Orthodox Messianic Jewish Torah Study | Benei Avraham

In this week's Torah portion, Vayelech, discover the deep connections between the covenant renewal ceremony commanded by Moshe and the Messianic Era. Learn how the Sabbatical year, Sukkot, and the gathering of all Israel foreshadow the future reign of the Messiah. Explore the profound implications of public Torah readings, the role of Jerusalem, and the coming King Messiah as foretold in Deute...

In this week's Torah portion, Nitzavim, we delve into the profound biblical promise of the second coming and the gathering of exiles. Explore how traditional interpretations contrast with popular Christian beliefs about the rapture. Discover what scriptures like Deuteronomy 30:4, 1 Thessalonians 4:16-18, and Ezekiel 37:21-24 truly say about the return of Yeshua, the resurrection of the dead, a...

For our conversion process at Benei Avraham, we require potential converts to participate in our community, begin learning Hebrew, and read several books. The goal is to both learn and also practice Judaism. Judaism should be in our hearts and minds, but it also needs to be part of our every day lives. For community participation, we require attendance either in-person or online on Shabbats, and a...

The ceremony for a Baal Teshuva and a Jewish convert are similar. Males need to be circumcised. If they are already circumcised, they must do hatafat dam brit, which is a prick to draw blood at the site of the circumcision. This blood must be shown to the beit din, or kosher witnesses, which is a minimum of 2 Torah-observant Jewish adult men. The ideal is 3 rabbis on the beit din, but 2 observant...

In Hebrew, the word for “repent” and “return” share the same root. When you repent, you are returning to who you were meant to be. A “returnee” to Judaism refers to someone who is Jewish but was not Torah-observant at some point in their lives, or were never Torah-observant at all and has now dedicated themselves to following Torah. It can refer to someone who is halachically Jewish, meaning someo...

We are a Traditional Jewish Congregation, Inspired by Mashiach. We help Jews who believe in Yeshua do a formal return to Judaism. We also help non-Jews who believe in Yeshua and are drawn to Torah do a formal conversion to Judaism. In this first lesson in our new series, we would like to expound on the topic of conversion to Judaism for non-Jews, as well as a formal return to Judaism for those wit...

In this week's Torah portion, Ki Tavo, discover the significance of offering the first fruits, the fulfillment of Messianic prophecies, and the enduring Abrahamic covenant. Explore the deeper connection between Yeshua’s first followers as first fruits and the prophesied redemption of Israel. Learn how ancient promises still hold relevance today, blending Torah teachings with New Testament reve...

I want to talk to you about who we are as a people, where we come from, and what our purpose is. You’ve probably heard the terms Hebrew, Israelite, and Jew used interchangeably, but have you ever wondered why? Let’s dive into our history and find out. Our story begins with Abraham, who is called "Ibri," meaning "from the other side." This name comes from the fact that he migrat...

In this week's Torah reflection on Parsha Eikev, we explore the profound teachings of our sages on how even the simplest acts, like sharing a meal, can be transformed into moments of holiness. Drawing from the Mishnah, Talmud, and Midrash, we discuss the significance of elevating our daily routines by integrating Torah into our conversations and actions. Rabbi Shimon teaches that when three pe...

In this week's Torah reflections on Parsha Vaetchanan, we explore the timeless lesson of living out the Torah daily in our lives. The Parsha emphasizes the importance of teaching and embodying the commandments, especially through the Shema, which calls us to speak of them when sitting in our homes, walking on the way, lying down, and rising up. Through personal stories and insights, we discuss...

In this week's Torah portion, Parsha Devarim, we explore the profound impact of words and leadership. The portion begins with Moshe's retelling of the journey and challenges faced by the Israelites, focusing on the crucial moment when the spies, or rather explorers, were sent to scout the Promised Land. We delve into the importance of being mindful of our words, understanding their power t...

Shabbat Shalom! Join us for this week’s insightful drash on Parsha Pinchas, where we delve into the importance of standing up for what is right, even when it’s difficult. In this drash, we reflect on the stories of Pinchas, the daughters of Zelophehad, and other biblical leaders who exemplified courage and justice. Through their examples, we explore the balance between silent endurance and speakin...

Shabbat Shalom! Join us in this week's insightful drash on Parsha Pinchas as we explore the deep meanings behind mundane work, creative work, and the significance of sacrifices. In this drash, Rabbi Safa, Rabbi Moore, and Rabbi Ruben Vega guide us through the complex distinctions in the Torah between mundane work (avoda) and creative work (melecha). Drawing from Pasouk 18 of the 6th portion, w...

Shabbat Shalom! Join us in this week's drash on Parsha Pinchas as we delve into the themes of zeal for Hashem and standing up for justice. Pinchas’s zeal for Hashem is highlighted as he takes a bold and decisive action to stop a plague, demonstrating that sometimes difficult and immediate actions are necessary to uphold righteousness and protect the community. Despite the controversy surroundi...

In this week's drash on Parsha Pinchas, we explore the themes of taking decisive action and the pursuit of justice. Pinchas is rewarded for his zealous act to uphold the sanctity of Hashem's commandments, showcasing the importance of moral courage even in challenging circumstances. The narrative begins with Pinchas, who acts decisively in a moment when others, including Moses and Aaron, re...

In this week's drash on Parsha Pinchas, we explore the powerful themes of moral courage and the rewards for righteous actions. Pinchas receives his reward for his zealous act of righteousness, which raises important questions about taking a stand against wrongdoing. We delve into the commentators' views, pondering whether Pinchas would be rewarded for his actions and what this means for us...

In this week's Torah portion, Balak, we delve into the fascinating dynamics between Balaam and Balak, exploring themes of faith, perspective, and divine intervention. Join me as I share some deep insights and reflections on this rich narrative. From the outset, we see a unique interplay between Balaam, a renowned sorcerer and prophet, and Balak, the Moabite king who seeks Balaam's help to...

Join us this Shabbat as we delve into the Torah portion of Balak and explore the contrasting traits of Abraham and Balaam. This week, while in Philadelphia for business, I reflect on the perspectives and teachings from our sages in the Midrash about Balaam and his story. In this drash, we examine the deeper meanings and implications behind Balaam's character, his practice of witchcraft, and hi...

In this week’s Torah portion, Balak, we delve into the contrasting characteristics of Abraham and Balaam as described in Pirkei Avot, Chapter 5, verse 19. This verse teaches us about three essential traits that define the disciples (Talmidim) of Abraham and three opposing traits that define the disciples of Balaam. Traits of Abraham’s Disciples: A Good Eye: This refers to a positive outlook, the a...

In this week's Torah portion, Chukat, we explore the profound relationship between messengers and the divine. Drawing from the 4th aliyah, we delve into the Hebrew word for messengers, "malachim," and its close connection to the word for king. This connection reveals that ignoring or mistreating a messenger is akin to ignoring or mistreating the king himself. We also discuss the sign...

In this week's Torah portion, Chukat, we delve into the significance of Moshe's actions at the rock and the lessons we can draw from it. When Moshe struck the rock instead of speaking to it as commanded, his anger led to unintended consequences. This episode teaches us the importance of controlling our emotions and the power of words over actions. Additionally, we explore the metaphor of t...

In this week’s Torah portion, Chukat, we delve into the recurring themes and challenges faced by the Israelites. Our discussion highlights the generational issues of complaining and lack of faith, drawing parallels to our own lives today. We explore the significance of water miracles, the impact of leadership changes, and the lessons from Moshe’s striking of the rock. Through the lens of historica...

Shabbat Shalom! This week's Torah portion, Chukat, delves into profound themes of death, fear, faith, rejection, and sacrifice. Join me as I explore how the Israelites' journey in the desert reveals deep insights into our own struggles and growth. In this video, we discuss: The stubbornness of the Israelites and their longing for the past. The significance of Hashem's lessons on faith...

Shabbat Shalom! In this week's Torah portion, Chukat, we explore the intriguing ritual of the red heifer, also known as Para Adumah. This unique mitzvah, considered a chok (a law beyond our understanding), reveals profound connections to our spiritual journey and the role of the Messiah, Yeshua HaMashiach. Join us as we delve into: The mysterious nature of the red heifer ritual and its signifi...