Torah Portion

Overview: “Korach” tells the story of Korah’s rebellion against Moses and Aaron, challenging their leadership. God confirms His chosen leaders through dramatic judgments, including the earth swallowing Korah and his followers. The portion concludes with laws concerning the priests and Levites.
Commentary: Korah’s rebellion warns against pride and divisiveness within the community. Yeshua, as the ultimate leader and High Priest, exemplifies humility and service, showing believers how to walk in unity and obedience.

Overview: “Sh’lach” recounts the story of the twelve spies sent to scout the Promised Land. Ten of them bring back a fearful report, leading to the people’s rebellion and God’s decree that the generation of the Exodus would wander for forty years. The portion also includes laws about offerings and tzitzit (fringes).
Commentary: The spies’ failure to trust God highlights the importance of faith over fear. For Messianic believers, the tzitzit serve as a reminder to live according to God’s commandments. Yeshua calls His followers to trust Him completely, even when circumstances seem daunting.

Overview: “Beha’alotcha” details the menorah’s lighting, the consecration of the Levites, and Israel’s journey from Sinai. It also recounts the people’s complaints about manna and Moses’ burden of leadership.
Commentary: The menorah symbolizes God’s light shining through His people. Yeshua, as the light of the world, illuminates the path for those who follow Him, providing guidance and hope.

Overview: “Naso” discusses the duties of the Levites, the laws of the Nazirite vow, the priestly blessing, and the offerings of the tribal leaders at the Tabernacle’s dedication.
Commentary: The priestly blessing reflects God’s desire to bless and protect His people. Yeshua, as the ultimate High Priest, embodies and extends this blessing to all who follow Him.

Overview: “Bemidbar” begins the Book of Numbers, detailing the census of Israel’s tribes and the arrangement of their camp around the Tabernacle. It also outlines the duties of the Levites in the sanctuary.
Commentary: The organization of the camp reflects God’s order and presence at the center of His people. For Messianic believers, Yeshua’s role as the cornerstone emphasizes unity and purpose among God’s people.

Overview: “Bechukotai” concludes Leviticus with blessings for obedience and warnings for disobedience. It also includes laws regarding vows and dedications to the Lord.
Commentary: This portion highlights the covenantal relationship between God and Israel, underscoring the consequences of faithfulness or rebellion. For Messianic believers, Yeshua embodies the ultimate blessing, securing our covenant relationship through His obedience and sacrifice.

Overview: “Behar” discusses the sabbatical (Shemitah) year, the Jubilee (Yovel), and laws about property, servitude, and care for the poor. These laws emphasize rest, justice, and the recognition that the land and people ultimately belong to God.
Commentary: The Jubilee points to a future era of freedom and restoration. For Messianic believers, Yeshua’s proclamation of liberty in Luke 4 aligns with the themes of Jubilee, symbolizing His mission to bring spiritual freedom and redemption.

Overview: “Emor” outlines the laws for the priesthood, regulations for sacrifices, and instructions for the appointed festivals, including Shabbat, Passover, Shavuot, and Sukkot. It also addresses the menorah and showbread.
Commentary: The appointed times provide a rhythm of worship and remembrance of God’s faithfulness. For Messianic believers, these festivals point to Yeshua’s redemptive work and the promise of future restoration.

Overview: “Kedoshim” includes the famous call to “be holy, for I the Lord your God am holy.” It covers ethical and moral laws, including loving your neighbor, honesty, and justice.
Commentary: This portion emphasizes holiness in everyday life, reflecting God’s character in ethical behavior. Yeshua’s teaching on loving one’s neighbor aligns with this portion, illustrating how holiness manifests in love and compassion.

Overview: “Acharei Mot” focuses on the Yom Kippur service, providing instructions for the High Priest’s entry into the Holy of Holies to atone for the sins of Israel. It also outlines laws against idolatry and forbidden relationships.
Commentary: The Day of Atonement highlights God’s provision for forgiveness and renewal. Yeshua, as our High Priest, fulfills the atoning work described in this portion, granting believers access to God’s presence through His sacrifice.