In part 1 of our discussion, we talked about the horrific three-part strategy the Babylonians used to slave, torment, and oppress Yahshar’el, Daniel, and three Hebrew men, ChananYAH, Mish’el, and AzarYAH. If you haven’t read and studied last week’s Food For Thought titled “Does Your Name Matter or Should Someone Rename You? Pt 1“, I highly recommend you take some time to do so. It will provide valuable insight into this week’s topic and help you better understand this lesson’s portion.

Three-Part Strategy Found in Scripture

1. Reeducate them in the ways of the Chaldeans as well as writing and speech (Daniel 1:4)
2. Change their diets to foods that would defile them (Daniel 1:5)
3. Change their names (Daniel 1:6-7)

4. …teach them the writing and the language of the Chaldeans. 

5. And the king set to them the portion of a day in its day, from the king’s food, and the wine of his drinking, even to rear them three years, so that at their end they may stand before the king. 

6. And there were among them of the sons of Judah, Daniel, Hananiah, Mishael, and Azariah, 

7. to whom the chief of the eunuchs gave names. For he called Daniel, Belteshazzar; and ChananYAH, Shadrach; and Mish’el, Meshach; and AzarYAH, Abednego.

Daniel 1:4-7 (HRB)

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In this and all Food for Thoughts I recommend you read the Scripture(s) provided and the entire chapter they are from to obtain more insight.

Definition of Oppressive:

• Cruel, harsh, or tyrannical, unreasonably burdensome or severe, overwhelming or depressing to the spirit or senses

Definition of Oppression:

• Prolonged cruel or unjust treatment or control
• The state of being subject to unjust treatment or control
• Mental pressure or distress

Through the Lens of the Transatlantic Slave Trade

The historical event of the Hebrew captivity recorded in the book of Daniel serves as a crucial reference for understanding the Transatlantic Slave Trade and the perpetual oppression and trials that it brought and continues to bring. The Transatlantic Slave Trade brought many Hebrew and African people to America to become slaves. These enslaved people are now commonly referred to as Blacks, Negros, African Americans, People of Color, and other Negative Bywords in the United States and around the world. The Transatlantic slavers operated similarly to the Hebrew captors as they employed the same three-part strategy but with a more ruthless and savage approach. The horrors inflicted in this dark period in human history cannot be overstated, and it is important for us to remember and learn from them to ensure that such atrocities never happen again.

Reeducated

Reeducation or reprogramming began immediately by eradicating the native languages of the enslaved. Upon being placed on the slave ships, the enslaved were deliberately split from their ethnic language groups and mixed with others who spoke different languages so as not to communicate with each other. Once the mixed groups arrived in America, the slavers sold the blacks to plantation owners. The plantation enslavers continued the language reeducation by forbidding native languages from being spoken and enforcing a cruel English-only law. If caught speaking a native language, severe punishment followed.

Cut off from their native languages, their linguistic heritage was essentially stolen and never returned. Consequently, the legacy of their languages swiftly became a distant memory, profoundly impacting the subsequent generations. By the third and fourth generations, there was nothing to hand down; the languages had been lost. The loss of these languages was a loss of identity, connection, and heritage. 

Although learning to speak English was essential, their oppressors forbade them from learning to read and write the language. This oppressive law led to significant struggles with literacy that persist even now. According to the National Assessment of Educational Progress (NAEP) report in 2019 and 2022, black 4th graders had the lowest reading levels of all groups in America, as depicted in the graph below. Why? Because through continued systemic oppression, black schools often receive insufficient funding and lack the resources necessary to provide their students with the education they deserve. Simply do a google search on “blacks can’t read” or “black reading levels in Chicago,” and the findings are disheartening, especially being that taxpayers fund a universal public school system in America. 

They were also taught

• Eurocentric Christianity as a religion with edited Bibles today known as the Slave Bible. A whited-out version of the religion filled with lies of a white Creator, white Jesus, white historical biblical people, and White angels. The whiting out process continues today with little to no thought about the actual truth.

• Mistrust and hatred of one another, as well as self-hatred. The Willie Lynch letter was never confirmed; still, it speaks to the character and philosophies of the times and the detriment of the enslaved black person.

• Black men could not protect their families, and Black women were sex objects. This was accomplished in many ways; however, buck-breaking and Rape were high on the list.
  • A large majority and possibly all of the DNA results of so-called black people have European blood, which tells the story of the amount of RAPE that took place.

• There are many more self-destructive behaviors that were learned during slavery, but too many to mention. If interested, you can continue by researching the destructive psychological oppression placed on the black race through slavery.

• Jim Crow laws, Cointelpro, and other government-inflicted oppression played a significant role in the continuation of reeducation after slavery.

Diet

Plantation slavers forced the enslaved to eat scraps and biblically filthy unclean animals like pigs, raccoons, and possums, of which none were a part of their diet. None of these animals were indigenous to the areas of Africa where the people originated. In fact, pigs weren’t even native to North America; earlier European settlers brought them over as their food source. If an enslaved person refused to eat, they were tortured to encourage eating or force-fed. The change in diet, coupled with other horrible eating habits, has wreaked havoc on so-called black people and continues to devastate them to this date. The increase in salts, saturated fats, and refined sugars has devastated the black community with record-high numbers of high blood pressure, heart attacks, strokes, colon cancer, sugar diabetes, and obesity.

Renamed

As we learned last week, the final and most life-altering of the three-part strategy was the forced name change of the Hebrews and Africans. So that we don’t repeat last week’s info, please go back to “part one” and read the renamed section. The enslaver and their wives brutally and viciously changed the enslaved people’s names, forcefully closing the casket on their previous lives and ending their connection to family ties, heritage, culture, and religion(s). They essentially committed mass genocide of multiple groups of people and turned them into something else, “Niggers“, which, unfortunately, some enslaved descendants still refer to themselves and others as today. The ones that resisted were subjected to buck breaking and/or flogging. The name change was also a constant reminder that they belonged to the enslaver who named them, and they were no different from livestock.

The Plantation owners saw the Hebrew and African names as a threat to their ownership and domination over them and, therefore, made it a point to strip them of their names. The act of renaming was a brutal practice that caused immense pain and trauma. Enslaved people abandon their generational family names and adopt foreign names that were associated with their oppressors. Names like Jack, Charles, Harry, Joe, Will, and Frank were for men, while women were given names like Mary, Jane, Betty, Sarah, Phillis, and Peg against their will. They were also given surnames like Williams, Jones, Johnson, Smith, Jackson, Thomas, Brown, Walker, Davis, Green, Robinson, Scott, Harris, Turner, and Anderson. Surnames could also change if a person was sold or given to another enslaver.

Lost Roots

As stated last week, the act of renaming was a brutal and heartless practice that caused immense pain and trauma. For this very reason, many, if not all, so-called black people of America can’t trace their families without hitting a roadblock at some point. I know that this is a hard pill to swallow for many, but this history is only a brief glimpse into some of the atrocities committed, there is much much more. 

Conclusion

Next week 𐤉𐤄𐤅𐤄 willing, we will continue with part three and go further into this study with a focus on the Christian religion. I know Deuteronomy 28 is a lot to read; however, I have attached it here. Please read it through the Lens of the Transatlantic Slave Trade and allow the Ruach HaKodesh (𐤉𐤄𐤅𐤄 set-apart spirit) to guide you.

Curses for Disobedience Caused this Slavery

Deuteronomy 28:15-68 (HRB)

15. And it shall be, if you will not heed the voice of your Elohim, to take heed to do all His commandments and His statutes which I am commanding you today, even all these curses shall come on you and overtake you:
16. You shall be cursed in the city, and you shall be cursed in the field.
17. Your basket and your kneading-trough shall be cursed.
18. The fruit of your body shall be cursed, and the fruit of your land, the offspring of your oxen, and the young ones of your sheep.
19. You shall be cursed when you come in, and you shall be cursed when you go out.
20. YAHWEH shall send cursing on you, trouble and rebuke in all that you set your hand, all which you will do, until you are destroyed, or until you quickly perish, because of the badness of your doings by which you have forsaken Me.
21. YAHWEH shall make the plague cling to you until He has consumed you from off the land where you are going, to possess it.
22. YAHWEH shall strike you with lung disease and with a fever, and with an inflammation, and with extreme burning, and with the sword, and with blasting and mildew. And they shall pursue you until you perish.
23. And your heavens over your head shall become bronze, and the earth under you iron.
24. YAHWEH shall make the rain of your land be dust and ashes. It shall come down on you from the heavens until you are destroyed.
25. YAHWEH shall cause you to be stricken before your enemies. You shall go out one way against them, and shall flee seven ways before them. And you shall be a trembling to all the kingdoms of the earth.
26. And your body shall be food to all the birds of the heavens, and to the beasts of the earth; and there shall be none to cause them to tremble.
27. YAHWEH shall strike you with the ulcer of Egypt, and with hemorrhoids, and with the scab, and with itch, of which you cannot be healed.
28. YAHWEH shall strike you with madness, and with blindness, and with astonishment of heart.
29. And you shall grope at noonday as the blind grope in darkness. And you shall not prosper in your ways. And you shall be always oppressed and plundered all the days; and there will be no one to save.
30. You shall betroth a wife, and another shall lie with her. You shall build a house, and you shall not live in it. You shall plant a vineyard, and shall not use its fruit.
31. our ox shall be slaughtered before your eyes, and you shall not eat of it. Your donkey shall be violently taken away from before you, and it will not be given back. Your sheep shall be given to your enemies, and you shall have no deliverer.
32. Your sons and your daughters shall be given to another people; and your eyes shall look and fail for them all the day. And no power shall be in your hand.
33. The fruit of your ground, and all your labor, shall be eaten up by a nation which you do not know. And you shall always be oppressed and crushed. °
34. And you shall be maddened because of that which you shall see with the sight of your eyes.
35. YAHWEH shall strike you with an evil boil on the knees, and on the legs, of which you cannot be healed from the sole of your foot even to your crown.
36. YAHWEH shall cause you and your king whom you shall raise up over you, to go to a nation which you have not known, you and your fathers. And you shall serve other gods there, wood and stone.
37. And you shall be an astonishment, a proverb and a byword among all the peoples where YAHWEH shall lead you.
38. You shall carry much seed out to the field, and you shall gather in little; for the locusts will devour it.
39. You shall plant vineyards, and shall labor, and you shall not gather, nor drink wine; for the worm will devour it.
40. You shall have olive trees in all your border, and you shall not anoint with oil; for your olive shall fall off.
41. You shall father sons and daughters, and they shall not be with you; for they shall go into captivity.
42. The locust shall possess all your trees and the fruit of your ground.
43. The alien in your midst shall go above you, higher and higher; and you shall come down, lower and lower.
44. He shall lend to you, and you shall not lend to him. He shall be the head, and you shall be the tail.
45. And all these curses shall come on you and shall pursue you and overtake you, until you are destroyed; for you did not heed the voice of YAHWEH your Elohim, to keep His commandments and His statutes which He commanded you.

46. And they shall be on you for a sign and for a wonder, and on your seed forever,
47. because you did not serve YAHWEH your Elohim with joyfulness and with gladness of heart for the abundance of all things,
48. and you shall serve your enemies whom YAHWEH shall send on you, in hunger, and in thirst, and in nakedness, and in lack of all things. And He shall put an iron yoke on your neck until He has destroyed you.

49 YAHWEH shall raise a nation against you from afar, from the end of the earth, as the eagle flies; a nation whose tongue you will not understand,
50. a nation fierce of face, who will not regard the person of the aged, nor show favor to the young.

51. And he shall eat the fruit of your livestock, and the fruit of your land, until you are destroyed. He shall not leave to you grain, new wine, and oil, offspring of your oxen, or young ones of your flock, until he has destroyed you.
52. And he shall lay siege to you in all your gates, until your high and fortified walls in which you are trusting come down, in all your land; yea, he shall distress you in all your gates, in all your land which YAHWEH your Elohim has given to you.
53. And you shall eat the fruit of your body, the flesh of your sons and your daughters whom YAHWEH your Elohim has given to you, in the siege, and in the anguish with which your enemies shall distress you.
54. The man who is tender and very delicate among you, his eye shall be evil against his brother, and against the wife of his bosom, and against the remnant of his sons which he leaves,
55. so that he will not give to any of them of the flesh of his sons that he shall eat, because he has nothing left to him in the siege, and in the anguish with which your enemies shall distress you in all your gates.
56. The soft and delicate woman among you, who would not have ventured to set the sole of her foot on the ground for delicateness and tenderness, her eye shall be evil against the husband of her bosom, and against her son, and against her daughter;
57. and against her fetus which comes out from between her feet, even against her sons whom she shall bear. For she shall eat them in secret, for the lack of everything in the siege and in the anguish with which the enemy shall distress you within your gates.
58. If you will not take heed to do all the Words of this Torah, written in this book, to fear this glorious and fearful Name, YAHWEH your Elohim,
59. then YAHWEH will make your plagues remarkable, and the plagues of your children shall be great and persistent plagues with evil and long lasting sicknesses.
60. He shall also bring on you all the diseases of Egypt, of which you were afraid; and they shall cling to you.
61. Also every sickness and every plague which is not written in the book of this Torah, YAHWEH shall cause them to come on you until you are destroyed.
62. And you shall be left with few adult men, whereas you were as the stars of the heavens for multitude, because you would not obey the voice of YAHWEH your Elohim. °
63. And it shall be, as YAHWEH rejoiced over you to do you good, and to multiply you, so YAHWEH shall rejoice over you to destroy you, and to lay you waste. And you shall be plucked from the land you are going to possess.
64. And YAHWEH shall scatter you among all people, from one end of the earth even to the other, and you shall serve other gods there, wood and stone, which you have not known, nor your fathers.
65. And among these nations you shall find no ease, nor shall the sole of your foot have rest. But YAHWEH shall give you there a trembling heart and failing of eyes, and sorrow of mind.
66. And your life shall be in doubt before you, and you shall fear day and night, and shall have no assurance of your life.
67. In the morning you shall say, Oh that it were evening! And in the evening you shall say, Oh that it were morning! For the fear of your heart with which you fear, and for the sight of your eyes which you shall see.
68. And YAHWEH shall bring you into Egypt again with ships, by the way of which I said to you, You shall never see it again. And you shall be sold to your enemies there, for male slaves and slave-girls; and there shall be no buyer (REDEEMER or RECOVER).

 

Deuteronomy 28:15-68 (HRB)

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In this and all Food for Thoughts I recommend you read the Scripture(s) provided and the entire chapter they are from to obtain more insight.

By: David Edwards – HalleluYAH – Praise YAH – Praise 𐤉𐤄𐤅𐤄

The post Does Your Name Matter or Should Someone Rename you? Part 2 appeared first on Journal Thy Journey.

Names are powerful and an integral part of our personal, social, and spiritual identity and uniqueness. They serve as a window through which others view us and the historical, cultural, faith, and family connections that define us. Our names have a deep and profound impact on our sense of self, purpose, and place in the world. They provide us with a sense of belonging in the communities we are a part of, and they help us understand the values that guide us. Our names are a reflection of our past, present, and future, and they hold a significant meaning in our lives. They lay out who we are, where we come from, where we should be going, and sometimes who we belong to (e.g., Eliyahu (Elijah), meaning “YAH is my El“).

…𐤉𐤄𐤅𐤄 has called Me from the womb; From the body of My mother He has named Me.

Isaiah 10:3 (AMP)

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In this and all Food for Thoughts I recommend you read the Scripture(s) provided and the entire chapter they are from to obtain more insight.

Scientists Study the Power of a Person’s Name

According to a 2006 study(1), researchers study the brain activity of individuals to see their response to hearing their names. The participants were placed in an fMRI machine and repeatedly played four names, including their own, in random patterns. Upon hearing their names, a particular area in their brains known as the prefrontal cortex became activated.. This region of the brain is responsible for regulating our thoughts, emotions, and actions in an intelligent manner. In other words, hearing your name triggers your brain to respond as if you are engaging in cognitive activities, emotional reactions, or physical behaviors.

In fact, this reaction is so powerful that similar brain activities and reactions were seen in both coma(2) and persistent vegetative state (PVS)(3,4) patients. Coma patients are in a deep state of prolonged unconsciousness in which no amount of external stimuli can prompt the brain to become awake or alert. On the other hand, PVS patients are in a minimal or vegetative state of consciousness in which they have lost higher brain functions, self-awareness, and awareness of their environment. Regardless, both health conditions share similar illnesses, such as the inability to move, speak, or recognize others. Despite these illnesses, both group’s brains still involuntarily responded to the sound of their own name, which is a powerful response. (Research Study 1,2,3,4)

But now so says 𐤉𐤄𐤅𐤄 who formed you, O Jacob; and He who made you, O Yahshar’el: Fear not, for I have redeemed you; I called you by your name; you are Mine. 

Isaish 43:1 (HRB)

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In this and all Food for Thoughts I recommend you read the Scripture(s) provided and the entire chapter they are from to obtain more insight.

Our Names Do Matter

The power and importance of our names is undeniable. They serve as a conduit that activates functional and nonfunctioning brains and connects us to our culture, faith, and family. Our names are deeply rooted in the core of our identity and hold a significant place in shaping who we are. Therefore, it is crucial to acknowledge that OUR NAMES MATTER and are entwined with us.

So, what would happen if we were forced to adopt a new name through a brutal renaming process or brainwashing? To understand the potential effects, we will delve into the Bible, the Transatlantic Slave Trade, and religion. By examining these contexts, we can gain a deeper understanding of how the act of renaming can impact an individual’s sense of self and identity. Part 1, will cover some of the Biblical viewpoints.

And 𐤉𐤄𐤅𐤄 said to Moses, This thing which you have spoken I will do. For you have found favor in My eyes, and I know you by name. 

Exodus 33:17 (HRB)

The one overcoming, this one shall be clothed in white garments, and I will not at all blot his name out of the Book of Life; and I will acknowledge his name before My Father, and before His cherubs.

Revelation 3:5 (HRB)

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In this and all Food for Thoughts I recommend you read the Scripture(s) provided and the entire chapter they are from to obtain more insight.

Through the lens of the Bible

The 3 Hebrew Men and Daniel

In the first chapter of Daniel, we learn that Babel besieged Yerushalayim (Jerusalem) and 𐤉𐤄𐤅𐤄 (YAHUAH or YAHWEH) allowed the Yahshar’elites (Israelites) to be captured and taken into captivity. Upon reading this historical account, we can quickly discern King Nebukadnetser’s plan to manipulate and alter the minds, hearts, and souls of the Yahshar’elites. Daniel 1:4-7 reveals and outlines a three-part strategy inflicted upon the children of the Most High.

Three-Part Strategy Outlined in the Scripture Below

1. Reeducate them in the ways of the Chaldeans as well as writing and speech (Daniel 1:4)
2. Change their diets to foods that would defile them (Daniel 1:5)
3. Change their names (Daniel 1:6-7)

4. …teach them the writing and the language of the Chaldeans. 

5. And the king set to them the portion of a day in its day, from the king’s food, and the wine of his drinking, even to rear them three years, so that at their end they may stand before the king. 

6. And there were among them of the sons of Judah, Daniel, Hananiah, Mishael, and Azariah, 

7. to whom the chief of the eunuchs gave names. For he called Daniel, Belteshazzar; and Hananiah, Shadrach; and Mishael, Meshach; and Azariah, Abednego.

Daniel 1:4-7 (HRB)

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In this and all Food for Thoughts I recommend you read the Scripture(s) provided and the entire chapter they are from to obtain more insight.

Three-Part Strategy Enacted (Reeducated, Diet, and Renamed)

There is much knowledge to unpack and understand from these three devastating oppressive cultural changes. Before we move forward, it is crucial to realize that the experiences and trials of the three Hebrew men and Daniel were not isolated but instead representative of what all the Yahshar’el captives were going through. The only difference between these men and the other captives was that they were possibly given resources and privileges with their enslavement and oppression.

Definition of Oppressive:

• Cruel, harsh, or tyrannical, unreasonably burdensome or severe, overwhelming or depressing to the spirit or senses

Definition of Oppression:

• Prolonged cruel or unjust treatment or control
• The state of being subject to unjust treatment or control
• Mental pressure or distress

Reeducated

The first thing the Babylonians forced on the men was reeducation. The Hebrews were pressed and forced for about 70 years to rid themselves of their Hebrew beliefs, traditions, laws, commandments, and language. The people were subjected to intense pressure, so much so that their language shifted from Hebrew to Aramaic. The oppression was so severe and mind-altering that it had a lasting effect on their language. This is evident as the Books of Daniel and Ezra were written in Aramaic. Additionally, the Aramaic language continued to be spoken and written after captivity and even during Yahshua’s time, about five hundred or more years later.

Diet

Secondly, the Hebrews were forced to change their diets. Food is more than just sustenance – like our names, it connects us to our heritage and history. For the Hebrews, food was also a way to connect with 𐤉𐤄𐤅𐤄 and follow His commandments. 𐤉𐤄𐤅𐤄 laid out specific guidelines for what they could and could not eat, what was clean and what was unclean (Genesis 7:2, Leviticus 11, Deuteronomy 14:1-21). Fortunately, Daniel took a firm stand with conviction and loyalty to 𐤉𐤄𐤅𐤄 and refused to defile himself. He negotiated with the chief eunuch and persuaded the eunuch and King Cyrus to allow him and the other Hebrews in the palace to follow a 𐤉𐤄𐤅𐤄 approved diet (Daniel 1:8-21). It’s worth noting that this agreement only applied to Daniel and his companions, not the other Yahshar’elites in captivity.

Renamed

Lastly, and the most life-altering of the three, was the forced name change of the Hebrews. The power of names cannot be overstated, especially for people who have been enslaved and oppressed. For enslaved individuals, their names are often the only thing they have left that connects them to their heritage and sense of self. It symbolizes their identity and reminds them of their culture and everything that makes them who they are.

This act of renaming was a brutal practice that caused immense pain and trauma. It was a deliberate attempt to sever their connection to their past and strip them of their identity. It was also a way to weaken the slave’s spirit and to remind them of their inferior position in society. However, for many Hebrews, renaming goes further. Many of them had the name of 𐤉𐤄𐤅𐤄 (YAH or ‘El or “Al) integrated into their name. Thus, indicating who they belonged to and who they were as a people. The Babylonians not only sought to give the Hebrews a new identity, but they also wanted to change their Elohim (Romans 1:25). View the name changes below of Daniel and the Hebrew men in the palace:

• Dani’el or Dani’al new identity was Belteshazzar or Ba’altesha’tstsar
  • Daniel means “The Elohim is my judge” (Elohim being 𐤉𐤄𐤅𐤄).
  • Ba’altesha’tstsar means “Bel protect the king.”
• KananYAH or ChananYAH new identity was Shadrak
  • ChananYAH means “YAH is Gracious.”
  • Shadrak means “command of Aku” Aku is a Babylonian moon god.
• Mish’al or Misha’el new identity was Meshach
  • Mishael means “who is like the Elohim” (Elohim being 𐤉𐤄𐤅𐤄).
  • Meshach “who is what Aku is” Aku is a Babylonian moon god.
• AzarYAH new identity was Abednego
  • AzarYAH means “YAH has Helped.”
  • Abednego means “servant of Nebo” Nebo is the Babylonian god of wisdom.

Occupation

As I studied the book of Daniel and contemplated this Food for Thought, the Book of Maccabees kept replaying in my mind. I couldn’t help but recall the unbearable oppression that King  Antiochus Epiphanes imposed on the Yahshar’elites. It dawned on me that the kings of Babylon and King Antiochus Epiphanes were driven by the same wicked ambition – to gradually erase the people’s sense of identity, connection with the creator 𐤉𐤄𐤅𐤄, and the principles of His commandments. Take a moment and read 1 Maccabees 1:41-50 to see the parallel.

41. Then the king wrote to his whole kingdom that all should be one people,

42. and that each should give up his customs.

43. All the Gentiles accepted the command of the king. Many even from Israel gladly adopted his religion; they sacrificed to idols and profaned the sabbath.

44. And the king sent letters by messengers to Jerusalem and the cities of Judah; he directed them to follow customs strange to the land,

45. to forbid burnt offerings and sacrifices and drink offerings in the sanctuary, to profane sabbaths and feasts,

46. to defile the sanctuary and the priests,

47. to build altars and sacred precincts and shrines for idols, to sacrifice swine and unclean animals,

48. and to leave their sons uncircumcised. They were to make themselves abominable by everything unclean and profane,

49. so that they should forget the law and change all the ordinances.

50. “And whoever does not obey the command of the king shall die.”

1 Maccabees 1:41-50

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In this and all Food for Thoughts I recommend you read the Scripture(s) provided and the entire chapter they are from to obtain more insight.

Conclusion

Next week 𐤉𐤄𐤅𐤄 willing we will continue with part two and go further into this study with a focus on the Transatlantic Slave Trade and religion.

By: David Edwards – HalleluYAH – Praise YAH – Praise 𐤉𐤄𐤅𐤄

The post Does Your Name Matter or Should Someone Rename you? Part 1 appeared first on Journal Thy Journey.

The Almighty 𐤉𐤄𐤅𐤄 YAH, in His infinite wisdom and knowledge (Isaiah 55:8–9, Isaiah 40:15,28), whom no man can begin to comprehend. He chose to include unique and meaningful names and genealogies throughout the Bible. For years, I found these portions of the Bible to be dull or boring and pondered over the relevance of these extensive genealogies. Consequently, I would often skip them altogether or merely skim through them. However, YAH began to show me the power of these genealogies and their purpose in understanding the scriptural narrative. Additionally, 𐤉𐤄𐤅𐤄 reminded me that it was Him who put these families together for a purpose, just like He put mine together.

The names and genealogies chronicled in the Bible are a treasure trove of valuable information. They provide a comprehensive record of the lineage of various groups of people, offering a glimpse into their history, culture, and traditions. These records provide a wealth of knowledge about the relationships between different individuals and families and their geographical origins. (PLEASE View the Sons of Japheth at the bottom and click the maps link). The detailed information contained in these genealogies should not be overlooked or taken for granted, as they can shed light on the complexities and nuances of human relationships throughout history. I sincerely hope that you, too, will come to understand the significance of these names and genealogies and gain a profound insight into the Word of 𐤉𐤄𐤅𐤄.

Here are a few of the genealogies: Genesis 4:1-2, 17-23, Genesis 5, 10, 11:10-29, 22:20-24, 25:1-26, 29:30–35; Genesis 30, Genesis 36, 46:8-26, and Matthew 1:1-25.

Definition of Genealogy:

1. An account of the descent of a person, family, or group from an ancestor or from older forms
2. Regular descent of a person, family, or group of organisms from a progenitor (see PROGENITOR sense 1) or older form: PEDIGREE
3. The study of family ancestral lines
4. An account of the origin and historical development of something

Genealogy and the Ha-Mashiach (Messiah)

As Bible Believing Believers (BBBs), we hold the conviction that Yahshua is the Ha-Mashiach because He fulfilled over 300 prophecies. The fulfillment of these prophecies is a core part of our faith. However, we also have genealogical proof of Yahshua’s bloodline recorded in the Bible. His lineage can be traced back to Adam, the first man, then to Seth, the son of Adam, and then to Abraham, the father of Isaac, and Jacob, the son of Isaac. Yahudah (Judah) is also in His lineage, and so is King David. Fulfilled prophecies combined with the genealogical record provide undeniable evidence that Yahshua is the Ha-Mashiach.

Preflood Genealogy 

All Scripture is written by inspiration of the Holy Spirit and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness,

2 Timothy 3:16 (HRB)

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In this and all Food for Thoughts I recommend you read the Scripture(s) provided and the entire chapter they are from to obtain more insight.

2 Timothy 3:16 couldn’t be more accurate as “all scripture is given by inspiration of YAH.” 𐤉𐤄𐤅𐤄’s hands are all over the scriptures in words, names, and meanings. His influence is brilliant, and He shows us through names and genealogies. Take a look at how the meaning of the names of Yahshua’s preflood lineage (Genesis 5) points to 𐤉𐤄𐤅𐤄’s Genesis 3:15 promise of Yahshua (Salvation) to Eve:

 If you place these meanings together, you get, and I will put this in the past tense since Yahshua has already come.

Yahshua was an appointed mortal man, the purchaser of sin, the shining one of Elohim. He descended from heaven to Earth dedicated, trained, and disciplined. He was sent for the lost sheep of Yahshar’el (Matthew 15:24) and to fulfill the law, not to abolish it (Matthew 5:17-20). He was rich but became poor or made low for all (2 Corinthians 8:9). Rest in His name, Yahshua our Salvation.

Overlooking Names and Genealogies

Suppose you don’t look into these genealogies? You would be overlooking specific details and facts, which could cause false or incorrect interpretations and doctrines. Here are two examples: 1). Sarah being the sister of Abraham 2). Sons of Japheth

Sarah, Abraham, Issac, and Rebecca

Sarah is introduced in a few ways in the Bible:

1. As Abraham’s wife (Genesis 11:29)
2. As Terah‘s daughter-in-law (Genesis 11:31)
3. Abraham’s half-sister on his father’s side (Genesis 20:12)

So, who was Sarah to Teraḥ, a daughter, daughter-in-law, or both? Who was she to Abraham, a wife, sister, or close relative? Let’s look at the genealogies and customary terminology used from the marriage of Yitshaq (Isacc), Abraham’s son, and Ribqah (Rebecca), Bethual’s daughter.

Search for Issac’s Wife

Please Read Genesis 24 in Full for Context

In Genesis 24, Abraham is now old and desires his son Issac to have a wife. He makes his trusted servant swear to him that he will go and do this for him. The oath required him to go to Abraham’s country/kindred to get a wife for Issac and forbade him to take a wife from the daughters of the Canaanites (Genesis 24:1-4). 

Moving forward, we read that the servant has agreed to the oath and set out on his mission to find a wife for Issac. In Genesis 24:25-27, we see Rebecca identifying herself as the daughter of Bethuel and the granddaughter of Nahor, the brother of Abraham. (See the chart below) She does not mention Terah Abrahams’s father because he was dead, making Nahor the ‘Avot (patriarch) of the family at that time, which is why the area is called the City of Nahor. As the ‘Avot, Nahor was in possession of all the family’s wealth, sons, and daughters. The servants know this, and in verse 48, he addresses it as such by saying, “And I bowed and worshiped YAHWEH, and I blessed YAHWEH, Elohim of my master Abraham, who had guided me in the true way, to take for his son the daughter of the brother of my master.“

And I bowed and worshiped YAHWEH, and I blessed YAHWEH, Elohim of my master Abraham, who had guided me in the true way, to take for his son the daughter of the brother of my master.

Genesis 24:48 (HRB)

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In this and all Food for Thoughts I recommend you read the Scripture(s) provided and the entire chapter they are from to obtain more insight.

Laban as the ‘Avot of the Family

Laban displays the power of an ‘Avot in Genesis 31:43 when he tells Jacob, “The daughters are my daughters and the sons my sons. And the flocks are my flocks; yea, all which you see, it is mine and my daughters’. What can I do to these today, or to their sons whom they have borne?” He was basically telling Jacob that his wives and sons belong to him.

Sarah’s Identity

Abraham and Sarah were not brother and sister; Terah was the “Avot of the family, and Abraham used that as a technicality to lie out of fear. He faced the same trial twice and failed twice (Genesis 12 and 20). Sarah might have been a granddaughter, niece, or something else. How many times have you sung the song “Father Abraham had many sons”? Are you truly one of them, meaning is your father Abraham? Are your brothers Ishmael son of Hagar, Isaac son of Sarah, or Zimran, Jokshan, Medan, Midian, Ishbak, and Shuah sons of Keturah (Genesis 25)? No, but Abraham is known and revered as the great patriarch or ‘Avot.

Sons of Japheth

Genesis 10:2-5 lays out Noah’s son Japheth’s genealogy. There are two fascinating facts that you will only notice if you read and study through it. I will point them out for you and move on, as I don’t want to keep you any longer.

2. The sons of Japheth; Gomer, and Magog, and Madai, and Javan, and Tubal, and Meshech, and Tiras.

3. And the sons of Gomer; Ashkenaz, and Riphath, and Togarmah. 

4. And the sons of Javan; Elishah, and Tarshish, Kittim, and Dodanim. 

5. By these were the isles of the Gentiles divided in their lands; every one after his tongue, after their families, in their nations. 

Genesis 10:1-5 (KJV)

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In this and all Food for Thoughts I recommend you read the Scripture(s) provided and the entire chapter they are from to obtain more insight.

• Japheth had a son named Gomer; Gomer had a son named Ashkenaz. Ashkenaz should stand out to you as we currently see Ashkenazi Jews around the world claiming to be descendants of Shem. The Bible clearly says that they are Japhetic and not Semitic/Shemetic.
• The genealogy also provides the locations of the descendants of Japheth, which is the land of the Gentiles known as the Isles or Coastal lands, which is modern-day Europe (Genesis 10:5). The Coastland does not include the Semitic land of Yahsharel (Israel). Take a look at any Bible that has maps. Look at the travels of Paul the Apostle of the Gentiles (Romans 11:13), and you will see the locations as well.

Conclusion

When studying genealogies, it is essential to consider all the available biblical information and hold true to the understanding that scripture interprets scripture, as noted in Isaiah 28:10 and 2 Peter 1:20. The names and genealogy mentioned in the Bible play a significant role in identifying individuals and understanding certain customs, along with other relevant factors. However, it is crucial to cling only to the genealogies cited in the Bible and not add or remove anything from it. Paul cautioned Timothy in 1 Timothy 1:4 not to get caught up in “fables and endless genealogies.” Therefore, I recommend you rely solely on what the Bible specifically states and refrain from interpreting it based on personal preferences or biases.

By: David Edwards – HalleluYAH – Praise YAH – Praise 𐤉𐤄𐤅𐤄

The post Names and Genealogies appeared first on Journal Thy Journey.

22. Professing to be wise, they became foolish. 

23. And changed the glory of the INCORRUPTIBLE Elohim into the likeness of an image of a corruptible man, and of birds, and four-footed animals, and creeping things. 

24. Because of this, Elohim gave them up to filthy lusts of their hearts, and their bodies to be dishonored among themselves, 

25. who changed the truth of Elohim into the lie, and worshiped and served the created thing more than the Creator, who is blessed forever. Amen.

Romans: 1:22-25 (HRB)

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In this and all Food for Thoughts I recommend you read the Scripture(s) provided and the entire chapter they are from to obtain more insight.

The Devils Idea(s)

The devil, known as the deceiver in Revelation 12:9 and the father of lies in John 8:44, along with his children, are skilled at implanting ideas in people’s minds. It is often through suggestions, subtle influence, mental manipulation, belief systems, and false religions that the devil and his children manipulate and influence the thoughts and beliefs of others. This means that they can skillfully plant ideas in your mind by nudging your thoughts in a particular direction, all with the intention of leading you astray from the truth and further away from YAH 𐤉𐤄𐤅𐤄 or יהוה.

The ability to deceive and manipulate is a powerful tool, and it is something that Bible Believing Believers should be aware of when trying to discern what is true and what is not. To protect ourselves from the schemes of the devil and his followers, we must become true disciples of YAH 𐤉𐤄𐤅𐤄. This involves the discipline of studying the word of YAH 𐤉𐤄𐤅𐤄 daily, praying to Him daily, worshiping Him in spirit and truth daily, and allowing the Ruach to lead everyday. By doing so, we become more vigilant and discerning, which helps us avoid falling prey to the devil and his followers, especially the “Tares“- those planted by the devil in the body of Yahshua, as mentioned in Matthew 13:24-43.

Polytheistic Deception

Definition of Polytheism:

• The belief in multiple deities, which are usually assembled into a pantheon of gods and goddesses, along with their own religious sects and rituals.The state of being whole and undivided

Definition of Monotheism:

• The belief that there is only one El, an all-supreme being that is universally referred to incorrectly as God (Gawd or modernized as Gad), see Strong’s Concordance number H1409).

The devil is responsible for drawing the world into the web of polytheistic deception, lulling many to sleep with this poison, causing them to serve and believe in his many-god, any-god, any god other than YAH יהוה theology. This very deception is how Satan will cause the inhabitants of the world to worship him under a one-world religion. It’s worth noting that the One World Religion Headquarters has already been constructed in Abu Dhabi and is supported by three of the world’s five major religions, namely Christianity, Islam, and Judaism. However, let’s not get ahead of ourselves and start from the beginning with the creator of Polytheism. It all started millenniums ago with Cush, the oldest son of Ham and grandson to Noah. So we will start there and then move on to Nimrod(1, 2, 3), Semiramis, and Tammuz, the creators of the mystery Religion(s) in Babylon” thousands of years ago.

The Beginning of Polytheism

Cush married Semiramis, and together, they had several children, but one of their most notable offspring was Nimrod, whose name means we will rebel. Nimrod was a skilled hunter and a mighty hero in the land before YAH יהוה (Genesis 10:8-12). He also was the same Nimrod who arrogantly and rebelliously built the Tower of Babilu, better known as Babel. Interestingly, Babilu means the gate of god, but it can also mean son of Bel. It is possible that Nimrod named the city after himself, as he was the son of Bel (Cush), which you will see in a moment.

Exaltation and Deification

Definition of Deification:

• to make a god of

According to some historical records and writings, Cush exalted and deified himself as the pagan god Baal, Bel, and sun god Ra (father god). Semiramis deified herself as Ashtoreth, the Queen of Heaven (mother god). Cush would later be disgraced, and his wife Semiramis left him and married her son Nimrod. Nimrod took on the role of Baal (father god), usurping his father, either in addition to or instead of. Nimrod was later killed by his Uncle Shem for lifting himself up as a god and leading people into false worship. In an effort to remain Queen and maintain power, Semiramis somehow becomes pregnant with Tammuz and convinces the kingdom that she conceived Tammuz divinely by Nimrod-Baal and Tammuz is Baal Reborn (son of god). These deities held significant importance in the ancient world and were worshipped by many.

Mentioned in Scripture

Although Semiramis is never mentioned in the Bible, her deified name, Ashtoreth, Asherah, and Queen of Heaven, are mentioned several times throughout scripture. Cush and Nimrod are not mentioned many times; however, just like Semiramis, their deified names, Baal and Bel, are mentioned a considerable amount. Tammuz, also known as Dumuzid, is mentioned in Ezekiel 8:14.

Satan’s Transition Throughout the Ages

Cush, Nimrod, Semiramis, and Tammuz, the Founders of Polytheism (FOP), were all under the influence of Satan and his idea that man could be like YAH. Remember, it was Satan who told Eve in Genesis 3:5 that she and Adam could be like the Most High. Satan also expressed that he wanted to exalt himself above YAH in Isaiah 14:12–16. The FOP’s game plan was near-sided as they did not see the long game that satan was playing. FOP exalted and deified themselves to be gods for the short term to exert and maintain power and control, to be worshiped, and to be remembered in history. Satan’s plan was and still is to deceive the entire world through every dispensation. Look at the charts below, and you will see how Satan has transitioned throughout time using FOP as well as changing his name throughout cultures.

It is important to note that false deities created by man and Satan often share similar storylines. This can make it difficult to distinguish between them and to know what is true. In reality, there is no truth in any of it. All worship of these deities and other idols is worship of Satan. For example, there are stories about Sammaramis, also known as Ishtar (pronounced “Easter”), who supposedly became pregnant from the sun god Baal’s sun rays and gave birth to Tammuz from an egg. Similarly, Mirtha was also said to have been born from an egg.

Additionally, both Tammuz and Mirtha are said to have been born on December 25, along with other pagan gods and goddesses like Nimrod (Tammuz’s father), Horus, Dionysus, Osiris, Attis, and the Roman Catholic Jesus (birth by the Roman Catholic Virgin Mary also known as the Queen of Heaven). These are all reimaginations of old pagan gods and goddesses. This is why YAH commanded the people of Yahsharel not to engage in idolatry and reminded them repeatedly that he never changes, unlike ever-changing false gods. This was true then and is still true today; we should not engage in idolatry, no matter how innocent it may seem or how long we may have kept an idolatrous tradition. We must worship in spirit and in truth only (John 4:24).

Satan’s Goal

Satan’s goal has always been to kill, steal, and destroy, and he will never change (John 10:10). Satan’s purpose with this deception and all of his deceptions is to get humanity to worship him by any means necessary, no matter the form. The polytheistic deception works well as it manipulates the human psyche by giving us the illusion of control through the liberty to worship whomever or whatever we choose. The idea of selecting a god that fits one’s needs is appealing to people as it also provides a sense of control over their religious practices.

Polytheism says there are multiple gods; select one that aligns with your personal beliefs or choose whichever god serves your specific needs. Unfortunately, people treat YAH the same way as if there is an El of the Old Testament and an El of the New Testament, and they need to pick one. One half chooses to follow the New Testament only and dismiss the Torah and Old Testament, calling it bondage when the truth is the New Testament quotes the Old Testament repeatedly. The other half only follows the Old Testament and misses out on Salvation through Yahshua. The polytheistic deception encourages people to choose a god based on their desires rather than seeking a deeper understanding of the Truth, and that truth is יהוה.

The Truth about Created Things

The actual truth is that there is only one EL, and His name is 𐤉𐤄𐤅𐤄 (יהוה) (see scriptures at the bottom). Serving, worshiping, and obeying anything other than YAH is giving glory to Satan.

• Doctrine Example
  • The Romans created the polytheistic doctrine of the Trinity. Yes, it is polytheism, and Yes, it’s a created doctrine, as the Bible never mentions the Trinity. The doctrine is a fundamental belief of most Christians. Yet, many struggle to provide a clear and concise explanation if asked. The reason is because it is complex, confusing, and not biblical. Please remember that Rome was saturated with paganism, and through syncretism, new beliefs were created and added to Christianity. The truth is YAH יהוה is EL, and His only begotten son is Yahshua; they are not one physically; they are echad like a husband and wife are echad, not as one being, but one in agreement, action, and thought. Yahshua points out the separation between Him and His Father when He proclaims in Mark 10:18, “No one is good except One, YAH יהוה.” Yahshua also clarified this in Luke 22:42 when He talked to His Father (not Himself) and said, “not My will, but thine, be done.” Indicating that He has His own will and the Father has His own will. People, we do not serve an El with dissociative identity disorder with three different personalities or entities in one (god the Father, god the Son, and god the Holy Spirit as a godhead). Consider Revelation 3:1 and Revelation 4:5, which both say YAH has seven spirits. Also, consider Isaiah 11:2, which names those seven spirits. Does this mean that the godhead is enneadnity (a word I made up like they made trinity), nine in one (Father, Son, Holy Spirit, Spirit of wisdom, Spirit of understanding, Spirit of counsel, Spirit of power, Spirit of knowledge, and Spirit of the fear of the Lord)? Of course not. These are separate individual spirits. For example, you can read about the separate spirit of wisdom in Proverbs 8:22-31. It gives us the history of the spirit of wisdom before and during creation.
• Idol Example
  • “All three major religions worship paganism in some form through stone and wood. Christians have the wooden cross, Muslims have the (Kaaba or black stone) in Mecca, and Judaism bows daily to the stone wall (Wailing Wall) in Jerusalem, which is the remains of the Roman Fort Antonia.” (Don Esposito Study Note HRB – Deut 4:28) It is not enough to say, be careful not to idolize “the cross” when the simple truth is that it has no place at all in our worship of YAH יהוה. We were never told to make a cross, bow down to it, make jewelry, or sing songs about it. This is a very dangerous thing that Christianity has created.

Some of the Other Religions in the World.

• Hinduism – There are differing beliefs on the number of gods, with estimates ranging from six to thirty-three million and each god being unique. Some believe it’s 33 types of gods.
• Buddhists worship and show reverence to Buddha by offering fresh flowers, lights, and lamps or burning fragrant incense at shrines with images of the Buddha. Some followers maintain personal shrines at home for private worship, aspiring to emulate Buddha. Although they claim Buddha is not a god but an enlightened being who has achieved freedom from the cycle of life and death, they create Buddha idols and worship them. Therefore, Buddha is their god, as their devotion is directed towards him.
• New Age – Bows down to self, believing there is no one true way to pursue spirituality. These individuals choose to explore their spirituality without adhering to any specific set of beliefs or traditions. These people often follow their own intuition and inner guidance, seeking personal growth and self-discovery. On the other hand, there are those who hold a deep conviction that they are divine beings with complete control over their lives and destinies. They see themselves as sovereign entities, possessing an inherent power and wisdom transcending human limitations. (Proverbs 14:12)

Conclusion

Satan has created multiple roads that lead directly to him, but most of humanity is deceived, blinded, and unaware of it. Satan and his tares have changed the truth of Elohim into a lie. The great news is that you don’t have to be. Our Father has provided us with His Torah and Holy Scriptures for direction, His only begotten son for salvation, and His Ruach to guide us in our faith. We don’t have to be fooled by the devil and subjected to this world. However, if you spend all your time being entertained by this world and the things of it versus in the Word of YAH and things of YAH, you will be deceived and probably already are. I employ you to come out of (her, them, or the world) and be ye separate. (2 Corinthians 6:17, Romans 12:2, Revelation 18:4).

Isaiah 44:6, Deuteronomy 4:35, Deuteronomy 6:4, Deuteronomy 32:39, 1 Samuel 2:2, 2 Samuel 7:22, 2 Kings 5:15, 1 Kings 8:60, ,1 Chronicles 17:20, Psalm 18:31, Isaiah 37:16, Isaiah43:10-11, Isaiah44:6,8, Isaiah 45:21, Hosea 13:4, Joel 2:27, Malachi 2:10, Mark 12:28–29, 1 Corinthians 8:4, Ephesians 4:4–6, 1 Timothy 2:5, Galatians 3:20, John 17:3, James 2:19

By: David Edwards – HalleluYAH – Praise YAH – Praise יהוה

The post Whose Idea Was That? appeared first on Journal Thy Journey.