth.  It is just invisible to "The Eye" (Ayin).  The Hebrew Character, "Ayin" is an "Eye," which can be used in a Word context to refer to "Sight."  Now, taking this into mind, let's look at a controversial point in Scripture...

 24 And Enoch walked with God, and he was not; for God took him. {S} Genesis 5:24

The Hebrew does not deliver such a direct conclusion, as Theology implies.  The Word for "Was Not," is "Ayin," which can mean - "Not," but it can also makes reference to "Sight."  However, within this context, we are seeing a paradox.  If Ayin is to "See," then why does  it mean, "He was Gone?"  YHVH "Took" him.  Like the Garden, it's not that Enoch was "No More," he was simply translated from one realm of existence to another.  Did he experience "Death?"  In a way - Yes, but not "The Death," as we understand it.

The "Curse of Death" is that we would return from whence we came, but this Curse is not without the chance of redemption - The Resurrection.  This is where it gets interesting.

Let's go back to "Bemte-Bemote" again for a moment, and understand what the Hebrew is teaching us.  In the Original version, we see The Vav (Nail) - Meaning "In My Death."  Now, once that "Nail" is removed, what happens, in the Hebrew Concept?  "Bemte" - Raised to High Places - Glorified!  This is the depiction of the Death and Resurrection of the Messiah, right in "The Song of Moses."  What's more, is that through Messiah, we are all welcomed to be a part of this Redemption - Resurrection!

You see, God's "Curse," is not for the purpose of Destruction, but a means to an End.  Death is only the transition required, so that He can accomplish His Plan.  Please do not get me wrong, and assume that I am teaching that there is no punishment for our actions...  I will state this, for the record, Yeshua spoke more about the Dangers of Sheol and Gihennah (Hell), than He did the rewards of Heaven, but that said, we must not forget His Plan:

¹⁶ For God so loved the world that he gave his one and only Son, that whoever believes in him shall not perish but have eternal life. ¹⁷ For God did not send his Son into the world to condemn the world, but to save the world through him.¹⁸ Whoever believes in him is not condemned, but whoever does not believe stands condemned already because they have not believed in the name of God’s one and only Son.¹⁹ This is the verdict: Light has come into the world, but people loved darkness instead of light because their deeds were evil. ²⁰ Everyone who does evil hates the light, and will not come into the light for fear that their deeds will be exposed. ²¹ But whoever lives by the truth comes into the light, so that it may be seen plainly that what they have done has been done in the sight of God.  John 3:16-21

Yes, we were all Cursed to return to the Ground from where we came, but not without hope of Olam Haba (The World to Come) - "The Resurrection."

Therefore, let us not miss out on this "Opportunity" (Grace) to Exist in the Resurrection.  Let us LEARN from our Errors and Sin, pressing on towards the Higher Calling - T'shuva! (Repent - Return).

We were created as Adam (Man) - Perfect, in His Image.  However, because of our Sin, we became Enosh - (Corrupted Man).  This does not mean that we must stay this way.  We must be like "Enoch," (Dedicated) to the Goal of Restoration with YHVH.  This is the purpose of Messiah's Coming, to bring us BACK - T'Shuva, not to push us further from Him!

Therefore, as Cain experienced this "Curse," that the Ground would no longer Yield to him, he experienced a Second Death.  There was the Death of the exile from The Garden, but now the Ground would not even give him sustenance.  Cain was going to exist in a Realm of a Fugitive State, Wandering to find food, and "Eternal Life."

A "Fugitive" and a "Wanderer?"  There is that double redundancy again, just like in "Tohu and Bohu."  Why?  

Now, here's a clue to what was happening to Cain and the Generations to follow.  In Genesis 4, we read:

12 When thou tillest the ground, it shall not henceforth yield unto thee her strength; a fugitive and a wanderer shalt thou be in the earth.' (Genesis 4:12)

Again, by now we should understand that just because we see redundancy in the English Translation, doesn't mean that it is saying the same thing in Hebrew.  This is simply telling us again, that Cain was "Wandering," without instruction, and without a Goal - "To'ah"

The words for "Fugitive" and "Wanderer," are respectively "Na," and "Nod."  The Paleo describes "Living at the Eye," and "Living at the Door."  What could these Words be trying to imply?

What is the Eye, and What is the Door?

If we were to seek the Scriptures to find such references, we would find, Yeshua speaking of such things within Parable.

"Again I tell you, it is easier for a camel to go through the EYE of a needle than for someone who is rich to enter the kingdom of God." Matthew 19:25

What is the Eye of the Needle?  The Clue is right there within His statement - It is a metaphoric reference to "The Entry."  What Entry?  "The Door!"  (A very "Narrow" Door)

What Door?

"I am the gate; whoever enters through me will be saved. They will come in and go out, and find pasture." John 10:9

What are we to make of these connections hidden within The Shadows of Hebrew?

We are to understand that the Curse of Death is "Blindness."  Blindness to find the very door of Salvation, that we are seeking.  Like the Men of Sodom were blinded to find the door, so has man been cursed to find Him!  However, as John 3:16 teaches us, He has come into this world to show us the way to Himself.  By the Leading of His Ruach HaKodesh, we are lead to the very door that we have been seeking, since the Days of Cain.

Therefore Yeshua Teaches:

1“Then the kingdom of heaven will be comparable to ten virgins, who took their lamps and went out to meet the bridegroom.2“Five of them were foolish, and five were prudent.3“For when the foolish took their lamps, they took no oil with them,4but the prudent took oil in flasks along with their lamps.5“Now while the bridegroom was delaying, they all got drowsy and began to sleep.6“But at midnight there was a shout, ‘Behold, the bridegroom! Come out to meet him.’7“Then all those virgins rose and trimmed their lamps.8“The foolish said to the prudent, ‘Give us some of your oil, for our lamps are going out.’9“But the prudent answered, ‘No, there will not be enough for us and you too;go instead to the dealers and buy some for yourselves.’10“And while they were going away to make the purchase, the bridegroom came, and those who were ready went in with him to the wedding feast; and the door was shut.11“Later the other virgins also came, saying, ‘Lord, lord, open up for us.’12“But he answered, ‘Truly I say to you, I do not know you.’13“Be on the alert then, for you do not know the day nor the hour. Mathew 25:1-13

Let us not be like these foolish Virgins, Wandering - "Na and Nod," looking for a door that they cannot find. Rather, look for Him (The Door) within the Shadows of Hebrew, and He will reveal Himself to you.  He is this Light that made all things, and without Him, nothing was made, that was made.  Amein!

Chaverim, when I began this Installment, I was attempting to take it in a different direction, regarding The Hidden Blessing for Cain, but this is not where the Spirit Lead.  Therefore, I will attempt to address this issue in the next installment of The Shadows of Hebrew.  As mentioned, I am on Vacation right now, and it has been very difficult to find the time to complete this Installment - A Week Late!!!  I beg your forgiveness, and look forward to continuing to explore these topics in the weeks to come.

I hope you've had a blessed Pesach, and Chag Semeach!

Tune in, in a couple weeks, and we will continue to Study The Shadows of Hebrew.  Thanks for Reading.

Blessings.

Don Daniel Henriquez De La Fuente

The Shadows of Hebrew (Part 5)

Shalom Haverim,

And Welcome back to The Shadows of Hebrew.  In Part 5, we are going explore the next generation of Mankind, starting with the relationship between Cain and Abel, and their respective relationships with YHVH.

We learn very quickly that in Scripture, a person's name holds specific value (Naqab), and that it is important to understand the meaning or "value" of that name.

Therefore, as we began to study "Cain" and "Abel," we realized that there is a deeper story hidden within the Shadows of their Hebrew Names.

Cain in Hebrew is "Qayin," which is rooted in "Qana," the same word for "Jealousy" or "Zealous."  Now, if you recall from Part 1 of The Shadows of Hebrew, I had covered the concept of the Word "Qana," in Hebrew Thought.

Therefore, let's recap:

The Word for "Jealous" and "Zealous" are the same Word in Hebrew, which is "Qana."  This is also the root Word for "Cain," but we know that they have very different meanings in English.  Jealousy carries a connotation of "Covetous," whereas Zeal carries the premise of  "A Passion for."  In English, one holds a somewhat negative connotation, and the other a more positive intent.  All the while in Hebrew, it's the same WORD!

We proposed that when "Qana" is in reference to "The Flesh," it is to mean "Jealous," whereas when it is in the context of "Our God is a Jealous God," it is actually meant as "Zealous."  Otherwise this would mean that God is "Covetous" for us...  That just doesn't make sense...  Or would it be better translated as God has a "Passion" for us?  What is not His, that He should be found "Wanting?"  Therefore, Man can be Jealous, but God is Zealous - The same Word in Hebrew.

The question is How does this apply to Cain?  I believe that the Hebrew is giving us a hint into the story, a peak into a dimension that we would not have traditionally understood.  In fact, I believe that we have completely misunderstood Cain, and the circumstances leading up to both his and Abel's tragic outcome.

If we were to look at Cain's name in relation to "Qana," as a Prophetic Nature, we would see that the Spirit of Cain would depict "Jealousy," however there is an aspect to this that we so easily overlook.

WHY - Why was Cain Jealous?  Keeping in mind that "Zeal," is an aspect of "Jealousy," we can determine that Cain's Passion, is what drove him to murder.  Meaning that, it was a "Crime of Passion."  Which is to say that he was "Jealous for God."  It was his Jealousy for God that enraged his passion against his brother.

Therefore, let's have a look at the contrast depicted when we view "Qayin" against "Habel."  Habel (Abel) is rooted in the Hebrew, "Hebel" which means "Vanity" or "Pride."  Now, what's more, we have to understand the deeper implications of Vanity and Pride in Hebrew Thought.  The Hebrew sees this concept as meaning, "Valueless," or "False Value," apposed to "Self-Centred."  Therefore, this baits the next question, "Why would they 'Name' (Naqab) their son "False Value?"

I can only speculate that the positive intent behind naming him "Habel," was to demonstrate their fallen state as "Mankind."  Much in the same way that The Hebrew refers to "Man" as "Enosh."  Like "Adam," - "Enosh" means "Man" as well, however "Enosh" carries a negative connotation, referring to "The Corrupted Flesh."  Which could be understood that Adam and Chavah gave Habel this name to remind him, and all their descendants, that The Flesh is Vanity and Fleeting.  Meaning that, "Only the Eternal holds True Value," which is "Emet" (Truth).  

Which is to say, that they gave this "Name," not as a "Naqab" (Appointed Value) of Abel, but "Zakar," for Memorial and Prophetic purpose.  What else are we to assume? (If you recall the nature of "Male" and "Female" being relative to "Zakar" (To Remember) and "Naqab" (To Appoint Value), a lesson from the previous Installment.))

Therefore, this understanding illustrates that there is a dynamic in play, that without understanding the Hebrew meaning behind the names, we miss out on a greater dimension to this story.

With this in mind, let's have a look at what the Scripture actually says:

1 And the man knew Eve his wife; and she conceived and bore Cain, and said: 'I have gotten a man with the help of the LORD.' 2 And again she bore his brother Abel. And Abel was a keeper of sheep, but Cain was a tiller of the ground. 3 And in process of time it came to pass, that Cain brought of the fruit of the ground an offering unto the LORD. 4 And Abel, he also brought of the firstlings of his flock and of the fat thereof. And the LORD had respect unto Abel and to his offering; 5 but unto Cain and to his offering He had not respect. And Cain was very wroth, and his countenance fell. 6 And the LORD said unto Cain: 'Why art thou wroth? and why is thy countenance fallen? 7 If thou doest well, shall it not be lifted up? and if thou doest not well, sin coucheth at the door; and unto thee is its desire, but thou mayest rule over it.' 8 And Cain spoke unto Abel his brother. And it came to pass, when they were in the field, that Cain rose up against Abel his brother, and slew him.  Genesis 4:1-8


Over the Millenia, there has been great speculation over what was wrong with Cain's offering.  Why was Abel's "Kosher," and Cain's not?  The most commonly accepted interpretation is that Abel offered an Animal Sacrifice, which was Kosher, whereas Produce from the Ground, was not.  It was also commonly noted that it mentions the "Bikkurim" (First Fruits) of Abel's Sacrifice, but it is not mentioned of Cain's.  Later in Scripture, we will learn the importance of giving "The First' back to YHVH.  

Ultimately, this means that it was up to "Qayin" to "Make Trade" for his produce with "Habel," so that he could have a proper "Blood" sacrifice to offer as well.

I point out the significance of "Make Trade," as this is actually another aspect of the root concept of the name "Qayin" - "To Buy."  This is also where we get the Title and Concept of "Canaanite" which means "Merchant."  Therefore, the answer to his problems were right there within the concept of his own name.

Then WHY didn't he do it, providing that this interpretation is correct, that Animal Sacrifice was required?

As we "Dig Deeper," (Pun intended) we have to look at How Hebrew Thought conceptualizes a "Farmer," or One Who works the ground.

For those of you familiar with the Scriptures, we know that the first thing that Noah did, after he and his family exited the Ark, was to "Plant a vineyard."  In our Study, we found that some translations referred to this as "Noah 'debased' himself."  As we read this, seeing the various translations side by side, we asked ourselves, "Why does it refer to 'Planting a Vineyard,' as "Debasing Himself?"

Many Theologians, especially those bent on the taboo of alcohol, connect this to the fact that in planting the vineyard, lead to his drunkenness, and the subsequent fall of Ham.

However, if we return to the story of Cain and Abel, the Hebrew explains this concept within Hebrew Thought.

The Hebrew Reads:

"וַתֹּסֶף לָלֶדֶת, אֶת-אָחִיו אֶת-הָבֶל; וַיְהִי-הֶבֶל, רֹעֵה צֹאן, וְקַיִן, הָיָה "עֹבֵד אֲדָמָה.

2 And again she bore his brother Abel. And Abel was a keeper of sheep, but Cain was a "tiller of the ground." Genesis 4:2

In the JPS translation, where I copied this insert from, the Word for "Obed" in Hebrew, is translated as "Tiller," however, "Obed," literally means "Servant" of the Ground.

This concept within Hebrew Thought tells us that one who works the ground is subject to the ground's cooperation of producing fruit.  If the ground does not produce, then you are without.

Now, remember the curse that came with the exile from The Garden.

17 And unto Adam He said: 'Because thou hast hearkened unto the voice of thy wife, and hast eaten of the tree, of which I commanded thee, saying: Thou shalt not eat of it; cursed is the ground for thy sake; in toil shalt thou eat of it all the days of thy life.

18 Thorns also and thistles shall it bring forth to thee; and thou shalt eat the herb of the field.

19 In the sweat of thy face shalt thou eat bread, till thou return unto the ground; for out of it wast thou taken; for dust thou art, and unto dust shalt thou return.'

Therefore, the one that "Works the Ground," is "Obed" (A servant to the Ground).  This is the meaning behind Noah "debasing" himself, and this understanding begins to explain the deeper dynamic of this relationship with Cain and Abel.

Now, let's look at another contrast to help further solidify this depiction of what lead up to this "Crime of Passion."

²⁶ Then God said, “Let us make mankind in our image, in our likeness, so that they may rule over the fish in the sea and the birds in the sky, over the livestock and all the wild animals,^[a] and over all the creatures that move along the ground.” Genesis 1:26

Therefore, when you look at these 2 aspects of this scenario, we are seeing that YHVH has given us "Dominion" over the Animals, but due to The Curse, we are "Subject" to the Ground.  And so, Cain "debased" (Obed) himself as a "Farmer"of crops.

(The aside conclusion is that Noah planting a vineyard, being described as "debasing" himself, has nothing to do with the consuming of alcohol, in and of itself - However, THAT - is a whole other study).

Now, as we begin to piece this picture together, we are finding that Abel, took "Dominion" over his Occupation, and Cain "Subjected" himself to his. There is a deeper lesson in Understanding this relationship within our own lives.  "Are we Masters of our Trade, or Slaves to our Work?"  We should work to Live, and not Live to Work.

Therefore, in understanding these dichotomies between Cain and Able, we are beginning to see the forces of nature stir within the Spiritual Realm.  "War was Brewing."

Let's, for a moment, look to Jacob and Esau, and compare these scenarios.  Jacob was the younger, and desired for his brother's "Birth Right."  As the story goes, we see Jacob accomplish this objective, at least on a Spiritual Level.  Now, the comparative link is that when Abel offers the "Bikkurim" (First Fruits) this is a symbolic gesture of the same objective.  The Word "Bikkurim" also implies - "First Born."

Now let's tie this back into the meaning of their names.  Qayin, The First Born, subjected himself to the ground and placed himself into a dependent situation with his younger brother, because his brother governed over the very thing, required to preform "The Acceptable" Sacrifice.

Now, let's Mirror this against the Story of Jacob and Esau from Genesis 25.  It tells of how Jacob had made some stew, and Esau had come in from the field, famished.  As is goes, Jacob finds himself in a position of strength above his brother, and uses that leverage to obtain a verbal contract on the Birth Right.  As is turns out, when Jacob completes his objective of obtaining his brother's Birth Right, Esau plots to "Murder" him.  

Do we see the Parallel?  If it was not for Rivka's intervention, the story of Cain and Abel, would have been relived... So to Speak.

Habel, (Vane by Nature) obedient to this understanding, gave an "Acceptable" Sacrifice, regardless of where his maturity, and or walk with HaShem was at.

Qayin, the Older (Full of Zeal by Nature) felt it even more 'debasing' to depend upon his brother's "Value" to provide the acceptable sacrifice.  Therefore, he offered the work of his hands, as a sacrifice to YHVH.

Was this what YHVH wanted - What man THOUGHT was best?  Here is the beginning of "Religion."

The problem was that YHVH had a Plan, and in as much, the Sacrifice of Life was designed to teach us this lesson, so that we would pass this Message on from Generation to Generation, lest we forget (Zakar).

Therefore this Message (B'shar - In Flesh - "The Gospel") was transferred down through these Patriarchs to their descendants, as a sign of the Price that Messiah would pay upon His Coming.  Therefore, as much as Cain's Heart was in it, his "Obedience" was not.  Which in the end, tells us where the heart is truly at.  Your "Heart" cannot be "into" something if, "Obedience" does not follow.  Where is the Emunah? (Faith -in- Action)

The heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately wicked: who can know it? Jeremiah 17:9

This is why Qayin's offering was "Unacceptable."  It didn't convey "The Message," in "The Flesh" - "The Gospel."

Although YHVH knew that deep down, Qayin desired to do the right thing, as it was the reason for his "Passion" for YHVH, his actions were Faithless - "Disobedient."  

Now, failure is never the problem.  However, NOT correcting ("Dan") the mistake, and learning from our errors, IS the problem!

HaShem attempted to correct Cain's attitude, but Cain refused to listen.  Therefore, he concerned himself with his brother's relationship with YHVH, and Cain took it upon himself to deal with that issue.  His Name, got the best of him.  

It would appear in respective nature, Abel's Name got the best of him as well, and in doing so, he provoked his brother to "Qana."  This explains where the War was Brewing.  

However, what this all boils down to is Obedience to HaShem's Commands.  This was another example of that "Tohu-Bohu" of the Universe.  Qayin had the right desire, but the wrong means about getting it.  Abel had the right means, but his attitude was flawed.  If ONLY they could have worked it out together!  

Nevertheless, by being "Obedient" and "Doing," Abel's "Works" gained him God's favour, in spite of his flaws.  Ironically, this was the very thing that set Cain off.  The Genesis of Hubris and Tragedy.

"Faith without Works is dead,"  Therefore Qayin's Passion was commendable, obtaining him "Grace," but not "Tamim," (YHVH's Favour).  We must always remember that Grace is not the Goal.  It is the "Opportunity" to correct our path, in order to eventually gain YHVH's "Tamim" (His Righteousness).

Let's take a moment to learn a lesson from the Prophet Samuel:

22 And Samuel said: 'Hath the LORD as great delight in burnt-offerings and sacrifices, as in hearkening to the voice of the LORD? Behold, to obey is better than sacrifice, and to hearken than the fat of rams.  1 Samuel 15:22

Therefore, in spite of his motivation, Abel was obedient to the process and objective.  This was "Acceptable."  His "Emunah" (Faith -in- Action) trumped the Vanity in his Heart!  Whereas Cain, had "desire" for the things of God, but not "The Faith," to carry them out.  This is why Hebrews teaches us that it is only By Faith, can we please God.  This does not mean that "Belief" is better than "Works."  It means that Faith requires Action - "Emunah," to BE "Faith!"

Although the connection that I have just made between 1 Samuel, and this particular situation between Cain and Abel, appears to be a paradox, it is not.  In 1 Samuel, we read (in context), "Do not Sacrifice, what was not meant for sacrifice," but rather, Obey YHVH's Commands.  In Genesis 4, this is the same point.  For Cain to "Sacrifice" Produce, was not "Acceptable."  Produce was not meant for this type of offering.

Therefore, Cain took it upon himself to demonstrate to YHVH that his sacrifice WAS worthy.  What?  To prove God wrong?  What a ridiculous notion!

 What Samuel is teaching us is that, "Obedience," supersedes our "Feelings" or "Thoughts" on the matter.  "Obedience is ABOVE Sacrifice."  Meaning that YHVH reads our intentions in a completely different way than we do, as Flesh.  

Yes, our heart must be in it, but our heart has to demonstrate its desire through Obedience (Emunah), which is Faith, as well.  Our heart can be just as passionate towards rebellion, all the while, disguised as "Good Intentions."

Meaning that, if YHVH had conveyed this understanding to His children, that Animal Sacrifice was necessary, then regardless of what we "Think or Feel," we must be Obedient.  The Samuel connection explains the deeper meaning behind this.  This is not about "The Sacrifice" alone, this is about Obeying His Word.

As much as Qayin did not Sacrifice properly, due to disobedience, Sacrificing when given instruction to do something else, makes the Sacrifice "Valueless" ("Abel") Anyway! - What a Paradox, hidden in the Hebrew.?

This is why Yeshua Teaches us:

²¹ “You have heard that it was said to the people long ago, ‘You shall not murder,^[a] and anyone who murders will be subject to judgment.’

²² But I tell you that anyone who is angry with a brother or sister^[b][c] will be subject to judgment.Again, anyone who says to a brother or sister, ‘Raca,’^[d] is answerable to the court. And anyone who says, ‘You fool!’ will be in danger of the fire of hell.

²³ “Therefore, if you are offering your gift at the altar and there remember that your brother or sister has something against you,

²⁴ leave your gift there in front of the altar. First go and be reconciled to them; then come and offer your gift.  Matthew 5:21-24

He teaches us this to demonstrate that a Kosher Attitude must accompany a Kosher Gift.  If it is not, then the Offering is "Pigul" (Unacceptable).  Therefore, in Abel's case, the proper attitude was that he was obedient (Emunah), in spite of his Vanity.  He was not perfect, but his sacrifice was.  Cain, on the other hand, could not accept the fact that his brother lived with such Vanity, and yet his Offering was accepted.

Perhaps this may explain that emotion that we all feel when we see our brother, whom we have deemed as, "Not serving God" (According to OUR OWN interpretation), all the while, The LORD is blessing him.  Isn't that "Frustrating?"  

Welcome to Cain's Passion.  Welcome to all the "Fatwas" and "Jihads" and "Crusades" - All built upon the Self-Righteousness of Qana.

This is why we must always, pluck the beam from our own eye first, before our Brother's issues become "Our Problem."  If Cain didn't take matters into his own hands, YHVH may have been able to work on Abel's Pride, and teach him humility, and to walk in Wholeness (Tamim).

In the end, this was not about the Sacrifice, it was about being Obedient to His Word.  This does not mean that we do not need to Sacrifice, that would be taking a very shallow interpretation of this context comparison.  This simply means that, "Obedience is ABOVE our Thoughts or Feelings on the matter."  In other words, "Just do what it is that He has called YOU to do."  Don't worry about your brother.  He has to do what HE has to do!  This is between Him, and YHVH.

To bring this back to focus, let me give you a modern day example, of understanding YHVH's Commands.  Many years ago, when I wrote my Drivers test, there was a question on the exam that asked, "If you come to a red light, and a police officer is directing traffic, and instructs you to proceed, do you:

A) Wait until it is safe to proceed, and then do so?
B) Proceed as Instructed?
C) Honk your horn and advise the Officer that the light is red?

The correct answer was "B" - "Proceed as Instructed." In spite of the red light, because the Officer has the authority due to the present circumstance, we are to accept the temporal alteration.  The point being is that when we get so hung up on  "The Legalism" of The Law, that we begin to ignore YHVH's sovereignty in special circumstances, we loose contact and intimacy with our dynamic (LIVING) relationship with HIM.  This does not mean that we are "exempt" from The Law.  God does not want us to Break His Law, just learn HOW to follow "Instructions." We must understand that He would never have us do something contrary to His Command.  WE just need to be open to look for the deeper intent of "HIS" Purpose.

Let's tie this understanding back into Cain's situation.  As speculated, he was upset that his "Vane" brother's sacrifice was acceptable, but his "Heartfelt," and "Passionate" - "Zealous" contribution was not?  Sin began to brew within him.

Therefore YHVH, as a Father, speaks with him:

6 And the LORD said unto Cain: 'Why art thou wroth? and why is thy countenance fallen?
7 If thou doest well, shall it not be lifted up? and if thou doest not well, sin coucheth at the door; and unto thee is its desire, but thou mayest rule over it.'  Genesis 4:6-7

Look at the words that YHVH chooses, "You may rule over it."  We need to subjugate our nature, like Abel did over the Animals.  YHVH is teaching us, through this story, that we should not give in, and like Cain, be subject to the Ground and to our own Nature.

Now, here's the aspect of Qayin that we have got all wrong.  The Traditional interpretation is that Cain, didn't care enough to offer the Proper Sacrifice, and Abel did.  What the Shadows of Hebrew are teaching us is that, on the contrary, Cain cared a lot!  In fact, he was so Zealous (Jealous) for God that his Passion drove him to Kill his Brother!

This understanding explains a lot of the missing pieces to the story.  If Abel was "Perfect," then why did YHVH not protect him from his brother?  Also, as we know, YHVH does not tolerate "Murder," which He prescribes "Death" as the penalty for it.  Then why does he protect Cain?  Is this inconsistency with justice?

These underlying dynamics are explained within their names - The Motivations - Where their Hearts were at.

This tells us something about HaShem, and the depiction of Mashiach in Isaiah 11:

2 And the spirit of the LORD shall rest upon him, the spirit of wisdom and understanding, the spirit of counsel and might, the spirit of knowledge and of the fear of the LORD. 3 And his delight shall be in the fear of the LORD; and he shall not judge after the sight of his eyes, neither decide after the hearing of his ears; 4 But with righteousness shall he judge the poor, and decide with equity for the meek of the land; and he shall smite the land with the rod of his mouth, and with the breath of his lips shall he slay the wicked. 5 And righteousness shall be the girdle of his loins, and faithfulness the girdle of his reins. Isaiah 11:2-5

In essence, He see past our Actions, and into the heart of our Intentions.  All the same, this is not to be misunderstood that, "Our actions are overlooked."  There are consequences for our Actions, in this World, and the One to Come.  Nevertheless, this understanding explains why He demonstrates Grace and Mercy upon some, and not on others.  This is an understanding that we (As Human) cannot fully comprehend.  Therefore, what appears to our flesh as "injustice," is simply based upon our finite understanding of the bigger (Spiritual) picture.

This is why Yeshua teaches:

¹¹ When the Pharisees saw this, they asked his disciples, “Why does your teacher eat with tax collectors and sinners?”

¹² On hearing this, Jesus said, “It is not the healthy who need a doctor, but the sick. ¹³ But go and learn what this means: ‘I desire mercy, not sacrifice.’^[a] For I have not come to call the righteous, but sinners.” Matthew 9:11-13

And this is why Paul teaches:

²² Consider therefore the kindness and sternness of God: sternness to those who fell, but kindness to you, provided that you continue in his kindness. Otherwise, you also will be cut off. ²³ And if they do not persist in unbelief, they will be grafted in, for God is able to graft them in again. ²⁴ After all, if you were cut out of an olive tree that is wild by nature, and contrary to nature were grafted into a cultivated olive tree,how much more readily will these, the natural branches, be grafted into their own olive tree!

³⁰ Just as you who were at one time disobedient to God have now received mercy as a result of their disobedience, ³¹ so they too have now become disobedient in order that they too may now^[h] receive mercy as a result of God’s mercy to you. ³² For God has bound everyone over to disobedience so that he may have mercy on them all.

³³ Oh, the depth of the riches of the wisdom and^[i]knowledge of God!
    How unsearchable his judgments,
    and his paths beyond tracing out!
³⁴ “Who has known the mind of the Lord?
    Or who has been his counselor?”^[j]
35 “Who has ever given to God,
    that God should repay them?”^[k]
36 For from him and through him and for him are all things.
    To him be the glory forever! Amen. (Exerts from Romans 11)

Therefore, God gives "Ra" to Cain - "An Additional Curse" upon the ground:

¹⁰ The Lord said, “What have you done? Listen! Your brother’s blood cries out to me from the ground. ¹¹ Now you are under a curse and driven from the ground, which opened its mouth to receive your brother’s blood from your hand. ¹² When you work the ground, it will no longer yield its crops for you. You will be a restless wanderer on the earth.” Genesis 4:10-12

YHVH cut off Cain's connection with the Ground, but was this a "Curse?"  

Initially, we view this as a "Curse" upon Cain, but as we will see in the upcoming Installment of "The Shadows of Hebrew," this Curse becomes a Blessing to Cain.  We will learn that if we simply Trust HaShem, even in our chastisement, we will live to see the ultimate Blessing.

Thanks for Reading this installment of Shadows of Hebrew.  Tune in next week, when we look at more "Secrets of Biblical Economics."

Blessings.

Don Daniel Henriquez De La Fuente