Torah Portion

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.

Overview: “Metzora” continues the laws of tzara’at, detailing the purification process for those who have been healed. It also addresses bodily discharges that cause ritual impurity.
Commentary: This portion highlights the transition from impurity to restoration and the importance of maintaining spiritual cleanliness. Yeshua’s healing ministry reflects these themes, showing His role in bringing ultimate purification and reconciliation with God.

Overview: “Tazria” outlines the laws of ritual impurity, focusing on childbirth and skin diseases, including the process of examining and isolating individuals with leprosy-like conditions (tzara’at).
Commentary: These laws emphasize the concepts of purity and holiness in the community. For Messianic believers, Yeshua’s healing of lepers demonstrates His power to restore not only physical health but also spiritual wholeness, bridging the gap between God and humanity.

Overview: “Shemini” recounts the eighth day of the Tabernacle’s inauguration, during which Aaron offers sacrifices and God’s glory appears. The deaths of Nadab and Abihu for offering unauthorized fire and the laws of kosher animals are also included.
Commentary: The tragic deaths of Nadab and Abihu underscore the importance of reverence and obedience in worship. The laws of clean and unclean animals highlight living in holiness. For Messianic believers, Yeshua exemplifies the holiness required to dwell in God’s presence.