One Friday in Jerusalem Podcast

How You Can Walk With Me

Welcome back to season eleven with Aramaic Word of the day: "Laahana" which means My Vacation or my Rest i pray you are enjoying these short in depth aramaic words that shaped first century mindset of the early followers of Yeshua and deepen our understanding for Today by learning the aramaic language  The Western word “vacation” comes from Latin vacare “to be empty, free.” In the Western world, vacation often means:"Stopping work so I can rest, escape, or entertain myself." In Aramaic, we don't say “vacation.” That's a modern word, born from the idea of escaping work, escaping responsibility, escaping noise. But in our tongue, the word is (Laahna). It means rest, yes but not the way the West imagines it. Laahna is soul-rest. It's not absence of work. It's the presence of stillness. Not a schedule-free week, but a heart returned to rhythm. You see, Westerners plan their “vacations” like military operations: flights, hotels, bucket lists. They miss what our ancestors knew: real rest begins inside. Laahna is what Yeshua did on the seventh day not because He was tired, but because He was satisfied. But in the Eastern (Semitic) mindset, the concept of “vacation” is not absence of duty, but presence of restoration, purpose, and inner stillness. As a guide from the Judean hills and the alleyways of Jerusalem, I've walked with many pilgrims well, they call themselves “tourists.” They come with cameras and checklists, ready to “see the Holy Land,” but often miss something far holier: rest. I've watched travelers rush through the Garden of Gethsemane, take a photo, and say, “Done!” But did they ever sit under the olive trees and breathe? Did they let the silence speak? That silence is Lahna. It's what Elijah found on Mount Horeb not in the wind or the earthquake, but in the still, small voice. Laahna is restoration, not recreation. It's when your insides are aligned again. That's why Yeshua said, “Come to me, all who are weary and I will give you rest. Not a sabbatical from your job. A homecoming to your purpose. This is not simply about physical exhaustion it's about being weary in your being, tired from the weight of life, expectations, and performance. Yeshua wasn't offering a Mediterranean cruise. Yeshua was offering Laahna a rest that reorders the soul and returns you to the rhythm of Eden. I live in Texas now, in a small space with no office but back home in Jerusalem, even our stones breathe history. Even our desert has rhythm. I take the train sometimes just to write, to slow my soul down, to remember that Laahna is not about location. It's about intention. So next time you think of coming to Israel not for a vacation, but for something deeper remember Laahna. Come not just to see the land, but to let the land see you. Come not just to hear the stories, but to let your story be rewritten by sacred stillness. Because the Holy Land doesn't just want your footsteps. It wants your quiet. It wants your confession. It wants your transformation. Think of it as a Laahna moment. A pause not of emptiness, but of presence  where the land  doesn't just receive you, but recognizes you. You don't come here merely to see ruins or landscapes. You come to be seen by olive trees that have outlived empires, by waters that have heard the whispers of prophets, by hills that still hold the echo of Yeshua's footsteps. In the West, we “go on vacation” to escape. But in the East, we withdraw to return. To withdraw, like Elijah to the cave. Like Yeshua to the wilderness. Like monks to the Judean cliffs where the silence isn't empty, it's full of God. So come not to walk where Jesus walked but to walk with Him again, in your own inner desert. Let the stories of Scripture stop being museum pieces and start becoming mirrors  where your soul sees what it forgot. Finally my prayers to you let Laahna not vacation be your guide. Not rest from work, but return and rest Laahna to what you were made. The Land is waiting for you in 2026, and i pray i will be your guide. you can check my Signature tour by going to my website twinsbiblicalacademy.com see you soon!   

In the Middle Eastern mindset, to follow a master is to imitate his very essence. But in the Western world, you often separate knowledge from life. A teacher gives you information. A student takes notes. But in the world of Jesus, a Rabboni gives you himself. That's why Mary didn't cry out “Rabbi!” or “Jesus!”She said: With the tears of recognition. With the intimacy of a disciple who had once been lost—and now was found in His voice. This one word captures a universe of longing, grief, hope, and reunion. When was the last time you didn't just study Jesus, but called out to Him as your Rabboni? When was the last time you let His presence find you, like He found Mary by the empty tomb? Let today be that day. Call Him Rabboni not with your head, but with your heart. Mary's cry in the garden still echoes today. She didn't just see Him. She knew Him. Learn more at

Welcome to season eleven Aramaic Word of the day: "Enasha" (Human, Man) I remember standing on the Southern Steps of the Temple, where the original stones still hold the dust of generations. The sun was dipping low over the Mount of Olives, and the group grew quiet. A young man in my tour asked me, "Do you really believe Jesus walked here?" I turned and placed my hand on the warm limestone.“He didn't just walk here,” I said. “He waited here. He breathed here. He was a man—like you and me.” Then I told him to say this word in Aramaic to repeat after me: (Enasha) This, I told him, “is what He became.” In Aramaic, enasha doesn't just mean "man" or "person." It speaks of mortal humanity not the noble, dignified crown of creation, but the vulnerable, dependent, relationally exposed creature. In Psalm 8:4 – “What is man that You are mindful of him?”  The Hebrew and Aramaic (Enosh) both imply fragility, even woundability.  Daniel 7:13 – “I saw in the night visions, and behold, with the clouds of heaven there came one like a Son of Man; "bar enosh” (Son of Man) and he came to the Ancient of Days and was presented before Him.”   This is not merely a title of authority, but a profound paradox a human figure exalted to the clouds of heaven.  It's as if Yeshua is saying: “To be truly human is the path to divine nearness.” When I look into that young man standing at the southern steps, I told him of how easily life can be lost, we are weak human beings. We are not machines. We are not ideas. We are not gods. We are enasha—we bleed, we laugh, we forget, we need one another. And in that frailty, we reflect the image of the One who made us. The Western mind says: “Stand tall.”The Aramaic heart whispers: “Fall on your knees, and you will stand higher than ever before.” In the Western mindset, being human often means being autonomous, rational, and self-made. Identity is rooted in individualism "I think, therefore I am." Manhood is tied to strength, agency, and control, and success is measured by how much one can achieve or conquer. The ideal human is one who stands tall, independent, and unshaken. Weakness is something to overcome, and vulnerability is often hidden. In this view, to be human is to rise above fragility, to master oneself and the world.  But in the Middle Eastern, Aramaic way of seeing, to be human (Enasha) is to be dependent, relational, and grounded in community. You are not a soul in isolation but a soul in covenant. Manhood is not about dominance, but about humility, responsibility, and the ability to carry others. Identity is not discovered alone, but received through belonging: "I am known, therefore I am." Weakness is not shameful it is the sacred space where Yeshua meets you. In this view, to be human is not to rise above the dust but to remember that you are dust, and still deeply loved. We westernize Yeshua so quickly make Him untouchable, distant, doctrinal. But if you stand here long enough, on these Southern Steps, and let the silence speak… you'll remember: He was Human enasha. Not in disguise. Not pretending. Not Superman with a robe.He was tired. Hungry. Misunderstood. Tempted.And still, He trusted the Father. That's what true humanity is. The same elohim who formed Adam from dust chose to become dust to walk these steps so we would never again walk alone. welcome to the southern steps were jesus walked and taught scripture, then i thanked the young man in my group for his question, and then we continued our day back to the hotel.   For more in depth teachings this is the link below: www.twinsbiblicalacademy.com/academy 

Midrash (מִדְרָשׁ)—from the Hebrew root ד־ר־שׁ (darash), “to seek, inquire, interpret”—is not merely commentary. It is a living dialogue with the sacred text, seeking not only what it says, but what it does, and how it continues to speak. In the Aramaic mindset, where language reveals reality through action rather than abstraction, Midrash becomes a performance of the Word, an interpretive drama within the covenant community. In this way, Midrash is both interpretive theology and spiritual excavation, where each layer of the scroll reveals another layer of the soul. Two Levels: Covert and Overt Midrash We can divide the midrashic interpretive strategies in Qumran into two functional categories—overt and covert—based on their level of disclosure and hermeneutical transparency. For More Teachings check our online Video Academy: www.twinsbiblicalacademy.com   

Welcome to season eleven Aramaic Word of the day: Noura — Fire. As a Middle Eastern guide shaped by the ancient stones of Jerusalem, I often stand by a campfire in the Judean hills and watch the flames dance alive, unpredictable, and warm. That fire, in Aramaic, is Noura. But it is not just physical heat or chemical reaction. No In our world the Semitic world Noura is presence. It is life, purification, judgment, revelation, and divine encounter. Noura as Manifestation In the Bible, Noura is how God appears not in abstraction, but in relational intensity. Think of Exodus 3: “The bush was burning with fire but it was not consumed.” Noura is theophany - God made visible. But Western thinking? It reduces fire to a thing. An element. A force to be studied, measured, and controlled. Fire in science labs. Heat on thermostats. A survival tool. In our world, fire is not tamed it is encountered. Noura as Purification In Semitic thought, Noura purifies. Daniel's friends in the furnace (Daniel 3) weren't burned they were cleansed. Fire revealed their faith and the presence of the divine Fourth Man walking with them. Fire is not punishment; it is refinement. Western theology often frames fire as hellfire, destruction, and fear. “You will burn if you fail.” But the Aramaic heart sees Noura as the flame that refines gold, not the one that destroys straw. Fire tests. It does not torment. It reveals. Noura and Light The root of Noura is also tied to light. The fire of God gives vision. In Psalm 119, the word is a lamp to my feet that's Noura guiding the soul through darkness. In Western thought, light is often symbolic of knowledge illumination of the mind. Think Enlightenment, progress, reason. But in our Semitic walk, light is relational clarity, not just cognitive. It's how you see God, not just how you learn facts. In Aramaic, to have Noura is not to know more it's to walk closely. Noura in the Heart When the disciples walked with Yeshua on the road to Emmaus, they said: “Did not our hearts burn within us?” (Luke 24:32). That is Noura not intellectual persuasion but heart ignition. A Middle Eastern man does not say, “I agree with your argument.” He says, “My heart burns.” That's how we know truth—by inner fire. In contrast, Western thought often seeks truth through cold logic and philosophical systems. But our ancestors knew: if the truth does not burn, it is not yet alive. My brother, my sister have you experienced Noura? Not just the warmth of emotion, but the fire that reveals, refines, and invites you closer? Ask yourself: Is the Word just ink on a page, or is it fire in your bones? Is your theology cold, or does it set hearts ablaze? My hope is this:That you no longer fear fire, but welcome it.That the presence of Noura in your life would not consume you,but illuminate the face of the One who walks beside you in the furnace. Please always remember that the fire of God is not against you. It is for you. Come closer to the fire in your heart.  For more in depth studies check our website: www.twinsbiblicalacademy.com 

Welcome to season eleven Aramaic Word of the day: Malkutha — Kingdom As your guide through the streets of Jerusalem, I don't just point out ruins. Show only churches and archeological sites. I help people to remember the world Yeshua walked, the language He spoke, and the Kingdom He proclaimed. And today, I want to walk you into one of His most powerful words:  Malkutha — Kingdom. In Aramaic, Malkutha doesn't just mean a realm or a place. It's the reign of Goaad made visible not in walls or palaces, but in the way we live, love, and listen. When Yeshua stood on the Mount of Olives, just behind me, looking toward the Temple, He wasn't dreaming of taking back political control. He wasn't interested in a crown of gold.He was revealing a different kind of kingdom one that starts within you, not on top of the mountain.  Again when I guide pilgrims from the West specially on the mount of olives and when i speak about the kingdom of God and the temple mount and his reign, I often see this difference unfold before my eyes. The Western mind wants structure. It wants to define the Kingdom where is it? Who's in charge? What's the system? It thinks like Rome: build it, measure it, enforce it. But here in the East in the Semitic world of the Bible we don't define the Kingdom, we experience it. I have questions from the pilgrims from the West: “Where is the Kingdom?”In Jerusalem: “Who is the King and is He welcome at your table?” They want answers Now they want to understand and have fact.  Also in the West: “What are the boundaries?”In the East: “What is the relationship?” Then i answer them from scripture That's why in Luke 17:21, Yeshua says: "The Kingdom of God does not come with observation... behold, the Kingdom of God is within you." He was speaking like a Galilean rabbi, not a Greek philosopher.He was drawing from the well of intimacy, not institution. Then i give them this example As a guide, my life is not about showing people pretty views, it is about bearing witness to the Kingdom in action. When I walk the Via Dolorosa with guests. When I lead prayers in the Garden of Gethsemane. When I share bread with strangers at the Damascus Gate. That's Malkutha the Kingdom becoming flesh again in us. It's not something we wait for. It's something we live. And we either reveal it or resist it by how we treat the poor, the enemy, the orphan, and yes, the tourist too. So today, my friend, whisper the word: Malkutha. Let it roll gently from your tongue like olive oil from a press.  And ask yourself: “Is the King just a belief in my head? Or is He reigning through my hospitality, my forgiveness, my courage, my joy?”  Here in Jerusalem, we don't ask where is the Kingdom? We ask: Are you letting it break in, like light through an ancient window? from your home from your heart.  Yeshua's kingdom is not far it is as close as your next act of love. it is inside you, you do not need to search for it outside or in Jerusalem or in the temple or in any place.  It is you! i pray that you are encouraged today and the Aramaic word of the day touched your heart.  For more in depth teaching www.twinsbiblicalacademy.com 

Welcome to season eleven Aramaic Word of the day As an Israeli guide who's spent years walking the dusty roads of ancient Galilee and praying beneath the arches of many monasteries, I often pause when I hear Western believers speak of the "Holy Spirit." They say Spirit, and I nod but my heart whispers: Ruḥa You see, in the Aramaic world of Jesus, Ruḥa isn't just “spirit” the way the Western, Indo-European mind understands it as something abstract, immaterial, or metaphorical. In the West, shaped by Greek dualism and Enlightenment rationalism, “spirit” is often divorced from breath, body, and movement. It becomes a concept something to analyze, categorize, and sometimes, to doubt. But in the Semitic world — in Aramaic — Ruḥa is breath. It is wind. It is life itself. Ruḥa comes from the verb (raḥ) to blow, to exhale, to cause movement. Every time someone in ancient Israel said Ruḥa, they were speaking of something felt  the stirring of a breeze across your skin, the warm exhale of a mother over her newborn child, the final sigh of a man at death, and the first gasp of a baby at birth in the Aramaic mindset, Ruḥa is never separated from action. It's not a distant, ethereal presence it is the invisible that moves the visible. Like the wind over the Sea of Galilee, it cannot be seen, but its power is always known by what it stirs. Now compare this with the Western idea. In Indo-European thought take Latin spiritus, or Greek pneuma we begin to move toward abstraction. Spiritus is elevated, intellectual, something more philosophical than personal. The body is often seen as separate or even lesser. But in Semitic thinking, and especially in Aramaic, there is no separation between the breath of God and the life of a human. The two are intertwined. God's Ruḥa animates us moment by moment. That's why when Yeshua breathed on His disciples in John 20:22 — “And he breathed on them and said, Receive the Holy Spirit”  the Aramaic understanding is not metaphorical. It is literal. The breath of the risen one is the Spirit. He didn't give them a “doctrine of pneumatology.” He gave them His Ruḥa His presence, power, and nearness in breath. Let me tell you something I've learned from standing in the prayer caves of the Judean desert in Qumran. If you quiet your soul enough, you can feel the Ruḥa there not because it's emotional, but because it's reeal. The Aramaic word doesn't ask, “What is the Spirit?” It asks, “Where is the Spirit blowing?” And that question implies a sacred responsibility: to move with it. Reflect and Breathe My question for you, my friend:Are you walking with the Spirit like an idea, or like a breath? Are you analyzing God or inhaling Him? My hope is that as you learn the language of Jesus, you learn to breathe again with Him. Slowly. Deeply. Without rush. Because Ruha is already within you. All you have to do is listen for the wind. That was the Aramaic word of the Day, for more in depth Aramaic words check our website www.twinsbiblicalacademy.com  

As a teacher and guide to the Bible in its original Middle Eastern setting, I want to invite you into a deeper experience of Scripture one that bridges the Jewish world of Jesus with our world today. Many believers have heard of the Targum, but few truly know what it is.

✨ The Hebrew Bible and Its Ancient Versions ✨ Discover the rich tapestry of sacred scripture as it was read, heard, and lived across centuries. From the original Hebrew scrolls to the Aramaic Targums, the Greek Septuagint, and the Syriac Peshitta—each version reveals a unique layer of divine revelation.

Join the Vision. Walk the Land. Impact Lives. Be part of the Twins Tours business plan in Israel — where faith, history, and purpose unite. Together, we're not just leading tours… we're building a movement that brings the Bible to life through the land of its origins.

The Septuagint, the earliest Greek translation of the Hebrew Bible, serves as a vital link between Judaism and Christianity. In this presentation, we will explore its origins, significance, and The Beginnings of the Septuagint Translation and Its Significance for Diaspora Judaism and its role on early Christianity.   For more in depth lessons about Second Temple Judaism check our online Academy www.twinsbiblicalacademy.com

In the Aramaic idiom, weakness (ܟܘܪܗܢܐ, kūrḥānā) is not simply about physical or emotional frailty, but often symbolizes the place where human capacity ends and divine intervention begins. The cross—zqīpā ܙܩܝܦܐ—would be seen as the ultimate shameful death, yet Paul redefines it as the seat of ܚܝܠܐ ܕܐܠܗܐ (ḥaylā d'Alāhā), “God's power.” In the Semitic worldview, paradox is often embraced—a suffering servant can be victorious, a crucified one can be king. Paul, thinking in Aramaic, is expressing a mystical truth: God reverses expectations. What the world mocks as weakness, God exalts as strength. The phrase “the word of the cross” (ܡܠܬܐ ܕܙܩܝܦܐ, meltā d'zeqīpā) is folly (ܫܛܝܘܬܐ, shaṭyūtā) to Greeks, but salvation (ܦܘܪܩܢܐ, pūrqānā) to those who believe. Paul's logic echoes Hebrew prophetic tradition, where God lifts the lowly (cf. Isaiah 53). Divine power manifests not in domination, but in kenosis—emptying, humility, and suffering. Key Insight: Paul is not introducing a new theology but is drawing from Aramaic-Jewish roots: the God of Israel reveals His might not through empire, but through the broken body of the Messiah. In Aramaic thinking, this is not contradiction—it is divine mystery. For more in depth studies check our online courses: www.twinsbiblicalacademy.com

Shlama Friends!    I'm so excited to announce that my new book Aramaic 10-Day Journey in Israel  is now available on Amazon! If this book touched your heart  or opened your eyes to the treasures of Aramaic faith and culture, would you bless me by leaving a 5-star review?    Here's how you can help me step-by-step (and it will only take a minute  Step 1: Click this link:    Leave a Review Here    Step 2: Sign in to your Amazon account  if you're not already logged in.    Step 3:  Choose the 5 Stars rating. Write a few words — maybe what you enjoyed most about the journey! (Example: "This book brought the Aramaic world to life! A must-read for Bible lovers!")    Step 4: Click Submit  — and you're done!    Your review makes a HUGE difference! It helps more readers discover the beauty of our ancient faith  and supports my future work .   Here's the direct Amazon link to the book if you want to share it too:  Aramaic 10-Day Journey in Israel   Thank you so much for walking this journey with me! Together, we are restoring the voice of the East.    www.twinsbiblicalacademy.com/shop   With gratitude and blessings, Andre Moubarak  

In this episode you will learn about: The Dead Sea Scrolls, discovered between 1947 in the caves of Qumran near the Dead Sea, are considered the greatest archaeological discovery of the 20th century. They contain over 900 manuscripts, offering profound insights into Jewish life and scriptural interpretation during the Second Temple period. The scrolls are attributed to a Jewish sect most likely the Essenes who withdrew from Jerusalem in protest against what they saw as a corrupt priesthood. They settled at Qumran, living in purity and waiting for the apocalyptic end of days. The discovery included stone vessels, ritual baths (mikvaot), and a scriptorium, all indicating a monastic, religious lifestyle deeply rooted in Scripture. There are three important historians that wrote about them: Philo of Alexandria, Josephus flavious and Pliny the Elder. Philo of Alexandria mentions that the essenes live in villages, not cities, to avoid moral corruption. They renounce wealth and personal property, living communally, they devote themselves to peace, agriculture, and virtue, rejecting war and slavery. Josephus flavius had the most information about the essenes, they reject pleasures, value virtue, and live communally without private property, they avoid marriage, live simply, and emphasize purity and ritual cleanliness, they follow strict discipline, practice daily prayers, and eat in sacred silence and their souls are believed to be immortal, and they view the body as a temporary prison. While Pliny the elder wrote only about the geographical location in his Natural history book and he says that the Essenes live near the Dead Sea, avoiding cities and women, they have no money, only palm trees and simplicity. Not much in details. Three Categories of Scrolls Biblical Canonical Texts: These are the oldest known Hebrew Bible manuscripts, predating the Masoretic Text our primary Hebrew Bible source by over 1,000 years. Every book of the Hebrew Bible was found—except Esther. Apocryphal and Pseudepigraphal Texts: These include works like 1 Enoch and the Book of Jubilees—books that were influential in early Judaism and Christianity, even if not canonized. Sectarian Texts: Unique to Qumran, these writings detail community life, beliefs, and regulations, including the Community Rule, War Scroll, and Thanksgiving Hymns. They reveal a society organized around purity, hierarchy, and eschatological expectation. For the complete Video online course check our website:  www.twinsbiblicalacademy.com/paid-courses

in this last episode of the early Syriac church fathers we will learn about Ishodad of Merv (mid-9th century) was an East Syriac bishop and biblical commentator known for his scholarly contributions to the Church of the East. His epithet “of Merv” suggests he may have been born in the city of Merv in Central Asia (modern Turkmenistan), though this is not certain. He became the bishop of Ḥdatta (Haditha) in Assyria, near the Great Zab river in what is now northern Iraq, around 837 CE. In 852/853, after the death of Patriarch Abraham II, Ishodad was put forward as a candidate for Catholicos-Patriarch of the Church of the East. For more in depth biblical studies this is our website: www.twinsbiblicalacademy.com

This podcast details the life and spiritual contributions of John of Dalyatha, a 8th-century monk and mystic from the Church of the East, highlighting his ascetic practices and writings focused on achieving union with God. Despite initial condemnation for alleged heresies, his works, emphasizing themes like repentance, contemplation, and the struggle against evil, circulated widely across various Christian traditions through translations and adaptations. The text also explores the reasons behind his condemnation and subsequent rehabilitation, reflecting theological tensions within the early church. Ultimately, John of Dalyatha's enduring influence on Christian mystical thought is underscored by the widespread dissemination and appreciation of his teachings beyond the confines of his original ecclesiastical context. For more teachings check our website: www.twinsbiblicalacademy.com

John bar Penkaye, a seventh-century East Syriac historian and theologian, is the subject of these texts, which highlight his significant work, Ktâbâ d-rêš mellê (Summary History of the World). This fifteen-book history provides a rare contemporary perspective on events up to the late 600s AD, including early Islamic conquests and social conditions in Mesopotamia. The work blends historical narrative, spanning from creation to his present day, with theological interpretations, examining themes such as biblical history, paganism, Christology, the rise and fall of empires, and apocalyptic expectations. Notably, bar Penkaye views the Byzantine-Persian conflicts and subsequent Arab conquests through a religious lens, interpreting them as divine judgment and part of God's plan. For more teachings follow our website: www.twinsbiblicalacademy.com

In this episode we will lean about the life and significant intellectual contributions of George of the Arabs, a Syriac Orthodox bishop who lived from the mid-7th to early 8th century. Serving Arab Christian tribes during the early Islamic period, George was a prolific scholar known for his translations and commentaries on Aristotle, his completion of Jacob of Edessa's Hexaemeron, and various theological and liturgical writings. His work bridged Greek philosophical thought with Syriac intellectual traditions during a time of major cultural and political change in the Near East. As a key figure in this era, George's legacy highlights the continued intellectual exchange across linguistic and religious boundaries. check our online courses: www.twinsbiblicalacademy.com

Isaac of Nineveh, a seventh-century spiritual writer from the Church of the East, is presented as a significant figure in Christian mysticism. The text outlines his life, marked by a brief stint as a bishop followed by a solitary ascetic existence focused on prayer and contemplation. His enduring legacy rests on his "Ascetical Homilies," which offer profound insights into Christian spiritual development and continue to influence various Christian traditions. Key aspects of his theology, including his understanding of divine love and the importance of stillness (hesychasm), are explored. While some controversy surrounds alleged universalist views, Isaac's impact is evident in his widespread veneration and recent inclusion in the Roman Martyrology. Scholars emphasize his profound contributions to Christian spirituality, highlighting the practical wisdom and depth found in his writings. for more teachings you can visit www.twinsbiblicalacademy.com

Henana of Adiabene, headmaster of the School of Nisibis, is presented as a significant yet controversial figure in Eastern Christian history. The text details his theological disagreements with established Antiochene traditions, leaning towards Byzantine thought and sparking significant ecclesiastical and political opposition. Despite the suppression of much of his work, his challenge to orthodoxy compelled important clarifications of Church of the East doctrine. The flourishing and subsequent decline of the School of Nisibis under his leadership are explored, alongside the political and intellectual climate that shaped the controversies surrounding him. Ultimately, Henana's story illustrates the complex dynamics of theological innovation and its reception within the context of late antique Christianity. for more in depth studies this is our website: www.twinsbiblicalacademy.com

Babai the Great, a significant figure in the early Church of the East (c. 551–628), is presented as a transformative leader who systematically defined its unique Christology and vigorously reformed its monastic practices. His work during a period of both external political strain and internal theological disputes was foundational, establishing key doctrinal and disciplinary frameworks for centuries. Babai's extensive writings, ecclesiastical leadership, and spiritual guidance profoundly shaped East Syrian Christianity, a legacy still recognized today. He notably integrated medical knowledge into theological discussions and developed contemplative reading practices within the monastic tradition. For more in depth information go to our website: www.twinsbiblicalacademy.com

John of Ephesus, a 6th-century Syriac Orthodox bishop, is highlighted as a crucial historian providing a Miaphysite perspective on a turbulent era in the Byzantine Empire. His surviving "Ecclesiastical History" offers eyewitness accounts of religious persecution and wars, contrasting with Chalcedonian viewpoints. Furthermore, his "Lives of the Eastern Saints" illuminates the practices of Miaphysite communities. As a primary source and a voice for a marginalized religious group, John's writings offer invaluable insights into Byzantine society, religious controversies, and the interplay between Syriac and Greek cultures. His works are essential for understanding Late Antiquity and the diversity of early Byzantine Christianity. for more online courses : www.twinsbiblicalacademy.com  

This podcast details the life and significant contributions of Jacob Baradaeus, a key figure in the 6th-century Syriac Orthodox Church. Facing intense imperial opposition, Baradaeus tirelessly worked to revive and organize the Miaphysite Christian community through extensive travel, strategic disguises, and the ordination of numerous clergy. His efforts led to the establishment of a distinct Syriac Orthodox Church, later known as the "Jacobite" Church. The text also highlights Baradaeus's travel habits, ascetic lifestyle, and the profound impact his itinerant ministry had on fostering trust and empowering local Christian communities, ensuring the church's survival and growth despite persecution. To learn more Aramaic visit this website: www.twinsbiblicalacademy.com  

This episode provides a comprehensive overview of John of Tella, a significant sixth-century Miaphysite bishop. It details his early life, monastic vocation, and pivotal role in leading the opposition to the Chalcedonian Creed in Syria. The text explores his resistance to imperial religious policies, including his exile and clandestine ordination of clergy, which were crucial for the survival of the Syrian Orthodox Church. Furthermore, the source examines John's surviving writings, highlighting his theological perspectives and his use of the Syriac language. Finally, it contextualizes John's life within the broader sociolinguistic landscape of sixth-century Syriac Christianity, emphasizing the importance of Syriac as a liturgical and theological language for Miaphysite communities. For more indepth studies check our website: www.twinsbiblicalacademy.com

This episode details the life and enduring legacy of Severus of Antioch, a significant figure in the 6th century. It traces his early education and conversion, his rise to prominence as a Miayaphysics theologian, and his controversial tenure as Patriarch of Antioch. The text explains Severus's key theological arguments against the Chalcedonian Creed, his extensive writings, and his subsequent exile. Finally, it emphasizes his lasting influence on the Syriac Orthodox Church and the development of Miaphysite Christology. For more in depth teachings go to www.twinsbiblicalacademy.com      

In this podcast of season 9 we will dig deep in the life and influential career of Philoxenus of Mabbug, a prominent Miaphysite bishop, theologian, and writer within the 5th and 6th-century Syriac Christian tradition. The source outlines his theological contributions, particularly his staunch defense of Cyrillian Christology against Chalcedonian and Nestorian views. It highlights his role in the Christological debates of the era, his significant literary output including the Philoxenian New Testament, and his lasting legacy within the Oriental Orthodox churches, where he is revered as a key figure in shaping their doctrine and spirituality. Ultimately, the text paints a portrait of a dedicated and impactful church leader during a period of significant theological division. www.twinsbiblicalacademy.com

I wanted to let you know that my book, Aramaic 10 Day Journey in Israel, has been just released on Amazon and I would greatly appreciate your support to Purchase one or more copies to your church or family members or even to your pastor or for people who have been in Israel with you before:   Go to Amazon.com Write my Name: Andre Moubarak Then you will find all my books that i published. Enjoy!   Share the news about the book via your social media networks. I have included a links below to make it easy for you to share! https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DZ8CGZ3D   I sincerely appreciate your support in helping me get this book spread out with some excellent momentum.   Andre

  Dear all   I wanted to let you know that my book, Aramaic 10 Day Journey in Israel, has been just released on Amazon and I would greatly appreciate your support to Purchase one or more copies to your church or family members or even to your pastor or for people who have been in Israel with you before:   Go to Amazon.com Write my Name: Andre Moubarak Then you will find all my books that i published. Enjoy!   Share the news about the book via your social media networks. I have included a links below to make it easy for you to share! https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DZ8CGZ3D   I sincerely appreciate your support in helping me get this book spread out with some excellent momentum.   Andre

In this episode we will learn about the life of Saint Simeon the Stylite, a 5th-century ascetic who famously lived atop a series of pillars in Syria. It explores his early monastic life, his extreme solitary practices, and his innovative choice to reside on a pillar, which attracted numerous pilgrims and established a new form of Christian asceticism. The source outlines Simeon's daily life on the pillar, his teachings and counsel delivered from his elevated perch, and his significant influence on early Christianity, including the development of the stylite tradition. Furthermore, the text discusses the religious significance and lasting legacy of Saint Simeon, his veneration as a saint, and the historical accounts that document his extraordinary life and enduring impact on Christian monasticism and society. For more in depth teachings see the link of our website below: www.twinsbiblicalacademy.com

In this episode we will learn about the life and enduring legacy of Rabban Hormizd, a 7th-century ascetic and monk within the Church of the East. Originating from a noble background, Hormizd embraced a rigorous monastic life, eventually founding the influential Rabban Hormizd Monastery near Alqosh in present-day Iraq. This monastery became a significant center for East Syriac monasticism, fostering spiritual growth, scholarship, and even serving as a patriarchal seat for centuries. Hormizd's extreme asceticism, miracles attributed to him, and the lasting impact of his monastic foundation have solidified his veneration as a saint across various Eastern Christian traditions, making him a pivotal figure in their spiritual history and a continued source of inspiration. for more in depth teachings check our website: www.twinsbiblicalacademy.com

This episode provides a comprehensive overview of Jacob of Sarug, a significant figure in 5th and 6th-century Syriac Christianity. It details his life, including his education at Edessa, his ecclesiastical roles, and his involvement in the theological debates following the Council of Chalcedon. The text extensively discusses Jacob's vast literary output, particularly his metrical homilies, highlighting their structure, style, and key theological themes rooted in Scripture and a Miaphysite understanding of Christ. Finally, it emphasizes Jacob's lasting legacy and profound contributions to Syriac literature, theology, and Christian tradition, underscoring his enduring influence as a poet-theologian. For More in Depth Teachings and more resources: www.twinsbiblicalacademy.com

Dear Friends, I am beyond excited to invite you to a special Zoom celebration for the release of my brand-new book, Aramaic 10 Day Journey in Israel ! This book, years in the making, dives deep into the life, teachings, and culture of Yeshua Mshiho through the beautiful and timeless lens of the Middle East.   When & Where? Date: Friday March 14, 2025 Time: 12:00 PM- Eastern Time USA  & Date: Saturday March 15, 2025 Time: 8:00 PM- Eastern Time USA Location: Online – Join from anywhere in the world!   Secure Your Spot Now!   Click the link below to register and begin your journey! Join the Zoom Book Launch Party and Win a Free eBook! www.twinsbiblicalacademy.com/webinars  

The provided text offers a detailed overview of Narsai of Nisibis, a significant 5th-century theologian and poet within the Church of the East. It explores his life, including his education and leadership at the influential School of Nisibis, which became a crucial center for East Syriac learning after his expulsion from Edessa. The source emphasizes Narsai's extensive contributions through his poetic homilies (mēmrē), which covered biblical narratives, theological themes, and liturgical practices, reflecting an Antiochene approach to biblical exegesis and a clear dyophysite Christology. Finally, the text discusses Narsai's lasting influence and legacy as a foundational figure for the Church of the East, highlighting his continued veneration and scholarly importance. for more online courses check our website: www.twinsbiblicalacademy.com

Ephrem the Syrian, a significant fourth-century Christian figure, was a prolific theologian and hymnographer known as a saint in many Christian traditions. Born in Nisibis, he served as a teacher and deacon, composing numerous influential hymns in Aramaic to defend orthodox beliefs. He founded the School of Nisibis and later moved to Edessa, leaving a lasting legacy through his theologically rich and poetically beautiful writings, some of which remain part of modern liturgies, particularly within Syriac and Eastern Christian practices. His works, including Hymns on Paradise and Hymns on the Nativity, showcase his mastery and continue to be venerated for their literary and spiritual value. for more in depth online courses check www.twinsbiblicalacademy.com

The provided text introduces Aphrahat, a significant fourth-century Syriac-Christian writer and ascetic from the Persian Empire. His important literary contribution, the "Demonstrations," offers insights into early Eastern Christian doctrine and practice, distinct from Western influences. Aphrahat's work reveals his pastoral concerns, engagement with biblical interpretation, and interactions with the Jewish community. These writings are valuable for understanding the development of Christianity in Persia and its relationship with Judaism in that historical context. www.twinsbiblicalacademy.com

This podcast from the research of Andre Moubarak examines Tatian the Assyrian, a significant yet controversial figure in early Christianity, noting his authorship of the first gospel harmony, the Diatessaron, which became a standard text in Syriac churches. The text traces Tatian's life, from his Assyrian origins and conversion to his mentorship under Justin Martyr and subsequent divergence into ascetic and theologically distinct views associated with the Encratites. It highlights his theological innovations and criticisms of Greek culture as expressed in his Oratio ad Graecos. Finally, the source explores Tatian's complex legacy, contrasting his lasting influence in the East with his condemnation as a heretic in the West and considering his impact on biblical textual history. www.twinsbiblicalacademy.com

Bardaisan of Edessa was an early Syriac Christian philosopher whose life and work significantly impacted the intellectual landscape of his time. This text examines his life, thought, and enduring legacy, placing him within the context of early Christianity and philosophical thought. Bardaisan's intellectual formation, blending Christian theology with Greek philosophy and Mesopotamian culture, is explored. His major works, theological positions on free will and cosmology, and cultural contributions are analyzed, alongside the reception and influence of his ideas, even amidst controversy. The text also places Bardaisan's thought in a comparative perspective with Greek philosophy, Origen, and Syriac Christianity, and considers modern scholarly perspectives. www.twinsbiblicalacademy.com

The Didache, or Teaching of the Twelve Apostles, is a rediscovered early Christian manual providing insights into first-century Christian life. It details moral, liturgical, and organizational practices, structured around the "Two Ways" of life and death. The text covers rituals like baptism and Eucharist, church governance, and eschatological views, reflecting a blend of Jewish traditions and emerging Christian theology. Its rediscovery sparked scholarly interest, revealing its significance despite exclusion from the New Testament. The Didache's ethical framework and sacramental practices have influenced later Christian texts and continue to inspire contemporary discussions on Christian identity and liturgical practices. www.twinsbiblicalacademy.com

John Chrysostom: The Golden-Mouthed Preacher and Controversial Church Father The provided text examines the life and legacy of Saint John Chrysostom, a prominent figure in early Christianity. It explores his early life and ascension to Archbishop of Constantinople, where his reforms and criticisms of wealth led to conflicts and eventual exile. The text highlights his theological contributions, particularly his literal-historical exegesis and social ethics. It also addresses the controversial aspect of his anti-Jewish rhetoric and the circumstances surrounding the Synod of the Oak. Ultimately, the text presents a complex portrait of Chrysostom, acknowledging both his profound impact on Christian thought and the problematic elements of his legacy. www.twinsbiblicalacademy.com  

Gregory of Nazianzus, a Cappadocian Father, was a critical figure in the 4th century for his defense of Nicene Trinitarian theology against Arianism. His early life involved familial conversion and a rigorous classical education, culminating in a deep friendship with Basil the Great. Despite his reluctance, he served in ecclesiastical roles, including Archbishop of Constantinople, where he championed Trinitarian doctrine. Gregory's theological contributions centered on the Trinity, emphasizing purification and the potential for humanity's deification through Christ. His enduring legacy includes influential orations, poems, and letters that have shaped Christian thought and earned him the title "The Theologian." for more online courses www.twinsbiblicalacademy.com

The provided text explores the life, theological contributions, and lasting impact of Gregory of Nyssa, a 4th-century Eastern Orthodox theologian and bishop. It highlights his role in defending the doctrine of the Trinity and his articulation of concepts such as the infinity of God and constant spiritual progress (epektasis). Gregory's work "The Great Catechesis" is emphasized, outlining Orthodox theology and examining the sacraments' role in restoring the image of God in human nature. His apophatic approach to theology, emphasizing God's incomprehensibility, is noted, as is his early advocacy for Christian universalism. Finally, the texts emphasize Gregory's contributions to sacramental theology, viewing them as essential for participation in Christ and for continuous growth towards God, blending Christian doctrine with Greek philosophy. These contributions have profoundly influenced Christian traditions, particularly in the East. check our in depth online courses www.twinsbiblicalacademy.com

Basil the Great, one of the Cappadocian Fathers, profoundly shaped Christian theology in the 4th century through his defense of the Trinity against Arianism. His work clarified the Holy Spirit's divinity and equal status within the Trinity, influencing the Council of Constantinople's affirmation of Nicene orthodoxy. Basil emphasized the concept of one God in three distinct Persons, contributing terminology and arguments against heresies, like modalism. His articulation of the Holy Spirit as an illuminating power and his use of scripture and tradition solidified his theological contributions. Beyond theology, Basil impacted monastic life and liturgy, leaving a lasting legacy in both Eastern and Western Christian traditions. www.twinsbiblicalacademy.com

Athanasius of Alexandria was a pivotal figure in early Christianity, primarily known for his staunch defense of Nicene Christianity against the Arian heresy, which denied Christ's full divinity. This included championing the concept of homoousios, meaning that the Father and Son are of the same essence. The text outlines his life from birth, education, and involvement in the Council of Nicaea to his multiple exiles and eventual return as Bishop of Alexandria. The document highlights his theological contributions, including his defense of the Trinity, his definition of the New Testament canon, and his promotion of monasticism. Furthermore, the text explores his influential writings, such as "On the Incarnation" and "Life of St. Anthony," and the lasting impact he had on later Christian figures and theological developments. www.twinsbiblicalacademy.com

Irenaeus of Lyons was a pivotal figure in the early Church, bridging the apostolic era and the development of Christian orthodoxy. A student of Polycarp, who was a disciple of John, Irenaeus defended against Gnostic heresies, articulated the scriptural canon, and innovated theological concepts. His work, Against Heresies, refuted Gnostic dualism and solidified core Christian beliefs like the unity of God and the incarnation. Irenaeus also championed the "Rule of Faith" and episcopal authority as safeguards of authentic apostolic tradition. His doctrine of recapitulation framed Christ as the "New Adam," restoring humanity's relationship with God. www.twinsbiblicalacademy.com

Origen of Alexandria, a prominent figure in early Christianity, is examined, highlighting his intellectual contributions and the controversies they sparked. His life, from his upbringing in Alexandria to his career as a theologian and teacher, is explored, emphasizing his unique synthesis of Christian doctrine and Neo-Platonic philosophy. The text details his innovative approach to scriptural exegesis, particularly his allegorical method, and examines his doctrinal speculations, such as the preexistence of souls and universal salvation, that led to conflicts with ecclesiastical authority. The posthumous Origenist crises and Origen's influence on later theologians are covered, emphasizing the ongoing debate about his orthodoxy and his enduring impact on Christian thought. www.twinsbiblicalacademy.com

Tertullian, a significant figure in early Western Christianity, is examined for his pivotal role in shaping theological language and defending Christian doctrines. His life, from his Roman upbringing and conversion to Christianity, is explored, highlighting his contributions to Trinitarian and Christological thought. The text also investigates his polemical writings against heresy and his unique perspectives on sacraments and ecclesiology. His later embrace of Montanism, which led to conflict with the mainstream church, is scrutinized. Ultimately, the text assesses Tertullian's complex and enduring legacy, recognizing his lasting influence on Christian thought despite his controversial views and schismatic tendencies. for more in depth video teachings check our online courses: www.twinsbiblicalacademy.com

Polycarp of Smyrna, a pivotal figure in early Christianity, served as a bridge between the apostolic age and the institutional church. As a disciple of John the Apostle, he championed orthodox theology and met a martyr's death reminiscent of Christ's. His leadership was evident in navigating controversies like the Quartodeciman dispute and combating heresies such as Gnosticism. Polycarp's surviving Epistle to the Philippians offers insights into his pastoral approach, emphasizing humility and resistance to false teachings. The account of his martyrdom highlights early practices like relic veneration and influenced subsequent theological developments, particularly in solidifying orthodox views against heresy. His enduring legacy is celebrated through liturgical commemorations and his ongoing influence on Christian thought. For more in depth teachings check our website: www.twinsbiblicalacademy.com

Ignatius of Antioch was an early Christian bishop whose writings offer insights into the church's formative years. The provided text explores his life, including his likely discipleship under John the Apostle and his leadership in Antioch, a diverse and influential city. His arrest and journey to Rome, where he faced martyrdom, are detailed, highlighting the seven letters he penned during this period. These letters address church unity, Christology, and the importance of the Eucharist, showcasing Ignatius' theological contributions. The text further examines his lasting impact on Christian orthodoxy, the development of church structure, and the tradition of martyrdom. Ignatius' linguistic background and the Aramaic connections in his writings are also considered, illustrating the rich historical and cultural context in which he lived and wrote. For more in depth studies check our website: www.twinsbiblicalacademy.com

This podcast episode introduces the Early Church Fathers, key figures who shaped Christian doctrine. It highlights their roles as theologians, bishops, and scholars who bridged the gap between the apostles and later ecumenical councils. The episode explores various groups, including the Apostolic Fathers, the Ante-Nicene Fathers, the Nicene and Post-Nicene Fathers, and the Syriac Fathers, examining their unique contributions. It emphasizes the importance of these figures in defining orthodoxy, defending against heresies, and providing theological foundations. The podcast also touches upon the linguistic roots of the term "fathers of the faith" and their lasting impact on modern Christian practice. For more in depth teachings check our Academy. www.twinsbiblicalacademy.com