Articles

Adar, Biblical Calendar, Hebrew, Rabbi Jason Sobel

Adar: The Month of Joy in the Hebrew Calendar

There are many joyous dates on the Jewish calendar, but besides Purim, none affect an entire month, causing it to be auspicious and joyous. Purim is the celebration of Israel’s rescue from the Persian leader Haman’s genocidal plot (as recorded in the Book of Esther). The Rabbis teach that Purim is like Yom Kippur (the “Day of Atonement”). While on Yom Kippur we achieve holiness through the mortification of the flesh and long hours of prayer, we realize that same level of holiness on Purim through feasting, celebration, and joy.

Shevat, Biblical Calendar, Hebrew, Rabbi Jason Sobel

Shevat: The Month of Blessings and Fruitfulness in the Hebrew Calendar

According to Tradition, the first of Shevat is when Moses began giving his final address to Israel. “Across the Jordan in the land of Moab, Moses began to explain this Torah saying, ‘Adonai our God spoke to us at Horeb saying: ‘You have stayed long enough at this mountain’” (Deuteronomy 1:5-6). For the entire month of Shevat, he would sit in the meeting tent and elucidate the Torah.

Who is the messiah, Rabbi Jason Sobel Fusion Global

Who is the Messiah? Is it Jesus?

Amidst the narratives of history and the papyrus of prophecy, a singular thread weaves through the tapestry of biblical literature: the concept of a Messiah. This notion, richly veiled in expectation and divine mystery, has captivated the hearts of the faithful and stirred the minds of scholars. The title “Messiah,” derived from the Hebrew word “mashiach,” meaning “anointed,” was an honor bestowed upon kings and priests—a symbol of one chosen by God to lead with divine authority.

Tevet, Biblical Calendar, Hebrew, Rabbi Jason Sobel

Tevet: The Month of Divine Grace in the Hebrew Calendar

2 Kings 25 tells us Nebuchadnezzar began Babylon’s siege of Jerusalem on the 10th day of Tevet (a fast day known as Asarah B’Tevet). Ironically, the Jewish people adopted the name “Tevet” during the Babylonian exile. It is believed to connote “sinking” or “immersing.”

Understanding the Bible and Prophecy: Israel and Palestine, Rabbi Jason Sobel

Understanding the Bible and Prophecy: Israel, Palestine, and Palestinians

In light of the events of October 7th, the term “Palestine” has featured prominently in news headlines and personal conversations. There is a lot of passion surrounding this subject, so let’s take a closer look at “Palestine” and what it represents.

Kislev, Biblical Calendar, Hebrew, Rabbi Jason Sobel

Kislev: The Month of Dreams, Trust, and Dedication on the Hebrew Calendar

Kislev is often playfully re-written as Kis-Lev (Purse of the Heart). Kislev is a time to examine what is in our hearts. It’s also time to fill them with reminders of the goodness of God. These concepts are most evident during the holiday that falls during this month: Chanukah, the Festival of Lights.

Cheshvan, Biblical Calendar, Hebrew, Rabbi Jason Sobel

Cheshvan: The Month of Reflection in the Hebrew Calendar

Cheshvan is a month of no holidays and arrives on the heels of the month with the most holidays. In Jewish tradition, this is a solemn time of reflection in case one was excessively frivolous during the holiday season. Therefore, the first Monday, Thursday, and the second Monday after the Sabbath are commonly days of fasting from sunrise to sunset.

Unlocking Wisdom and Godly Insight with Psalm 1: A Comprehensive Guide to Understanding the Psalms

What is the point of the Psalms? How should we read the Psalms? There is probably no better way to start a study of the Psalms than by going to the beginning. Psalm 1 is a revelation of wisdom and godly insight that helps us make sense of all the Psalms following it.

Tishrei, Biblical Calendar, Hebrew, Rabbi Jason Sobel

Tishrei: The Month of Renewal in the Hebrew Calendar

God renews creation. Tishrei’s festivals all focus on the person praying, waiting, and relying upon the Lord. Consequently, this month’s other name (Ethanim meaning “strong”) makes perfect sense, as “they who wait for Adonai will renew their strength” (Isaiah 40:31).

Hebrew Biblical Month of Elul with Fusion Global and Rabbi Jason Sobel

Elul: The Month of Repentance, Returning, and Spiritual Intimacy in the Hebrew Calendar

Each day of the month of Elul (except for Shabbat and the last day of Elul), the Jewish people sound the shofar (ram’s horn) as a call to repentance. The Jewish people teach that the “King is in the Field” during Elul—God is readily accessible, willing to hear our requests and listen to our fervent prayers for the coming new year.