Author: Holy Branches

I’m a Gentile Believer, a devoted mother of five wonderful children, and the wife of an amazing husband. Nature, gardening, and dance bring joy and inspiration to my life. In my spare time, I play the piano, care for my garden, or study the Bible in Hebrew. And I’ll drop just about anything for a game of cards. My unwavering quest for a genuine relationship with the God of the Bible has driven me to delve deeply into His Word, which guides my journey and shapes my life's path. This exploration, combined with dedication to living out my faith, is at the heart of my writing. I seek to share my insights and discoveries with readers, encouraging them to embark on their own spiritual journeys.

10 Traditions for a Christian Hanukkah

Written by Holy Branches on November 25, 2024. Posted in Hanukkah, Traditions. 13 Comments on 10 Traditions for a Christian Hanukkah

This post contains affiliate links. I only advertise items I personally recommend and may receive a small commission from qualifying purchases. For more information, visit our Affiliate Information Page.

Celebrating Jesus at Hanukkah: An 8-Day Devotional

We celebrate Hanukkah (or the Feast of Dedication) in our Christian home to focus on God’s omnipotence and faithfulness to His people. As Christians, we also celebrate the re-dedication of our lives due to the cleansing of our hearts through the sacrifice of Jesus on the cross. If the thought of Christians celebrating Hanukkah is new to you, I invite you to read John 10:22-42 when Jesus observes Hanukkah at the Temple in Jerusalem, and check out this other post on Hanukkah and Christians.

Would you like to create a tradition of celebrating Hanukkah in your Christian home? You can find the dates of Hanukkah here, and below are ten ideas to get you started!

1. Praise God

The themes of Hanukkah are rich with shows of God’s power or omnipotence. His omnipotence is the attribute of God that shows His limitless ability to do, well, anything He wants! He is all-powerful, and this is shown when He caused the Jewish people to have victory over their Syrian rulers. The story goes that He miraculously allowed one day’s worth of oil to burn for eight days until more could be made for the Temple menorah.

God’s faithfulness to His people is the other central theme. Despite great persecution, God preserved His people, just as He always said He would. The circumstances were impossible, but God made it happen anyway. He showed that He stands with His people and keeps the promises He makes to them.

Hanukkah and Purim are for Christians Too! By Kenneth Albin

But it’s not just in the story of Hanukkah that we see these themes. They’re throughout the bible in both the Old and New Testaments, and if you’re paying attention, you’ll see them in your life and those around you. He is all-powerful, and he can do absolutely anything. And He’s always, always faithful to His people. He was then, He is now, and He will be forever. Now THAT’s worth celebrating!

2. Read His Word

Here are a few scripture selections to read to bring your focus onto the themes of Hanukkah:

Exodus 25:31-40, 37:17-24, and 40:24-25, 34-38
Leviticus 24:1-4
The book of Esther
Matthew 5:14-16
John 9:1-12, 10:22-42, and 14:16-17
Romans 8:1-17
1 Corinthians 6:19-20
Ephesians 1:7
1 John 1:5-10

Silver Plated Candle Menorah – Fits all Standard Hanukkah Candles – Curved Branches, 8.5″ High x 6.5″ Wide – by Ner Mitzvah

3. Dig into History

While the story of Hanukkah isn’t in the Protestant bible, you can still read it for yourself. It’s found in the first and second books of the Maccabees. Since most Protestants don’t have a copy, here’s a link to the books of the Maccabees where you can read the whole story behind the celebration of Hanukkah.

4. Light the Menorah

Lighting the menorah is by far the most common tradition during Hanukkah. The menorah used during Hanukkah isn’t the same as the one used in the Temple – a seven-branch menorah or lampstand, as it’s called in most translations. The one used during Hanukkah is called a Hanukkiah. Instead of 7, it has nine branches to hold nine candles, one for each of Hanukkah’s eight nights, and one to light the others, called the shamash.

One candle is lit each night, using the candle in the tallest candleholder to light the others. They’re traditionally lit from left to right, and a new candle is added to the Hanukkiah on the right side each night. A blessing is usually said as the candles are lit.

5. Cook in Oil

Dishes served during Hanukkah are usually those cooked in oil to remember the story of the oil miracle in the Temple Menorah. Two of the most well-known are potato pancakes called latkes and jelly doughnuts called sufganiyot.

6. Play Dreidel

While this tradition probably has little to do with the history of Hanukkah, it’s a fun game to play during this celebration that will entertain adults and children. Besides a few (2 or more) fun friends or family members, two things are necessary to enjoy playing Dreidel. A dreidel and something to use as chips or tokens, such as chocolate coins, also called gelt.

A dreidel has four sides, with 4 Hebrew letters on them: nun (נ), gimmel (ג), hay (ה), and shin (שׁ). These letters stand for “Nes gadol hayah sham” or “A great miracle happened there.”

Here’s how to play.

Each player must start the game with an equal number of tokens or chips (this can be almost anything small and numerous. My family has used pennies and M&Ms, but we like chocolate coins best).

To begin each round, each player puts one token into the pot (the middle). The first player spins the dreidel once and follows the directions, depending on which side of the dreidel is up when it stops spinning.

If nun (נ) is showing, the player gets nothing, and their turn is over.
Gimmel (ג) means the player gets the entire pot!
Hay (ה) entitles the player to half of the pot’s contents (if there’s an odd number, take half plus one).
If the shin (שׁ) side is up, the player must put one token in the pot.

The Dreidel Company Chocolate Candy Milk Chocolate Coins, Hanukkah Gelt, Gold Coins, Made with Belgian Chocolate, Gluten Free, Non GMO, Nut-Free, Kosher Certified (50-Pack)

If the pot has one or less during the game, each player puts one token in to keep the game going.

When a player runs out of tokens, they are “out.”

The winner is the one who gets all the tokens, ending that round of the game.

7. Give Gifts

Gift-giving is another Hanukkah tradition that isn’t rooted in history. It’s a specifically American tradition, probably resulting from Hanukkah’s proximity to Christmas on our calendar. Some families give one gift each night of Hanukkah, and some even hide them to make it even more fun!

8. Decorate Your Home

Aside from your menorah, the options for decorating your home during Hanukkah are endless. I’ve seen creative and beautiful Hanukkah decorations to complement any décor. We’ve made garlands out of these Stars and usually have one of these Happy Hanukkah banners hanging around the house.

9. Make Some Cookies

We have a tradition of baking and decorating cookies this time of year, and how we do that has morphed over the years. We have settled on a beautiful combination of menorahs and stars of David, mixed with crosses, to reflect our faith and what we celebrate this time of year.

Aligning With God’s Appointed Times: Discover the Prophetic and Spiritual Meaning of the Biblical Holidays By Jason Sobel

10. Get Your Hebrew On

Hanukkah, Chanukah, Hanukah, or Chanukkah – how is it spelled? Well, none of these are precisely correct because the Hebrew word, meaning “to dedicate” in remembrance of the re-dedication of the Temple, is spelled חֲנֻכָּה.

The first letter, chet, is guttural and has no equivalent sound in English. It’s pronounced in the back of your throat like the sound the “ch” makes at the end of “Bach.” Go ahead. Give it a try – Chanukkah.

Greet your Hanukkah guests with style! The standard greeting used during Hanukkah in English is “Happy Hanukkah!”. In Hebrew, it’s “Hanukkah Sameach” (Chan-uh-kuh Sam-ay-ach).

If you plan on celebrating a Christian Hanukkah tradition in your home, these ten ideas should get you started. However you celebrate, ensure God gets all the glory for His infinite power and faithfulness to His people!

I wish you and your family a very Happy Hanukkah!

Hanukkah 101: An Introduction for Christians

Written by Holy Branches on November 25, 2024. Posted in Hanukkah, Traditions. 2 Comments on Hanukkah 101: An Introduction for Christians

You may have heard that many Christians celebrate Hanukkah. Although it’s most commonly known as a Jewish holiday, Hanukkah is relevant to the Christian faith. Aside from Jesus himself celebrating Hanukkah in the bible (John 10:22-23), the themes and story behind Hanukkah are reasons for every Christian to celebrate – the power and faithfulness of our God. As grafted in children of God, we can embrace this holiday as part of our history and tradition, just as Jesus did.

History

The Jewish people were under Syrian Hellenistic rule between the Old and New Testaments, around 165 BC. Antiochus IV was the leader of the Seleucid Empire at the time. Under his control, Jewish traditions were outlawed, including Sabbath keeping, adherence to a Kosher diet, and circumcision. Idols were set up in the Temple, and pigs were rumored to have been sacrificed on the Temple altar. Among the punishments for observance of Jewish traditions were death and torture.

The Real Story of Chanukah/Hanukkah: Dedicated to the Death (A Messianic Jewish Exhortation for Israel and All Disciples of Yeshua)

Rather than face brutal punishment, many Jews assimilated with Hellenistic culture. Some evaded their Syrian leaders by hiding in the hills and caves of Judea. A small number of Jews led by Judah Maccabee decided to revolt. Despite the overwhelming opposition, they courageously stood up for their God, His Word, and His Temple. They were miraculously victorious despite being vastly outnumbered!

After the battles, the Jewish people removed the idols from the Temple and put the menorah back in place. But when they went to light the menorah, only one day’s worth of oil was left, and making more was an 8-day process. The story goes that one day’s worth of oil continued to burn for eight days until new oil was ready for use, another Hanukkah miracle.

History vs. Tradition

The story of the Maccabean revolt is found in the books of the Maccabees. These writings are not included in the Protestant bible, but the writings of the historian Josephus support the oppression of the Jewish people and the outcome of the revolt.

The traditional part of the story is the part about the oil. This story isn’t recorded in the books of the Maccabees or other historical sources but in the Talmud (Shabbat 21b), the written form of the Oral Torah. It’s been passed down by Jewish people for thousands of years and is the miracle that’s the focus of the celebration of Hanukkah.

Jesus and Hanukkah

We find Jesus at the Temple during the celebration of Hanukkah, or the Feast of Dedication, in the book of John, verses 10:22-23. Many people traveled to the Temple in Jerusalem during Hanukkah, as with many biblical holidays. Jesus is also shown visiting the Temple and walking through Solomon’s portico during the festival of Hanukkah in the Book of John.

The Dreidel Company Contemporary Hanukkah Menorah, Polished, Non-tarnishing, Holds Most Hanukkah Candles (Silver)

At this time, Jews gathered around him and asked him to tell them if he was the Messiah. He replied that he already had, as well as performed works in God’s name but that they didn’t believe him. They were expecting the Messiah to save them from Roman rule, but Jesus said he was there to offer them eternal life instead. He said that he and God are one, and they attempted to stone him because they didn’t believe his claim and thought him blasphemous. Nonetheless, it was during Hanukkah that he chose to reveal his deity.

Why Some Christians Celebrate

Usually, the Christians that celebrate Hanukkah are either in a household of mixed faith (Jewish and Christian) or lean toward the beliefs of the Hebrew Roots Movement. Here are a few different reasons for Christian Hanukkah observation.

Alternative to Christmas

Some Christians have an issue celebrating Christmas as a Holy day for God because there is no mention of it in the bible. Moreover, the pagan roots and traditions woven throughout the Christmas holiday call into question whether the followers of God should be engaging in the holiday. More and more Christians are finding biblical meaning in celebrating Jesus’s coming to Earth by celebrating Sukkot or Hanukkah instead.

Jesus did

Many feel that Jesus’s Jewish culture and appearance at the Temple during Hanukkah show that he celebrated Hanukkah himself. They also see his declaration that he and God are one during Hanukkah as a sign that we are to re-dedicate ourselves to God through him.

To celebrate a historical event where God’s Glory was shown

Although we can (and should!) celebrate God’s Glory and faithfulness every day, Hanukkah celebrates a time when His Glory was shown, and His promise kept in a specific and miraculous way.

To celebrate a victory of God’s people

When God seeks to accomplish what we see as impossible, He can and will do just that. During Hanukkah, He showed He brought victory to His people as they were outnumbered and stood against a powerful, experienced army. God’s power is a theme throughout the bible as God’s miracles point to Him and His omnipotence because they occur under circumstances that would otherwise make them impossible. This theme also runs through the book of Esther, which is what the celebration of Purim is about.

To celebrate the re-dedication of themselves (temples) upon indwelling of the Holy Spirit

Paul tells us that our bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit. When we accept Jesus as our savior, his blood cleanses us of our sin, and we re-dedicate our lives to following him. His Spirit can then live in us, the purified and re-dedicated temples.

Common Hanukkah Traditions

Lighting of the Hanukkiah

The menorah used during the celebration of Hanukkah isn’t the same as the one used in the Temple, which has seven branches. For Hanukkah, the menorah used is called a Hanukkiah and has nine branches, with eight candles, one for each night of Hanukkah, and one candle to light the others, called the Shamash.

Foods

Traditional foods served during Hanukkah are those cooked in oil. Potato pancakes called latkes, and a type of jelly doughnut called sufganiyot are two popular Hanukkah dishes.

The Dreidel Company Extra Large Jerusalem Wood Dreidels, Let’s Play Dreidel The Hanukkah Game, Instructions Included (2-Pack)

Gift-giving

Gift-giving is a primarily American Hanukkah tradition, probably due to the Hanukkah and Christmas seasons often overlapping. While some families give gifts during Hanukkah, this practice has no biblical or historical tradition. Many families give one gift for each night of Hanukkah, and some hide them as a challenge to the recipients.

The Dreidel Game

Although it’s been around for centuries, this game is so much fun! I’ve heard a few theories about why and how this game started, but it most likely has little historical significance. It’s a simple game, but kids and adults can get into it despite its simplicity! You’ll need a dreidel and something to use as tokens or chips to play. Many people use chocolate coins (gelt), but our family has used everything from pennies to M&Ms.

Here’s how to play:
Give each player 10-15 coins or whatever you use as tokens.
Each player puts one coin into the middle, the “pot.”
Each player takes a turn spinning the dreidel. Whichever side is face-up when the dreidel stops will determine whether the player that spun it puts coins into or takes coins from the pot.
Gimmel (ג): Take all of the coins in the pot.
Hey (ה): Take 1/2 of the coins in the pot. If there’s an odd number of coins, take 1/2 plus 1.
Shin (שׁ): Put one coin into the pot. Rolling a shin sometimes prompts the rhyme “Shin, shin, put one in!” from the other players.
Nun (נ) The player gets nothing, and the turn goes to the next player.
If you run out of coins, you’re out. The winner is the one with all the coins at the end of the game.

Should You Celebrate Hanukkah?

I know dedicated Christians on both sides of this conversation. Most don’t celebrate Hanukkah, but some do and say that it’s a tradition that enriches their Christian faith. If you’re wondering if you should celebrate it, the first step should be to pray. Ask God any time you add or dispose of traditions that relate to your faith and how He would like for you to go about doing that. Whether your traditions are Godly or worldly or motivated by your desire to give glory to Him or yourself will be reflected in those traditions, so choose carefully and prayerfully which and how you take part.

Whether you celebrate Hanukkah or not, make sure the main themes of Hanukkah are evident in your faith and your life. God keeps His promises by protecting His people, and His ability and willingness to show His power through miracles should cause us to give all praise and glory to Him!

Happy Hanukkah!

Gifts From the Holy Land: Artzabox: Holiday

Written by Holy Branches on November 24, 2024. Posted in Hebraic Roots. No Comments on Gifts From the Holy Land: Artzabox: Holiday

Discover the treasures of the Holy Land through Artza’s thoughtfully curated boxes, designed to connect you with its rich heritage and vibrant culture. Each quarter, they collaborate with talented local artisans to handpick unique, high-quality items that offer a deeply meaningful, multi-sensory experience.

This season, their Holiday Box is a celebration of the festive spirit! Packed with beautifully crafted gifts, it’s perfect for sharing the warmth and wonder of the Holy Land with your loved ones—or treating yourself to a touch of its magic. Every item is carefully chosen to make your holidays unforgettable and bring the heart of the Holy Land to your doorstep.

Use coupon code HEBREW20 to receive a 20% discount
on your Artzabox subscription!

Here are the items in the Artza Holiday box.

Star of David Mosaic Kit

This item brought so much joy to my 8-year-old daughter and her friend as they worked together to assemble the mosaic. The kit includes all the necessary supplies and clear instructions, making it easy to dive right in without any extra preparation. It’s a fantastic, creative activity accessible to everyone, even older children. Highly recommended for a fun and engaging project!

The kit has everything needed to create a beautiful mosaic, including stones, glue, a template, sand, etc. Once completed, it forms a Star of David, a meaningful symbol of the unity of the Jewish people. This project is a fun and engaging craft and results in a cherished keepsake to treasure.

Lavido Lotion Kit

I’ve enjoyed Lavido products in a previous Artza box, so I was thrilled to see them included! This kit is perfect as a holiday gift but equally excellent for personal pampering. It includes lotion, facial serum, foot cream, and more—everything you need for a bit of indulgence.

True to Lavido’s style, these products are lightly and pleasantly scented, offering a touch of luxury. They leave your skin feeling silky-smooth and refreshed, making them a delight to use.

Hand-dipped Beeswax Candles

Featured once again in this season’s Artza box, Safed Candles brings their signature craftsmanship to the holiday collection. These elegantly slender candles are stunning and practical, making them perfect for your favorite candle holder. This package of ten lightly scented and carefully crafted candles offers a gentle touch of beauty and warmth to your celebrations. Whether lighting them for a special occasion or simply enjoying their soft glow, Safed Candles remain one of my favorite Artza offerings.

Ahava Stone

Created by survivors of the October 7th attack on the Nova Festival, this carved Jerusalem Stone embodies resilience and the enduring spirit of hope. Crafted by Darya and Ofek of Jerusalem Stone Etching, each piece carries an uplifting message, spreading “Ahava”—love in Hebrew—during even the darkest of times.

The stone included in this box is beautifully etched with the Hebrew phrase: “בִּקְצֵה הָאוֹר יֵשׁ עוֹד אוֹר”—“At the end of the light, there is more light.” Its compact size makes it perfect for displaying in your home or carrying with you as a meaningful reminder. Lightweight and beautifully engraved, this stone is a testament to the power of love and hope.

Potato Seasoning Mix

Each Artza box features an authentic recipe paired with a signature spice or ingredient to bring it to life. This season’s box includes a delicious Potato Seasoning, a versatile blend of herbs perfect for elevating your culinary creations.

Use it to prepare the included Fireside Rosemary Spiced Potato recipe—a savory dish that’s sure to delight—or sprinkle it on any type of potatoes for a burst of flavor. Feeling creative? This aromatic mix can easily enhance other dishes, adding a touch of the Holy Land to your meals.

Hazelnut-Filled Dates

Dates have been a cornerstone of the Israeli diet for centuries, thriving in the region’s warm climate and playing a key role in its culinary traditions. Dates are featured in this box in an exciting and delicious way.

Made by the Israeli company, The Nut House, these premium dates are elevated to a whole new level. Each date is generously filled with creamy hazelnut, then delicately coated in rich cocoa, creating a snack that’s both indulgent and wholesome.

Perfect for an afternoon pick-me-up or a post-dinner treat, these hazelnut-filled dates offer a natural energy boost while satisfying your sweet tooth. Whether enjoyed on their own or paired with a cup of coffee or tea, they bring the flavors of Israel straight to your home.

Treat yourself to this unique delicacy and savor the sweet, nutty, and chocolaty layers that make these dates truly unforgettable.

Winter Cider Infusion

One of the joys of the colder months is enjoying a cozy, flavorful drink—and this fruit infusion is perfect for the season! With its delightful blend of dried hibiscus, pineapple, and cranberries, this mix offers a versatile and delicious experience.

Brew it as a soothing tea, add it to a pot of cider for an extra burst of flavor, or simply let it simmer on the stove to fill your home with a warm, inviting aroma. The small, bite-sized pieces make it easy to use in a mesh cheesecloth bag for cooking, and they even double as a sweet, chewy snack that my kids adore.

Whether you’re sipping, snacking, or savoring the fragrant atmosphere it creates, this fruit infusion is sure to become a seasonal favorite for the whole family.

This holiday season, let Artza bring the spirit of the Holy Land into your home and heart. With every box, you’re not just receiving beautifully crafted items; you’re supporting local artisans, cherishing ancient traditions, and deepening your connection to a land rich in history and meaning. Whether you’re gifting it to a loved one or enjoying it yourself, the Artza Holiday Box is more than a collection of treasures—it’s an experience that celebrates faith, culture, and the joy of giving. Embrace the wonder of the season and discover the story of the Holy Land, one box at a time.

Use coupon code HEBREW20 to receive a 20% discount
on your Artzabox subscription!

Gifts From the Holy Land: Artza Box: Biblical Archaeology

Written by Holy Branches on October 17, 2024. Posted in Hebraic Roots. No Comments on Gifts From the Holy Land: Artza Box: Biblical Archaeology

Artza brings the best of the Holy Land to your doorstep! Artza gathers unique items from artisans throughout the Holy Land to provide a multi-sensory way to experience the Holy Land without leaving home!

Artza boxes feature different items each quarter. This quarter’s box is the Biblical Archaeology box, with items representing an archaeology theme. Some of history’s most extraordinary archaeological discoveries are found in the Holy Land, so this is a perfect theme for an Artza box!

I love Biblical Archaeology. Intriguingly, items and buildings that are thousands of years old can still be found and tell their story! I love hearing about archaeologists’ discoveries in the Holy Land. Here’s my favorite Biblical Archaeology channel.

I’ve been getting Artza boxes for a while now, and they have been getting better and better! This box is by far my favorite one yet. Here are the items in the Biblical Archaeology box.

Dead Sea Scrolls and Inkwell

This inkwell is my favorite item in the Biblical Archaeology box! Discovered alongside the famous jars containing the Dead Sea Scrolls, the Dead Sea inkwells were used to write those texts thousands of years ago. This box includes an inkwell replica with a reed pen and scroll bearing Psalm 122:7 in Hebrew. It also comes with a card with the Hebrew alphabet and even the Ancient Hebrew alphabet. There’s even a place in the Artzabox booklet to trace some Hebrew words.

Use coupon code HEBREW20 to receive a 20% discount
on your Artzabox subscription!

Wooden Ark Building Kit

Made by Touchwood Designs in Jerusalem, this ready-to-build kit is a tiny replica of the Ark of the Covenant in the Bible. All of the pieces are pre-cut. All you have to do is punch them out of the wood piece and assemble! The assembly instructions are easy, and it doesn’t require glue, nails, or any other supplies other than what’s included.

Wax Stamp and Sealing Wax

This stamp includes wax that can seal five envelopes. But the fascinating thing about the stamp is the design on it. It’s made to resemble a 2,000-year-old ancient coin found in Israel. The stamp is attractive and of good quality, and the gold wax is cut into hexagonal shapes that are just the right size to press with the seal.

Hand-Pressed Hebrew Cards

These hand-made raw paper cards feature a Hebrew word (translated into English) printed on the front and a Bible verse inside. Envelopes are included! The edges of the cards and envelopes are raw, giving them a unique natural appearance. These would be a perfect place to use the seal and sealing wax included in this box for a lovely note of thanks or encouragement to a loved one!

Linen Pillowcase Cover

Featuring loaves and fish from Jesus’s miracle of feeding the 5,000 in the Gospels, this pillowcase cover will fit an 18×18 inch pillow. It is a natural brown color delicately designed with grey/light black ink. There’s a zipper on the back to insert and remove a pillow easily.

Red Lentil Spice Mix

You’ll appreciate the savory aroma of this blend as soon as you open it! This red lentil mix is a ready-to-cook meal or side dish in an attractive container. The Mediterranean Red Lentils recipe is in this Artza box booklet. You’ll need the red lentil mix, olive oil, salt, water, and parsley to make it. That’s it! It only needs to simmer for 10 minutes, so it will take under 30 minutes to make.

Galilean Anointing Oil

This oil is reminiscent of the anointing oil mentioned in the Bible, containing the scents of frankincense and myrrh. Its light fragrance is perfect for an anointing oil or other various purposes. It comes in a glass container with a roller ball for easy application.

Za’atar Cashews

These nuts are a delicious addition to this box. These cashew nuts are flavored with hyssop and other herbs and are roasted in Israel. They’re a low-sugar and tasty, protein-filled snack.

The Biblical Archaeology Artza box is the one I like the most so far. The items included are valuable and meaningful. What a fantastic way to learn about the Holy Land!

Use coupon code HEBREW20 to receive a 20% discount
on your Artzabox subscription!

Torah Portion Reading Schedule for 2024-25

Written by Holy Branches on October 10, 2024. Posted in Bible Study. No Comments on Torah Portion Reading Schedule for 2024-25

Study the Bible with the Holy Branches Torah Portion Reading Schedule! For information about studying the Torah portions, read Parashōt, The Original Bible Study!

Click here for your free printable Torah Portion Reading Schedule for 2024-2025 (5785)

Links to Messiah: Shabbat Adventure Box

Written by Holy Branches on September 25, 2024. Posted in Sabbath. No Comments on Links to Messiah: Shabbat Adventure Box

I always look for ways to teach my kids about the Biblical Holy Days, as they are meaningful for how we practice our faith and help us get to know our God and Messiah even more. I recently came across one of the best resources for this – Links to Messiah boxes!

Links to Messiah has boxes containing all the items you need to teach families the connection between Jesus and Jewish traditions. They have boxes that teach about the Sabbath (Shabbat), the Fall Feasts, Hanukkah, Passover, and more!

These boxes are assembled and created by Rachel Kushner. She was raised with Messianic Jewish traditions and celebrated both Jewish and Christian holidays. She has a heart to pass on what her family taught her—that Jesus is the Messiah who fulfills the Old Testament prophesies and that Jewish traditions point to Jesus! What a fantastic ministry!

Interested in a Shabbat Adventure Box for your family or a loved one? Find yours here.

My family received the Shabbat Adventure Box from Links to Messiah. It’s filled with all you need to teach your family about the Sabbath – its meaning to your faith and the traditions to observe. This box is a great way to teach your family about the importance of the Sabbath, and how the box is created is well thought out! Since everything is included, it’s ready to go right away. The crafts come with all you need to complete them, and the games don’t require prep, so your family can jump right in!

Here’s what’s included in the Shabbat Adventure Box.

Shabbat Candleholder Craft

This activity was my family’s favorite! It’s tradition to light two candles on Friday evening to bring in the Sabbath, so these wooden candleholders are a perfect addition to the Shabbat Adventure Box. My kids had fun decorating them, and we’ll use them for years to come!

Challah Cover Craft and Recipe

Another Shabbat tradition, serving challah bread, is represented in this box by a challah cover that the kids can decorate. Like the Shabbat candleholders, these covers are not just a teaching tool – they’re an item my family will use to grace our Shabbat table.

Shabbat Paint-by-Number Canvases

These canvases come printed with a Shabbat scene and are numbered for painting. They come ready to paint with paint and a paintbrush. My kids really enjoyed painting these!

Memory Cards

Traditionally, blessings are said on Shabbat. These include the Shema, a blessing when lighting the candles, and blessings over the bread and wine. The memory cards in this box have the Shema and the Blessing over the candles in Hebrew and English, so your family can learn both!

Shabbat Games

Playing games is one of my family’s favorite Shabbat traditions, so it’s brilliant that a list of Shabbat Family Games is included in this box! These are wonderfully chosen games the whole family can play that bring everyone together.

Rest List

The focus of Shabbat is on rest and God. Links to Messiah includes an empty list where family members can fill in ways they can rest, both as individuals and as a family.

Shabbat Shopping List

This is so helpful, especially for those new to observing the Sabbath. It includes the ingredients for making challah bread, what you need to set the table, and other necessities.

“All About Shabbat” Instruction Guide

This guide contains information for all the activities in the box, including craft instructions, an explanation of the Sabbath and traditions, Bible verses about the Sabbath, a Shabbat song, and more! It even includes the link to a Shabbat playlist, where Links to Messiah has collected songs for your family to play on Shabbat.

This Shabbat Adventure Box is an excellent way to teach your family about Shabbat! I wish I had something like this when my family started this journey. It would have been so helpful!

The Shabbat Adventure Box is just one of Links to Messiah’s creative teaching tools for your family!
Find even more here.

10 Rosh Hashanah/Yom Teruah Traditions for Christians

Written by Holy Branches on September 18, 2024. Posted in Hebraic Roots, Rosh Hashanah, Traditions. 19 Comments on 10 Rosh Hashanah/Yom Teruah Traditions for Christians

Celebrated by increasingly more Christians, Rosh Hashanah is based on a holiday commanded for God’s people in the Bible. Biblically called Yom Teruah, in Leviticus 23:23-25 and Numbers 29:1-6, God says it’s supposed to be a Sabbath and should be celebrated by blowing trumpets and offering sacrifices.

But how can we, as Christians, celebrate this Holy Day? Here are some ways to honor God in His command and bring the vital meaning of Rosh Hashanah and Yom Teruah into your Christian home and faith.

1. Read scripture

There are so many scriptures that relate to this Holy Day. It’s a day when we can be both thankful for the gift of forgiveness through Jesus and repentant of our sin. Some celebrate this as the day God created the universe. The story of Abraham being obedient in almost sacrificing his only son, Isaac, is often read. Here are some that I found inspiring and relevant to the concepts of Rosh Hashanah.

Genesis 1:1-2:3 and 22
Leviticus 23
Psalm 32 and 139:23-24
Micah 7:7-20
Isaiah 53
Jeremiah 31:27-40
Matt. 26:26-29
Luke 24
Acts 2 and 3:19-21
1 Cor. 11:26
1 Thess. 4:13-18 and 5
Hebrews 9
James 5:7-11
1 John 1:5-10
Rev. 22

2. Have a Tashlikh ceremony

From Micah 7:19, this is a Jewish custom symbolizing the “casting off” of our sins. Bread is thrown into running water. The bread symbolizes sin and is taken away and forgotten as our sin is when forgiven by God. As Christians, we can use this to remember that our sin has been paid for and removed by our Savior and Messiah as we confess it to him and put our faith in his ability to atone for it. My family has used oatmeal because it’s better for the animals that find and eat it, but some people use stones instead. It doesn’t matter what you use as long as it conveys the message that our sin can be cast off and forgiven if we accept the gift God gave us in Jesus.

3. Have a celebratory meal

While not required, as humans, we tend to celebrate with traditions concerning food. Dishes with apples are traditionally served during Rosh Hashanah, but any meal that everyone will love and come together over would work well. Here are a few ideas.

Jamie Geller Raw Wildflower Honey Glass Jar 10 oz. From Israel

Slow Cooker Barbecue Brisket Sliders

Brisket is a traditional Jewish meal for almost any holiday. These sliders are super easy, and my family loves them. You could even serve them on your round challah bread (see below)!

Tzimmes

This side dish is traditionally served on Rosh Hashanah. It’s a sweet baked mixture of carrots and sweet potatoes that will make your house smell delicious!

Deluxe Noodle Kugel

Kugel is a decadent Jewish dish that will surprise you if you haven’t tried it before. I was wary of putting noodles into a dessert, but it’s fantastic!

Challah Bread

This bread is served at many Jewish celebrations and on the Sabbath. Usually a straight braided loaf, it’s made into a round shape on Rosh Hashanah to symbolize a crown, reminding us of God’s kingship over the universe. Here’s how to braid round challah.

Apple Butter

Just something fun to put on your challah bread! Yum!

4. Blow a Shofar

Rosh Hashanah is known Biblically as Yom Teruah or the Day of Trumpets. The trumpets they blew in biblical times and those used today are shofars or ram’s horns. Make a joyful noise with your own Shofar! Check out the link below to start shopping for one of your own.

HalleluYAH Yemenite kudu Shofar From Israel Plus Free Bonus Ram Horn

5. Teach your children

God told His people to teach His truths to their children. As parents, grandparents, and other influential people in the lives of the children around us, we should take this command seriously, and the Biblical holidays are a great place to start! There are many resources to help with this, but observing these days will provide you with many moments open to teaching about them. Bible Pathway Adventures is one resource I often use to further teach my children about the Fall Feasts, and they have resources helpful in guiding other biblical concepts as well.

6. Do a craft with your kids

Crafts are a great way to teach your children about Rosh Hashanah and Yom Teruah. Hands-on lessons are wonderfully practical, and making a shofar is perfect for children! While their hands are busy creating, please take the opportunity to explain why you’re celebrating Rosh Hashanah and what the shofars have to do with it. Prepare by reading the verses in #1 above. A fast and fun shofar can be made simply by rolling a piece of construction paper into a cone shape. Secure it with tape, glue, or staples. Most children would also love to decorate the paper ahead of time. Some people use the blower part from a child’s party blower to make their shofar craft even noisier! You can get as creative as you like with this one.

The Honey Jar Plain Honey Sticks – Pure Honey Straws

7. Eat apples and honey

Signifying the sweet blessings God will give us in the new year, apples and honey are the traditional sweet treats to eat on Rosh Hashanah. Apples are usually dipped in honey, although numerous recipes are made with both ingredients commonly eaten during this celebration. Honey apple cakes, cookies, and breads add a creative aspect to this tradition, but simple apples and honey will work well too. I’ll warn you to plan extra clean-up time if little ones participate in this custom! I learned that the hard way.

8. Share a pomegranate

While apples and honey signify sweet blessings, pomegranates symbolize many things. Frequently mentioned in the Bible, righteousness, fertility, and wisdom are among the meanings attributed to the pomegranate. The references to pomegranates in Song of Solomon are a reminder of the relationship between God and His people. They were woven into the hems of the garments of the Temple priests and carved into the columns – a design which was God’s idea!

9. Rest

The command for Rosh Hashanah (Yom Teruah) says it’s to be a Sabbath. Be intentional about having a restful day and do as much preparation ahead of time as possible so that that can happen. Prayer and reading the scriptures in #1 above (or others) should also be included. Here are some other ideas for things to do on a Sabbath.

38pcs Rosh Hashanah Hanging Swirls, Shana Tova Foil Ceiling Swirls Streams

10. Wish each other a “Shana Tova”

Pronounced “sha-NA toe-VAH,” this is the traditional greeting used on Rosh Hashanah. It means literally “good year.” It’s also often said “L’Shana Tova,” meaning “to a good year” or “for a good year.” The response is the same right back – “Shana Tova”!

L’Shana Tova to you, and I hope you find this list helpful in your Rosh Hashanah/Yom Teruah celebration this year!

Explaining The Chosen: Season 3, Episode 3: Physician Heal Yourself

Written by Holy Branches on July 24, 2024. Posted in Hebraic Roots. 2 Comments on Explaining The Chosen: Season 3, Episode 3: Physician Heal Yourself

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Warning: This article contains spoilers. If you haven’t watched the episode yet, do that first!

To see my previous articles Explaining The Chosen, find them here.

Shanah Tovah

When Mary greets Jesus at the door, she says, “Shanah Tovah,” and he responds, “Shanah Tovah, Eema!”

Shana Tova is a greeting used on and around Rosh Hashanah, the day that starts the calendar year on the Hebrew Calendar. Rosh means “head,” and Hashanah means “the year,” so Rosh Hashanah (רֹאשׁ הַשָּׁנָה‎) is literally “the head of the year.” Shanah (שָׁנָה) means “year,” and Tovah (טוֹבָה) means “good.” So, saying Shanah Tovah means wishing someone a good year. It’s kind of like a Hebrew “Happy New Year!”

Shanah Tovah is the short version. The whole greeting is “Shanah Tovah Umetukah.” Umetukah (וּמְתוּקָה) means “and sweet,” so this version of the greeting would say literally, “A good and sweet year!”. Another greeting used during this holiday is “Ketivah v’chatima tovah,” which means “Good inscription and sealing.” To understand this greeting, one must also understand the meaning behind Rosh Hashanah and the Holy Day just after it, Yom Kippur.

In Jewish interpretation, Yom Kippur, ten days after Rosh Hashanah, is the day names are written in the Book of Life. They see the ten days leading up to Yom Kippur as a period of final decision-making on whether their names are written in the Book of Life. Because of this concept, the time between Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur is called “The Ten Days of Awe.” During this time, people examine their lives to see if they align with what God would want them to look like. They ask for forgiveness from those they have wronged and from God to prepare for Yom Kippur.

Challah

Mary tells Jesus that the “Challah is hot and ready.” Challah is the beautiful and delicious bread served on Shabbat (the Sabbath) and other Holy Days. Serving challah instead of just any bread helps set the Sabbath apart from the other days of the week. It’s also a reminder of God’s provision, such as the manna He provided to the Hebrew people as they wandered in the wilderness on their way to the Promised Land. Some families serve two loaves of challah to demonstrate that God has provided not only what we need but above and beyond!

Later in this scene, Mary complains that the challah isn’t perfectly round. Most of the year, challah is braided and shaped into a loaf shape. But, as we know from the greeting between Mary and Jesus, this scene occurs during Rosh Hashanah. On Rosh Hashanah, a round challah is served instead. The round shape signifies the cyclical nature of life. As we say goodbye to one year and welcome another, we are drawn to the fact that life comes in cycles and seasons. The round challah is also said to represent a crown, acknowledging the sovereignty of our almighty Creator.

For Rosh Hashanah, you usually add something sweet to the round challah. Raisins, chopped apples, and honey are popular choices, and this addition goes along with the theme of a sweet new year.

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The Hand-Washing Blessing

Before eating, Jesus washes his hands while saying the traditional blessing. In Jewish tradition, there’s a blessing for every activity one does throughout each day. What an excellent way to stay focused on God and all He’s provided in our daily activities. The Hand Washing Blessing (Netilat Yadaim) goes like this.

In English:

Blessed are You, Lord our God, King of the universe, who has sanctified us with Your commandments and commanded us concerning the washing of the hands.

In Hebrew:

בָּרוּךְ אַתָּה ה׳ אֱלֹהֵינוּ מֶלֶךְ הָעוֹלָם אֲשֶׁר קִדְּשָׁנוּ בְּמִצְוֹתָיו וְצִוָּנוּ עַל נְטִילַת יָדַיִם

Here’s how to pronounce the Hebrew:

Baruch ata Adonai, Eloheinu Melech ha-olam, asher kidshanu b’mitzvotav vitzivanu al n’tilat yadayim.

The Netilat Yadaim says God “commanded us concerning the washing of hands.” Where does this command come from? In Exodus 30:17-21, God commands the Temple priests to wash their hands and feet before they enter the Tabernacle or bring offerings. Even if they’re not in a literal priestly position, the Jewish people see themselves as metaphoric priests in the world. The hand-washing tradition reminds them to focus on God, His eternal kingdom, and their position in it.

The Shehecheyanu

Before eating, Mary and Jesus recite a prayer to thank God for bringing them to “this holiday season.” This prayer is a traditional Jewish blessing called the Shehecheyanu. It is said on Rosh Hashanah and other holidays and life events. It goes like this.

In English:

Blessed are You, Lord our God, King of the universe, who has kept us alive, sustained us, and brought us to this holiday season.

In Hebrew:

בָּרוּךְ אַתָּה יהוה, אֱלֹהֵֽינוּ מֶלֶךְ הָעוֹלָם, שֶׁהֶחֱיָֽינוּ וְקִיְּמָנוּ וְהִגִּיעָנוּ לַזְּמָן הַזֶּה

The Hebrew pronunciation:

Baruch Ata Adonai, Eloheinu Melech Haolam, shehechiyanu, v’kiy’manu, v’higianu lazman hazeh.

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Blowing the Shofar

Just after the scene cuts away from Jesus in his bedroom, we see people joyfully making music. One is blowing a shofar, a horn made from a ram’s horn. Today, shofars are used on Rosh Hashanah (also called Yom Teruah) and to mark the appearance of the New Moon and other important events. The command to blow trumpets on Rosh Hashanah (also called Yom Teruah) is in Leviticus 23:23-24 which is why the shofar is explicitly blown on this day.

Even more important than their qualities as musical instruments, shofars were used in the Bible for communication. Different shofar sounds—three in particular—are used for various situations. As Believers, the concept of trumpet sounds should remind us of times in the Bible when God has done great things and should also prompt us to look forward to when our Messiah will return!

Later in this episode, at the synagogue service, the shofar blower plays the three different calls of the shofar – shevarim (the three blasts), teruah (the nine short blasts), and the tekiah. For an excellent explanation of the deeper meaning of these three different calls, watch this informative video.

Apples and pomegranates

The same joyful scene shows people handling apples and maybe even pomegranates. Both of these fruits are part of a Rosh Hashanah celebration.

Apples are sweet and significant due to the hopeful “sweetness of the new year.” They are often dipped in honey to increase their sweetness even further. People often bake apples and honey into breads and desserts to celebrate Rosh Hashanah or incorporate them into sweet dishes for this holiday.

Pomegranates, the fruit that adorned the Temple priests’ garments, represent the commandments. There are thought to be 613 seeds in each pomegranate, the same number as in the Torah. Eating pomegranates during Rosh Hashanah is a sign that one will aim to obey God’s commandments throughout the new year. Pomegranates also represent abundance, so having them at Rosh Hashanah signifies faith in God’s abundant blessings for the new year.

Tashlich

This scene also shows people throwing rocks into the river. This ceremony, called Tashlich, is also typical during Rosh Hashanah. Tashlich, meaning “cast off,” is a prayerful time of repentance in light of Micah 7:19, “He will again have compassion on us; He will tread our iniquities underfoot. You will cast all our sins into the depths of the sea.” During Tashlich, rocks or bread crumbs are thrown into a body of moving water to show that sin is cast off and carried away forever.

With each rock tossed into the river, people remember their sins and resolve to eliminate them forever. We also recognize that we have a savior qualified to deal with our sins and remove them if we are willing to let him! What a beautiful picture of the grace God has given!

To a Sweet New Year

Jesus dips an apple in honey and says, “To a sweet New Year.” This phrase is another common saying on Rosh Hashanah to indicate faith in God’s provision for a good year. It’s usually said in Hebrew, though. It’s “L’shanah Tovah,” “to a good year.”

Tishrei

After Jesus eats the apple dipped in honey, Leah says, “May these days before Tishrei be as sweet as this food.”

Rosh Hashanah is on the first day of the month of Tishrei. The month preceding Tishrei is Elul, and the phrase Leah says is often repeated during that month. Elul is a time of heart preparation for the approaching Holy Days. Elul is traditionally a time for introspection and examination to further align one’s life with that of God’s will for them.

Jesus Bar Joseph

Rabbi Benjamin introduced “Jesus bar Joseph” before Jesus read from the Torah scroll. As you can probably conclude, “bar” means “son,” so “Jesus bar Joseph” means “Jesus, son of Joseph.” “Bar” is not Hebrew, though. It’s Aramaic. “Son” in Hebrew is “ben.” Although most of the Old Testament is in Hebrew, a small percentage, about 1%, is in Aramaic.

Rabbi Benjamin isn’t merely making an introduction in case people in the audience don’t know Jesus. Introducing the Torah reader using their Hebrew name is a tradition even in today’s synagogues.

The Chosen: Sermon on The Mount Jigsaw Puzzle

Torah Scroll Reading

Before Jesus read from the scroll, he kissed his hand and touched the edge of it, a traditional practice. The physical scroll itself is not sacred, but the awesome thing about it is that the words of the Almighty God are on it!

Today, before a Torah reading, the scroll is paraded around the synagogue, with each person either touching the cover of the scroll with their hand, Bible, or other object, then often touching their mouth. They may also do what Jesus did here: kiss their hand and touch the scroll. These actions show reverence for the word of God and that the words of scripture are on their lips.

The verse Jesus read is Isaiah 61:1-2a, and his reading of this portion of scripture in the synagogue is recorded in Luke 4:18-19. It’s not surprising that Jesus quotes the Old Testament in Luke. Jesus often quoted the Old Testament, and much of the New Testament is either quotes from or references to the Old Testament! To understand the New Testament in its proper context, we must have a firm grasp of the Old Testament.

Year of Jubilee

The words Jesus read from Isaiah, “the year of our Lord’s favor,” are in reference to the Jubilee. According to Leviticus 25, in the 50th year, land was returned to its original owner, slaves were returned to their families, and the land had a rest from being farmed. Debts were also forgiven in the year of Jubilee. Jesus applied this concept of a Jubilee to himself, as the one who frees slaves to sin, brings rest, cancels debts, and makes everything as it should be.

“You know what the Law of Moses says.”

Aaron refers to Deuteronomy 18:20-22, which says, “But the prophet who presumes to speak a word in my name that I have not commanded him to speak, or who speaks in the name of other gods, that same prophet shall die.” So, if Jesus wasn’t who he said he was, the penalty was death! Lazarus was trying to protect Jesus and make sure he wasn’t putting himself in harm’s way by claiming to be the Messiah or even a prophet if he was not.

The story is fantastic, and this episode had so many exciting things! The writers of The Chosen, with their creativity, did an excellent job portraying Jesus’s time in Nazareth during his ministry. I’m currently working on my comments on Episode four! Check back soon, follow Holy Branches on social media, or sign up for the newsletter to be informed when a new article is published.

10 Ways to a More Biblical Faith Through Hebraic Roots

Written by Holy Branches on July 17, 2024. Posted in Hebraic Roots. No Comments on 10 Ways to a More Biblical Faith Through Hebraic Roots

I hear from many of you who realize you want to pursue a more Biblically sound faith that you practice in your daily life. Through Bible study and spiritual growth, many of you have become convicted to deepen your faith and follow God in the way He desires. For some of you, it started with a need to keep the Sabbath, and others arrived here through a deeper understanding of the Bible through the Hebrew language.
However you arrived at this point, welcome! But I know it can be difficult at first. It’s confusing when you know you’re called to practice your faith differently, but you’re not sure how that’s even supposed to look!
The truth is that it will look different for everyone. How you practice your faith is between you and God, so please ensure you constantly communicate with Him as you make changes. Ensure you’re following His lead and not that of another person or your own will.

The Complete Jewish Study Bible (Hardcover): Illuminating the Jewishness of God’s Word

If He’s led you here for some info, I’ve made a list to answer the questions on this topic I get from Believers worldwide. In effect, they say, “I know God wants me to go down this path with my faith, but now what?! Where do I begin?”. If that’s you, here are ten things that may help you set off on the path of deepening your faith through Hebraic Roots.

Get a New Bible

There’s a lot of debate among Christians about which Bible translation is best. But if your goal is to grow your faith into a more Biblically-aligned faith, you’ll be in the market for a Bible that’s translated as literally as possible or retains references to the Biblical culture of the time. There are a few like this, with translation being less paraphrasing and more this-word-equals-that-word kind of thing. The ones I suggest below have even kept some of the original Hebrew words that may lose some meaning by being translated into English. Here are a few great options:

Tree of Life (the most beginner-friendly option)
The Scriptures (most literal translation of those I recommend)
Complete Jewish Bible (most Jewish roots-friendly version)
Cultural Backgrounds Study Bible (contains many helpful pictures and diagrams, available in different Bible versions)

2. Find A Community

A Family Guide to the Biblical Holidays: With Activities for All Ages

Finding a community is easier in some areas but is necessary as we’re not meant to practice our faith alone! To find a congregation in your area or an online community, check out How to Find a Hebraic Congregation.

It’s important to realize that the community you find may worship very differently than the traditional Christian church you’re used to. Although each congregation differs, here’s what you can expect at a Messianic Synagogue.

3. Learn About the Holy Days

Returning to a more Biblical faith includes celebrating the holidays in the Bible. In Leviticus 23, God set the Holy Days for His people to observe. Aside from being a way to connect with God in the way He desires, it’s interesting to see how all of the Holy Days relate in some way to our Savior, Jesus.

The 7 Holy Days in Leviticus are:

The Feast of Passover (Pesach)
The Feast of Unleavened Bread (Matzah)
The Feast of First Fruits (Yom HaBikkurim)
The Feast of Weeks (Pentecost/Shavuot)
The Feast of Trumpets (Rosh Hashanah/Yom Teruah)
The Day of Atonement (Yom Kippur)
The Feast of Tabernacles (Sukkot)

There are also optional holidays that some celebrate that aren’t explicitly given by God. These relate to Biblical themes/stories, and some find them very meaningful:
Purim
Hanukkah

Here’s a free printable calendar of the Holy Days and others you may observe.

Messiah in the Feasts of Israel By Sam Nadler

4. Learn Some Hebrew

I know! Learning a new language sounds like an enormous undertaking! And it may be, but there are considerable benefits to our faith in learning the Hebrew Language, such as a more profound understanding in Bible study and being able to participate in Messianic Synagogue services. And I have a feeling you’ll find learning Hebrew isn’t as difficult as it sounds!

Need help figuring out where to start? Print the free chart or flashcards and learn the Hebrew alphabet here: An Introduction to the Hebrew Alphabet. Think you may be too busy to learn Hebrew? Check out these shortcuts.

5. Learn The Shema

The Shema (Deuteronomy 6:4-9) is recited (both in Hebrew and English) in Synagogue services and daily by the Jewish people and some Christians. It’s also Jesus’ answer when asked what the greatest commandment is!

Chances are high you’ve already heard these verses:

“Hear, Israel! The LORD is our God, the LORD is one! And you shall love the LORD your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength. These words, which I am commanding you today, shall be on your heart. And you shall repeat them diligently to your sons and speak of them when you sit in your house, when you walk on the road, when you lie down, and when you get up. You shall also tie them as a sign to your hand, and they shall be as frontlets on your forehead. You shall also write them on the doorposts of your house and on your gates.
Deuteronomy 6:4-9

6. Observe the Sabbath

I’ve counted 27 times the Sabbath is commanded (not just discussed) in the Bible! Wow! That tells us that God takes the Sabbath very seriously!

But many Christians (myself included, not long ago!) don’t know how to keep the Sabbath, even though they may be convicted to do so. Biblically-based Sabbath traditions have been carried out for thousands of years, and studying these can be a great place to start when you decide to keep the Sabbath in your home. Here are some ways you can observe the Sabbath.

Hand carved Bethlehem Olive Wood Pair of Candlesticks Candle Holders (7.5 Inches)

7. Learn About the Torah

The Torah, the first five books of the Bible (Genesis, Exodus, Leviticus, Deuteronomy, and Numbers), lays the foundation for the rest of the Bible, so it’s worth every Believer’s time to immerse themselves in its study. Your understanding of what’s in the Torah will affect your understanding of the New Testament, as much of the New Testament is quotes from or references to the Old Testament.

Interested in a Bible study based on the Torah? Well, here’s one that’s done worldwide and is over 2,500 years old! These five books are divided into sections, each called a portion or Parsha (plural: Parashōt), with one, sometimes two, portions read each week throughout the year. Get your free printable Parsha Reading Schedule here!

8. Learn About the Commandments

We’re all familiar with the Ten Commandments, but did you know other commandments are given to us in the Bible? For example, when Jesus said that the second greatest commandment was to “Love your neighbor” (Matt. 22:35-40, Mark 12:28-31, Luke 10:25-27), did you know he was quoting the Law commanded in Leviticus?

You shall not take vengeance, nor hold any grudge against the sons of your people, but you shall love your neighbor as yourself; I am the LORD.
Leviticus 19:18

Above, I discussed the Shema, Deuteronomy 6:4-9. The Shema is another of the Torah’s commands – to love God with all your heart, soul, and mind. In the same places (listed in the above paragraph), Jesus referred to this commandment as the greatest.

There are different opinions among Believers on which commands we’re responsible for and how to keep them. I recommend you listen to those points of view but take those issues to God. Ask whether a specific command applies to you and how He would like you to keep it if it does. Listen humbly for His answer and be open for Him to change your mind and heart if that needs to happen.

9. Get a New Calendar

While most of us are used to following the Gregorian calendar, it’s not the Biblical calendar. Genesis 1:14 states that the moon and stars were placed in the sky to mark the appointed times (moedim in Hebrew). The Biblical calendar is lunar and doesn’t directly correspond to our Gregorian calendar.

Thankfully, there are calendars that take both the Hebrew and Gregorian calendars into account for those of us who use both! HebCal is an electronic version you can view on a computer or add to your Google Calendar or iCal. First Fruits of Zion has a handy wall calendar with all the Holy Days and other holidays to observe.

And here’s the link to my free printable calendar of Holy Days and other important days again, in case you missed it above.

10. Find a Bible Study

Aside from reading and studying the Torah portions in #7 on this list, some great teachers teach about the Bible from a Hebraic Roots standpoint.

A Year Through the Torah – A Week-By-Week Journey For Christians and Messianic Believers 320 pg. Book & 80 min. CD

I highly recommend Torah Class, specifically teacher Tom Bradford. I’ve learned SO much from him, and I’m sure you will, too!

Other places to study the Bible from a Hebraic point of view:

The above are just ten ways to move your faith to a deeper and more Biblical place through Hebraic Roots. Need additional resources? Take some time to search around on this site. I’ve written about many topics you’ll find helpful on your journey.