Jerusalem Temple Study

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Hatikva Ministries – JerusalemTempleStudy eNewsletter

Shevat 5786

Tu BiSh’vat falls on Sunday evening, February 1st and ends on Monday evening, February 2nd
Chaverim of Hatikva Ministries and Members of JerusalemTempleStudy.com!
We are excited to bring you this different format this month with some sites of places you can get a Tu BiShvat seder and guide. We wanted to get this out quickly in the hope you will receive it prior to Tu BiSh’vat! If not, please know that you can still celebrate and have a seder anytime in Shevat! We hope you find this month meaningful and learn something new! Chodesh tov!

Significant Dates in the Month of Shevat
1 Shevat
• Alternate tradition for the birth of Asher.
• Moshe begins repeating the Torah to the Israelites (opening of Devarim/Deuteronomy).
15 Shevat — Tu BiShvat
• New Year of the Trees.
• Historically used for determining tithes of produce from the Land of Israel.
• We celebrate with the fruits of Israel and themes of growth, renewal, and environmental appreciation.
17–18 Shevat
• Purim of Saragossa, marking the rescue of the Jewish community from danger.
24 Shevat
• Prophecy of Zechariah (517 BCE), recorded in Zechariah 1:7–16.

Some other interesting aspects of Shevat include the following…
One unique custom is to pray for a beautiful etrog. Since it is the month when the life returns to the trees, this is the time all of our etrogim begin to grow. Also, Shabbat Shekalim falls in Shevat sometimes. If so, there will be an additional Torah scroll that Shabbat. This is one of those years when it falls in Shevat on February 14, 2026. Another Shevat fact has to do with the collection of the Half Shekel. That means the chatzi shekel was collected beginning in Shevat. All the shekalim were due to the Temple treasury by Rosh Chodesh Nisan. We found this connection in The Book of Our Heritage by Eliyahu KiTov. You can find more out about this in your own independent study. Due to time constraints and the winter storms, we were limited on time and could not elaborate on this topic this month. Here is the info on the book and we highly recommend getting this amazing work!
The Book of Our Heritage illuminates the many phases of the Jewish calendar – its holidays and festivals, fast days, and days of rejoicing and sorrow. It explains the meanings of the laws of observance and includes a wealth of Midrashic commentary and inspiring insights by earlier and later Sages. Written almost fifty years ago, The Book of Our Heritage quickly became an exceedingly popular and essential work for every Jewish home, exploring the breadth of our glorious tradition and heritage. It captured the hearts of Jews from all backgrounds and walks of life, as a book to teach and learn from, either at the Shabbos table or any time a Jew wants to draw knowledge and inspiration for any occasion. 3 volume gift boxed set.

About the author: Rabbi Eliyahu Kitov, of blessed memory, is one of Israel’s most acclaimed religious authors, whose books on the Jewish way of life and on the Chassidic movement have become renowned bestsellers. The publication of this edition in 1997 coincided with the twenty-first anniversary of his passing. https://feldheim.com/book-of-our-heritage-2+edition-Large

More about Shevat:
Shabbat Shirah (also called Shabbat Shira, meaning “Sabbath of Song”) and Tu Bishvat (the 15th of Shevat, known as the “New Year for Trees”) are closely linked in the Jewish calendar, often falling adjacent to each other or even coinciding (which happens about 30% of the time).

Shabbat Shirah refers to the Shabbat when the weekly Torah portion is Parshat Beshalach (Exodus 13:17–17:16). This portion includes the dramatic Splitting of the Red Sea and the Israelites’ response: the Song of the Sea (Shirat HaYam / Az Yashir), a powerful song of praise and thanksgiving to God for deliverance from Egypt and the Egyptians. That’s why it’s called the “Shabbat of Song”—it’s a time focused on themes of song, praise, redemption, and spiritual elevation through music and gratitude. Tu Bishvat, meanwhile, marks the new year for fruit trees in Jewish law (originally for tithing purposes, as mentioned in the Mishnah). It’s celebrated today as a holiday honoring nature, the land of Israel, fruits (especially the seven species), renewal, growth, and environmental awareness. Customs include eating fruit, planting trees, and reflecting on spiritual “growth” parallels to physical trees. The connection isn’t coincidental; many Jewish sources (including Rebbe Natan of Breslov and various commentaries) highlight why they align so frequently:

Timing in the agricultural and spiritual cycle — This period (mid-Shevat) is when winter rains in Israel have nourished the trees, and sap begins rising, signaling renewal and the start of fruit production. It’s a time of blessing from rain (geshem) and preparation for the land’s bounty. Parshat Beshalach often falls here as the Jewish people, post-Exodus, begin transitioning toward entering the Land of Israel—where agriculture, trees, and mitzvot tied to the land (like tithing fruits) become relevant. The desert generation couldn’t fully observe many land-based commandments; now, songs of freedom lead toward rootedness in the land.

Themes of song and nature — Creation itself is said to “sing” praises to God. Sources draw parallels between the Song of the Sea (human song of redemption) and the “song” of trees and nature awakening on Tu Bishvat. Some teachings speak of trees and fruits “testifying” to Shabbat’s holiness or nature joining in praise. The power of song sweetens bitterness (like the bitter waters turned sweet in Beshalach), mirroring how Tu Bishvat brings hope and growth after winter.

Redemption and planting — The Exodus (in Beshalach) is like “planting seeds” of the Jewish nation—sometimes involving descent or “rotting” (challenges) before growth. Tu Bishvat symbolizes that planting and sprouting process, both literally (trees) and spiritually (personal/ national renewal). In short, the proximity emphasizes moving from liberation and song (freedom/redemption) to rootedness, growth, and gratitude for the land’s fruits. When they coincide, it’s seen as especially auspicious for reflecting on these intertwined ideas. Many communities hold Tu Bishvat seders (meals with fruits and explanations) around this time, often tying in themes from Shabbat Shirah like joy, praise, and harmony with creation. Remember, the monthly theme is one of time of renewal, growth, and blessing!

English Tu BiShvat Seder options https://voices.sefaria.org/collections/sNvBy-B7?tab=sheets
Spanish Tu BiShvat seder https://aishlatino.com/seder-cabalistico-de-tu-bshvat/
Tu BiShvat Q & A from Chabad.org www.chabad.org/library/article_cdo/aid/356805/jewish/Tu-BiShvat-Q-A.htm.
Blessings, shalom and G-d bless you!

Joseph Good, Hatikva Ministries and JerusalemTempleStudy.com
Shevat Announcements
New Ministry Office Phone # with Voicemail!
Please call us anytime at 832-821-6050 and leave a message if we do not answer. We will attempt to answer during normal business hours and on Sundays. If you call on Shabbat or a Festival, please understand you may have to leave a message as we will generally have the phone off. We endeavor to reply to phone calls within 24 hours.

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01/30/2026
eNewsletter for Tevet 5786

Hatikva Ministries and JerusalemTempleStudy.com TEVET 5786

Shalom chaverim! To preface, it is important to realize that most historians date the destruction of the First Temple to 586–587 BCE, based on Babylonian records, archaeology, and biblical chronology. Sefaria notes: “The First Temple was destroyed in 586 BCE by Nebuchadnezzar, king of Babylon.” The Bible does not give us any years to go by so it is calculated based on Biblical genealogies and reigns of kings.

The First Temple is dated by historians to 586–587 BCE, based on Babylonian records and archaeology. Some Jewish groups follow traditional rabbinic chronology from Seder Olam Rabbah which places the destruction in 422 BCE instead. The 164-year difference comes from how long the Persian Empire is understood to have ruled: historians count about 200+ years for the Persian kings while Seder Olam counts only 34, compressing the timeline between the First and Second Temples. The compression counting uses the traditional date of 422 BCE because it treats Seder Olam as authoritative for Jewish historical and religious chronology. Regardless of which dating of years you ascribe to, the dates and months are still consistent. Ok, so on with the show!

What are the significant dates in Tevet?

The 8th, the 9th and the 10th are all significant but the main one is the Fast of the 10th of Tevet. Asarah B’Tevet is a minor Jewish fast day marking the beginning of the Babylonian siege of Jerusalem by King Nebuchadnezzar on the 10th of Tevet. Despite repeated warnings from prophets like Jeremiah—which the people ignored, even imprisoning him—G‑d delayed the final destruction to allow repentance. The siege lasted about 30 months, ending with the breaching of the city walls on the 17th of Tammuz and the destruction of the First Holy Temple on the 9th of Av 586 BCE, leading to the Babylonian exile.

This fast is unique among minor fasts because it is observed even if it falls on a Friday (interfering slightly with Shabbat preparations). It symbolizes the start of a chain of calamities that led to the Temple’s ruin and ongoing exile, from which the Jewish people have not fully recovered—even the Second Temple lacked the original’s full glory. We see this date spoken of in Ezekiel 24:

[Tree of Life Bible] 24 The word of Adonai came to me in the tenth day of the tenth month of the ninth year saying: 2 “Son of man, record this date, this exact day—this very day the king of Babylon has laid siege to Jerusalem

The phrase in Hebrew, “etzem hayom hazeh” is found in this verse. It means on this exact day-this very day, this decisive event occurred

בֶּן־אָדָ֗ם (כתוב) [כְּתׇב־]לְךָ֙ אֶת־שֵׁ֣ם הַיּ֔וֹם אֶת־עֶ֖צֶם הַיּ֣וֹם הַזֶּ֑ה סָמַ֤ךְ מֶֽלֶךְ־בָּבֶל֙ אֶל־יְר֣וּשָׁלַ֔͏ִם בְּעֶ֖צֶם הַיּ֥וֹם הַזֶּֽה׃

It is only found in the Bible limited times and at decisive points in history. It means that from that day forward, the world would never be the same.

**What does it commemorate in this case?**

Primarily, it commemorates the siege of Jerusalem by the Babylonians, viewed as the onset of events culminating in the First Temple’s destruction and the exile. Additionally, the fast incorporates (in its Selichot prayers) two other tragic events from nearby dates:

– On the 8th of Tevet: The forced translation of the Torah into Greek (Septuagint) under Ptolemy, seen as a spiritual threat.

– On the 9th of Tevet: The death of Ezra the Scribe, a key leader in restoring Jewish life after the Babylonian exile.

In modern times, the 10th of Tevet has also been designated in some communities (especially in Israel) as a general day of Kaddish (Yom HaKaddish HaKlali) for Holocaust victims whose exact death dates are unknown. May it come speedily in our days!

Your friend,

Shalom, shalom! Hatikva Ministries & JerusalemTempleStudy.com

Check out a new story entitled From Settlement to Sanctuary: Israel’s Call to Illuminate the World

from guest author Victor Schultz by scanning this QR code or read it below!

From Settlement to Sanctuary: Israel’s Call to Illuminate the World

In the rolling hills of Canaan, after decades of trials, exile from his homeland, deceit at the hands of Laban, the wrenching loss of Rachel, and reconciliation with Esau, Jacob yearned for peace. He had built his family, weathered storms, and returned to the land of his fathers. Who could blame him for seeking to dwell securely, to “settle” as the Torah describes in Genesis 37:1? Yet, this moment of intended tranquility became the threshold of greater upheaval: the sale of Joseph, descent into Egypt, and ultimately, the miraculous Exodus that revealed God’s power not just to Israel, but to the entire world.

Jacob’s story whispers a timeless truth: True settlement in the Land is not about retreating into comfort amid challenges. It is about aligning with a divine purpose that extends far beyond our borders. Today, as Jews return to Israel in fulfillment of ancient prophecies, we must affirm that living in the Land is no mistake. It is a commandment, a blessing, and a step toward redemption. Views that once questioned this, held by some groups in the diaspora, are evolving as the reality of our homeland draws hearts closer. But here’s the heart of the matter: Settlement without sanctuary risks missing the point. Like Ezra and the returnees from Babylonian exile, who wasted no time in restoring the altar and laying the Temple’s foundations despite opposition (Ezra 3), we are called to prioritize God’s House, a beacon not just for us, but for all nations.

Consider Joseph’s journey as a blueprint. Cast into servitude in a foreign land, he did not merely survive. He thrived, blessing every household he served: Potiphar’s, the prison warden’s, and Pharaoh’s own (Genesis 39:2-5). “The Lord made all that he did prosper in his hand,” the Torah recounts. This was not coincidence. It stemmed from a deep ethic of care for others, perhaps rooted in the teachings of Shem and Eber, the ancient academies that preserved a “Torah of Exile,” principles of integrity and service amid dispersion. Joseph’s dreams, prophetic visions of stars and sheaves bowing, pointed not only to his personal rise but to an end-times fulfillment where blessings flow outward.

Jews have echoed this pattern throughout history. Scattered among nations, we have managed “houses” with remarkable success, from the courts of medieval Europe to the boardrooms of modern America, infusing innovation, ethics, and prosperity wherever we go. Yet, like Joseph, we have often faced false accusations and expulsions, reminders that our role is not perpetual wandering but preparation for a greater gathering. In exile, we learned to think beyond ourselves, to steward the welfare of our hosts. Now, back in the Land, that lesson must evolve: Not isolation in our victories, but extension of that blessing to a world starving for spiritual direction.

In our contemporary reality, Israel stands as a miracle, a nation reborn, defending itself against existential threats while achieving technological and cultural wonders. We have won big battles, built thriving communities, and nurtured families in the face of adversity. But amid this hard-earned stability, a subtle shift can occur: We nuzzle into routines, fearing world leaders more than revering the Divine, content to live among lingering shadows of enmity without fully igniting the light we are meant to share. The world today gropes in moral twilight, unaware of the God who split seas and thundered at Sinai. Nations need a compass, a House where they can encounter that wonder, not as intruders, but as cherished guests.

This is where the prophets’ vision comes alive. Isaiah declares, “My house shall be called a house of prayer for all peoples” (Isaiah 56:7). King Solomon, dedicating the First Temple, prayed explicitly for the foreigner who turns toward it, that “all the peoples of the earth may know Your name and fear You” (1 Kings 8:41-43). Even in the sages’ teachings, the Temple is not an exclusive club. It is humanity’s spiritual epicenter, with Israel as its devoted servants. Ramban and others emphasize that our offerings and rituals radiate outward, drawing gentiles to recognize the One God. In Zechariah’s prophecy (14:16), survivors of the nations ascend to Jerusalem yearly, transforming potential conflict into communal celebration.

Yet the path to that House remains blocked by a deeper impurity, the spiritual corpse contamination that has lingered since the destruction of the Second Temple. The Torah teaches that voluntary offerings, the free-will gifts of the heart, require the ashes of the red heifer for purification (Numbers 19). Many have waited for that perfect red heifer to appear as a sign. But perhaps the order is reversed. The obligatory altar offerings, the tamid and musaf sacrifices commanded daily and on festivals, remain binding upon us even now. Though current authorities withhold permission, this refusal stands in error against the Torah’s clear mandate. Even the pagan king Cyrus, whom Hashem called “My anointed” (Isaiah 45:1), issued a decree allowing the Jews to return and rebuild the Temple, explicitly authorizing the resumption of offerings. Today’s leaders in Israel, who bear the responsibility of a sovereign Jewish state, fall short of that standard when they hinder what the Torah requires. When we earnestly pursue what is required of us today, rebuilding the altar through sincere advocacy and preparation, placing God first in our national priorities, then Hashem may grant the red heifer, clearing the way for full purification, voluntary korbanot, and the ultimate restoration of the House of Prayer for all nations.

Ezra’s generation understood this urgency: Upon return, they rebuilt the altar “as it is written” (Ezra 3:2), even before walls or homes, placing God first to invite divine presence back. The time is now. We do not rebuild through force or folly, but through teshuvah, returning to Hashem with hearts aflame. Imagine: An Israel that prioritizes spiritual restoration, where Torah study groups welcome seekers from afar, where ethical innovations in tech, medicine, and ecology embody divine wisdom for global good, and where acts of kindness bridge divides. By serving as custodians of this universal sanctuary, we fulfill Joseph’s prophetic arc, blessing the “master’s house” that is the world Hashem loves so dearly. No longer do we risk corrective exiles. Instead, we co-author a voluntary Exodus, where nations stream to Sinai not in chains, but in awe.

This is not about abandoning the Land, far from it. It is about inhabiting it fully, as commanded, with eyes on the horizon. When we put God’s House first, we honor the struggles of Jacob, Joseph, and Ezra. We transform settlement from mere survival to sacred service. And in that shift, the flicker of Hashem’s fear becomes a blazing light, drawing all peoples to witness His love. Let us move forward together, not in complacency, but in courage, rebuilding, revealing, redeeming. The world awaits, and so does our destiny.

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01/15/2026
The Month of Kislev: A Time of Dedication, Renewal, and Temple Significance-5786

Hatikva Ministries & JerusalemTempleStudy.com

PO BOX 948 CROSBY TX 77532 KISLEV 5786

Current Holiday: Chanukah begins Sunday evening, Dec. 14, 2025 and continues through Monday, December 22, 2025

Friends of Hatikva Ministries and Members of JerusalemTempleStudy.com,

As we enter the Hebrew month of Kislev (typically falling in November-December on the Gregorian calendar), we reflect on its rich biblical and historical tapestry. Known primarily for Hanukkah, the Festival of Lights, Kislev carries themes of light piercing darkness, divine miracles, and spiritual awakening. Below, we explore key facts about Kislev, followed by its connections to the First Temple (built by King Solomon) and the Second Temple (constructed by the returning exiles from Babylon). These insights draw from scriptural, historical, and traditional sources to deepen our understanding of God’s faithfulness through the ages.

Key Facts About the Month of Kislev–Kislev, whose name derives from Babylonian origins, is the ninth month counting from Nisan (the religious year, see Exodus 12) and the third month from Tishrei (the civil year). It can vary in length, having either 29 or 30 days, depending on calendar adjustments to align with solar cycles. Notably, Kislev never begins on Shabbat due to the variable length of the preceding month, Cheshvan. Biblically, Kislev marks significant events of renewal– The rains of the Great Flood ended on the 27th of Kislev, after 40 days that began in Cheshvan. The first rainbow—God’s covenant sign with Noah—appeared in Kislev, symbolizing hope and divine promise after judgment.

– According to the Sefer Yetzirah, Kislev is associated with the Hebrew letter *samech* (meaning “support” or “to uphold”), countering the “fall” of previous months and evoking themes of divine uplift. Its zodiac sign is Sagittarius (the bow), representing propulsion toward redemption through prayer.

– The name “Kislev” may connect to *kesel* (flank or confidence), implying innate trust in God, or *ksil* (fool), highlighting God’s mercy even for the wayward.

– The Tabernacle (Mishkan) was completed in Kislev but inaugurated later in Nisan; this delay was “recompensed” centuries later through events in the Second Temple Era, namely the victory of the Maccabees. In this manner, Kislev had its own “shining” period. Kislev’s crowning event is Hanukkah, beginning on the 25th and spanning eight days, extending into Tevet. It commemorates the Maccabean rededication of the Temple. Here is some trivia for you…The miracle of the oil is a tradition that appeared about 500 years after the Macabee victory. This tradition seems to first have appeared in the Talmud Shabbat 21b, embodying themes of dedication (*hanukkah* means “dedication” in Hebrew). The name comes from the event of re-dedicating the Temple and honoring this event by making it into a “Winter Sukkot”. The lights come from Sukkot as the original “Festival of Lights”, where the Four Great Lights were lit on the second evening of Sukkot through Shemini Atzeret. They illuminated ALL of Yerushalayim.

-Connections to the First Temple (Built by King Solomon)–The First Temple, constructed by King Solomon around 957 BCE, stands as a pinnacle of Israel’s united monarchy and divine presence. While Kislev does not feature direct events in its construction or dedication, there are intriguing indirect links through biblical patterns and Hanukkah’s symbolism.

-Construction and Dedication Timeline: Building began in the month of Ziv (Iyar, the second month) in Solomon’s fourth year and was completed in Bul (Cheshvan, the eighth month) after seven years. The channukah/dedication occurred the following year during the seventh month (Ethanim/Tishrei), coinciding with Sukkot (the Feast of Tabernacles). This involved massive korbanot/offerings (22,000 oxen and 120,000 sheep) and a two-week celebration, including Yom Kippur, where fasting was suspended due to the joyous occasion. The Shekinah glory filled the Temple, affirming God’s dwelling among His people (1 Kings 8; 2 Chronicles 5-7).

-Indirect Kislev Ties Through Hanukkah and Sukkot: Hanukkah’s observance draws from the First Temple’s Sukkot dedication. The book of 2 Maccabees describes Hanukkah as a “festival of booths in the month of Kislev,” linking the Second Temple’s rededication to Solomon’s joyous Sukkot inauguration. This connection underscores a thematic continuity: both dedications celebrated God’s sovereignty and the restoration of sacred space. Additionally, Kislev’s association with the tribe of Benjamin (whose territory shared Jerusalem and the Temple Mount with the tribe of Judah) evokes the First Temple’s location, as Benjamin played a role in Israel’s early unity under Solomon. These echoes remind us that Kislev’s light of renewal harkens back to the glory of Solomon’s era, even if not tied directly to the month itself.

Connections to the Second Temple (Built by the Returning Exiles from Babylon)–The Second Temple, begun around 536 BCE under Zerubbabel and Joshua after the Babylonian exile (as prophesied by Jeremiah and facilitated by Cyrus of Persia), has profound direct ties to Kislev. This era emphasized repentance, rebuilding, and rededication, aligning with Kislev’s motifs.

–Foundation Laid in Kislev: A pivotal event occurred on the 24th of Kislev (possibly extending to the 25th), when the foundations of the Second Temple were laid or expanded. The prophet Haggai urged the people: “Consider now from this day and backward, from the four and twentieth day of the ninth month [Kislev], even from the day that the foundation of the Lord’s temple was laid, consider it” (Haggai 2:18). This marked a turning point after delays due to opposition, symbolizing renewed commitment and God’s promise of greater glory (Haggai 2:9). Haggai’s prophecies (delivered on the 24th) highlighted Kislev as a month of divine favor and awakening.

-Ezra’s Gathering for Repentance– In the early Second Temple period (around 458 BCE), Ezra the Scribe convened a mass assembly in the Temple courtyard on the 20th of Kislev. Amid heavy rain, the people confessed intermarriages with foreign women and committed to separation for purity (Ezra 10:9-17). This event reinforced the Temple’s role in national spiritual renewal.

–Desecration and Rededication (Hanukkah): Centuries later, under Seleucid rule, Antiochus IV Epiphanes desecrated the Temple on the 25th of Kislev (167 BCE) by erecting a pagan altar and sacrificing swine. Additionally, the “abomination of desolation” [called the Shikutz Shomem שִׁקּוּצָא מְשׁוֹמֵם] Daniel prophesied about was placed in the Temple, which was a statue of Antiochus called Zeus Kirios, “Zeus is G-d”. Three years later, on the same date in 164 BCE, the Maccabees (Hasmoneans) liberated and rededicated the Temple after their revolt. They cleansed it, relit the menorah (with oil miraculously lasting eight days), and instituted Hanukkah as an annual commemoration (1 Maccabees 4:36-59; 2 Maccabees 10:1-8). This rededication echoed the foundation-laying on Kislev 24/25, making the 25th a prophetic date of restoration. Kislev thus emerges as a month intrinsically linked to the Second Temple’s story—from its foundational beginnings to its heroic reclamation—pointing toward ultimate redemption.

In this season, may the lights of Kislev inspire us to rededicate our lives to God’s purposes, just as our ancestors did. For more on the holiday and other Temple studies, visit our resources at JerusalemTempleStudy.com.

Here’s a link to an archived teaching about Chanukah for members of the site! It’s called Chanukah: Purely Speaking with Debbie and me from November 2016.  https://jerusalemtemplestudy.com/chanukah-purely-speaking/

Blessings and Shalom!

Joseph Good, Hatikva Ministries and JerusalemTempleStudy.com

Kislev Edition – Updates & Announcements

Click here for all things Chanukah including the halachot for the festival! Prepare for Shabbat Chanukah today! Don’t wait! And no matter how much of the festival you may have missed, keep learning and light your chanukiah today!

https://www.chabad.org/holidays/chanukah/default_cdo/jewish/Hanukkah.htm

https://www.chabad.org/holidays/chanukah/article_cdo/aid/3840625/jewish/13-Hanukkah-Facts-Every-Jew-Should-Know.htm

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Chag Chanukah Sameach from the whole JTS family! 🕎

12/16/2025
Hatikva Ministries + JerusalemTempleStudy.com Cheshvan 5786
So, “Cheshvan” or “MarCheshvan”…? Many people ask about the two names but we actually have many months with different names. The Jerusalem Talmud teaches that “the names of the months came up with Israel from Babylonia. Prior to the Babylonian exile, months were referred to either by ordinal numbers, such as “the first month,” or by names no longer in common use. Indeed, in the Book of Kings, this month is designated “the month of Bul, the eighth month,” reckoned from the springtime month of Nissan.

מרחשון

Scriptures composed after the Babylonian exile (including Esther and Nechemia) refer to various months but never to this one, yielding no definitive biblical indication either way.

Certain scholars propose that “Marcheshvan” derives from an Akkadian term signifying “the eighth month.”

In the Mishnah and Talmud, as well as numerous subsequent authorities, the month is denominated Marcheshvan. This form appears likewise in the dating of Jewish legal instruments and in the benediction over the new month.

The Sefer Yetzirah (the Book of Formation) names this month Cheshvan. The Zohar similarly designates Cheshvan. So why both versions? It stems from a dispute over whether the month’s authentic name is Marcheshvan, or whether Cheshvan is the true name and mar is simply a prefix describing the month. Here are some interpretations.

Bitterness: One view holds that mar signifies “bitterness” (cf. the maror consumed at Passover). The month is deemed bitter for several reasons:

● It follows Tishrei which is full of holidays yet contains no holidays itself.

● Sarah (and Rachel) died during this month according to Jewish tradition.

● In the First Temple period, after the division of the tribes of Israel into two kingdoms, Jeroboam, ruler of the northern tribes, established a heathen festival in the month of Cheshvan to rival the divine service in Jerusalem, located in the kingdom of Judah.

A Drop of Water

Another interpretation takes the Hebrew mar to mean “a drop of water,” as in the verse “like a drop (mar) from a bucket.” See Isaiah 40:15

הֵ֤ן גֹּויִם֙ כְּמַ֣ר מִדְּלִ֔י וּכְשַׁ֥חַק מֹאזְנַ֖יִם נֶחְשָׁ֑בוּ הֵ֥ן אִיִּ֖ים כַּדַּ֥ק יִטֹּֽול׃

Also related to water drops, we know Jews in the land of Israel commence supplications for rain in this month; thus mar is uttered as a petition for rain. Moreover, the Mabul (Great Flood) in Noah’s era began in this month. (Commentators note, intriguingly, that the month’s original biblical name, “Bul,” likewise alludes to the Mabul.)

Head or Master

A third perspective asserts that, far from negative, the mar in Marcheshvan carries a note of honor, because it can indicate “Master.” This title is bestowed on King Solomon because he completed construction of the First Temple in this month.

Yet an undercurrent of bitterness persists here too: though finished in Marcheshvan, the Temple was not inaugurated until later, in the month of Etanim or Tishri, thereby depriving the month of a potential festival. Although the First Temple’s dedication did not occur in Marcheshvan, the Midrash states that the Third Temple will be consecrated in this month. Hence, far from “bitter,” it will become a month of celebration! May it come speedily in our days!

Shalom, shalom!

Your friend,

Joseph Good

Hatikva Ministries & JerusalemTempleStudy.com

Our featured article by guest writer Victor Schultz (יוסף איתן)

Every Jew Brought the Daily Tamid Offering

Just as the first shaft of sunlight rising over the mount of olives pierced the open Nicanor Gate and struck the 2nd bronze ring in the slaughter area (Mishnah Tamid 3:3), a clock set by Hashem the time arrived, the Court of Israel already filled with hundreds of men, arranged by their district, silently stood by…The Ma’amad leader raised his hand and in perfect unison, they declared aloud, as recorded in Tosefta Ta’anit 3:3 and Yerushalmi Ta’anit 4:2:

Hebrew:

אָנוּ שְׁלוּחֵי יִשְׂרָאֵל… קָרְבָּן זֶה מִמֶּנּוּ וּמִכָּל יִשְׂרָאֵל

English:

“We are the emissaries of Israel… this offering is from us and from all Israel.”

Their voices carried through the Nicanor Gate to the women of the Ma’amad in the Court of Women, who declared with the same words.

The kohen, standing at the ring with the lamb, responded:

Hebrew:

בָּרוּךְ ה’ מְקַבֵּל אֶתְכֶם!

English:

“Blessed is Hashem … He accepts you!”

With that, the priest slaughtered, captured the blood to be splashed on the northern side of the altar closest him and heaven accepted the tamid as if every Jew … from Dan to Beersheba … had spoken.

Two lambs, one now and one at the ninth hour from dawn, are Israel’s daily gift to Hashem. Most imagine this as a lone priestly rite, distant and exclusive. But Scripture says otherwise.

“This is the offering by fire which you shall offer to the Lord” (Numbers 28:3–8).

You, not just the kohanim. All Israel brought the tamid. Every single day. Every single one of the children of Israel.

How? Through the Anshei Ma’amad, the Men of the Station, lay representatives from each of Israel’s 24 districts. They were not spectators. They were the offerers.

Each district sent at least a minyan, 10 adult Jewish males, to stand in the Court of Israel at the northern end, just past the altar where most holy offerings were slaughtered (Leviticus 1:11). That’s 240 men minimum, one minyan per district, present every morning and evening. But a minyan was only the floor. On ordinary days, dozens more joined. On festival days, hundreds stood in the court and even more in overflow areas.

The math confirms it. The Court of Israel measured 11 cubits wide by 135 cubits long (Mishnah Middot 2:6). That equals nearly 1,500 square cubits. Allowing one cubit per person for standing or prostration, over 1,400 men could fit in full view of the altar. With 240 as the baseline, only 16 percent of the space was used. This left room for five to six times more on busy days.

So on any given tamid, hundreds of laymen stood shoulder to shoulder, representing every corner of Israel. The active priestly course (mishmar) performed the slaughter, the blood service, the burning, all by lot (Mishnah Tamid 3:1) on their behalf. The gift was “from” the people. The Anshei Ma’amad stood in their place, bringing the offering on behalf of their districts.

The Mishnah is explicit.

“The men of the Ma’amad were there for the sake of the offering” (Ta’anit 4:2).

Not to watch. To offer.

This system rotated. Each Ma’amad had its own leaders who selected the minyans. Others joined alongside those officially chosen. Men stood in the Court of Israel; women stood in the Court of Women, both representing their district in the tamid (Ta’anit 4:2–3). Josephus records nearly two million lambs slaughtered during Passover, each feeding 10 to 20 men, women, and children (Jewish War 6.9.3). That means 20 to 40 million meals.

If 1 million eligible Jews (men age 12+, women age 12+) lived in Israel, and 1,000 officially served daily (240 men in the Court of Israel, 760 more men and women in the Court of Women), that created 365,000 annual slots. Over a 60-year lifespan, every Jew could officially participate about 22 times, nearly once every 2.7 years. If there was room, unofficially hundreds of times declaring with the others. If the Temple rose today with 15 million Jews worldwide, and 10,000 served daily (2,000 men in Court of Israel and overflow areas, 8,000 men and women in the Court of Women), that yields 3.65 million annual slots. From age 12 over a 70-year lifespan, every Jewish man and woman could officially participate approximately 17 times, once every 4 years.

This echos the warm treatment of new moon witnesses… welcomed with banquets to encourage participation (Mishnah Rosh Hashanah 2:5–6) the Ma’amad system turned Temple service into a national relay for every Jew. No fixed clergy. No “us vs. them.” but all Israel, district by district, bringing Hashem His daily bread.

Once their tamid obligation was fulfilled, the Men of the Station officially assisted in other duties. They guided pilgrims, coordinated offerings, verified the unknown newcomers. But their core act was the tamid: representing the gift.

Picture it: a farmer from Galilee, a merchant from Lod, a reporter from the Golan, all standing together in the Court of Israel, just east of the altar. The shofar is sounded. With their declaration, the lamb is slaughtered at the north side of the altar. The fire is kindled on the wood. In that moment, every Jew in Israel has offered.

This was not symbolic. It was literal. The tamid was a korban tzibur, a public offering, and the public was present.

Most today assume the tamid was “priestly only.” But the Torah says you shall offer. The Mishnah reveals the Ma’amad stood for the offering. The Court of Israel held thousands when needed. The rotation ensured every male served.

You brought the tamid.

Your father did. Your son will.

Not by blood. Not by tribe.

By presence.

The Temple was not a stage for priests. It was Israel’s living altar, and every Jew had a hand on the gift.

When we lost the Temple, we lost the daily act of national giving.

But the model remains.

Sacred service is not for the few. It is from the many.

Until the tamid rises again, let every Jew remember.

You offered. You gave. You brought.

And one day, you will again.

_________________________________________

Updates/Announcements

Jerusalem Temple Study Radio app
- App Name: JTS RADIO (Jerusalem Temple Study Radio)
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- Content:
  - Temple-focused teachings
  - Measure the Pattern series
  - Chavurah Live recordings
  - Warfare series
  - Hebrew Nation Online shows
  - ARBA 4, Daughters of Wisdom, and more
- Features:
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  - Two background options and a simple play button
  - Functions like a true radio station — no DJ, just teaching streams
BECOME A GOLD MEMBER OF JerusalemTempleStudy.com!

Gold members get a free download of the JerusalemTempleStudy app for on-the-go access to videos and live streams for $25/month.

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NO extra charge! It is 14 lessons with quizzes and exams!

A paper version of this is in a monthly eNewsletter, available at no charge via USPS mail. Email your mailing address where you receive your mail with your request to Office@JerusalemTempleStudy.com

Watch Our Programs
- Israel Update with Joe and his co-host Gilla Trebich, correspondent in Jerusalem!
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Or mail us a note! Hatikva Ministries PO BOX 948 Crosby TX 77532

Wait, wait…there is more! Want to know more about kosher eating and separation of meat and dairy? [over]

Check out this complimentary video at JerusalemTempleStudy.com called

The Meat and Cheese Question
11/25/2025
Our friends in Itamar Israel

02/25/2021
Newsletter May 2014

Shalom to all of our Members,

I have a number of important announcements to make in this newsletter and I hope that in spite of its length you will look over it. As many of you know we have had difficulties just lately with the download feature as well as a few other problems. The reason for these difficulties is that we had to change to a faster and larger Server. Victor Schultz who manages the Site for us has worked hard to get everything running smoothly. He sent me a message today stating that within a few days everything should work without a hitch. Thank you for your patience.

New Features:

The Upgrade Button – we did not realize till one of our members pointed out to us that there was no way to Upgrade to a higher level. This is now corrected and the Upgrade button is in the dropdown menu below Membership Options.

Photo Gallery:

Last week we added a Photo Gallery button that takes you to Photo Galleries that accompany specific teachings. So far I have only posted one Gallery – to accompany my weekly two hour radio program on www.hebrewnationradio.com called “Measure the Pattern”, on the Temple. This first Gallery is called “A Day in the Temple”, where we discuss the daily services and how they were conducted. I hope to add new galleries to accompany this show regularly. There will be other galleries to also accompany other teachings along the way. This Gallery is available to all Members. At times there will be larger galleries that are only available to our Silver and Gold Members. You can access the Photo Galleries from the Navigation Bar under the All Teachings Menu. Each picture can be enlarged by clicking on it again.

Speaking Engagement in Colorado May 18th

On Sunday May 18th I will be speaking on the Temple in Calahan Colorado. The session will start at noon and continue till we play out. If you are interested in attending please email Janice Cutter janice7@elpasotel.net to get details. At 4 PM Colorado time Gene Porter will do our program “Measure the Pattern” on whether Jewish and non-Jewish believers in Yeshua continued to worship in the Temple with sacrifices after the Resurrection of Yeshua. We will talk about whether or not non-Jewish believers should walk in Torah or whether this is totally optional or not. We will also discuss whether Yeshua offered sacrifices, including the Korban Hataat (the Sin Offering), and many other topics. You can call in with questions and if there can ask questions from the floor. Hope some of you can make it.

Temple Conference in Lancaster, California

August 1-3 there will be a Conference on the Temple in Lancaster California. Rico Cortes and Diana Dye will be joining me. This conference should be outstanding. It is necessary to register for the conference. Please make every effort to attend as I know this will change your life. Check out the details and make your reservation at www.thetempleconfernce.com. Let me know in the comments section to this newsletter your intentions on being there so I can make suggestions on how to prepare and maximize your learning experience.

“Measure the Pattern” Radio Program

For the last six weeks I have co-hosted a program on the Temple with Gene Porter. This can be heard live each Sunday at 5 PM Central Time on www.hebrewnationradio.com. You can call in with questions as the program is in progress. I love this program as each week we are presenting material that most of our listeners have never heard. I encourage you to become a faithful listener. The great news is that we post the podcast of the program each week so you can listen again and again and take your notes. This is available to all of our members.

Chavurah

Each week I teach a live class over the internet known as Chavurah. It starts at 7 PM Central time. Go to www.hatikva.org and click on the “live video feed”. You can type in questions and comments as the class is in progress. This is posted each week for our Gold Members. From the post you can access the program at your own convenience.

Mishpachah, Promise of the father, and Footsteps of the Messiah.

Several years ago my wife Debbie had a weekly program called Mishpachah. These programs are now being uploaded for our Silver and Gold Members. Please let me know what you think of these insights of how to bring Torah into your home. Also I did hundreds of programs on different networks in the last 25 years. These programs are now being uploaded also. Right now the series I did on the book of Isaiah is now being added for our viewers.

DVD’s

Many of our DVD sets such as the Eight Part – The second Babylon, Six Part – First Enoch, Two Part – The Lost Key and many other DVD’s are on the site with many more scheduled to be added in the next few months. One DVD a month will be available to our Bronze Members.

MP3’s

Hundreds of hours of teachings on Paul, Replacement Theology, Temple Ceremonies and much more are already on the site. All of these teachings are available to our Gold Members for download while our Silver Members can listen or view depending on the format. Hundreds of hours more are slated to go up in the next few months. Two MP3’s (One topical) are available each month for our Bronze Members.

Israel Trip

Join us on our next trip to Israel. The theme is “Battlegrounds of Prophecy.” We will tour ancient and modern battle sites all over Israel. At each site there will be studies on the various enemies encountered, the weapons, tactics and strategies used and apply these to our own lives in understanding spiritual warfare. In addition, many of these sites are prophesied to be the site of future conflicts during the Chevlai Mashiach (the Birthpains of the Messiah). We will leave Israel with an understanding of that future seven year period that will change the world. Check out the Brochure and let us know if you are interested in going. http://hatikva.org/tours/2015-hatikva-israel-tour-brochure.

An Intensive Eight Courses on the Temple

For years I have grieved over the lack of knowledge most believers have concerning the Holy Temple. This is tragic as almost all of our scriptures are related and stand on an understanding of the Temple. While conferences and radio programs are important and helpful, they fall far short of what is really needed to bring this knowledge to believers.

At the urging of some close friends and colleagues I have developed what I believe is a very complete course of study on the Temple. Instead of one course on the Temple there are actually eight courses each studying a different aspect of the Temple. There are 13 classes to each course. A two hour DVD as well as written material, a glossary of related terminology and a test will accompany each class. You must complete the first course before you can advance to the second and so on.

The courses will be sold for a price and can be purchased without being a member of Jerusalem Temple Study. However, our Gold Members will receive a coupon with a code they enter that gives them free access to all eight courses. Our Silver Members will receive a Coupon giving them 25% off while our Bronze Members will receive a coupon giving them 10% off. Each course retails for $300. If you are interested in taking this course I really recommend that you become a Gold Member. There are 8 Courses, 104 lessons, 209 hours of video and more.

Below is a schedule of the Classes. We start filming the first lessons as soon as I return from Colorado. As soon as we have four lessons completed we will start posting the lessons for you to begin your studies.

The Temple Academy

Courses:

Introductory DVD – 1 Hour

Why Study the Temple

An Overview of the Scope of the Courses

Introduction to the Temple – 101

Lesson One

The Command to Build

Lesson Two

A Brief History of the Mishkan and Temple

Lesson Three

Basic Geography and Key Components

Lesson Four

Establishing the Location of the Temple

Lesson Five

House of Kedusha

Lesson Six

The Role of the Sanhedrin

Lesson Seven

The Three Camps

Machane Kohanim

Machane Leviim

Machane Yisrael

Lesson Eight

A General Overview of the Korbanot

Lesson Nine

Korban Kodshai Kodashim

Lesson Ten

Korban Kodashim Kalim

Lesson Eleven

Temple Administration

Lesson Twelve

A Day in the Temple

Lesson Thirteen

The Festival Year

The Geography and Function of the Temple – 102

Lesson One

Har haBayit and its Componets

Lesson Two

The Outer Court

Lesson Three

The Soreg

Lesson Four

The Cheil

Lesson Five

Ezrat Nashim – The Court of the Women

Lesson Six

Beit Otzrot, Parbar, and Beit haMokeid

Lesson Seven

Beit Avtinas, Beit haNitzotz

Lesson Eight

The Middle Gates, Shaar Nikanor and Western Gates

Lesson Nine

The Azarah and its Courts

Lesson Ten

The Dukhan, Geision Wall and Achsadrah

Lesson Eleven

The Altar and Slaughterhouse

Lesson Twelve

The Temple Building

Lesson Thirteen

The Functioning of the Temple

Spiritual Insights through the Temple – 201

Lesson One

The Temple as Gan Eden

Lesson Two

Development of Kedusha

Lesson Three

The Temple and Mount Sinai

Lesson Four

The Significance of the Kodesh haKodashim

Lesson Five

The Parochet of the Temple

Lesson Six

The Ohel Moed

Lesson Seven

The Furniture of the Beit haMikdash

Lesson Eight

The Ketoret Service

Lesson Nine

Insights into the Altar

Lesson Ten

The Korban Service

Lesson Eleven

Making Sense of the Korbanot

Lesson Twelve

The Garments of the Kohanim

Lesson Thirteen

The Levitical Choir and the Psalms

The Ceremonies of the Temple – 202

Lesson One

The Daily Service – Shacharit, Mussaf, and Mincha

Lesson Two

Calendars

Lesson Three

The Seasons of the Year

Lesson Four

The Shalosh Regalim and the Solemn Festivals

Lesson Five

The Slaying of the Pesach Lambs

Lesson Five

The Waving of the Omer

Lesson Six

Shavuot in the Temple

Lesson Seven

Rosh haShanah

Lesson Eight

Yom Kippur

Lesson Nine

Sukkot and Shimini Atzeret

Lesson Ten

The Parah Adumah

Lesson Eleven

The Metzora

Lesson Twelve

The Inauguration of the Kohanim

Lesson Thirteen

Miscellaneous Ceremonies through the year

Working in the Sources – 301

Lesson One

Mishnah and the Temple

Lesson Two

Tosefta and the Temple

Lesson Three

Talmud Bavli and the Temple

Lesson Four

Talmud Yerushalmi and the Temple

Lesson Five

Mishneh Torah

Lesson Six

Rashi and key commentators

Lesson Seven

The Targumim and Septuagint

Lesson Eight

The Temple Scroll

Lesson Nine

The Role of Liturgy

Lesson Ten

Josephus and other Historical Sources

Lesson Eleven

The Palestine Exploration Fund

Lesson Twelve

Integrating the texts

Lesson Thirteen

Building and Using a Digital and Hard Copy Library

The Archaeological Record – 302

Lesson One

The Southwestern Steps

Lesson Two

The Ophel

Lesson Three

The Shiloach Pool and the road to the Temple Mount

Lesson Four

The Western Wall Tunnel

Lesson Five

The Jewish Quarter

Lesson Six

Professor Ehud Netzer

Lesson Seven

The Water of the Temple

Lesson Eight

The Sifting Project

Lesson Nine

The Shilo Excavation

Lesson Ten

The Repair Work on the Temple Mount in the last 120 years

Lesson Eleven

Discoveries through Old Photographs

Lesson Twelve

Building and using a library of Archaeological and Scholastic Works

Lesson Thirteen

Where Archaeology and Rabbinics Meet

The Movement to Rebuild the Temple – 401

Lesson One

The Various Movements to rebuild the Temple

Lesson Two

The Rise of the Current Movements

Lesson Three

Rediscovering the Tavnit

Lesson Four

A Qualified and trained Priesthood

Lesson Five

The Parah Adumah

Lesson Six

Restoration of the Garments

Lesson Seven

Restoration of the Temple Music

Lesson Eight

The Sanhedrin and the Kohan Gadol

Lesson Nine

The Political Situation

Lesson Ten

What is required to begin the services?

Lesson Eleven

What about Sacrifices?

Lesson Twelve

Jews and Non-Jews

Lesson Thirteen

Modern Israel and the Temple?

The Yechezkel Temple – 402

Lesson One

A Heaven Sent Temple?

Lesson Two

Rashi’s Description

Lesson Three

How does the Yechezkel Temple differ from its predecessors?

Lesson Four

The Tavnit of the Yechzkel Temple

Lesson Five

The Outer Court

Lesson Six

The Inner Court

Lesson Seven7

The Temple Building and Altar

Lesson Eight

Sacrifices in the Millennial Temple

Lesson Nine

The Corner Buildings

Lesson Ten

Ceremonies in the Yechezkel Temple

Lesson Eleven

The Nasi

Lesson Twelve

Spiritual Insights from the Yechezkel Temple

Lesson Thirteen

The Temple and the Olam Haba

05/13/2014
Newsletter for April 2014, Radio Program and Course

Shalom Everyone,

I want to make some announcements to begin with followed by a short message. I trust all of you are gearing up for Shabbat and the Chametz is quickly being consumed or leaving your house. Due to the Second Seder being on Tuesday night the 15^th, we will postpone Chavurah till Wednesday the 17^th. If you are in the southeast Texas area and you would like to attend our public Seder (Tuesday night), you are more than welcome. Just send us an email letting us know as well as how many will be in your party. hatikvamin@hatikva.org.

New Radio Program on the Temple

Announcing a new weekly radio program about the Temple with Joseph Good. “Measure the Pattern” will air each week at 5 to 6 PM Central Time on Hebrew Nation Radio. Joseph will be interviewed by Gene Porter on a different topic weekly concerning all aspects of the Temple. The first program begins this Sunday, April 6^th with the topic “The Command to Build.” The following Sunday we will discuss “Passover in the Temple”. Help us to spread the word and join with us. http://hebrewnationonline.com/ We will be posting podcasts of the program weekly on https://jerusalemtemplestudy.com/. The format of the program is designed for listeners to call in with questions and comments. The number is 503-967-3001. Please let your friends know about this program.

Gene Porter, my co-host had this to say about the upcoming program.

“Let me give you the details, which apparently didn’t make it through on the share. Starting this Sunday (4/6), Joseph Good is going to start a regular Sunday show at 3 pm Pacific on hebrewnationradio.com entitled “Measure the Pattern.” This show will focus on the Temple and everything associated with it (which, incidentally, will include everything about what we believe!). It will be chock full of information that you never imagined about the Temple, and I promise that it will NEVER be boring! We will take call-ins at 503-967-3001. Be there — it will be worth it!”

Itching Ears

I was speaking with a close friend the other day and we were discussing some of the teachings that while popular and exciting in their content have no validity to their message. The scripture says that “My people perish due to lack of knowledge.” One of our greatest faults is that we have not taught people how to study and search out the truth. Too often, we cannot wait to share the latest buzz on the Internet. We must learn to be careful with the word of G-d. For some time I have been posting questions on the Temple and the Festivals. One thing is apparent, while some have been very accurate in their answers, the majority have not known the answers. These are the basic understandings that we should as believers have. A major question for each of you. Should you know the Temple, its layout, ceremonies, rules, and procedures? Is this, in fact, essential to a fuller understanding of the scriptures? My answer is “yes,”without a doubt. My goal is to bring these understandings to our students in a systematic program of study. This would include learning how to study the Temple, learning how to use the sources, and how to formulate these studies into meaningful understandings. I plan on taking the material we present in the radio program “Measure the Pattern” and formulate this into a study course. If you would be interested in this let me know in the comments section. The course will be a commitment of work on my part and those that choose to follow this course of study. We will make it available for our Gold members. Pray about it and let me know. Hopefully we will be able to separate fact from itching ears.

The Sources

To learn the Temple these are your primary sources.

The Tanach and New Testament

The Rabbinic Sources:

                The Mishnah

                The Tosefta

                Talmud Bavli

                Talmud Yerushalmi

Josephus

The Letter of Aristeas

If you do not have these sources, see what you can find on the Internet as a free download. I will give sections for you to read and we will discuss some of these items in this newsletter and in written articles. This is not the course, but a starting point. Word of caution, do not pay much attention to most of the Christian sources on the Temple. Most of them are not very good. First step: build your resources.

Joe

04/02/2014
Hatikva On Line Newsletter 3-12-2014

Hatikva On-Line Newsletter

Shalom to all of you who have joined our Jerusalem Temple Study Members Site. As a feature of the members site we plan to have a monthly on-line newsletter to keep you abreast of what is happening within the ministry as well as to give you insights into the future plans we have for making materials available for you to enhance your studies. For about thirty years we have been producing materials in written, audio, and video format. There are extensive teachings on hundreds of Biblical topics including archaeological, Israeli political settings, ancient customs and practices that at one time were either on our catalog or in some cases, never published.

Goals

It is our goal to convert all of these materials into digital format and post them for your study. Another feature we hope to add within the next week is a Resource Center, giving you many of the tools to use in your own research. An example of what I am talking about is the manuscripts of the Palestine Exploration Fund (known as the PEF). This British organization was founded in the early 1860’s to specifically explore the land of Israel. There work on the Temple Mount is critical to the study of the Temple. In addition, I hope to have some Public Domain texts of the Temple and many other resources. Down the way (when I find out how) we are going to convert our books to ebooks for Gold Members to Download and Silver Members to read.

Plans

We have future plans for study courses on the Temple, its ceremonies and many other topics.

New Items for Purchase

We just came out with two new videos in our Hatikva On-Line Store. These are part of our series on the False Messiah.

The Great Deception, Part 6 [GRDEC6dvd]

War with Amalek In the Tanach, the single greatest enemy of the Jews among the nations has been and will always be Amalek. Trace the path of Amalek from the beginning of the Egyptian Redemption to the present. Learn the role Amalek fulfills in the patterns of the False Messiah.

This DVD can be ordered at: http://store.hatikva.org/catalog/product_info.php?products_id=610&osCsid=eb90e7503517a69a3d56c79e029c9b95

The cost is $17 plus shipping.

The Great Deception, Part 7 [GRDEC7dvd]

Haman Possibly the greatest picture of the False Messiah in the scriptures is the arch enemy of the Jews, Haman. See how the death of the ten sons of Haman relates to the outcome of World War II. Learn how the dates of the book of Esther reveal a story of redemption through the Messiah.

This DVD can be ordered at:

http://store.hatikva.org/catalog/product_info.php?products_id=611

The cost is $17 plus shipping.

This set will not be posted on the Members Site until we have finished the series. We are busy uploading DVD’s we have produced in the last two years.

Israel Tour

We have a new tour we are putting together: Below is the Brochure: Email us at hatikvamin@hatikva.org if you are interested.

Hatikva Ministries Warfare Tour, 2015, only $2695 in Israel

Battlegrounds of Prophecy

Sunday, February 15: fly to Israel on your own arrange-ments; our tour operator will be happy to assist you getting the best schedule and price from your home airport. You will be personally met in the Tel Aviv airport and escorted to join the group.

Monday, February 16: transfer to your hotel over-looking the Mediterranean for two nights. Dinner and breakfast are included daily at all your hotels. A tour orientation will be held this first evening on the beach where many refugees out of Europe ran the British blockade in their quest for the Promised Land.

Tuesday, February 17: the Tabernacle was estab-lished in Shilo, where lots were drawn to assign tribal areas in the Promised Land; modern Shilo is a settlement of people who desire once again to be pioneers in religious Jewish society. We will visit the on-going excavations of the Tabernacle that was located here. Shilo was burned following the loss of the Holy Ark and defeat of the Israelites at the battle of Aphek. Next we travel to Elon Moreh in Samaria, located on Mount Kabir east of Shechem, and named after the place where Abraham’s altar was located and where Hashem pro-mised the land to Abraham (Genesis 12:6). At Aphek Israel suffered one of her most devastating defeats–losing the Ark of the Covenant.

Wednesday, February 18: head into Galilee through the Jezreel Valley, stopping first at Megiddo, where both Solomon and Ahab had chariot cities, where good King Josiah was killed trying to halt Egypt allying with the Assyrians, and where Revelation 16:16 locates the battle of Armageddon. At Ein Harod, the L-rd gave Gideon a peculiar way of winnowing his forces before battle. From its basalt plateau, imposing Crusader fort Belvoir still overlooks the strategically-important river crossings in the Jordan Valley and is situated on one of the signal mountains from which torches were lit to inform the north that the month had changed. In these mountains King Saul was killed. Four nights in a lovely kibbutz hotel right on the shores of the Sea of Galilee.

Thursday, February 19: explore the strategic Golan Heights with special emphasis on both the rebellion against Rome in 66 AD (especially at Gamla, the camel-humped mountain often called “the Masada of the North”) and the 1973 war against Syria, including the deserted army post on Mt Bental, overlooking the Damascus Road and “The Valley of Tears” where vastly outnumbered Israeli tanks held off a ferocious Syrian invasion. Visit with Barak Brigade troops charged with defending the Golan and get a strategic update on the Middle East situation–and possibly a tank demonstration!

Friday, February 20: The Cliffs of Arbel hang over the Sea of Galilee, its natural caves sheltering rebels against Herod and during the revolt against the Romans. At the distinctive geological formation known as the Horns of Hattin, believed to be the site of the Sermon on the Mount, the Crusaders lost the pivotal battle for the Holy Land to Saladin’s Muslim hordes.

Shabbat, February 21: a restful day of contemplation and devotion with Shabbat Services for our group.

Sunday, February 22: conquering Philistines hung the bodies of Saul and his sons on the walls of Bet Shean, which was a Decapolis city in Yeshua’s time and both destroyed and preserved by an 8th-century earthquake that buried the city for archaeologists to restore. Study the archaeological evidence for fallen walls after Joshua fought the battle of Jericho. Travel through the Judean Wilderness to Mizpe Ramon, often called Israel’s “Grand Canyon” for an overnight.

Monday, February 23: explore the Iron Age Arad fortress erected by King Rehoboam to protect Israel’s southeastern border against the Edomites; also on the site is a forbidden Temple with a sacrificial high place from the time of the Divided Monarchy. Beer Sheva is associated with Abraham’s earliest dwelling in Israel. Yad Mordechai was an early kibbutz making the desert bloom—and the target of the Egyptian army in the 1948 War of Independence; the settlers’ heroic standoff with the army was crucial to the war’s success. Now “Up to Jerusalem” and a lovely hotel in walking distance from the Old City for the rest of the tour.

Tuesday, February 24: orientation to Jerusalem as bat-tle site, especially the surrounding strategic mountains: Radar Hill, Nebi Samuel, Mt Scopus, Tower of Augusta Victoria, with a thrilling panoramic view over the Mt of Olives and into Temple Mount from the Haas Promenade.

Wednesday, February 25: pick up five smooth stones in the Elah Valley, as did David before battling Goliath, then explore the First Temple period excavations at Khirbet Qeiyafa, crucial to understanding the complexity of civilization in the time of David and Solomon. Azeka, a town in the Shephelah guarding the upper reaches of the Valley of Elah was the site of Joshua’s defeat of the

Amorites, with Hashem hurling hailstones and staying the sun’s course; Azeka also played roles in battles against the Philistines and Babylonians. Lachish was the second most important city in the southern kingdom of Judah, especially in the biblical narrative of the battles of Joshua, Sennach-erib, and Nebuchadnezzar. The Tank Museum at Latrun is fascinating in itself, but the battle history of the region is central, especially the Arab fortress that was attacked unsuccessfully five times in attempting to break the blockade of Jerusalem in 1948.

Thursday, February 26: explore recent excavations in the original “City of David” now outside the city walls, and understand David’s capture of Jerusalem based on geo-graphy and topography. A multi-media presentation in the Jewish Quarter brings to life the armies of Sennacherib imprisoning Jerusalem “like a bird in a cage” before the hand of the L-rd smote the Assyrians. Imaginative re-creation of the 1967 Old City conquest, with special atten-tion to the battle for Ammunition Hill.

Friday, February 27: leisurely day to explore and shop in Jerusalem, including the Jewish Quarter (Shorashim is an excellent place to purchase quality Judaica) and the swirling Middle Eastern mélange of all five senses at the outdoor Mahane Yehuda market.

Shabbat, February 28: quiet day of reflection, study, and group services. The basic tour heads to the airport after dinner for the flight home, arriving Sunday, March 1.

Two-Day Jerusalem Extension

Sunday, March 1 and Monday, March 2

Only $395

Explore Temple Mount, then go under the Western Wall in the famous “Rabbi’s Tunnel.” Stand on the Southern Steps of the Temple where Yeshua observed and taught and see remains from the destruction of the Temple in 70 CE including the Pinnacle of the Temple. Zedekiah’s Cave is said to be where the king was captured trying to escape Nebuchadnezzar after the fall of Jerusalem (and from where Solomon definitely hewed stones for the Temple building). At the Temple Institute see artisans and rabbis as work creating the tools, vestments, and ministry items necessary to establish the Third Temple. At the Israel Museum, study a massively-detailed outdoor model of 1st Century Jerusalem and artifacts from Qumran Dead Sea excavations. Arrive back home Tuesday, March 3.

To enroll, send $300 per person check made out to “Escorted Travel” to . . .

Escorted Travel Concepts

1015 W Kensington Rd

Joplin MO 64801

More information from Joe Good at

hatikvamin@hatikva.org or our tour operator at ron.cansler@yahoo.com

Tour Terms and Conditions

U.S. passport valid through August, 2015, is required; anyone with non-U.S. passport, please contact tour operator.

Payment schedule: $300 deposit required to guarantee a place on the tour. Second payment of $1000 is due September 1, 2014. Final payment is due January 1, 2015. Credit cards may be used with a non-refundable 5% processing fee.

Land-only Tour price includes . . .

Accommodations in superior and deluxe hotels, private bath. Cost for staying in a single room $868 basic, $130 extension.

Meals daily buffet breakfasts and dinners in hotels or restaurants.

Sightseeing in the itinerary including entrance fees and services of English-speaking guide.

All tips are included in price: guide, coach driver, hotel personnel, restaurant servers, porter.

Tour price does not include beverages not part of menu; any baggage charges above current status of one free up to 50 pounds plus one carry-on item that will fit in the overhead compartment or under the seat in front of you.

Cancellation policy: No penalty for written cancellations received before August 31, 2014. Written cancellations received August 31-October 31 are subject to a $300 per person cancellation fee. Written cancellations received November 1-November 30 are subject to a 25% cancellation fee of the total tour price. Written cancellations received December 1-January 31 are subject to a 50% cancellation fee of the total tour price. Written cancellations received after January 31 are subject to a 100% cancellation fee of the total tour price per person. No refund made for missed services while on tour. In addition to the above cancellation fees, airline tickets are not refundable once issued. We recommend the purchase of travel insurance, which covers medical expenses as well as cancellation penalties and other eventualities. Please note: Healthcare and Medical Costs outside the USA are not covered by Medicare; information on travel insurance available on written request to ron.cansler@yahoo.com.

Brochure price based on minimum 26 passengers and VAT policy and shekel/dollar exchange rate of March 1, 2014.

Responsibility: Joseph Good, Hatikva Ministries, Ronald L. Cansler dba Escorted Travel Concepts, LLC, and their agents act only in the capacity of agents in all matters, and as such, are not responsible for any damage, expense, or inconvenience caused by late plane arrival or departure or by any change of schedule or other condition, nor the loss of or damage to any person or property from any cause whatsoever. The sponsoring organization reserves the right to withdraw the tour at any time, or make changes in the published itinerary whenever in their sole judgment conditions warrant, or if they deem it necessary for the comfort, convenience or safety of the tour. Payment of deposit by tour participants indicates acceptance of above terms and conditions.

03/12/2014