Articles Archives - Page 2 of 16

In What Language Were the Synoptic Gospels Written?

This paper looks at the language spoken in and around Israel in the first century, and the claims that Hebrew or Aramaic was the lingua franca of the time. The focus then shifts to the writing of the Synoptic Gospels and what has been titled the “Synoptic Problem.” Caleb Hegg looks at the various claims related to the order of writing and the suggestion of a “Q” document. Finally, the presence of what is known as the Hebrew Matthew, or the Hebrew Gospel is then looked at and its part in the writing of the Gospels. In conclusion, Caleb believes there is solid evidence to suggest the original language these works were written in.

Women Wearing Tzitzit

Tim Hegg looks at the commandment of Tzitzit (Tassels) as prescribed by the Torah in Numbers 15:37ff, and investigates if this command applies to women. In our modern time, some teachers and ministries have taught that this command is only for men. The argument is put forward that tzitzit are a man’s garment, and that women should, therefore, not ware them. Other teachers and ministries have suggested that Judaism as a whole has deemed tzitzit to be for men and therefore the tradition is set. Hegg begins by looking at various rabbinic witnesses to see how the rabbis have viewed this command throughout the ages. Hegg systematically shows that tzitzit have not always been seen as only obligatory for men. As a result, Hegg suggests that this command according to rabbinic literature is for women as well. In conclusion this paper shows that Judaism does not see this as a cut and dry issue.

Hebrew Word Yada

The Hebrew word “know” (yada’), which is a common root in the semitic languages, has a wide range of meanings depending upon the context in which the word is found. Like our word “know” in English, the Hebrew word can indicate mental knowledge, that is, that a person “understands” or “has knowledge” of something, as when we say “I know that 2 + 2 is 4”.

Spirituality, Are we Better off Now?

Tim Hegg looks at the claim that the Sprit is now available to believers in new ways that discount the “Old Covenant.” Many claim that the new covenant that all believers take part in through the blood of the Messiah Yeshua, is Spiritual in nature. This view holds that the Torah is summed up in “loving one’s neighbor.” The minutiae of the Torah (all of the many regulations both civil and religious) have given way to the leading of the Spirit in matters of loving God and neighbor. In fact, the whole concept of love now is the controlling factor, where it was not so in ancient Israel.

Does the English Word “Easter” Derive from the Name of the Pagan Goddess “Ishtar?”

In this article, Tim Hegg looks at the claim that the name “Easter” comes from the pagan goddess Ishtar. Hegg looks at the etymology of this word, and the history of this claim. In addition, Hegg looks at the oldest references we have of Easter being seen as pagan. Due to the evidence, Hegg challenges the commonly believed claims.

What’s in a Name? Thoughts on “One Law”

In this short article, Tim Hegg looks at the label “One Law” as a title for a segment of the “Messianic movement” and a particular theological position. Viewing the theology that is put under the title “One Law,” Hegg is able to define the core differences between various groups within the wider “Messianic” movement. As a result, Hegg is able to show clear distinctions between various perspectives within the larger Messianic movement.

Paleo Hebrew Validity as a Hermeneutical Tool

In this transcript of an interview with Dr. Michael Brown, Paleo Hebrew is discussed. Many within the Hebrew Roots movement think that they can use Paleo Hebrew to find deeper meaning in the biblical text. Dr. Brown has his doctorate in Near Easter Languages, and discusses the script known as Paleo Hebrew. Dr. Brown shows this form of interpretation is not a valid hermeneutic but is based upon false linguistic assumptions.

“Great is Your Faithfulness” – Thoughts on Tisha B’Av

Tim Hegg looks at the 9th of Av, which has traditionally been filled with woe for the nation of Israel. It is traditional to fast and pray on this day every year. It is also traditional to read the book of Lamentations. Hegg emphasizes that though the book of Lamentations describes the sorrow which the destruction of the Temple brought to the people of Israel, the primary message of the book is that God is in control and He is eternally faithful to His covenant promises…

Some Responses to Nehemia Gordon’s Rejoinder

This paper continues a debate between Tim Hegg and Nehemia Gordon concerning Matthew 23. This specific paper is a response to Gordon’s rejoinder. In it Hegg clarifies several points, and suggests that Gordon has not been as upfront with his audience as he perhaps should be. Hegg focuses on the texts employed by Gordon and the fact that these texts do not make up the majority of good sources on the subject. Especially relevant is the work Hegg has done on the Hebrew Matthew. As a result, Hegg’s knowledge of the Matthew DuTillet and the Even Bohan shine through in this response.

Shabbat Zachor: Notes on Deuteronomy 25:17-19

Notes on the Shabbat immediately preceding Purim. This shabbat is referred to as Shabbat Zachor, “The Shabbat of Remembering”, which is taken from the passage of Torah that is read on this Shabbat, Deut. 25:17-19. In this paper, Tim Hegg looks at the attack by the Amalekites on Israel, and as a result, the command of God within this passage.

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