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In this message Ps.Will Ford prophesied over Mercy Culture Austin that God is raising up prophetic Nazirite voices in Austin! Like Israel, Austin has a call to raise up prophetic voices, but has resisted and compromised God's kingdom voices, raised up secular voices, and has contaminated those called to have extreme devotion to the Lord. A Nazirite vow is more about consecration, and less about isolation! The call is to be set apart and separated unto the Lord in intimacy, not separated to be a rogue lone ranger Christian! The consecration and discipline of the Nazirite must spring from the filling of the spirit and the fire of God's jealousy on your heart
Welcome to The Daily, where we study the Bible verse by verse, chapter by chapter, every day. Today's shout-out goes to Roger Lemasters from Mt. Carmel, TN. Your commitment through Project23 helps deliver God's Word daily with clarity and conviction. This one's for you. Our text today is Judges 13:6-14 Then the woman came and told her husband, "A man of God came to me, and his appearance was like the appearance of the angel of God, very awesome. I did not ask him where he was from, and he did not tell me his name, but he said to me, 'Behold, you shall conceive and bear a son. So then drink no wine or strong drink, and eat nothing unclean, for the child shall be a Nazirite to God from the womb to the day of his death.'" Then Manoah prayed to the Lord and said, "O Lord, please let the man of God whom you sent come again to us and teach us what we are to do with the child who will be born." And God listened to the voice of Manoah, and the angel of God came again to the woman as she sat in the field. But Manoah her husband was not with her. So the woman ran quickly and told her husband, "Behold, the man who came to me the other day has appeared to me." And Manoah arose and went after his wife and came to the man and said to him, "Are you the man who spoke to this woman?" And he said, "I am." And Manoah said, "Now when your words come true, what is to be the child's manner of life, and what is his mission?" And the angel of the Lord said to Manoah, "Of all that I said to the woman let her be careful. She may not eat of anything that comes from the vine, neither let her drink wine or strong drink, or eat any unclean thing. All that I commanded her let her observe." — Judges 13:6-14 After hearing the angel's message, Manoah's wife ran to tell him. This was big news—life-changing news for their family and nation. But instead of rushing forward, Manoah did something vital: he prayed. He asked God to send the messenger again, to teach them how to raise the child. That's powerful leadership. Manoah didn't assume he knew best. He didn't sprint ahead with his own ideas. He stopped. He prayed. And God answered, sending the angel back to confirm the call and lay down clear boundaries for Samson's anointing. We all face the temptation of rushing ahead of God. We want quick answers. We want control. We want the whole plan mapped out. But rushing often leads to regret. Faith calls us to pause, pray, and wait. Manoah shows us the better way. He slowed down and sought God's guidance. That's what leaders do. That's what fathers and mothers do. That's what faithful followers of Christ do. They wait for God to speak before they move. When you rush, you risk missing God's wisdom. But when you pause and pray, you put yourself in a position to receive it. Don't sprint ahead—let the Lord lead step by step. ASK THIS: Where am I tempted to rush ahead of God right now? Do I pray for clarity—or just act and hope for the best? How would slowing down and seeking Him first change my next decision? DO THIS: Before you make your next move, stop. Pray. Ask God for clarity in His Word, and wait for His leading before you take action. PRAY THIS: Lord, guard me from rushing ahead of You. Teach me to trust Your timing, listen for Your voice, and move only when You lead. Amen. PLAY THIS: "Wait On You."
Welcome to The Daily, where we study the Bible verse by verse, chapter by chapter, every day. Today's shout-out goes to Colin Steen from Brendon, SD. Your commitment through Project23 helps deliver God's Word daily with clarity and conviction. This one's for you. Our text today is Judges 13:4-5 Therefore be careful and drink no wine or strong drink, and eat nothing unclean, for behold, you shall conceive and bear a son. No razor shall come upon his head, for the child shall be a Nazirite to God from the womb, and he shall begin to save Israel from the hand of the Philistines.— Judges 13:4-5 Samson's story didn't start with his strength—it started with his calling. Before he was even born, God marked him as a man of God— a Nazirite. Every detail of his life—what he ate, what he drank, even his haircut—was a daily reminder that he belonged fully to God. Samson wasn't called to blend in. He was called to stand out. And so are you. Everything in our world pressures us to blend in. It's easier to laugh at the crude joke than to walk away. It's easier to stay quiet than to speak the truth. It's easier to chase comfort, money, or approval than to live differently for God. Blending in feels safe—but it sidelines us from the very purpose for which God created us. If you belong to Jesus, you are set apart. You don't need a Nazirite vow to prove it. The cross already marked you. Your life isn't random—it's consecrated. God has chosen you, not to fit in, but to shine in a dark world. Don't trade your calling for convenience. You are set apart. Live like you belong to Him today. Be a little bolder! ASK THIS: Do I believe my life is truly set apart for God? Where am I tempted to blend in instead of standing out? How can I reflect God's ownership over me in everyday choices? DO THIS: Pick one area where you've been blending in—at work, at home, or in friendships. Today, take one small but bold step to live differently because you belong to God. PRAY THIS: Lord, remind me that I am Yours. Give me the courage to stop blending in and the strength to live as one set apart for You. Let my life reflect Your holiness in every area. Amen. PLAY THIS: "Set Apart."
In this episode Pastor Jeff is looking at the topic of sacrifice. He'll be in the book of Numbers chapter 6 to see what we can learn from those who took a vow of sacrifice, and what we may be able to adopt for our own life today.Support the show: https://www.oneandall.church/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In this episode Pastor Jeff is looking at the topic of sacrifice. He'll be in the book of Numbers chapter 6 to see what we can learn from those who took a vow of sacrifice, and what we may be able to adopt for our own life today.Support the show: https://www.oneandall.church/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Sometimes people make vows claiming or assuming they'll be the exception to normal Nazirite stuff. The Rabbis say (mostly) no way! Check out Shel Maala's East Coast Tour here: http://bit.ly/eastcoast-5786 To ask us questions, email us at xaihowareyou@gmail.com. Support us on patreon at patreon.com/xaihowareyou. Music by Ben Schreiber.
Mishnah 3 of chapter 2 is here! What happens when you get a guy to leave you alone at the bar by saying you're a Nazirite? Let's find out. Check out Shel Maala's East Coast Tour here: http://bit.ly/eastcoast-5786 To ask us questions, email us at xaihowareyou@gmail.com. Support us on patreon at patreon.com/xaihowareyou. Music by Ben Schreiber.
His Hebrew name is Jacob. He was a close kinsman of Christ, and was therefore called, according to the Jewish usage of the time, his "brother." Some accounts say that he was a child of Joseph by his first marriage; others accounts say that he was the son of Joseph's brother Cleopas and his wife Mary, who was first cousin of the Theotokos. He took the Nazirite vows of one completely consecrated to God according to the Law, and from a young age he was called "the Just" by his people. He is called James the Lesser in Scripture (Mark 15:40) to distinguish him from James the son of Zebedee, who is called the Greater. The Apostles appointed him first Bishop of Jerusalem. It was he who presided at the earliest Council of the Church in Jerusalem, where he resolved the problem of how gentile converts should be received into the Church (see Acts 15). He wrote the New Testament Epistle, addressed primarily to Jewish converts to the Faith, that bears his name. About the year 62, he ascended to the peak of the Temple in Jerusalem on Passover, and there bore witness to Christ so effectively that the people cried out "Hosanna to the Son of David." At this, the Scribes and Pharisees, fearing that all the people would be converted to Christ, cast him down to the ground. By God's grace, he survived long enough to rise, kneel and pray, like his Master, "Forgive them, Father, for they know not what they do." He was then clubbed to death by one of the scribes.
Should we be reviving the Nazirite vow, a practice that is typically seen as "ancient," "outdated," or "antiquated?" Might it have liberatory potential for Judaism and the world? Xava De Cordova and Michael Sokolovsky of Xai, How are You? join Lex Rofeberg and Rena Yehuda Newman of Judaism Unbound for a crossover episode about Nazirite philosophy, rabbinic agendas, the Kol Nidrei declaration, and the metaphysical importance of vows! -----------------------------------Head to JudaismUnbound.com/classes to check out our up upcoming courses in the UnYeshiva, beginning in mid-late October. Amazing learning opportunities are available for registration exploring the book of Jubilees, Jewish Exile and Liberation, the Talmud, and Antisemitism Unbound! Financial aid is available via this link.-----------------------------------More about Xai, How are You?: Queer Jews Michael Sokolovsky and Rabbi Xava De Cordova play with the multi-millennial dialectic that is the Talmud. Join them as they throw drash, seek prophetic insight and uncover the rabbinic smuttiness inherent in the system. You can subscribe to Xai How are You via Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or any of your other favorite podcast apps, so go give them a listen! For a previous combo episode of Judaism Unbound and Xai How are You, see Episode 269: Shabbetai Zevi -- Permitting the Forbidden.
Lex Rofeberg and Rena Yehuda Newman of Judaism Unbound join us for a big crossover episode about Nazirite philosophy, Rabbinic agendas, Kol Nidre and the metaphysical importance of vows! The Judaism Unbound podcast is a show released every Friday, pushing the boundaries of how we might understand the Jewish past, present, and future. You can subscribe via Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or any of your other favorite podcast apps, so go give them a listen! Also, check out the Shel Maala East Coast tour here: http://bit.ly/eastcoast-5786 To ask us questions, email us at xaihowareyou@gmail.com. Support us on patreon at patreon.com/xaihowareyou. Music by Ben Schreiber.
If I was a Nazirite cow refusing to get up, would the Rabbi's still love me? This week, we find out! We also talk about Nazirite doors, the Shekhina as a bovine, and more. To ask us questions, text or leaves us a voicemail at the Talmud Hotline at 401-484-1619 or email us at xaihowareyou@gmail.com. Support us on patreon at patreon.com/xaihowareyou. Music by Ben Schreiber.
We may have grown up learning that Samson's story was one of heroic strength, strength that was tied to his long hair.Sadly, Samson's story is far more tragic. His strength came as a result of his consecration to God, part of his Nazirite vow, and that strength left him with the Spirit of God's departure in the scene with Delilah. Samson's story offers us SO MANY critical warnings, and I offer some important ones from my own life.If you are able, review Judges 13-16, as we turn to Samson's story of "Faith of Tragic Strength," today on Rinse and Repeat!(RAR2025EP40)
Today on OOBT, we're diving into Numbers 28–30 — and while it may look like laws and lists at first glance, there's something much deeper happening here. Chapters 28 and 29 lay out a rhythm of daily, weekly, monthly, and festival offerings—a calendar of worship designed to keep God's people anchored in remembrance. For 40 years, Israel camped with the Tabernacle at the center. Worship wasn't just an activity; it was the structure of their lives. But now, they're about to enter the Promised Land. Life is about to shift. No more camp setup around God's visible presence—families will be spread across towns and fields. Worship will no longer be automatic; it will have to become intentional. Then in chapter 30, we zoom in to something personal: vows—the promises people make to God. Whether out of desperation, devotion, or gratitude, vows are sacred, and God takes them seriously. Think of marriage vows, or the Nazirite vow—voluntary devotion like we saw with Samson. Or Hannah, who promised her son to God in 1 Samuel and followed through. These chapters remind us to live with integrity in what we say, and remembrance in how we live. And ultimately? All these rituals and rhythms point forward to Jesus, the once-for-all sacrifice (Hebrews 10). No more daily offerings. He fulfilled it all with His perfect love. So let's talk about what it looks like to live with remembrance, intention, and integrity—right where we are. For the full episode show notes, please go to https://mfahring.com/numbers-28-30/
https://youtu.be/u0OFp0b_SbI Audio: Play the audio class Download: Download this MP3 Topics: Morning Prayers Follow-Along Text: 5. זִבְחֵי שַׁלְמֵי צִבּוּר וַאֲשָׁמוֹת, אֵֽלּוּ הֵן אֲשָׁמוֹת: 5. [These are the laws applying to] the communal peace-offerings and the guilt-offerings. These are the guilt-offerings: אֲשַׁם גְּזֵלוֹת, אֲשַׁם מְעִילוֹת, אֲשַׁם שִׁפְחָה חֲרוּפָה, אֲשַׁם נָזִיר, אֲשַׁם מְצוֹרָע, אָשָׁם תָּלוּי. שְׁחִיטָתָן בַּצָּפוֹן, the guilt-offering brought for robbery, for misappropriating consecrated property, for having relations with a designated maidservant, the guilt-offering of a Nazirite, the guilt-offering of a person afflicted with tzaraas, and the conditional guilt-offering. [The animals designated for] these sacrifices would be slaughtered in the northern area [of the Beis HaMikdash Courtyard]. PreviousClass 070: Mishnah 2-4 NextClass 072: Mishnah 5-6 More in this section Class 074: Shlamim Habechor Vehamaaser Vehapesach part 2 Class 073: Shlamim Habechor Vehamaaser Vehapesach part 1 Class 072: Mishnah 5-6 Class 070: Mishnah 2-4 Class 069: Eizehu Mekoman Mishnah 1 Class 068: Ana Bechoach, Ribon Haolamim Class 067: Abbaye Hava Mesader Class 066: Hashem Tzevakot Ashrei, Hashem Hoshia, Minchat Yehuda Class 065: morning prayers: Hashem Tzevakot Imanu Class 064: morning prayers: Ketoret part 4 Class 063: morning prayers: Ketoret part 3
https://youtu.be/Yn1lKsy-meY Audio: Play the audio class Download: Download this MP3 Topics: Morning Prayers Follow-Along Text: 5. זִבְחֵי שַׁלְמֵי צִבּוּר וַאֲשָׁמוֹת, אֵֽלּוּ הֵן אֲשָׁמוֹת: 5. [These are the laws applying to] the communal peace-offerings and the guilt-offerings. These are the guilt-offerings: אֲשַׁם גְּזֵלוֹת, אֲשַׁם מְעִילוֹת, אֲשַׁם שִׁפְחָה חֲרוּפָה, אֲשַׁם נָזִיר, אֲשַׁם מְצוֹרָע, אָשָׁם תָּלוּי. שְׁחִיטָתָן בַּצָּפוֹן, the guilt-offering brought for robbery, for misappropriating consecrated property, for having relations with a designated maidservant, the guilt-offering of a Nazirite, the guilt-offering of a person afflicted with tzaraas, and the conditional guilt-offering. [The animals designated for] these sacrifices would be slaughtered in the northern area [of the Beis HaMikdash Courtyard]. וְקִבּוּל דָּמָן בִּכְלִי שָׁרֵת בַּצָּפוֹן, וְדָמָן טָעוּן שְׁתֵּי מַתָּנוֹת שֶׁהֵן אַרְבַּע, Their blood would be received in a sacramental vessel in the northern area [of the Beis HaMikdash Courtyard], and it was to be dashed twice on the altar [in a manner that enabled it to reach all] four [sides of the altar]. וְנֶאֱכָלִין לִפְנִים מִן הַקְּלָעִים לְזִכְרֵי כְהֻנָּה, בְּכָל מַאֲכָל, לְיוֹם וָלַֽיְלָה עַד חֲצוֹת: [The meat from these sacrifices] could be eaten by male kohanim within the Beis HaMikdash Courtyard, prepared in any manner, during the day [the sacrifice was offered] and on the following night until midnight. 6. הַתּוֹדָה וְאֵיל נָזִיר, קָדָשִׁים קַלִּים, 6. The thanksgiving-offering and the ram brought by a Nazirite are sacrifices of a lesser degree of sanctity. שְׁחִיטָתָן בְּכָל מָקוֹם בָּעֲזָרָה, וְדָמָן טָעוּן שְׁתֵּי מַתָּנוֹת שֶׁהֵן אַרְבַּע, [The animals designated for] these sacrifices may be slaughtered in any place within the Beis HaMikdash Courtyard. Their blood was to be dashed twice on the altar [in a manner that enabled it to reach all] four [sides of the altar]. וְנֶאֱכָלִין בְּכָל הָעִיר, לְכָל אָדָם, בְּכָל מַאֲכָל, לְיוֹם וָלַֽיְלָה עַד חֲצוֹת. [The meat from these sacrifices] could be eaten within the entire city [of Jerusalem], by any person, prepared in any manner, during the day [the sacrifice was offered] and on the following night until midnight. הַמּוּרָם מֵהֶם כַּיּוֹצֵא בָהֶם, אֶלָּא, שֶׁהַמּוּרָם נֶאֱכָל לַכֹּהֲנִים לִנְשֵׁיהֶם וְלִבְנֵיהֶם וּלְעַבְדֵיהֶם: Similar rules apply to the portions taken from them, except that they could be eaten [solely] by the kohanim, their wives, their children, and their servants. PreviousClass 071: Mishnah 5 NextClass 073: Shlamim Habechor Vehamaaser Vehapesach part 1 More in this section Class 074: Shlamim Habechor Vehamaaser Vehapesach part 2 Class 073: Shlamim Habechor Vehamaaser Vehapesach part 1 Class 071: Mishnah 5 Class 070: Mishnah 2-4
Mishnah four is here! What if you vow to be a Nazirite like the hairs on your head? What if you're a Nazirite forever but not like, a Nazirite Forever? Sign up for Deny, Defend, D'Rabbanan here: http://bit.ly/denydefend To ask us questions, text or leaves us a voicemail at the Talmud Hotline at 401-484-1619 or email us at xaihowareyou@gmail.com. Support us on patreon at patreon.com/xaihowareyou. Music by Ben Schreiber.
The Old Testament Nazirite vow still holds insight into how Christians today can live lives visibly set apart to God.
Samson, the final Judge in Judges, embodies Israel's cycle of sin and deliverance. Born to a barren woman as a promised Nazirite, he's tasked with saving Israel from the Philistines. Despite his divine calling, Samson's life is marked by compromise, impulsiveness, entitlement, and pride, breaking his vows and using his strength selfishly. His story points to Jesus, the true Savior who fulfills what Samson only begins.
Mishnah gimel is here! What is the default length of being a Nazirite and can it be eternal? Also, halakha created by magical math and is it possible the Rabbis are just silly goofs? To ask us questions, text or leaves us a voicemail at the Talmud Hotline at 401-484-1619 or email us at xaihowareyou@gmail.com. Support us on patreon at patreon.com/xaihowareyou. Music by Ben Schreiber.
The Nazirite Vow shows us the God values our purity and devotion.
This is a discussion of the announcement of Samson to Manoah and his wife and his designation as a Nazirite from birth.
Judges 13 introduces the story of Samson's birth. The Israelites once again do evil in God's sight, leading to 40 years of oppression by the Philistines. In response, God sends an angel to a barren woman—the wife of Manoah—telling her she will have a son who will begin to deliver Israel. The angel instructs her to raise the child as a Nazirite, dedicated to God from birth, abstaining from wine and unclean food, and never cutting his hair. Manoah prays for guidance, and when the angel appears again, both parents receive instructions. The chapter ends with God fulfilling His promise—the woman gives birth to Samson, and God's Spirit begins to stir in him.This reminds us that even in times of spiritual decline, God's plans are still unfolding. He can use unexpected people and circumstances to bring about deliverance. It also highlights the importance of consecration—setting our lives apart for God's purposes. Like Samson's parents, we are called to seek God's guidance in raising the next generation, trusting that He equips us when we ask. Today, it challenges us to live intentionally, knowing that God can do great things through lives fully surrendered to Him.
This week we dive deep into the story of Jephthah, a man scorned by his community for being the son of a prostitute but recognized by God as a mighty man of valor. The narrative explores themes of judgment, redemption, and the resilience of faith against adversity. As Israel turns away from God, worshiping multiple false gods, they face prolonged oppression from the Ammonites. In a twist of fate, Jephthah is called upon to lead the Israelites into battle against their oppressors, despite being previously cast out. The latter part of the episode transitions to the rule of several subsequent judges, highlighting the cyclical nature of Israel's faithfulness and rebellion against God. Finally, we are introduced to the birth of Samson and the beginnings of his tumultuous journey as a Nazirite. Interspersed with personal reflections, the episode calls listeners to examine their own faith journeys, encouraging them to seek God's truth and embrace true repentance. 00:00 Introduction to Jephthah: The Gileadite 01:21 Israel's Rebellion and God's Response 02:33 Jephthah's Leadership and Negotiation 03:47 The Ammonite Conflict and Spiritual Lessons 05:15 Personal Reflections on Faith and Salvation 07:54 A Prayer for Salvation 09:35 The Consequences of Victory and Obedience 11:47 The Ephraimite Confrontation 17:17 The Test of Dialect and Speech 21:17 Quiet Faithfulness of Israel's Judges 23:13 The Quiet Life of Service 24:30 Review of Judges and Transition to Samson 25:00 Introduction to Samson's Birth 28:18 The Nazarite Vow and Its Significance 33:46 Manoah's Encounter with the Angel of the Lord 44:47 Samson's Birth and Early Life 45:06 Preview of Samson's Story
Dr. David Swanson | Judges 16:23-30Samson is blinded as judgement for where "his eyes took him," but even in his blindness, God gave him the necessary strength when needed, even beyond the Nazirite law or his hair.
The beginning of a new dawn for the pod! We're starting our journey through Mishnah Nazir together with substitutions, nicknames, fabulous hair and revisiting our favorite vain youth of the Talmud. Catch Shel Maala in England here: http://bit.ly/sadehsleepless To ask us questions, text or leaves us a voicemail at the Talmud Hotline at 401-484-1619 or email us at xaihowareyou@gmail.com. Support us on patreon at patreon.com/xaihowareyou. Music by Ben Schreiber.
Send us a textWelcomeThanks for pressing play! In today's journey through Judges we meet Samson—the gifted judge who could tear lions to shreds, yet couldn't rein in his own appetite. His life is a walking paradox: Spirit-empowered, vow-bound … and willfully compromised. The big question we're chasing: How can a holy God work through people who are anything but holy? If you've ever felt the tension between your calling and your failures, Samson's story is your mirror—and your hope.Episode Notes1. Three Snapshot Scenes1. **The Woman (vv. 1-4)** “She is right in my eyes.” – Samson • Impulse over covenant • Echo of the book's theme: *“Everyone did what was right in his own eyes”* (Judg 21:25).2. **The Lion (vv. 5-9)** • Spirit-given strength vs. self-given silence • Touches a carcass twice, quietly breaking his Nazirite vow.3. **The Riddle (vv. 10-12)** • A seven-day drinking feast among Philistines • “Out of the eater came something to eat…”—turning sin's secrecy into gambling capital.2. Big Truths to Chew On| Truth | Why It Matters || God's sovereignty bends even sinful choices into redemptive purposes (v. 4). | Your failures don't write the final chapter. || Charisma without character caves in. | Spiritual gifting ≠ spiritual maturity. || “Right in my eyes” is the default of a leaderless heart. | We all need a better King than ourselves. |3. Reflection Questions1. Where do you rely on gifting while neglecting character? 2. Which appetites currently drive your “sight-based” decisions? 3. How have you seen God redeem a bad choice you made? 4. In what area do you need to swap *“right in my eyes”* for *“right in God's eyes”* this week?### 4. Practice This Week• 30-Minute Audit:** List recent decisions. Mark each *S* (sight) or *F* (faith). Pray over the *S's.* • Honey Fast:** Skip your go-to comfort snack/beverage for three days. Each craving = a cue to pray, “Lord, master my appetites.” • Accountability Text:** Ask a trusted friend, “What blind-spot do you see in me that I justify as ‘right in my eyes'?”6. Resources & Links Karl Barth, *Church Dogmatics* IV/1, p. 209 – on God's use of human sin for divine purpose ---##
BOOK OF JUDGES Strength Without Surrender 6.22.25 Judges 13:1-5 ESV “And the people of Israel again did what was evil in the sight of the Lord, so the Lord gave them into the hand of the Philistines for forty years. There was a certain man of Zorah, of the tribe of the Danites, whose name was Manoah. And his wife was barren and had no children. And the angel of the Lord appeared to the woman and said to her, “Behold, you are barren and have not borne children, but you shall conceive and bear a son. Therefore be careful and drink no wine or strong drink, and eat nothing unclean, for behold, you shall conceive and bear a son. No razor shall come upon his head, for the child shall be a Nazirite to God from the womb, and he shall begin to save Israel from the hand of the Philistines.” Even a divine calling can be undermined by human pride. Judges 14:1-3 ESV “Samson went down to Timnah, and at Timnah he saw one of the daughters of the Philistines. Then he came up and told his father and mother, “I saw one of the daughters of the Philistines at Timnah. Now get her for me as my wife.” But his father and mother said to him, “Is there not a woman among the daughters of your relatives, or among all our people, that you must go to take a wife from the uncircumcised Philistines?” But Samson said to his father, “Get her for me, for she is right in my eyes. Gifting is not the same as godliness. A divine gifting can be undermined by selfish ambitions! Isolation becomes the soil where compromise grows. Judges 16:20 ESV “And she said, “The Philistines are upon you, Samson!” And he awoke from his sleep and said, “I will go out as at other times and shake myself free.” But he did not know that the Lord had left him.” What you refuse to surrender will eventually rule over you.
In this week's Parsha and Prose, we journey through Parshat Naso (Numbers 4:21–7:89) and find rich parallels in Leo Tolstoy's literary masterpiece, Anna Karenina. What do a Torah portion about vows, purity, and priestly blessings have in common with a 19th-century Russian novel? More than you think.
In this week's Parsha and Prose, we journey through Parshat Naso (Numbers 4:21–7:89) and find rich parallels in Leo Tolstoy's literary masterpiece, Anna Karenina. What do a Torah portion about vows, purity, and priestly blessings have in common with a 19th-century Russian novel? More than you think.
Thank you for listening, please go to StreamcastDetroit.com/donate and pledge your support for Let's Talk TorahThe Nazir abstains from wine and other stuff, is this a good thing or not?Join Rabbi Tzvi as he dives into the Nazirite view, famous Nazirites, and the importance of “peace” Thank you for listening, please go to StreamcastDetroit.com/donate and pledge your support for Let's Talk Torah
We are now ready for chapter six in the book of Numbers, which the first part of this chapter. In fact, most of this chapter is very unique. It deals with a biblical command, a command known as a Nazirite vow. Now, that word for Nazarite is one of separation, and it reminds us, if we're going to be used by God and we're going to receive from God, we need to be different. We need to come out of this world now, we need to be very careful, because there are two words that sound similar, but they mean two entirely different things.To donate please visit us at:https://loveisrael.org/donate/Checks may be sent to:LoveIsrael.org6355 N Courtenay ParkwayMerritt Island, FL 32953Feel free to download our MyBibleStudy App on telephonehttps://get.theapp.co/yjjqwe don't know how long we can post the teachings on YThttps://www.instagram.com/mybiblestudyofficial/ To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.oneplace.com/donate/1256/29
We are now ready for chapter six in the book of Numbers, which the first part of this chapter. In fact, most of this chapter is very unique. It deals with a biblical command, a command known as a Nazirite vow. Now, that word for Nazarite is one of separation, and it reminds us, if we're going to be used by God and we're going to receive from God, we need to be different. We need to come out of this world now, we need to be very careful, because there are two words that sound similar, but they mean two entirely different things.To donate please visit us at:https://loveisrael.org/donate/Checks may be sent to:LoveIsrael.org6355 N Courtenay ParkwayMerritt Island, FL 32953Feel free to download our MyBibleStudy App on telephonehttps://get.theapp.co/yjjqwe don't know how long we can post the teachings on YThttps://www.instagram.com/mybiblestudyofficial/ To support this ministry financially, visit: https://www.lightsource.com/donate/1255/29
https://media.urclearning.org/audio/janbazian/msj-2025-05-18_acts-18-9--18-23.mp3
Today, we'll conclude the account of Samson, one of Israel's judges. As you may recall from the last episode, Samson was supposed to be dedicated to the Lord as a Nazirite from birth, and yet he did very little to keep that vow. We pick up his story with the account of his interactions with a Philistine woman named Delilah, a woman of the very nation that Israel had been tasked with destroying for their perpetual evil. As a representative of Israel, it's no surprise that in the end, he falls to the strength of another nation because he gives into his passions. In the end, however, the angel's prediction is true: he will begin to save Israel from the power of the Philistines.Judges 16 - 1:01 . Judges 17 - 9:24 . Judges 18 - 11:46 . Psalm 82 - 18:24 . :::Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by the Christian Standard Bible.facebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org
Today, we'll begin to look at the life of Samson, a man who kept the Nazirite vow from his birth, until he didn't, and violated it several times over. In short, Samson is a picture of Israel in one person. Meant to be set apart and holy, he instead takes his vows and his God lightly, defiling himself over and over. A Nazirite was supposed avoid dead bodies, yet he eats honey from a lion's carcass and uses a jawbone for a weapon. A Nazirite was supposed to abstain from wine, yet Samson threw a drinking party for the Philistines. And, in our next episode, the last vow to go is that of not cutting his hair, which he hands over to a Delilah, a woman of the very nation that Israel had been tasked with destroying for their perpetual evil.Judges 13 - 1:00 . Judges 14 - 5:43 . Judges 15 - 11:06 . Psalm 81 - 15:47 . :::Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by the Christian Standard Bible.facebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org
ALC Recommends: Mother's Day is this Sunday!“Again the Israelites did evil in the Lord's sight, so the Lord handed them over to the Philistines, who oppressed them for forty years. In those days a man named Manoah from the tribe of Dan lived in the town of Zorah. His wife was unable to become pregnant, and they had no children. The angel of the Lord appeared to Manoah's wife and said, “Even though you have been unable to have children, you will soon become pregnant and give birth to a son. So be careful; you must not drink wine or any other alcoholic drink nor eat any forbidden food. You will become pregnant and give birth to a son, and his hair must never be cut. For he will be dedicated to God as a Nazirite from birth. He will begin to rescue Israel from the Philistines.”- Judges 13:1-5 NLT
In short, Samson is a picture of Israel in one person. Meant to be set apart and holy, he instead takes his vows and his God lightly, defiling himself over and over. A Nazirite was supposed avoid dead bodies, yet he eats honey from a lion's carcass and uses a jawbone for a weapon. A Nazirite was supposed to abstain from wine, yet Samson threw a drinking party for the Philistines. The last vow to go is that of not cutting his hair, which he hands over to a Delilah, a woman of the very nation that Israel had been tasked with destroying for their perpetual evil. In the end, the angel's prediction is true: he will begin to save Israel from the power of the Philistines.Judges 13 – 1:14 . Judges 14 – 6:20 . Judges 15 – 10:52 . Judges 16 - 15:52 . Psalm 75 - 23:30 . Psalm 76 – 24:49 . :::Christian Standard Bible translation.All music written and produced by John Burgess Ross.Co-produced by Bobby Brown, Katelyn Pridgen, Eric Williamson & the Christian Standard Biblefacebook.com/commuterbibleinstagram.com/commuter_bibletwitter.com/CommuterPodpatreon.com/commuterbibleadmin@commuterbible.org
Today's Scripture passages are Numbers 5 - Numbers 6 | Galatians 1.Read by Ekemini Uwan.Get in The Word with Truth's Table is a production of InterVarsity Press. For 75 years, IVP has published and created thoughtful Christian books for the university, church, and the world. Our Bible reading plan is adapted from Bible Study Together, and the Bible version is the New English Translation, used by permission.SPECIAL OFFER | As a listener of this podcast, use the code IVPOD25 for 25% off any IVP resource mentioned in this episode at ivpress.com.Additional Credits:Song production: Seaux ChillSong lyrics written by: Seaux Chill, Ekemini Uwan, and Christina EdmondsonPodcast art: Kate LillardPhotography: Shelly EveBible consultant: JM SmithSound engineering: Podastery StudiosCreative producers: Ekemini Uwan and Christina EdmondsonAssistant producer: Christine Pelliccio MeloExecutive producer: Helen LeeDisclaimer: The comments, views, and opinions expressed in this podcast are solely those of the host and/or the guests featured on the podcast and do not necessarily reflect the views or positions of InterVarsity Press or InterVarsity Christian Fellowship.
Numbers 6 is a chapter in the Book of Numbers in the Bible that outlines the Nazirite vow and contains the well-known priestly blessing. Here's a breakdown of the key elements of the chapter: 1. The Nazirite Vow (Verses 1–21) The chapter begins with God's instructions to Moses regarding the Nazirite vow, a special commitment that an Israelite could make to dedicate themselves to the Lord for a specific period. This vow involved three key restrictions: •No consumption of wine or strong drink – This included any grape-related products, such as vinegar, juice, or even fresh or dried grapes. •No cutting of hair – The Nazirite was to let their hair grow long as a sign of their consecration to God. •Avoiding contact with the dead – Even if a close family member died, the Nazirite was not to come near a corpse, as this would make them unclean. If the vow was accidentally broken (e.g., by coming into contact with a dead body), the person had to perform a purification ritual and restart the vow. At the completion of the vow, the Nazirite had to bring offerings to the tabernacle, shave their head, and burn the hair as part of the sacrifice, symbolizing the end of their period of separation to the Lord. 2. The Priestly Blessing (Verses 22–27) The latter part of the chapter contains the priestly blessing, a beautiful and well-known passage where God instructs Aaron and his sons to bless the Israelites: “The Lord bless you and keep you; The Lord make His face shine upon you, And be gracious to you; The Lord lift up His countenance upon you, And give you peace.” (Numbers 6:24–26, NKJV) This blessing is a powerful prayer for protection, grace, and peace. It remains one of the most widely used benedictions in Christian and Jewish traditions today. Themes and Significance •Dedication to God – The Nazirite vow shows a special way of devotion beyond regular worship, illustrating how people could set themselves apart for God. •Holiness and Purity – The restrictions emphasize spiritual purity and separation from worldly influences. •God's Blessing – The priestly blessing highlights God's care, favor, and peace upon His people, showing His desire to be in relationship with them. Numbers 6 reminds us of the importance of commitment to God and the blessings that come from living under His favor. Would you like a deeper analysis or a reflection on how this chapter applies to modern faith and practice?Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/sendme-radio--732966/support.
A Liturgy for Those Struggling in Secret Father, I confess that I've been struggling. With nowhere else to turn, I come to You. My wounds have festered deep within the dark— They're veiled in shadows, covered by façades. Yahweh El Roi, You are the God who sees me. Only You know the missteps I have hidden. Only You see the sins I keep secret. Will You make a way where I see no way out? Compassionate and merciful Jesus, I know my shame was nailed upon the cross. Hold my hand as I step fully into light, And grant me courage to walk in Your ways. SAMSON - THE WEAKEST MAN IN THE WORLD Resurrection out of the Chains of Sexual Lust Judges 13:5 For behold, you shall conceive and bear a son. No razor shall come upon his head, for the child shall be a Nazrite to God from the womb, and he shall begin to save Israel from the hand of the Philistines.” Judges 16:1-31 One day Samson went to Gaza, where he saw a prostitute. He went in to spend the night with her. 2 The people of Gaza were told, “Samson is here!” So they surrounded the place and lay in wait for him all night at the city gate. They made no move during the night, saying, “At dawn we'll kill him.” 3 But Samson lay there only until the middle of the night. Then he got up and took hold of the doors of the city gate, together with the two posts, and tore them loose, bar and all. He lifted them to his shoulders and carried them to the top of the hill that faces Hebron. 4 Some time later, he fell in love with a woman in the Valley of Sorek whose name was Delilah. 5 The rulers of the Philistines went to her and said, “See if you can lure him into showing you the secret of his great strength and how we can overpower him so we may tie him up and subdue him. Each one of us will give you eleven hundred shekels[a] of silver.” 6 So Delilah said to Samson, “Tell me the secret of your great strength and how you can be tied up and subdued.” 7 Samson answered her, “If anyone ties me with seven fresh bowstrings that have not been dried, I'll become as weak as any other man.” 8 Then the rulers of the Philistines brought her seven fresh bowstrings that had not been dried, and she tied him with them. 9 With men hidden in the room, she called to him, “Samson, the Philistines are upon you!” But he snapped the bowstrings as easily as a piece of string snaps when it comes close to a flame. So the secret of his strength was not discovered. 10 Then Delilah said to Samson, “You have made a fool of me; you lied to me. Come now, tell me how you can be tied.” 11 He said, “If anyone ties me securely with new ropes that have never been used, I'll become as weak as any other man.” 12 So Delilah took new ropes and tied him with them. Then, with men hidden in the room, she called to him, “Samson, the Philistines are upon you!” But he snapped the ropes off his arms as if they were threads. 13 Delilah then said to Samson, “All this time you have been making a fool of me and lying to me. Tell me how you can be tied.” He replied, “If you weave the seven braids of my head into the fabric on the loom and tighten it with the pin, I'll become as weak as any other man.” So while he was sleeping, Delilah took the seven braids of his head, wove them into the fabric 14 and tightened it with the pin. Again she called to him, “Samson, the Philistines are upon you!” He awoke from his sleep and pulled up the pin and the loom, with the fabric. 15 Then she said to him, “How can you say, ‘I love you,' when you won't confide in me? This is the third time you have made a fool of me and haven't told me the secret of your great strength.” 16 With such nagging she prodded him day after day until he was sick to death of it. 17 So he told her everything. “No razor has ever been used on my head,” he said, “because I have been a Nazirite dedicated to God from my mother's womb. If my head were shaved, my strength would leave me, and I would become as weak as any other man.” 18 When Delilah saw that he had told her everything, she sent word to the rulers of the Philistines, “Come back once more; he has told me everything.” So the rulers of the Philistines returned with the silver in their hands. 19 After putting him to sleep on her lap, she called for someone to shave off the seven braids of his hair, and so began to subdue him. And his strength left him. 20 Then she called, “Samson, the Philistines are upon you!” He awoke from his sleep and thought, “I'll go out as before and shake myself free.” But he did not know that the Lord had left him. 21 Then the Philistines seized him, gouged out his eyes and took him down to Gaza. Binding him with bronze shackles, they set him to grinding grain in the prison. 22 But the hair on his head began to grow again after it had been shaved. The Death of Samson 23 Now the rulers of the Philistines assembled to offer a great sacrifice to Dagon their god and to celebrate, saying, “Our god has delivered Samson, our enemy, into our hands.” 24 When the people saw him, they praised their god, saying, “Our god has delivered our enemy into our hands, the one who laid waste our land and multiplied our slain.” 25 While they were in high spirits, they shouted, “Bring out Samson to entertain us.” So they called Samson out of the prison, and he performed for them. When they stood him among the pillars, 26 Samson said to the servant who held his hand, “Put me where I can feel the pillars that support the temple, so that I may lean against them.” 27 Now the temple was crowded with men and women; all the rulers of the Philistines were there, and on the roof were about three thousand men and women watching Samson perform. 28 Then Samson prayed to the Lord, “Sovereign Lord, remember me. Please, God, strengthen me just once more, and let me with one blow get revenge on the Philistines for my two eyes.” 29 Then Samson reached toward the two central pillars on which the temple stood. Bracing himself against them, his right hand on the one and his left hand on the other, 30 Samson said, “Let me die with the Philistines!” Then he pushed with all his might, and down came the temple on the rulers and all the people in it. Thus he killed many more when he died than while he lived. 31 Then his brothers and his father's whole family went down to get him. They brought him back and buried him between Zorah and Eshtaol in the tomb of Manoah his father. He had led Israel twenty years. HOW WE SEE PEOPLE IS IMPORTANT TO GOD. “To look upon a woman lustfully is to separate her body from her soul, and thus to bring about death. The death which is summoned is a spiritual one, but it comes to him who would attempt to bring about such a divorce of body and soul.“ OUR DESTINATION DECISIONS ARE CRITICAL LUST MAKES SMART PEOPLE STUPID HERE WAS THE UNDOING OF SAMSON: HE WAS STRONG ON THE OUTSIDE AND WEAK ON THE INSIDE SEXUAL SIN BLINDS US TO CONSEQUENCE GOD'S GRACE COMES BEFORE WE EVEN SEE IT THE CROSS IS THE GATEWAY TO RESURRECTION Matthew 16:24-26 24 Then Jesus told his disciples, “If anyone would come after me, let him deny himself and take up his cross and follow me. 25 For whoever would save his life will lose it, but whoever loses his life for my sake will find it. 26 For what will it profit a man if he gains the whole world and forfeits his soul?
His Hebrew name is Jacob. He was a close kinsman of Christ, and was therefore called, according to the Jewish usage of the time, his "brother." Some accounts say that he was a child of Joseph by his first marriage; others accounts say that he was the son of Joseph's brother Cleopas and his wife Mary, who was first cousin of the Theotokos. He took the Nazirite vows of one completely consecrated to God according to the Law, and from a young age he was called "the Just" by his people. He is called James the Lesser in Scripture (Mark 15:40) to distinguish him from James the son of Zebedee, who is called the Greater. The Apostles appointed him first Bishop of Jerusalem. It was he who presided at the earliest Council of the Church in Jerusalem, where he resolved the problem of how gentile converts should be received into the Church (see Acts 15). He wrote the New Testament Epistle, addressed primarily to Jewish converts to the Faith, that bears his name. About the year 62, he ascended to the peak of the Temple in Jerusalem on Passover, and there bore witness to Christ so effectively that the people cried out "Hosanna to the Son of David." At this, the Scribes and Pharisees, fearing that all the people would be converted to Christ, cast him down to the ground. By God's grace, he survived long enough to rise, kneel and pray, like his Master, "Forgive them, Father, for they know not what they do." He was then clubbed to death by one of the scribes.
Have you ever pondered the ancient paths that guide modern life? Embark with us on a spiritual journey through the Books of Leviticus and Numbers (Vayikra and Bamidbar), where commandments like kosher laws and the sanctity of speech intertwine to sculpt the route to holiness and spiritual connection. Our series, which scrutinizes the five books of the Torah over five weeks, reaches pivotal moments as we dissect the quintessential desert experience of the Jewish people within Numbers—a narrative steeped in struggle that mirrors the eternal Jewish condition. This episode sets the stage for Deuteronomy's crucial revisitation of Torah teachings, serving as a beacon for navigating the challenges and triumphs of contemporary existence.From the structured tribal encampments of biblical times to the cherished banners signifying unique identities, this episode draws intriguing parallels to today's quest for order and self-identity, akin to modern team affiliations. We probe the rich symbolism behind each tribe's ensign around the Tabernacle, highlighting the enduring need to instill pride and individuality in our communities and in our youth. The discourse extends to the Israelite census, sparking a compelling conversation around DEI (diversity, equity, and inclusion) that questions the equilibrium between inherent disparities and the aspiration for egalitarianism.Dive into the profound stories and interpretations that have molded Jewish thought for generations. We dissect the tales of Hannah, the ordeal of the Sotah, and the discipline of the Nazirite, extracting timeless wisdom on divine justice and personal devotion. The episodes of the ark's travels and the people's discontent with manna serve as potent reminders to cherish gratitude and acknowledge the Almighty's clear and visible guardianship. Join us for an inspirational session that will leave you enriched with lessons from the Torah, ready to face life's journey with a refreshed perspective.This episode is dedicated to Meira Wolbe & Shimon Prupas on their engagement!!Download & Print the Class Notes:https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1O3-lipTZyLSRnHs-IIdZLTB822LyuLwc?usp=sharingRecorded in the TORCH Centre - Studio B to a live audience on February 27, 2024, in Houston, Texas.Released as Podcast on October 15, 2024_____________DONATE to TORCH: Please consider supporting the podcasts by making a donation to help fund our Jewish outreach and educational efforts at https://www.torchweb.org/support.php. Thank you!_____________SUBSCRIBE and LISTEN to other podcasts by Rabbi Aryeh Wolbe: NEW!! Prayer Podcast: https://prayerpodcast.transistor.fm/episodesJewish Inspiration Podcast: https://inspiration.transistor.fm/episodesParsha Review Podcast: https://parsha.transistor.fm/episodesLiving Jewishly Podcast: https://jewishly.transistor.fm/episodesThinking Talmudist Podcast: https://talmud.transistor.fm/episodesUnboxing Judaism Podcast: https://unboxing.transistor.fm/episodesRabbi Aryeh Wolbe Podcast Collection: https://collection.transistor.fm/episodesFor a full listing of podcasts available by TORCH at https://www.TORCHpodcasts.com_____________EMAIL your questions, comments, and feedback: awolbe@torchweb.org_____________Please visit www.torchweb.org to see a full listing of our outreach and educational resources available in the Greater Houston area! ★ Support this podcast ★
God gave His people the Nazirite vow as an opportunity for an individual Israelite to set himself apart for a particular task for the LORD for a limited period of time. Open to both men and women, the Nazirite was to remain separate from three particular things. First, Nazirites were not to partake of alcoholic drinks or anything made from grapes. Second, Nazirites were not to go near dead bodies. Third, Nazirites were not to cut their hair during the time of their vow. The completion of the Nazirite vow was a time of great joy. The LORD's joy was not limited to such special occasions, however. The LORD gave joy to all His people every time the priests blessed them and placed His name upon them. Rev. Lucas Witt, assistant director of the Lutheran Mission Society of Maryland, headquartered in Baltimore, MD, joins host Rev. Timothy Appel to study Nehemiah 13:1-30. "Wilderness Wanderings” is a series on Sharper Iron that goes through the book of Numbers. After the LORD delivers His people from slavery in Egypt, He leads them toward the Promised Land. Although the first generation of Israelites proves faithless, the LORD remains faithful to His people and brings a new generation of Israelites to the plains of Moab. This strengthens us to listen to God's promises today and stay faithful to Him as He guides us toward resurrection life.
Discover the transformative power of embracing God's call in our latest sermon, "Why You're NOT What You've Done: Embrace God's Call." Just as God called Samson a Nazirite despite his many flaws, He sees beyond your past mistakes and still calls you His child. Dive deep into this powerful message and learn how to activate God's presence in your life, move past your past, and walk in the victory He has already given you. This is not just another sermon; it's a call to live in your true identity and to be celebrated, not just tolerated. Don't miss this life-changing word—watch now and embrace your God-given destiny!