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The Israel Insider

Hand-picked articles from people on the ground in Israel as well as analysis from our partner ministries to keep you informed, so you are equipped to pray effectively for Israel as we are instructed to do in the Bible.

Articles

The Church And Israel Connection

by The Israel Insider April 25, 2024

written by The Israel Insider

How is the Church connected to Israel? To understand this question, we need to look to the Bible for the answer. God’s desire is not for us to be unaware or confused about Israel. There is such a great need to be scripturally sound in our understanding of God’s plans for Israel and the Church.

It’s A Mystery

“For I do not desire, brethren, that you should be ignorant of this mystery, lest you should be wise in your own opinion, that blindness in part has happened to Israel until the fullness of the Gentiles has come in.” Romans 11:25

Paul urges us in Romans 11 that we shouldn’t be ignorant of the mystery so that we should become wise in our own eyes. This mystery is that blindness in part has come the Israel until the fullness of the Gentiles has come in. When that happens the promise is that “All Israel will be saved”.

To enter more fully into this mystery we must address the fact that the Church has not replaced Israel in the promises and plans of God, even in their rejection. Yes, we do inherit the promises of God as we have been welcomed into the family tree. But we must not come into agreement with the idea that God is finished in regards to Israel. Paul echoes that sentiment with an emphatic, “Certainly Not!”

“But if some of the branches were broken off, and you, although a wild olive shoot, were grafted in among the others and now share in the nourishing root of the olive tree, do not be arrogant toward the branches. If you are, remember it is not you who support the root, but the root that supports you. Then you will say, “Branches were broken off so that I might be grafted in.” That is true. They were broken off because of their unbelief, but you stand fast through faith. So do not become proud, but fear. ”

God’s plan was to bring the gospel to the whole world through the Jewish people’s rejection of Jesus.

The Gifts And Callings Of God Are Irrevocable

“Concerning the gospel they are enemies for your sake, but concerning the election they are beloved for the sake of the fathers. For the gifts and the calling of God are irrevocable.” Romans 11:28-29

God has not cast off or forgotten about Israel. He has a plan to bring them back into the family of God again. This portion of Scripture speaks to the enduring covenant between God and the Jewish people, emphasizing their irrevocable calling and election. The divine promise is outlined in these verses asserting that despite Israel’s historical disobedience, God’s covenantal commitment remains steadfast. These verses affirm God’s unchanging love and sovereign purpose for the Jewish people, emphasizing the ongoing relevance of their role in God’s redemptive plan.

The Plan is Us

“I say then, have they stumbled that they should fall? Certainly not! But through their fall, to provoke them to jealousy, salvation has come to the Gentiles. Now if their fall is riches for the world, and their failure riches for the Gentiles, how much more their fullness!” Romans 11:11-12

There is an intricate connection between the Church and Israel within the framework of God’s redemptive plan. This passage highlights God’s overarching purpose. It extends salvation to the Gentiles, provoking Israel to jealousy and ultimately leading to their reconciliation. As Gentile believers embrace the Jewish Messiah and partake in the blessings of salvation, they become grafted into the olive tree of Israel. They then share in the spiritual inheritance promised to God’s chosen people. Romans 11:11-12 underscores the inseparable bond between the Church and Israel. It highlights God’s sovereign plan to unite all believers. Both Jew and Gentile are under the banner of His grace and mercy.

“Therefore, remember that formerly you who are Gentiles by birth and called “uncircumcised” by those who call themselves “the circumcision” (which is done in the body by human hands)— remember that at that time you were separate from Christ, excluded from citizenship in Israel and foreigners to the covenants of the promise, without hope and without God in the world. But now in Christ Jesus you who once were far away have been brought near by the blood of Christ.” Ephesians 2:11-13

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April 25, 2024 0 comments

Understanding The Significance Of The Kippah

by The Israel Insider April 23, 2024

written by The Israel Insider

The kippah, also known as a yarmulke, holds significant cultural and religious symbolism within Jewish tradition. This small, rounded skullcap is worn by Jewish men as a sign of reverence and respect for God. Its purpose transcends mere fashion; rather, it serves as a constant reminder of one’s connection to God and the overarching values of humility and reverence.

Historically, the practice of covering one’s head has roots in various ancient cultures and religions. In Jewish texts such as the Talmud, there are references to the importance of covering one’s head during prayer and religious rituals. Over time, the wearing of the kippah became a customary practice among Jewish men, symbolizing humility, acknowledgment of God’s presence, and adherence to religious tradition. As Jewish communities dispersed throughout the world, the kippah evolved in style and design, reflecting regional customs and cultural influences. Today, the kippah remains a ubiquitous symbol of Jewish identity and religious observance, embodying centuries of tradition and spiritual significance. By donning the kippah, Jewish individuals demonstrate their awareness of God’s constant presence and their commitment to live in accordance with Jewish teachings and values.

Unity and Community

In orthodox Jewish environments, the kippah holds paramount importance as a visible marker of religious observance and adherence to tradition. Orthodox Jewish men typically wear the it at all times, both in private and public settings, as a constant reminder of their connection to God and commitment to Jewish law. In contrast, in secular Jewish environments, the significance may vary widely depending on individual beliefs and practices. While some secular Jews may still wear it out of cultural or familial tradition, others may choose not to wear it at all. In secular settings, the kippah may be seen as more of a personal choice rather than a religious obligation.

The kippah represents a sense of unity and solidarity among the Jewish community. Regardless of one’s background or level of observance, wearing it serves as a unifying symbol that transcends differences and fosters a sense of belonging to the wider Jewish collective

The kippah serves as a tangible expression of religious identity and adherence to Jewish tradition. It signifies a commitment to upholding Jewish customs and practices, even in the face of modernity and societal pressures. In a world that often challenges religious observance, wearing the kippah becomes an act of defiance and resilience, reaffirming one’s dedication to Jewish heritage and values.

Messianic Jews and The Kippah

For Messianic Jews, who believe in Jesus as the Messiah while maintaining Jewish identity and practices, the significance of the kippah takes on added layers of meaning. While the wearing of the kippah is not explicitly mandated in the New Testament, many Messianic Jews choose to embrace this tradition as a way to connect with their Jewish roots and maintain continuity with centuries of Jewish practice.

For these individuals, wearing a head covering serves as a visible expression of their identity as Jews and followers of Jesus. It symbolizes their commitment to both their Jewish heritage and their faith in Jesus as the fulfillment of Messianic prophecy. In essence, the kippah becomes a bridge between two worlds, representing the intersection of Jewish tradition and Messianic belief.

Moreover, the kippah serves as a practical reminder of the values espoused by both Judaism and Christianity, including humility, reverence, and submission to God’s will.

The Jewish kippah holds deep significance within Jewish tradition, serving as a symbol of reverence, humility, and commitment to God. For Messianic Jews, the wearing of the kippah represents a connection to their Jewish heritage and a visible expression of their faith in Jesus as the Messiah. Regardless of individual beliefs or denominational affiliations, the kippah remains a powerful symbol of unity, identity, and devotion for Jewish people around the world.

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April 23, 2024 0 comments

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The Feast Of Passover

by The Israel Insider April 18, 2024

written by The Israel Insider

Passover is one of the major feasts in the Torah that God commands His people Israel to keep. On this holiday, the Jewish people remember and recount their deliverance from harsh slavery in Egypt. The holiday begins with a special meal and a retelling of the story of the Exodus from Egypt and the hands of Pharoah.

“Say therefore to the people of Israel, ‘I am the Lord, and I will bring you out from under the burdens of the Egyptians, and I will deliver you from slavery to them, and I will redeem you with an outstretched arm and with great acts of judgment. I will take you to be my people, and I will be your God, and you shall know that I am the Lord your God, who has brought you out from under the burdens of the Egyptians.” Exodus 6:6-7.

The Blood Of The Lamb

The name “passover” comes from Exodus 12:11-13. It is the central theme in the deliverance story. “It is the Lord‘s Passover…. The blood shall be a sign for you, on the houses where you are. And when I see the blood, I will pass over you, and no plague will befall you to destroy you, when I strike the land of Egypt.The blood shall be a sign for you, on the houses where you are. And when I see the blood, I will pass over you, and no plague will befall you to destroy you, when I strike the land of Egypt.”

It was the blood of a lamb without blemish painted on the doorpost of the houses that was the sign to save each family from death. As believers in Jesus, we see clearly that this part of the story is a foreshadowing pointing to Jesus. He is the ultimate pure and spotless Lamb. It is only by His redeeming blood that was shed through the greatest sacrifice of history that we are saved from the power of death.

Tell The Children

One fundamental element of Judaism is the value of passing on of ancestral history and traditions to the children. Everyone at the table has a part to play, including the children. Psalm 78 speaks to this. “I will utter dark sayings from of old, things that we have heard and known, that our fathers have told us. We will not hide them from their children, but tell to the coming generation the glorious deeds of the Lord, and his might, and the wonders that he has done.”

At a certain point in the meal, a child will ask four specific questions. This practice is a fun way to engage with the children in the meaning of Passover.

The Passover Seder

The first evening of Passover begins around a table with many elements. Each element speaks to part of the deliverance story. Parsley, horseradish, sweet dates and nuts, a shank bone – these are just some of the elements representing crucial stages of the story. This meal is a Seder. Seder is the Hebrew word for “order” or “procedure.” It is the liturgy of Passover-a living tradition that links the present with the past. Passover is an exciting blend of elements designed to make the story of the Exodus from Egypt as exciting as possible. The Seder evening can be an exciting event remembering and retelling a family’s history. Following the Passover meal, the Jewish people fast leavened bread for eight days. This is done as a way to remember leaving Egypt in haste. There was no time for the bread to rise.

Should Gentiles Celebrate Passover?

The celebration of Passover for the Jewish people is a living testimony to the faithfulness and saving power of God. When Passover come around each year, there is an opportunity to stop and slow down. It is an appointed time to recount the saving attributes of God. As believers, we are adopted into the family and this history becomes our own history. Celebrating a Passover Seder with Jewish people is a wonderful way to show unity and love for one another. It’s truly and redemption story. It not only takes us on a journey back through history, but also points to Jesus (Yeshua) as the ultimate sacrificial lamb. Through the retelling of rescue and redemption we cannot deny the power of hope that this celebration instills in us.

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April 18, 2024 0 comments

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Why Pray For Israel?

by The Israel Insider April 16, 2024

written by The Israel Insider

Why pray for Israel? What’s so important about this tiny nation and her people? What does it have to do me and my church? We see in the Scriptures that God over and over again speaks with affection and intention about Israel. God chose Israel as way of showing His nature and love to the world. When we understand His dealings with Israel, we can better gain a deeper understanding of His covenant nature to us. The enduring love and covenant commitment that He shows to Israel throughout the Bible is a testimony to His character. Let’s go straight to the Word to see how God speaks about Israel.

Pray With Understanding. He Calls Israel…

Pray for Israel with an understanding of how the Word speaks about God’s love for her.

A special treasure. “For you are a holy people, who belong to the Lord your God. Of all the people on earth, the Lord your God has chosen you to be his own special treasure.”

His special possession. “For the people of Israel belong to the Lord; Jacob is his special possession. He found them in a desert land, in an empty, howling wasteland. He surrounded them and watched over them; he guarded them as he would guard his own eyes.” Deuteronomy 32:9-10

His Wife and Bride. “I will make you my wife forever, showing you righteousness and justice, unfailing love and compassion.” And Isaiah says Israel is like a bride. ” Your children will commit themselves to you, O Jerusalem, just as a young man commits himself to his bride. Then God will rejoice over you as a bridegroom rejoices over his bride.” Hosea 2:19

Ezekiel shows us that God has entered into a marriage like covenant with Israel. “And when I passed by again, I saw that you were old enough for love. So I wrapped my cloak around you to cover your nakedness and declared my marriage vows. I made a covenant with you, says the Sovereign Lord, and you became mine. Ezekiel 16:8-14

Pray As The Bible Instructs Us To Pray

From before Jesus’ first coming until His second, Israel has a part to play along with the Church. Praying for Israel as we are instructed to do so is an important piece to see His eternal plans come to pass. The prophet Isaiah directs us to, “Give the Lord no rest until he completes his work, until he makes Jerusalem the pride of the earth.” Isaiah 62:7

King David in this chapter tells us to, “Pray for peace in Jerusalem. May all who love this city prosper.” Psalm 122:6 The Hebrew word for pray here is “sha’alu”. Here it is written in it’s imperative form, exhorting every believer to pray for the peace of Jerusalem.

Pray And Bless

Pray for Israel. Genesis 12:3 says, “I will bless those who bless you and curse those who curse you; and all the families of the earth will be blessed through you”. God has welcomed us all into the covenantal blessing he makes with Abraham in Genesis 12. Those who bless Israel and do not curse her partake in blessing. There is also a curse for those who curse Israel. This promise still applies just as God’s promise to Israel and the Jewish people still applies.

The Apostle Paul echoes the same picture of covenantal love in the New Testament when he refers to all of Israel being beloved of God and possessing an ongoing calling. “Many of the people of Israel are now enemies of the Good News, and this benefits you Gentiles. Yet they are still the people he loves because he chose their ancestors Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. For God’s gifts and his call can never be withdrawn.” Romans 11:28-29

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April 16, 2024 0 comments

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What Is A Mezuzah?

by The Israel Insider April 11, 2024

written by The Israel Insider

The mezuzah, a small parchment scroll affixed to doorframes in Jewish homes, holds profound significance in Jewish tradition and practice. Serving as a tangible expression of faith and identity, the mezuzah embodies the rich spiritual heritage and enduring commitment of the Jewish people.

The Origins Of The Mezuzah

“Hear, O Israel: The LORD our God, the LORD is one. Love the LORD your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength. These commandments that I give you today are to be on your hearts. Impress them on your children. Talk about them when you sit at home and when you walk along the road, when you lie down and when you get up. Tie them as symbols on your hands and bind them on your foreheads. Write them on the doorframes of your houses and on your gates.”

The origins of the mezuzah trace back to biblical commandments found in the Torah, specifically in the Book of Deuteronomy (6:4-9 and 11:13-21). These passages, known as the Shema, emphasize the importance of loving and obeying God’s commandments. The mezuzah serves as a physical reminder of these sacred teachings, encapsulating the essence of Jewish faith and devotion.

What Is In It?

The mezuzah itself consists of a small parchment scroll, known as a klaf, containing handwritten verses from the Torah. These verses include the Shema and other passages, traditionally written by a skilled scribe in accordance with strict religious guidelines. The parchment scroll is then rolled up and placed inside a decorative case, typically made of metal, wood, or ceramic. On this decorative case is the Hebrew letter Shin. The Shin is the first Hebrew letter of the word, “Shaddai” which is a name of God. “Shaddai” means God Almighty. Attaching the mezuzah to the doorframe of a Jewish home is a ritual with deep symbolism and meaning.

According to Jewish law, mezuzot are to be placed on the doorposts of every room within a Jewish household, with the exception of bathrooms and small enclosures. The mezuzah is put at an angle, with the top facing inward towards the room, symbolizing protection and blessings for those dwelling within. The tradition in many Jewish homes is to place one’s hand on the mezuzah when passing through the doorway, and there are those who then kiss the hand that touched it.

Culture and Community

Beyond its role as a religious symbol, the mezuzah serves as a tangible expression of Jewish identity and continuity. By prominently displaying the mezuzah on their doorframes, Jewish families proclaim their allegiance to God and their adherence to the commandments. The mezuzah also fosters a sense of connection to the broader Jewish community. It serves as a visible marker of shared faith and heritage.

The mezuzah serves as a powerful educational tool, imparting timeless lessons and values to successive generations. The act of putting up a mezuzah is often accompanied by reciting blessings and teaching children about the significance of the ritual. Through this process, Jewish families pass on the teachings of their faith from one generation to the next. They are ensuring the continuity of Jewish tradition and identity.

In contemporary Jewish practice, the mezuzah remains an integral part of daily life. It serves as a constant reminder of God’s presence and the remembrance of the commandments in the Torah. Whether in bustling cities or remote villages, Jewish homes around the world bear witness to the timeless tradition of the mezuzah. It is a symbol of faith, continuity, and divine protection.

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April 11, 2024 0 comments

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The Significance Of Mount Moriah In The Bible

by The Israel Insider April 9, 2024

written by The Israel Insider

Mount Moriah holds profound significance throughout the Bible. Located in Jerusalem, it serves as the setting for several pivotal events, shaping the faith of believers throughout generations. From the testing of Abraham to the construction of Solomon’s Temple and Jesus Christ’s crucifixion, Mount Moriah remains a symbol of faith, sacrifice, and God’s divine plan.

Mount Moriah And Abraham

“After these things God tested Abraham and said to him, “Abraham!” And he said, “Here I am.” He said, “Take your son, your only son Isaac, whom you love, and go to the land of Moriah, and offer him there as a burnt offering on one of the mountains of which I shall tell you.”

In the Book of Genesis, chapter 22, verses 1-2, Mount Moriah emerges prominently in the story of Abraham’s testing by God. God commands Abraham to sacrifice his beloved son, Isaac, as a test of obedience and faith. Without hesitation, Abraham prepares to carry out the command, demonstrating his unwavering trust in God’s plan. As they journey to the designated place of sacrifice, Abraham declares to his son, “God himself will provide the lamb for the burnt offering, my son” (Genesis 22:8, NIV). This profound act of faith and obedience ultimately leads to God’s intervention, sparing Isaac’s life and affirming Abraham’s faithfulness. Tradition identifies Mount Moriah as the location of this remarkable event. It symbolizes the willingness of Abraham to offer his most cherished possession in devotion to God.

Moriah And Solomon

Centuries later, during the reign of King Solomon, Mount Moriah becomes the site of another significant religious landmark—the construction of the First Temple. According to Jewish tradition, Solomon’s Temple, Beit Hamikdash in Hebrew, is atop Mount Moriah. He fulfills the vision of his father, King David. Completed in 957 BCE, the temple serves as the central place of worship for the Israelites. It houses the Ark of the Covenant and serves as a symbol of God’s presence among His people. Its construction solidified Mount Moriah’s status as a sacred site, revered for its historical and spiritual significance.

Mount Moriah And Jesus

Mount Moriah holds profound symbolism particularly in connection with Jesus’s crucifixion. According to the New Testament, Jesus’ journey to the cross culminated on a hill outside Jerusalem, often identified as Golgotha. Many scholars believe that Golgotha is the very same place, further emphasizing its role in the narrative of redemption. There are clear parallels between Isaac and Jesus. Both are beloved only sons. Abraham doesn’t withhold his only son. God does not withhold His only Son. Isaac carries wood for his own sacrifice on Mount Moriah. So Jesus, the ultimate sacrificial lamb, carries the wooden cross up the hill to His death. Both cry out, “My Father!” Isaac sees a provided sacrificial lamb in the thorns and Jesus wears a crown of thorns. Jesus’ crucifixion and resurrection represent the fulfillment of God’s plan for salvation. It echos the themes of sacrifice and redemption established on Mount Moriah centuries earlier.

Throughout history, this place has remained a symbol of faith, obedience, and God’s divine plan for believers. Its association with the testing of Abraham, the construction of Solomon’s Temple, and Jesus Christ’s crucifixion underscores its enduring significance in the hearts of Jews and Christians alike. As pilgrims and worshippers continue to visit this sacred site, they remind themselves of the profound spiritual truths embodied in its ancient slopes, inspiring reverence, reflection, and renewal of faith.

“So Abraham called the name of that place, “The Lord will provide”; as it is said to this day, “On the mount of the Lord it shall be provided.”

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April 9, 2024 0 comments

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The Menorah – The Golden Lampstand

by The Israel Insider April 4, 2024

written by The Israel Insider

The Menorah is one of the oldest symbols of the Jewish faith since the time of the tabernacle in the wilderness. The symbol of this golden lampstand shows up throughout historical documentation and archeological findings throughout Jewish history. You can find the menorah displayed on ancient buildings as a symbol for the people of Israel long before the Star of David. 1 Samuel 3:3 calls it the “lamp of God”. The menorah is one piece of gold and weighs about 100lbs. It’s origins and detailed design instructions are go directly back to God himself through Moses.

The Lamp Of God

Exodus 25:31-40 gives us a detailed account of the design for the lampstand in the tabernacle.“You shall make a lampstand of pure gold. The lampstand shall be made of hammered work: its base, its stem, its cups, its calyxes, and its flowers shall be of one piece with it. And there shall be six branches going out of its sides, three branches of the lampstand out of one side of it and three branches of the lampstand out of the other side of it; three cups made like almond blossoms, each with calyx and flower, on one branch, and three cups made like almond blossoms, each with calyx and flower, on the other branch—so for the six branches going out of the lampstand.

And on the lampstand itself there shall be four cups made like almond blossoms, with their calyxes and flowers, and a calyx of one piece with it under each pair of the six branches going out from the lampstand. Their calyxes and their branches shall be of one piece with it, the whole of it a single piece of hammered work of pure gold. You shall make seven lamps for it. And the lamps.. give light on the space in front of it.”

This incredibly huge lamp bringing light to the dark tent in the wilderness is a reminder of God’s light. A reminder of His holiness in the midst of a dark world. The people would have realized it’s purpose was much more than merely shining light in the tabernacle. Just like all the other detailed elements of the tabernacle, there’s deeper meaning for all who are looking for it. The lampstand and all others symbolism point to heavenly things.

A Light To The Nations

The golden menorah is not just a physical symbol for Israel and the Jewish people. It’s role of shining light inside the Holy Place speaks to the calling of Israel. A calling described in Isaiah 42:6 to be a “light to the nations. “I am the LORD; I have called you in righteousness; I will take you by the hand and keep you; I will give you as a covenant for the people, a light for the nations.”

In the book of Zachariah, there is another mention of a menorah in the prophet’s vision. Here again, the lampstand represents this idea of Israel’s bringing God’s glory and light into the world. It is an example for all of creation. The menorah brings light without force. “And he said to me, “What do you see?” I said, “I see, and behold, a lampstand all of gold, with a bowl on the top of it, and seven lamps on it, with seven lips on each of the lamps that are on the top of it…Then he said to me, “This is the word of the LORD to Zerubbabel: Not by might, nor by power, but by my Spirit, says the LORD of hosts. Zachariah 4:1-6

Jesus – The Light Of the World

We see in John 8 that Jesus is standing in the midst of the temple and says, “I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will never walk in darkness, but will have the light of life.” The Pharisees challenged him, “Here you are, appearing as your own witness; your testimony is not valid.”Verse 20 tells us that:“He spoke these words while teaching in the temple courts near the place where the offerings were put.” Jesus must’ve have been standing not too far from the massive menorah in the temple. As He speaks these words, we understand that He is that ultimate light of the world. The menorah is a shadow of the Messiah coming!

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April 4, 2024 0 comments

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What does Israel’s flag represent?

by The Israel Insider March 28, 2024

written by The Israel Insider

The Israeli flag is a symbol of hope and strength. It represents the Jewish people and their refusal to give up hope in the midst of ongoing anti-semitism. It symbolizes the courageous heart and unity of the Jewish people. The Hebrew scriptures give us a picture into the very first Jewish flags. Each tribe from the 12 sons of Isaac had their own flag. “The Israelites shall camp each man with his standard under the banners of their ancestral house; they shall camp around the Tent of Meeting at a distance.” Numbers 2:2

The Zionist Flag

Soon after the establishment of the State of Israel, the flag we know now is born. It was not the first rendition although. Theodore Herzl, the founder of modern Zionism, proposed a design for the Zionist flag that was seven gold stars on a white background. Each star representing the seven work hours of the day. The white background symbolizing the new pure life ahead of the Jewish people. These components make up the shape of the Star of David and become the first Zionist flag. The inscription “Aryeh Yehudah” (Lion of Judah) was embroidered in the center.

Herzl writes about the flag in his book, Der Judenstaat.”When the new land first comes in sight, our new flag will be raised on the staff. At present we do not have any. I am thinking of a white flag with seven gold stars. The white field signifies our new, clean life, and the seven stars, our desire to start this new life under the banner of labor.”

The Prayer Shawl And The Flag

It was, in fact, David Wolffson who’s idea turned into Israel’s modern day flag. He asked his colleagues at the Zionist Congress, “Why do we have to search, here is our nation’s flag!” It was then that he grabbed a religious prayer shawl and unfurled it onto the table in front of him. It was obvious to him that the answer to their questions about a national flag lay in the blue and white stripes of his prayer shawl. They added the Star of David to it along with the word Zion in the center.

Magen David In Israel’s Flag

Magen David means “Shield of David’ in Hebrew. Most of us would know it as the Star of David. It consists of two triangles superimposed on one another. Geometrically, it forms a hexagram. Some say the Star of David goes back to the Middle Ages but that cannot be substantiated. We do know that in the 17th century, the Jewish quarter in Vienna is marked with this hexagram. Around the same time, Jewish synagogues would use the symbol in their architecture throughout Europe and North Africa. More and more after that his symbol became autonomous with Jewishness. In 1897 the star was adopted by the Zionist movement. In the 20th century, the Nazi’s used this symbol as a way to differentiate and demonize the Jewish people. It was shortly after the Holocaust that the Star of David became the center of the new nation’s flag.

Blue and White In Israel’s Flag

The blue and white colors on the flag seem to have come from a poem written in 1860 by Austrian Ludwig August Frankl. The poem is “Judah’s colors”. This poem speaks of the blue representing the splendors of the firmament. The white representing the radiance of the priesthood. The blue stripes mimicked the stripes on the Jewish Talit, or prayer shawl that they would wrap around themselves when praying. The same color is on the High Priest’s ephod and the hem of his robe. It symbolized the sacred connection to the Torah and prayer. Initially, the blue stripes are a dark blue but made a light blue to increase visibility at while at sea.

Judah’s Colors

“When sublime feelings his heart fill, he [a Jew] is mantled in the colors of his country. He stands in prayer, wrapped in a sparkling robe of white. The hems of the white robe are crowned with broad stripes of blue; like the robe of the High Priest, adorned with bands of blue threads. These are the colors of the beloved country, blue and white are the colors of Judah; white is the radiance of the priesthood.” Judah’s Colors by Austrian Ludwig August Frankl (1810-1894)

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March 28, 2024 0 comments

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Is The Land of Israel Important to God?

by The Israel Insider March 26, 2024

written by The Israel Insider

Is the actual land of Israel important to God? As Christians, when reading the Bible we often position ourselves in the story to ask how does this apply to my life. This is not entirely a bad thing to do. It’s just that we can lose a sense of what actually has taken place in that scripture.

We can easily fall into the temptation of making it all about us. We begin to apply the narrative to where we are at in life. While this can be a helpful tool, we don’t want to forget or miss the importance of what God was doing and saying in that exact moment. This is often what happens when we read about God calling Abraham and making a covenant with him. We are in awe of his faith, the changing of his name and the sacrifice he was willing to make. These are all things we take away from Abraham’s experience with God in Genesis, and rightly so. But, in addition to these very important take aways, it’s vital that we remember that God speaks with clarity and resolve regarding the land covenant He makes with Abraham.

Abraham And The Land Covenant

^“No longer shall your name be called Abram, but your name shall be Abraham, for I have made you the father of a multitude of nations. I will make you exceedingly fruitful, and I will make you into nations, and kings shall come from you. And I will establish my covenant between me and you and your offspring after you throughout their generations for an everlasting covenant, to be God to you and to your offspring after you. And I will give to you and to your offspring after you the land of your sojournings, all the land of Canaan, for an everlasting possession, and I will be their God.” Genesis 17:5-8

In the book of Genesis, God makes a solemn promise. He makes a covenant to Abraham that the land of Canaan (what is now modern day Israel) would be the home of Abraham’s descendants. The word land is actually mentioned in the Hebrew scriptures more than the word covenant. When covenant is mentioned is it often directly related to the land. Covenants are intended to be forever and there’s no biblical precedent for God braking His covenants.

Here is another reference in Genesis to God’s land covenant made with Abraham. “On that day the Lord made a covenant with Abram, saying, “To your descendants I have given this land, from the river of Egypt as far as the great river, the river Euphrates.” Genesis 15:18 Again, in Psalm 132 the writer confirms God’s eternal covenant to Abraham not only about his descendants, but specifically pertaining to the land. He says, “For the LORD has chosen Zion; he has desired it for his dwelling place: “This is my resting place forever; here I will dwell, for I have desired it.”

Is The Land Of Israel Still Important?

Jesus came to a specific land and a specific people group. His death, resurrection and ascension made a way for all of us to enter into covenant God with Him. God did not nullify His covenant; He expanded it. Israel’s rejection of Jesus opens the doors for the Gentiles to be “grafted in”. Welcomed in to that covenant God made with Abraham. In Romans 11, Paul mentions the Olive Tree. It’s important to note that the branches are not cut down. The branches are added into it. This means that the Jewish people and the land of Israel still plays a vital role in God’s story.

Psalm 122 tells us to, “Pray for the peace of Jerusalem: they shall prosper that love thee.” So, today as the country is at war, we pray for the peace of Jerusalem. We pray for peace all throughout the land that still has an important role in God’s story.

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March 26, 2024 0 comments

Israel Israel Insider

The Kinneret – The Sea of Galilee

by The Israel Insider March 23, 2024

written by The Israel Insider

The Hebrew word “Kinneret” refers specifically to the Sea of Galilee, a significant body of water in northern Israel. Derived from the ancient Canaanite language, “Kinneret” means “harp” or “lyre,” possibly alluding to the shape of the lake resembling a musical instrument. Beyond its linguistic origins, “Kinneret” carries deep cultural and religious significance for the Jewish people, symbolizing both the natural beauty of the region and its spiritual importance in biblical narratives.

First and foremost, the Sea of Galilee is intimately associated with the life and ministry of Jesus. It serves as the backdrop for many pivotal events in the New Testament, particularly the Gospels. According to Christian tradition, Jesus spent a considerable portion of his ministry along the shores of the Sea of Galilee. This is where He performed numerous miracles and delivered profound teachings.

Jesus And The Kinneret

One of the most renowned events that took place on the Sea of Galilee is the miraculous feeding of the multitude. In the Gospel accounts, Jesus multiplied loaves and fishes to feed a crowd of thousands who had gathered to hear him preach. This miracle not only demonstrated Jesus’ divine power but also symbolized his compassion and provision for those in need. The location of this miracle, near the Sea of Galilee, further enhances its significance for Christians. It underscores Jesus’ close connection to the land and its people.

The Sea of Galilee is closely linked to several significant episodes in Jesus’ ministry. This includes his calming of the storm. In one instance, as Jesus and his disciples sailed across the Sea of Galilee, a fierce storm threatened to capsize their boat. Amidst the chaos, Jesus rebuked the winds and the waves, demonstrating his authority over the forces of nature. This miraculous intervention saved the disciples from imminent danger. It also revealed Jesus’ divine identity as the Son of God.

Additionally, the Sea of Galilee serves as the backdrop for many of Jesus’ parables. The parable of the sower, the parable of the mustard seed, and the parable of the lost sheep. These timeless teachings, delivered in the picturesque setting of the Galilean countryside, continue to inspire and instruct Christians today. It invites them to reflect on the mysteries of the kingdom of God.

Beyond its biblical significance, the Sea of Galilee holds spiritual importance for Christians as a symbol of faith and discipleship. For centuries, pilgrims from around the world have journeyed to its shores. They seek to walk in the footsteps of Jesus and deepen their relationship with God. Whether through quiet reflection, prayerful meditation, or communal worship, the Sea of Galilee provides a sacred space for believers to encounter the living presence of Christ.

The Kinneret Today

The Sea of Galilee continues to sustain local communities through its abundant resources and fertile shores. Its waters support a thriving fishing industry, echoing the livelihoods of the fishermen whom Jesus called to be his disciples. Today, the Sea of Galilee remains a vital source of sustenance and economic prosperity for the region. It serves as a reminder of God’s provision and care for His creation.

The Kinneret holds profound significance for Christians as a sacred site intertwined with the life and ministry of Jesus Christ. From miraculous healings to profound teachings, this picturesque lake bears witness to the transformative power of faith and the enduring presence of God. As believers continue to journey to its shores, may they find inspiration, renewal, and deepened faith in the living waters of the Sea of Galilee.

A visit to the Sea of Galilee is well worth it. Whether you’re hiking the surrounding mountains, visiting Capernaum, or taking a boat ride on a vessel much like Jesus would known, there’s an invitation to understand Jesus and his surroundings in a new way. Don’t forget to connect and pray with the people you meet in the region as they have been the care takers of this beautiful land and have a special part to play in welcoming Jesus back.