1 Chronicles 17 : David wants to construct a temple
David calls Prophet Nathan and says to him - "I live in a palace of cedar but God Almighty is in a tent". Nathan tells him to go ahead and construct a temple if that is what he wants since God is with David.
But that night, Nathan has a vision. God tells the prophet that it is not up to David to construct a temple. God tells him that one of David's sons will construct the temple. God promises Nathan that David's descendants will be blessed.
God's greatest promise
"I will make one of your sons king and will keep his kingdom strong.
...
I will put him in charge of my people and my kingdom forever. His dynasty will never end."
Nathan tells this to David. David is very thankful to God and says a prayer thanking God for everything in his life.
Wednesday, December 01, 2010
Tuesday, November 30, 2010
Day 353 - 1 Chronicles : Chapter 16
1 Chronicles 16 : Covenant Box in Jerusalem
David brought the Covenant Box to Jerusalem. He offered sacrifices and blessed the people. Then he distributed food to all - each man and woman in Israel got a loaf of bread, a piece of roasted meat, and some raisins.Then he put Levites in charge of the Ark.
It was then that David first gave Asaph and the other Levites the responsibility for singing praises to the Lord.
The Psalm mentioned in the chapter glorifies and thanks God.
David brought the Covenant Box to Jerusalem. He offered sacrifices and blessed the people. Then he distributed food to all - each man and woman in Israel got a loaf of bread, a piece of roasted meat, and some raisins.Then he put Levites in charge of the Ark.
It was then that David first gave Asaph and the other Levites the responsibility for singing praises to the Lord.
The Psalm mentioned in the chapter glorifies and thanks God.
Monday, November 29, 2010
Day 352 - 1 Chronicles : Chapter 15
1 Chronicles 15 : Covenant Box is brought to Jerusalem
David prepared a place for God's Covenant Box and put up a tent for it. He said, "Only Levites should carry the Covenant Box, because they are the ones the LORD chose to carry it and to serve him forever".
All the Levites were summoned and they went to Obed Edom's house and took the Covenant Box. All the Israelites accompanied the Covenant Box up to Jerusalem with shouts of joy, the sound of trumpets, horns, and cymbals, and the music of harps.
David prepared a place for God's Covenant Box and put up a tent for it. He said, "Only Levites should carry the Covenant Box, because they are the ones the LORD chose to carry it and to serve him forever".
All the Levites were summoned and they went to Obed Edom's house and took the Covenant Box. All the Israelites accompanied the Covenant Box up to Jerusalem with shouts of joy, the sound of trumpets, horns, and cymbals, and the music of harps.
Sunday, November 28, 2010
Day 351 - 1 Chronicles : Chapter 14
1 Chronicles 14 : David defeats Philistines
The Lord was pleased with David and made him very prosperous.
The following children were born to him in Jerusalem: Shammua, Shobab, Nathan, Solomon, Ibhar, Elishua, Elpelet, Nogah, Nepheg, Japhia, Elishama, Beeliada, and Eliphelet.
Philistines attacked Israelites. David consulted God and went to fight. He won the battle. They attacked again and he defeated them.
The Lord was pleased with David and made him very prosperous.
The following children were born to him in Jerusalem: Shammua, Shobab, Nathan, Solomon, Ibhar, Elishua, Elpelet, Nogah, Nepheg, Japhia, Elishama, Beeliada, and Eliphelet.
Philistines attacked Israelites. David consulted God and went to fight. He won the battle. They attacked again and he defeated them.
Saturday, November 27, 2010
Day 350 - 1 Chronicles : Chapter 13
1 Chronicles 13 : David brings the Covenant box
David and the people went to the city of Baalah (Kiriath Jearim), in the territory of Judah, to get the Covenant Box of God.
At Abinadab's house they brought out the Covenant Box and put it on a new cart.
Uzzah and Ahio guided the cart, while David and all the people danced with all their might to honor God. They sang and played musical instruments harps, drums, cymbals, and trumpets.As they came to the threshing place of Chidon, the oxen stumbled, and Uzzah reached out and took hold of the Covenant Box. The Lord became angry with uzzah and killed him.
David was afraid of God and left the Covenant Box at the house of Obed Edom and the Lord blessed Obed Edom's family and everything that belonged to him.
David and the people went to the city of Baalah (Kiriath Jearim), in the territory of Judah, to get the Covenant Box of God.
At Abinadab's house they brought out the Covenant Box and put it on a new cart.
Uzzah and Ahio guided the cart, while David and all the people danced with all their might to honor God. They sang and played musical instruments harps, drums, cymbals, and trumpets.As they came to the threshing place of Chidon, the oxen stumbled, and Uzzah reached out and took hold of the Covenant Box. The Lord became angry with uzzah and killed him.
David was afraid of God and left the Covenant Box at the house of Obed Edom and the Lord blessed Obed Edom's family and everything that belonged to him.
Friday, November 26, 2010
Day 349 - 1 Chronicles : Chapter 12
Chronicles 12 : Men from the tribes in David's army
This chapter lists the famous men from the tribes of Israel who were in David's army.
This chapter lists the famous men from the tribes of Israel who were in David's army.
Thursday, November 25, 2010
Day 348 - 1 Chronicles : Chapter 11
1 Chronicles 11 : David is made The King
The people of Israel went to David at Hebron and said to him, "We are your own flesh and blood. The Lord is with you. Be our King".
They make David the King. King David attacked Jebus, the city of Jebusites. They resisted but David won the battle. Jebus was renamed as Jerusalem. From then it began to be called as Jerusalem. He rebuilt the city.
The chapter also lists the famous soldiers of David - "The Three" and "The Thirty"
The people of Israel went to David at Hebron and said to him, "We are your own flesh and blood. The Lord is with you. Be our King".
They make David the King. King David attacked Jebus, the city of Jebusites. They resisted but David won the battle. Jebus was renamed as Jerusalem. From then it began to be called as Jerusalem. He rebuilt the city.
The chapter also lists the famous soldiers of David - "The Three" and "The Thirty"
Wednesday, November 24, 2010
Day 347 - 1 Chronicles : Chapter 10
1 Chronicles 10 : The death of King Saul
In the battle of Mount Gilboa, Philistines defeated the Israelites. Saul and his sons had to flee the battlefield. Philistines pursued them and killed all of Saul's sons. Saul was hit by the enemy arrows and was badly wounded. He told the young man next to him to kill him but the young man couldn't do it due to fear. Saul threw himself on his sword and died.
The next day Philistines found Saul's body and they cut off his head and sent message to all of Philistia to proclaim victory. They put his weapons in their temples and hung his head in the temple of their god Dagon.
People of Jabesh heard about this. They went and got Saul and his sons bodies, buried them and fasted for 7 days.
All this happened to Saul because he was unfaithful to the Lord.
In the battle of Mount Gilboa, Philistines defeated the Israelites. Saul and his sons had to flee the battlefield. Philistines pursued them and killed all of Saul's sons. Saul was hit by the enemy arrows and was badly wounded. He told the young man next to him to kill him but the young man couldn't do it due to fear. Saul threw himself on his sword and died.
The next day Philistines found Saul's body and they cut off his head and sent message to all of Philistia to proclaim victory. They put his weapons in their temples and hung his head in the temple of their god Dagon.
People of Jabesh heard about this. They went and got Saul and his sons bodies, buried them and fasted for 7 days.
All this happened to Saul because he was unfaithful to the Lord.
Tuesday, November 23, 2010
Day 346 - 1 Chronicles : Chapter 9
1 Chronicles 9 : The people who returned from Captivity
People from the tribes for Judah, Benjamin, Ephraim and Manasseh went back to live in Jerusalem many years after the Captivity of Babylon. People who returned were mostly laymen, priests, Levites and temple workmen.
The chapter lists the names of priests, Levites and temple guards who lived in Jerusalem.
The family tree of King Saul is mentioned again.
Saul's family line
Saul (Kish , Abiel , Zeror , Bechorah , Aphiah , Benjamin , Jacob (Israel) , Isaac , Abraham (Abram) , Terah , Nahor , Serug , Reu , Peleg , Eber , Shelah , Arpachshad , Shem , Noah , Lamech , Methuselah , Enoch , Jared , Mahalalel , Kenan , Enosh , Seth , Adam )
source : http://www.marshallgenealogy.org/bible/pafg45.htm#203
People from the tribes for Judah, Benjamin, Ephraim and Manasseh went back to live in Jerusalem many years after the Captivity of Babylon. People who returned were mostly laymen, priests, Levites and temple workmen.
The chapter lists the names of priests, Levites and temple guards who lived in Jerusalem.
The family tree of King Saul is mentioned again.
Saul's family line
Saul (Kish , Abiel , Zeror , Bechorah , Aphiah , Benjamin , Jacob (Israel) , Isaac , Abraham (Abram) , Terah , Nahor , Serug , Reu , Peleg , Eber , Shelah , Arpachshad , Shem , Noah , Lamech , Methuselah , Enoch , Jared , Mahalalel , Kenan , Enosh , Seth , Adam )
source : http://www.marshallgenealogy.org/bible/pafg45.htm#203
Monday, November 22, 2010
Day 345 - 1 Chronicles : Chapter 8
1 Chronicles 8 : Descendants of Benjamin
This chapter lists the descendants of Benjamin.
King Saul was a descendant of the tribe of Benjamin.
This chapter lists the descendants of Benjamin.
King Saul was a descendant of the tribe of Benjamin.
Sunday, November 21, 2010
Day 344 - 1 Chronicles : Chapter 7
1 Chronicles 7 : More List of descendants
This chapter gives the list of descendants of Issachar, Benjamin, Dan, Naphtali, Manasseh, Ephraim and Asher.
Joseph's sons, Manasseh & Ephraim are mentioned separately. When Israelites reach Canaan, they achieve the status equal to that of other clans.
Joshua, son of Nun was from the family of Ephraim.
One of Ephraim's sons was Rephah, whose descendants were : Resheph, Telah, Tahan, Ladan, Ammihud, Elishama, Nun, Joshua.
This chapter gives the list of descendants of Issachar, Benjamin, Dan, Naphtali, Manasseh, Ephraim and Asher.
Joseph's sons, Manasseh & Ephraim are mentioned separately. When Israelites reach Canaan, they achieve the status equal to that of other clans.
Joshua, son of Nun was from the family of Ephraim.
One of Ephraim's sons was Rephah, whose descendants were : Resheph, Telah, Tahan, Ladan, Ammihud, Elishama, Nun, Joshua.
Saturday, November 20, 2010
Day 343 - 1 Chronicles : Chapter 6
1 Chronicles 6 : Family Line of High Priests
This chapter lists the descendants of Levi.
Levi to Moses is as follows.
Levi > Kohath > Amram > Moses & Aaron
The clan of Kohath also had great musicians who were in the court of David years later.
Samuel was also from the family of Kohath.
These are the descendants of Kohath from generation to generation:
Amminadab, Korah, Assir, Elkanah, Ebiasaph, Assir, Tahath, Uriel, Uzziah, Shaul.
Elkanah had two sons, Amasai and Ahimoth.
Ahimoth's descendants: Elkanah, Zophai, Nahath, Eliab, Jeroham, Elkanah.
Samuel was Elkanah's son.
The chapter also explains where the Levites lived.
This chapter lists the descendants of Levi.
Levi to Moses is as follows.
Levi > Kohath > Amram > Moses & Aaron
The clan of Kohath also had great musicians who were in the court of David years later.
Samuel was also from the family of Kohath.
These are the descendants of Kohath from generation to generation:
Amminadab, Korah, Assir, Elkanah, Ebiasaph, Assir, Tahath, Uriel, Uzziah, Shaul.
Elkanah had two sons, Amasai and Ahimoth.
Ahimoth's descendants: Elkanah, Zophai, Nahath, Eliab, Jeroham, Elkanah.
Samuel was Elkanah's son.
The chapter also explains where the Levites lived.
Friday, November 19, 2010
Thursday, November 18, 2010
Day 341 - 1 Chronicles : Chapter 4
1 Chronicles 4 : The descendants of Judah
Judah had 3 sons with his wife Er, Onan and Shelah. He had Perez and Zerah through Tamar. Since Er and Onan die without children, Judah's descendants are from the other children.
This chapter tells about Judah's descendants and also about Simeon's descendants.
Judah had 3 sons with his wife Er, Onan and Shelah. He had Perez and Zerah through Tamar. Since Er and Onan die without children, Judah's descendants are from the other children.
This chapter tells about Judah's descendants and also about Simeon's descendants.
Wednesday, November 17, 2010
Day 340 - 1 Chronicles : Chapter 3
1 Chronicles 3 : King David's Children
David had the following sons
Sons who were born while he was in Hebron:
Amnon, whose mother was Ahinoam from Jezreel
Daniel, whose mother was Abigail from Carmel
Absalom, whose mother was Maacah, daughter of King Talmai of Geshur
Adonijah, whose mother was Haggith
Shephatiah, whose mother was Abital
Ithream, whose mother was Eglah
He had 4 sons from his wife Bathsheba : Shimea, Shobab, Nathan, and Solomon.
Solomon's lineage is significant since he became the King after David.
Solomon > Rehoboam > Abijah > Asa > Jehoshaphat > Jehoram > Ahaziah > Joash > Amaziah > Uzziah > Jotham > Ahaz > Hezekiah > Manasseh > Amon > Josiah.
Josiah had four sons: Johanan, Jehoiakim, Zedekiah and Joahaz.
Jehoiakim had two sons: Jehoiachin and Zedekiah.
Referring back to 2 Kings, Josiah's son Joahaz became the King after him. He is captured by Egyptians and Jehoiakim is made the king. After him Jehoiachin became the king. He is captured by the Babylonians and his uncle Zedekiah (not his brother) is made the king.
The descendants of King Jehoiachin are also mentioned.
David had the following sons
Sons who were born while he was in Hebron:
Amnon, whose mother was Ahinoam from Jezreel
Daniel, whose mother was Abigail from Carmel
Absalom, whose mother was Maacah, daughter of King Talmai of Geshur
Adonijah, whose mother was Haggith
Shephatiah, whose mother was Abital
Ithream, whose mother was Eglah
He had 4 sons from his wife Bathsheba : Shimea, Shobab, Nathan, and Solomon.
Solomon's lineage is significant since he became the King after David.
Solomon > Rehoboam > Abijah > Asa > Jehoshaphat > Jehoram > Ahaziah > Joash > Amaziah > Uzziah > Jotham > Ahaz > Hezekiah > Manasseh > Amon > Josiah.
Josiah had four sons: Johanan, Jehoiakim, Zedekiah and Joahaz.
Jehoiakim had two sons: Jehoiachin and Zedekiah.
Referring back to 2 Kings, Josiah's son Joahaz became the King after him. He is captured by Egyptians and Jehoiakim is made the king. After him Jehoiachin became the king. He is captured by the Babylonians and his uncle Zedekiah (not his brother) is made the king.
The descendants of King Jehoiachin are also mentioned.
Tuesday, November 16, 2010
Day 339 - 1 Chronicles : Chapter 2
1 Chronicles 2 : Family tree of King David
Jacob had 12 sons and they were the ancestors of all the 12 tribes of Israel.
The 12 tribes were Reuben, Simeon, Levi, Judah, Issachar, Zebulun, Dan, Joseph, Benjamin, Naphtali, Gad, and Asher.
Judah to David
Judah > Perez > Hezron > Ram > Amminadab > Nahshon > Salmon > Boaz > Obed > Jesse > David.
David's oldest brother was called Eliab, and his sister was Abigail.
Other sons of Hezron - Caleb & Jerahmeel are also mentioned in this chapter.
Jacob had 12 sons and they were the ancestors of all the 12 tribes of Israel.
The 12 tribes were Reuben, Simeon, Levi, Judah, Issachar, Zebulun, Dan, Joseph, Benjamin, Naphtali, Gad, and Asher.
Judah to David
Judah > Perez > Hezron > Ram > Amminadab > Nahshon > Salmon > Boaz > Obed > Jesse > David.
David's oldest brother was called Eliab, and his sister was Abigail.
Other sons of Hezron - Caleb & Jerahmeel are also mentioned in this chapter.
Monday, November 15, 2010
Day 338 - 1 Chronicles : Chapter 1
1 Chronicles 1 : Lineage - Adam to Abraham
This chapter lists the lineage from Adam. It mentions the ancestors of all the people around - the Egyptians, Edomites, Philistines, Amalekites ..etc. All the tribes that Isrealites fight with, when they come to Canaan, can be traced to people who descended from Adam.
Adam to Abraham
Adam > Seth > Enosh > Kenan > Mahalalel > Jared > Enoch > Methuselah > Lamech > Noah > Shem > Arphaxad > Shelah > Eber > Peleg > Reu > Serug > Nahor > Terah > Abram
Abram had 2 sons Ishmael and Isaac. He also had 6 sons from Keturah his concubine.
Isaac had 2 sons - Esau and Jacob.
Jacob was named Israel and was the ancestor of all the Israelites.
This chapter lists the lineage from Adam. It mentions the ancestors of all the people around - the Egyptians, Edomites, Philistines, Amalekites ..etc. All the tribes that Isrealites fight with, when they come to Canaan, can be traced to people who descended from Adam.
Adam to Abraham
Adam > Seth > Enosh > Kenan > Mahalalel > Jared > Enoch > Methuselah > Lamech > Noah > Shem > Arphaxad > Shelah > Eber > Peleg > Reu > Serug > Nahor > Terah > Abram
Abram had 2 sons Ishmael and Isaac. He also had 6 sons from Keturah his concubine.
Isaac had 2 sons - Esau and Jacob.
Jacob was named Israel and was the ancestor of all the Israelites.
Sunday, November 14, 2010
Day 337 - 2 Kings : Chapter 25
2 Kings 25 : The Fall of Jerusalem
Zedekiah rebels against King Nebuchadnezzar and Nebuchadnezzar marches to Jerusalem with his army. The war lasts for over a year. The Babylonians surround the city and lock everyone inside. A famine breaks out and the people are without supplies. The soldiers of Judah try to escape but they are captured. King Zedekiah's eyes are put out and is taken as a prisoner to Babylon.
Nebuzaradan, the commander of Nebuchadnezzar's army, enters Jerusalem with his solders, burns down the temple and destroys everything in the city. They carry away all the gold and bronze.
Gedaliah is made the governor of Judah but in the seventh month of his rule, he is killed by Ishmael, son of Nethaniah. All the Israelites get scared of the Babylonians and they flee to Egypt.
Many years later, after the time of King Nebuchadnezzar, King Evilmerodach frees King Jehoiachin, who was taken prisoner in the past. He is given royal clothes, dines with the king and gets an allowance till the end of his time.
-----------------------
This concludes the second book of Kings.
Zedekiah rebels against King Nebuchadnezzar and Nebuchadnezzar marches to Jerusalem with his army. The war lasts for over a year. The Babylonians surround the city and lock everyone inside. A famine breaks out and the people are without supplies. The soldiers of Judah try to escape but they are captured. King Zedekiah's eyes are put out and is taken as a prisoner to Babylon.
Nebuzaradan, the commander of Nebuchadnezzar's army, enters Jerusalem with his solders, burns down the temple and destroys everything in the city. They carry away all the gold and bronze.
Gedaliah is made the governor of Judah but in the seventh month of his rule, he is killed by Ishmael, son of Nethaniah. All the Israelites get scared of the Babylonians and they flee to Egypt.
Many years later, after the time of King Nebuchadnezzar, King Evilmerodach frees King Jehoiachin, who was taken prisoner in the past. He is given royal clothes, dines with the king and gets an allowance till the end of his time.
-----------------------
This concludes the second book of Kings.
Saturday, November 13, 2010
Day 336 - 2 Kings : Chapter 24
2 Kings 24 : Nebuchadnezzar takes control of Judah
Within no time, Jehoiakim's sins cause him trouble. King Nebuchadnezzar of Babylon invades Judah and the kingdom of Judah is forced to submit to his rule.
After a few years, Jehoiakim dies and his son Jehoiachin succeeds him. He also sins against the Lord. During his rule, Nebuchadnezzar attacks Judah again. But this time the consequences are dire. He takes Jehoiachin as prisoner to Babylon, together with his mother, wives and all the officials. All the craftsmen and able bodied men also are taken away leaving only poor and disabled in Judah. All these happen due to the sins committed by King Manasseh in the past. He had committed so many sins and killed so many innocent people that the Lord had decided to punish Judah.
Nebuchadnezzar installs Jehoiachi's uncle Mattaniah as king of Judah and changes his name to Zedekiah. King Zedekiah rules for 11 years but he also sins against the Lord.
Within no time, Jehoiakim's sins cause him trouble. King Nebuchadnezzar of Babylon invades Judah and the kingdom of Judah is forced to submit to his rule.
After a few years, Jehoiakim dies and his son Jehoiachin succeeds him. He also sins against the Lord. During his rule, Nebuchadnezzar attacks Judah again. But this time the consequences are dire. He takes Jehoiachin as prisoner to Babylon, together with his mother, wives and all the officials. All the craftsmen and able bodied men also are taken away leaving only poor and disabled in Judah. All these happen due to the sins committed by King Manasseh in the past. He had committed so many sins and killed so many innocent people that the Lord had decided to punish Judah.
Nebuchadnezzar installs Jehoiachi's uncle Mattaniah as king of Judah and changes his name to Zedekiah. King Zedekiah rules for 11 years but he also sins against the Lord.
Friday, November 12, 2010
Day 335 - 2 Kings : Chapter 23
2 Kings 23 : Josiah does away with Pagan worship and renews the Passover
King Josiah summons the leaders of Judah and all the people and together they go into the temple. Before all of them, the King reads the book of covenant aloud. He makes a promise to the Lord that he would strictly abide by all the laws in the book. People also make the promise.
The king orders destruction of all the idols, altars and temples of other heathen gods.
After everything that belongs to all the other gods are destroyed, the King asks people to celebrate the passover as per the book of the covenant. This festival had not been celebrated since the time of Judges.
The king dies in the battlefield during a war with Egypt. His son Joahaz succeeds him but he is taken prisoner by the Egyptians. Another son of Josiah named Elakim (later renamed Jehoiakim) becomes the king. Unlike his father, Jehoiakim does not follow the path of the Lord and commits sins.
King Josiah summons the leaders of Judah and all the people and together they go into the temple. Before all of them, the King reads the book of covenant aloud. He makes a promise to the Lord that he would strictly abide by all the laws in the book. People also make the promise.
The king orders destruction of all the idols, altars and temples of other heathen gods.
After everything that belongs to all the other gods are destroyed, the King asks people to celebrate the passover as per the book of the covenant. This festival had not been celebrated since the time of Judges.
The king dies in the battlefield during a war with Egypt. His son Joahaz succeeds him but he is taken prisoner by the Egyptians. Another son of Josiah named Elakim (later renamed Jehoiakim) becomes the king. Unlike his father, Jehoiakim does not follow the path of the Lord and commits sins.
Thursday, November 11, 2010
Day 334 - 2 Kings : Chapter 22
2 Kings 22 : King Josiah of Judah and the discovery of "The Book of the Law"
Josiah became the king of Judah at the age of 8 and ruled for 31 years. Unlike his father Amon or grandfather Manasseh, he followed the footsteps of his great-grandfather Hezekiah and his ancestors before and lived by obeying the laws of the Lord.
In the 18th year of his reign, he asks his court secretary to go to the high priest and he the reports about expenditure of various activities in the temple. The court secretary comes back by saying that the high priest has discovered the book of the law and hands it over to the king. The king reads it and is very dismayed. He is very upset that the people of Judah have not been following the laws because of ignorance.
The court secretary and the priests go to a prophet named Huldah and ask her to consult the Lord. She tells them the message that Judah would be destroyed and conquered by foreigners since the people did not follow the ways of the Lord. They return to the King with this message.
Josiah became the king of Judah at the age of 8 and ruled for 31 years. Unlike his father Amon or grandfather Manasseh, he followed the footsteps of his great-grandfather Hezekiah and his ancestors before and lived by obeying the laws of the Lord.
In the 18th year of his reign, he asks his court secretary to go to the high priest and he the reports about expenditure of various activities in the temple. The court secretary comes back by saying that the high priest has discovered the book of the law and hands it over to the king. The king reads it and is very dismayed. He is very upset that the people of Judah have not been following the laws because of ignorance.
The court secretary and the priests go to a prophet named Huldah and ask her to consult the Lord. She tells them the message that Judah would be destroyed and conquered by foreigners since the people did not follow the ways of the Lord. They return to the King with this message.
Wednesday, November 10, 2010
Tuesday, November 09, 2010
Monday, November 08, 2010
Day 331 - 2 Kings : Chapter 19
2 Kings 19 : The defeat of Sennacherib
"Like the leaves of the forest when summer is green,
That host with their banners at sunset were seen:
Like the leaves of the forest when autumn hath blown,
That host on the morrow lay withered and strown.
For the Angel of Death spread his wings on the blast,
And breathed in the face of the foe as he passed:
And the eyes of the sleepers waxed deadly and chill,
And their hearts but once heaved, and for ever grew still! "
~ Lord Byron
"Like the leaves of the forest when summer is green,
That host with their banners at sunset were seen:
Like the leaves of the forest when autumn hath blown,
That host on the morrow lay withered and strown.
For the Angel of Death spread his wings on the blast,
And breathed in the face of the foe as he passed:
And the eyes of the sleepers waxed deadly and chill,
And their hearts but once heaved, and for ever grew still! "
~ Lord Byron
Sunday, November 07, 2010
Saturday, November 06, 2010
Friday, November 05, 2010
Thursday, November 04, 2010
Wednesday, November 03, 2010
Tuesday, November 02, 2010
Monday, November 01, 2010
Sunday, October 31, 2010
Saturday, October 30, 2010
Friday, October 29, 2010
Thursday, October 28, 2010
Wednesday, October 27, 2010
Tuesday, October 26, 2010
Monday, October 25, 2010
Sunday, October 24, 2010
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Friday, October 22, 2010
Thursday, October 21, 2010
Wednesday, October 20, 2010
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Monday, October 18, 2010
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Thursday, October 14, 2010
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Monday, October 11, 2010
Sunday, October 10, 2010
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Thursday, October 07, 2010
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Thursday, September 30, 2010
Wednesday, September 29, 2010
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Thursday, September 09, 2010
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Friday, September 03, 2010
Thursday, September 02, 2010
Wednesday, September 01, 2010
Tuesday, August 31, 2010
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Sunday, August 22, 2010
Day 253 - 1 Samuel : Chapter 18
1 Samuel 18 : Saul becomes jealous of David
Saul makes David an officer in his army. David is successful in all the missions that Saul sends him on. Everyone, the common people and the people in the army begin to adore David and sing praises on him. In their celebration, women sang "Saul killed thousands, David killed tens of thousands". Upon hearing this Saul gets very jealous and suspicious of David.
Saul once tries to throw a spear at David in a fit of anger while David was playing the harp. But David manages to dodge it. The same happens again and since God's spirit is in him, David always escapes.
Saul sends David in command of a thousand men and sends him to battle thinking that David might get killed. But David is victorious in the battle.
Saul tells David that he will give his daughter Merab in marriage to David. But when the time comes he gets Merab married to someone else. Saul's daughter Michal falls in love with David. Saul asks David for the foreskins of 100 dead Philistines as a payment for the bride thinking that when he goes to fight with Philistines, David would get killed. But David and his men kill 200 Philistines and grant Saul his wish.
Saul realizes that the Lord was with David and he gets even more scared.
Saul makes David an officer in his army. David is successful in all the missions that Saul sends him on. Everyone, the common people and the people in the army begin to adore David and sing praises on him. In their celebration, women sang "Saul killed thousands, David killed tens of thousands". Upon hearing this Saul gets very jealous and suspicious of David.
Saul once tries to throw a spear at David in a fit of anger while David was playing the harp. But David manages to dodge it. The same happens again and since God's spirit is in him, David always escapes.
Saul sends David in command of a thousand men and sends him to battle thinking that David might get killed. But David is victorious in the battle.
Saul tells David that he will give his daughter Merab in marriage to David. But when the time comes he gets Merab married to someone else. Saul's daughter Michal falls in love with David. Saul asks David for the foreskins of 100 dead Philistines as a payment for the bride thinking that when he goes to fight with Philistines, David would get killed. But David and his men kill 200 Philistines and grant Saul his wish.
Saul realizes that the Lord was with David and he gets even more scared.
Saturday, August 21, 2010
Day 252 - 1 Samuel : Chapter 17
1 Samuel 17 : David & Goliath
Israelites and Philistines prepare for another war but this time there is a man named Goliath in the Philistine camp. He is a huge man standing over 3 meters tall. He comes forward, curses the Israelites and challenges them. If anyone had the courage to fight him, he was to come forward. If Goliath lost Philistines would be slaves of Israelites otherwise vice versa. He challenges Israelites for 40 days but no one comes forward.
David's brothers are soldiers in the Israelite camp. David goes there once in few days to give them food supplies. When he talks to other soldiers he comes to know of Goliath. They tell him that no one in Israel is ready to fight Goliath and the king has offered a great reward for anyone who is ready to fight Goliath - he will also give the person his daughter in marriage and suspend taxes for his family. David tells that Israel is the army of the living God and they should not be scared of a heathen like Goliath.
David goes to Saul's court and asks him permission to fight Goliath. Saul looks at him and asks him what experience does he have. David tells him that he is a shepherd but has fought lions with his bear hands. David tells him that the living God is with him and God will save him from the Philistine.
Saul gives his own armour and helmet but after wearing them David feels uncomfortable and removes them. He goes to fight with Goliath with only a sling and some stones.
Goliath sees David and is filled with scorn that it was not a powerful man who came to fight him but just a young boy. He utters curses on David and tells him that he will tear him to pieces and give them to birds and animals to eat. As Goliath comes forward, David takes a small stone out of his pocket, and slings it on Goliath's forehead. Goliath loses consciousness on the impact of the stone and falls down. David goes over to his body, takes his sword and beheads him.
When Philistines see this, they run away. The Israelites chase them and defeat them that day.
Israelites and Philistines prepare for another war but this time there is a man named Goliath in the Philistine camp. He is a huge man standing over 3 meters tall. He comes forward, curses the Israelites and challenges them. If anyone had the courage to fight him, he was to come forward. If Goliath lost Philistines would be slaves of Israelites otherwise vice versa. He challenges Israelites for 40 days but no one comes forward.
David's brothers are soldiers in the Israelite camp. David goes there once in few days to give them food supplies. When he talks to other soldiers he comes to know of Goliath. They tell him that no one in Israel is ready to fight Goliath and the king has offered a great reward for anyone who is ready to fight Goliath - he will also give the person his daughter in marriage and suspend taxes for his family. David tells that Israel is the army of the living God and they should not be scared of a heathen like Goliath.
David goes to Saul's court and asks him permission to fight Goliath. Saul looks at him and asks him what experience does he have. David tells him that he is a shepherd but has fought lions with his bear hands. David tells him that the living God is with him and God will save him from the Philistine.
Saul gives his own armour and helmet but after wearing them David feels uncomfortable and removes them. He goes to fight with Goliath with only a sling and some stones.
Goliath sees David and is filled with scorn that it was not a powerful man who came to fight him but just a young boy. He utters curses on David and tells him that he will tear him to pieces and give them to birds and animals to eat. As Goliath comes forward, David takes a small stone out of his pocket, and slings it on Goliath's forehead. Goliath loses consciousness on the impact of the stone and falls down. David goes over to his body, takes his sword and beheads him.
When Philistines see this, they run away. The Israelites chase them and defeat them that day.
Friday, August 20, 2010
Day 251 - 1 Samuel : Chapter 16
1 Samuel 16 : David is anointed King
God tells Samuel to stop grieving about Saul and to take olive oil and go to to a man named Jesse, because God has chosen one of his sons to be king. Samuel does so.
He goes over to Jesse's house and tells him that he wants to offer sacrifices to the Lord. He asks Jesse to bring his sons forward. One by one 7 of Jesse's sons come forward. But the Lord doesn't choose any of them. Samuel asks Jesse - "Do you have any more sons?". Jesse answers, "There is still the youngest, but he is out taking care of the sheep." Samuel asks him also to be called. The youngest son comes and the Lord whispers into Samuel's ears to anoint him.
Samuel anoints David and God's spirit leaves Saul and comes over on David.
In the meantime, Saul is tormented with evil spirits since the Lord left him. His servants advice him to listen to music which would soothe his mind and drive the evil spirits away. His servants tell him that there is no one who plays harp better than David, the son of Jesse. So from that day onwards, David comes to the court of Saul to play harp.
God tells Samuel to stop grieving about Saul and to take olive oil and go to to a man named Jesse, because God has chosen one of his sons to be king. Samuel does so.
He goes over to Jesse's house and tells him that he wants to offer sacrifices to the Lord. He asks Jesse to bring his sons forward. One by one 7 of Jesse's sons come forward. But the Lord doesn't choose any of them. Samuel asks Jesse - "Do you have any more sons?". Jesse answers, "There is still the youngest, but he is out taking care of the sheep." Samuel asks him also to be called. The youngest son comes and the Lord whispers into Samuel's ears to anoint him.
Samuel anoints David and God's spirit leaves Saul and comes over on David.
In the meantime, Saul is tormented with evil spirits since the Lord left him. His servants advice him to listen to music which would soothe his mind and drive the evil spirits away. His servants tell him that there is no one who plays harp better than David, the son of Jesse. So from that day onwards, David comes to the court of Saul to play harp.
Thursday, August 19, 2010
Day 250 - 1 Samuel : Chapter 15
1 Samuel 15 : War against Amalekites
Samuel asks Saul to go to war against the Amalekites since the Lord had decided to punish the people of Amalek because their ancestors had opposed the Israelites when they were coming from Egypt. Samuel instructs Saul to completely destroy them and their property without leaving anything back.
Saul defeats the Amalakites but spares the best sheep and cattle. Samuel questions him on this. He says he spared the best so that he could offer them as sacrifices to the Lord. Samuel asks him -
"Which does the Lord prefer - obedience or offerings and sacrifices? It is better to obey him than to sacrifice the best sheep to him. Rebellion against him is as bad as witchcraft, and arrogance is as sinful as idolatry. Because you rejected the Lord's command, he has rejected you as king. "
Saul asks Samuel for forgiveness as he is about to go. But Samuel turns away in anger. Saul catches hold of Samuel's cloak and it tears. Samuel tells Saul that God has torn the Kingdom of Israel away from Saul like the cloak.
Samuel goes back to Ramah and grieves over the king and the fate of Israel.
Samuel asks Saul to go to war against the Amalekites since the Lord had decided to punish the people of Amalek because their ancestors had opposed the Israelites when they were coming from Egypt. Samuel instructs Saul to completely destroy them and their property without leaving anything back.
Saul defeats the Amalakites but spares the best sheep and cattle. Samuel questions him on this. He says he spared the best so that he could offer them as sacrifices to the Lord. Samuel asks him -
"Which does the Lord prefer - obedience or offerings and sacrifices? It is better to obey him than to sacrifice the best sheep to him. Rebellion against him is as bad as witchcraft, and arrogance is as sinful as idolatry. Because you rejected the Lord's command, he has rejected you as king. "
Saul asks Samuel for forgiveness as he is about to go. But Samuel turns away in anger. Saul catches hold of Samuel's cloak and it tears. Samuel tells Saul that God has torn the Kingdom of Israel away from Saul like the cloak.
Samuel goes back to Ramah and grieves over the king and the fate of Israel.
Wednesday, August 18, 2010
Day 249 - 1 Samuel : Chapter 14
1 Samuel 14 : Jonathan's daring deed and the defeat of the Philistines
As they were getting ready for the war, Jonathan did a very daring thing. He and the young man with him who was carrying his weapons, went over stealthily to the Philistine camp through the Michmash pass and attacked them. They killed around 20 Philistines and caused a lot of confusion among them.
Saul and his men see from far that Philistines are running around in confusion. Saul got to know that Jonathan had already gone ahead and started the war. He immediately launched an attack on the enemies. They won the war that day.
Saul had given orders to the army that no one was to eat until the battle was won. He said "Curse be to anyone who eats today before the enemy is defeated". Every one was very hungry but remembered the curse and did not eat anything. Jonathan hadnt heard his father saying this since he was not present. So when he saw honey, he used his stick to take some and ate. People told Jonathan about Saul's curse. Jonathan said everyone is so hungry and it was a terrible thing that the king could do.
After they had defeated the Philistines that day, Saul went to consult the Lord about going after the other Philistine cities. The Lord did not answer. He prays to God to show him and indication about why God was angry and who had sinned. God points to Jonathan through a stone that Saul places in front of God.
Saul wants to get Jonathan killed since he had sinned. But the people beg for Jonathan's life and he is spared.
As they were getting ready for the war, Jonathan did a very daring thing. He and the young man with him who was carrying his weapons, went over stealthily to the Philistine camp through the Michmash pass and attacked them. They killed around 20 Philistines and caused a lot of confusion among them.
Saul and his men see from far that Philistines are running around in confusion. Saul got to know that Jonathan had already gone ahead and started the war. He immediately launched an attack on the enemies. They won the war that day.
Saul had given orders to the army that no one was to eat until the battle was won. He said "Curse be to anyone who eats today before the enemy is defeated". Every one was very hungry but remembered the curse and did not eat anything. Jonathan hadnt heard his father saying this since he was not present. So when he saw honey, he used his stick to take some and ate. People told Jonathan about Saul's curse. Jonathan said everyone is so hungry and it was a terrible thing that the king could do.
After they had defeated the Philistines that day, Saul went to consult the Lord about going after the other Philistine cities. The Lord did not answer. He prays to God to show him and indication about why God was angry and who had sinned. God points to Jonathan through a stone that Saul places in front of God.
Saul wants to get Jonathan killed since he had sinned. But the people beg for Jonathan's life and he is spared.
Tuesday, August 17, 2010
Day 248 - 1 Samuel : Chapter 13
1 Samuel 13 : Saul's disobedience
After Jonathan killed the Philistine commander Geba, Philistines launched a very heavy attack on the Israelites. Some of the Israelite soldiers started running away, hiding from the Philistines.
Saul was still in Gilgal with his army waiting for Samuel to arrive and offer sacrifices. He waited seven days for Samuel, as Samuel had instructed him to do, but Samuel still had not come. The people began to desert Saul and he in his desperation told people to bring the sacrifices and offered a burnt sacrifice. Just as he was finishing Samuel came. He was very upset and reprimanded Saul and left the place in anger. He said Saul's descendants will not be Kings of Israel.
Saul continued to prepare for the war. Those days there were no blacksmiths in Israel. All were among philistines only. So only Saul and Jonathan had spears.
After Jonathan killed the Philistine commander Geba, Philistines launched a very heavy attack on the Israelites. Some of the Israelite soldiers started running away, hiding from the Philistines.
Saul was still in Gilgal with his army waiting for Samuel to arrive and offer sacrifices. He waited seven days for Samuel, as Samuel had instructed him to do, but Samuel still had not come. The people began to desert Saul and he in his desperation told people to bring the sacrifices and offered a burnt sacrifice. Just as he was finishing Samuel came. He was very upset and reprimanded Saul and left the place in anger. He said Saul's descendants will not be Kings of Israel.
Saul continued to prepare for the war. Those days there were no blacksmiths in Israel. All were among philistines only. So only Saul and Jonathan had spears.
Monday, August 16, 2010
Day 247 - 1 Samuel : Chapter 12
1 Samuel 12 : Samuel talks to people
Samuel addresses people after Saul's victory over the Ammonites.
He says he is old now and will not be their leader anymore. Moreover they have their king now.
He asks people if has ever oppressed them or taken anything from them. They all answer unanimously.
He reminds people that The Lord had always helped Israelites during their troubled times and they had sinned against the Lord by asking for a King. He says if they have sinned against the Lord, there will be thunder and rain and it happens on that day. People get scared. Samuel assures them that Lord has chosen their King and if the King and the people continue to obey the Lord faithfully with all their hearts, the Lord will continue to bless them and they don't have to be scared.
Samuel addresses people after Saul's victory over the Ammonites.
He says he is old now and will not be their leader anymore. Moreover they have their king now.
He asks people if has ever oppressed them or taken anything from them. They all answer unanimously.
He reminds people that The Lord had always helped Israelites during their troubled times and they had sinned against the Lord by asking for a King. He says if they have sinned against the Lord, there will be thunder and rain and it happens on that day. People get scared. Samuel assures them that Lord has chosen their King and if the King and the people continue to obey the Lord faithfully with all their hearts, the Lord will continue to bless them and they don't have to be scared.
Sunday, August 15, 2010
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Day 103 - Leviticus : Chapter 13
Leviticus 13 : Laws concerning skin diseases
Israelites were very particular about cleanliness. This chapter details God's instructions about skin diseases and moulds in homes.
If anyone has a sore or a skin disease or a boil, he or she must come to the priest and have it examined. The priest would examine it and would determine if the person is clean or unclean. Sometimes, the priest would quarrantine the person for 7 days and then examine. If the symptoms persist but has not spread, the priest would isolate the person for another 7 days. If it has been determined that the person has a deadly skin disease after that, the priest would pronounce the person as unclean.
If someone is pronounced to have a dreaded skin disease, he/she must wear torn clothes, leave his hair uncombed, cover the lower part of his face, and call out, "Unclean, unclean!" if he sees someone. He remains unclean as long as he has the disease and must live outside the camp.
When there is mildew on any piece of clothing or linen or leather, it must be brought to the priest. He will examine it to determine whether it would spread or not. He would order it to be put away for 7 days if it doesnt appear to spread. If it still doesnt spread, he would ask for it to be washed and examine after 7 days. If it appears to spread, he would have it burnt.
Israelites were very particular about cleanliness. This chapter details God's instructions about skin diseases and moulds in homes.
If anyone has a sore or a skin disease or a boil, he or she must come to the priest and have it examined. The priest would examine it and would determine if the person is clean or unclean. Sometimes, the priest would quarrantine the person for 7 days and then examine. If the symptoms persist but has not spread, the priest would isolate the person for another 7 days. If it has been determined that the person has a deadly skin disease after that, the priest would pronounce the person as unclean.
If someone is pronounced to have a dreaded skin disease, he/she must wear torn clothes, leave his hair uncombed, cover the lower part of his face, and call out, "Unclean, unclean!" if he sees someone. He remains unclean as long as he has the disease and must live outside the camp.
When there is mildew on any piece of clothing or linen or leather, it must be brought to the priest. He will examine it to determine whether it would spread or not. He would order it to be put away for 7 days if it doesnt appear to spread. If it still doesnt spread, he would ask for it to be washed and examine after 7 days. If it appears to spread, he would have it burnt.
Wednesday, March 24, 2010
Day 102 - Leviticus : Chapter 12
Leviticus 12 : Purification of Women after childbirth
If a woman gives birth to a son, she is ritually unclean for 7 days.
On the 8th day, the child should be circumcised. She will be ritually clean after 33 more days.
Total 40.
If a woman give birth to a daughter, she is ritually unclean for 14 days. She will be ritually unclean for 66 more days from the loss of blood.
Total 80.
When the time of purification is complete, she should bring a one-year-old lamb (if lamb cannot be afforded, then a pigeon) as a burnt offering to the priest.
If a woman gives birth to a son, she is ritually unclean for 7 days.
On the 8th day, the child should be circumcised. She will be ritually clean after 33 more days.
Total 40.
If a woman give birth to a daughter, she is ritually unclean for 14 days. She will be ritually unclean for 66 more days from the loss of blood.
Total 80.
When the time of purification is complete, she should bring a one-year-old lamb (if lamb cannot be afforded, then a pigeon) as a burnt offering to the priest.
Tuesday, March 23, 2010
Day 101 - Leviticus : Chapter 11
Leviticus 11 : Animals that may be eaten
- Eat animals that have divided hoofs and also chew their cud (chewing cud means - eating, regurgitating the eaten stuff out.. [cows usually make it into a ball], then eating that again). Others are unclean.
- Eat fish that have scales. Others are unclean.
- Eat insects that hop. All other winged insects are unclean.
- Do not eat creatures of the ground (rats, snakes ..etc)
- Do not eat dead animals. They are unclean.
- Eat animals that have divided hoofs and also chew their cud (chewing cud means - eating, regurgitating the eaten stuff out.. [cows usually make it into a ball], then eating that again). Others are unclean.
- Eat fish that have scales. Others are unclean.
- Eat insects that hop. All other winged insects are unclean.
- Do not eat creatures of the ground (rats, snakes ..etc)
- Do not eat dead animals. They are unclean.
Monday, March 22, 2010
Day 100 - Leviticus : Chapter 10
Leviticus 10 : Sin of Nadab and Abihu
Aaron's sons Nadab and Abihu presented offering to God when it was not necessary. God sends a fire and both of them get consumed by it. God tells Moses that anyone who serves in the altar must respect God's holiness.
Moses asks the cousins to carry away the ashes of Nadab and Abihu. He orders the cousins and relatives not to mourn their death but tells that other people can mourn.
Rules for priests
- Do not enter after drinking wine or beer.
- Distinguish between what is God's and not.
- Distinguish between ritually clean and unclean.
- Teach the laws to the people of Israel.
- Eat sin offering in the holy place.
Aaron's sons Nadab and Abihu presented offering to God when it was not necessary. God sends a fire and both of them get consumed by it. God tells Moses that anyone who serves in the altar must respect God's holiness.
Moses asks the cousins to carry away the ashes of Nadab and Abihu. He orders the cousins and relatives not to mourn their death but tells that other people can mourn.
Rules for priests
- Do not enter after drinking wine or beer.
- Distinguish between what is God's and not.
- Distinguish between ritually clean and unclean.
- Teach the laws to the people of Israel.
- Eat sin offering in the holy place.
Sunday, March 21, 2010
Day 99 - Leviticus : Chapter 9
Leviticus 9 : Aaron offers sacrifices
The day after the ordination rites are completed, Moses calls Aaron and his sons and the leaders of Israel and asks them to take a young bull and a ram without any defects and offer them to the LORD, the bull for a sin offering and the ram for a burnt offering.
The people of Israel are to take a male goat for a sin offering, a one-year-old calf, and a one-year-old lamb without any defects for a burnt offering, and a bull and a ram for a fellowship offering. They are to sacrifice them to the LORD with the grain offering mixed with oil.
Aaron offers sacrifices to the Lord. When everything is done, Moses and Aaron come out and they bless the people. At that time, the dazzling light of the LORD's presence appears to all the people. Suddenly the LORD sends a fire, and it consumes the burnt offering and the fat parts on the altar. When people see it they are astounded and fall on the ground praying.
The day after the ordination rites are completed, Moses calls Aaron and his sons and the leaders of Israel and asks them to take a young bull and a ram without any defects and offer them to the LORD, the bull for a sin offering and the ram for a burnt offering.
The people of Israel are to take a male goat for a sin offering, a one-year-old calf, and a one-year-old lamb without any defects for a burnt offering, and a bull and a ram for a fellowship offering. They are to sacrifice them to the LORD with the grain offering mixed with oil.
Aaron offers sacrifices to the Lord. When everything is done, Moses and Aaron come out and they bless the people. At that time, the dazzling light of the LORD's presence appears to all the people. Suddenly the LORD sends a fire, and it consumes the burnt offering and the fat parts on the altar. When people see it they are astounded and fall on the ground praying.
Saturday, March 20, 2010
Day 98 - Leviticus : Chapter 8
Leviticus 8 : Ordination of Aaron and his sons
The ordination ceremony is detailed and the chapter tells how Moses did it.
The ordination ceremony is detailed and the chapter tells how Moses did it.
- Dressed Aaron in priestly garments
- Took the anointing oil and put it on the Tent of the LORD's presence and everything that was in it, and in this way he dedicated it all to the LORD.
- He took some of the oil and sprinkled it seven times on the altar and its equipment and on the basin and its base, in order to dedicate them to the LORD.
- He ordained Aaron by pouring some of it on his head.
- Next he dressed Aaron's sons with priestly garments.
- He brought a young bull as sin offering and sacrificed it for the Lord.
- He brougth a ram for burnt offering and sacrificed it for the Lord.
- He then brought the second ram, meant for ordination
- He killed it and took some of the blood and put it on the lobe of Aaron's right ear, on the thumb of his right hand, and on the big toe of his right foot.
- He then does the same to Aaron's sons.
- He then threw the rest of the blood on all four sides of the altar.
- Then he took one loaf of bread from the basket of unleavened bread dedicated to the LORD, one loaf made with oil, and one thin cake, and he put them on top of the fat and the right hind leg.
- He put all of this food in the hands of Aaron and his sons, and they presented it as a special gift to the LORD.
- Then Moses took the food from them and burned it on the altar, on top of the burnt offering, as an ordination offering.
- Then he took the breast and presented it as a special gift to the LORD. It was Moses' part of the ordination ram.
- He took some of the anointing oil and some of the blood that was on the altar and sprinkled them on Aaron and his sons and on their clothes. In this way he consecrated them and their clothes to the LORD.
Friday, March 19, 2010
Day 97 - Leviticus : Chapter 7
Leviticus 7 : Repayment Offerings and Fellowship Offerings
The offerings to be done are same as the repayment and fellowship offerings described before.
The offerings to be done are same as the repayment and fellowship offerings described before.
Thursday, March 18, 2010
Day 96 - Leviticus : Chapter 6
Leviticus 6 : More instructions on offerings
Sacrifices burnt whole
The burnt offering is to be left on the altar the whole night long and fire is to be kept alive the whole night.
Grain Offerings
If it is grain, it must be ground to flour and mixed with olive oil and incense. Priest should take a handful and burn it in the altar. The rest of the flour is holy and belongs to the priests.
On the day a priest is ordained, he should offer 1 kg of flour as an offering. All of it must be burnt.
The instructions for Sin offerings, Repayment offerings and Fellowship offerings are same as the previous chapters.
Sacrifices burnt whole
The burnt offering is to be left on the altar the whole night long and fire is to be kept alive the whole night.
Grain Offerings
If it is grain, it must be ground to flour and mixed with olive oil and incense. Priest should take a handful and burn it in the altar. The rest of the flour is holy and belongs to the priests.
On the day a priest is ordained, he should offer 1 kg of flour as an offering. All of it must be burnt.
The instructions for Sin offerings, Repayment offerings and Fellowship offerings are same as the previous chapters.
Wednesday, March 17, 2010
Day 95 - Leviticus : Chapter 5
Leviticus 5 : Cases Requiring Sin Offerings
Sin offerings need to be given in the following circumstances
1. If someone doesn't give evidence in court when he is asked to about something he knows or has seen.
2. If someone touches something ritually unclean unintentionally and then realizes that later.
3. If someone touches something unclean of human origin unintentionally and then realizes that later.
4. If someone makes a careless vow
When a person is guilty, he must confess the sin and bring a female goat or sheep as an offering to the Lord.
If the man cannot afford goat or sheep, he must bring 2 doves or pigeons. If he cannot afford the birds, he must bring flour without olive oil or incense.
If anyone does not pay what is due to the Lord, he must bring repayment offering to the Lord. It must be a male sheep or a goat.
Sin offerings need to be given in the following circumstances
1. If someone doesn't give evidence in court when he is asked to about something he knows or has seen.
2. If someone touches something ritually unclean unintentionally and then realizes that later.
3. If someone touches something unclean of human origin unintentionally and then realizes that later.
4. If someone makes a careless vow
When a person is guilty, he must confess the sin and bring a female goat or sheep as an offering to the Lord.
If the man cannot afford goat or sheep, he must bring 2 doves or pigeons. If he cannot afford the birds, he must bring flour without olive oil or incense.
If anyone does not pay what is due to the Lord, he must bring repayment offering to the Lord. It must be a male sheep or a goat.
Tuesday, March 16, 2010
Day 94 - Leviticus : Chapter 4
Leviticus 4 : Offerings for unintentional sins
High Priest
If it is the High Priest who commits a sin unintentionally, he brings guilt to the people and should sacrifice a young bull without any defects to remove his sin. He should bring it in front of the Tent and kill it in the Lord's presence. He should then take some of the bulls blood and carry it into the tent. He should sprinkle some of it in front of the sacred curtain. He should put some on the projections of the incense altar. He should then come out and pour the rest at the base of the altar for burnt offerings. Then he should burn the animal in the altar for burnt offerings.
Community
If it is the whole community who commits a sin and it is brought to light, they should bring a young bull for sacrifice. The High should perform the exact same ceremony that he would do if he committed the sin.
Ruler
If it is a ruler who sins, he should bring a male goat without any defects. He should bring it to the Tent, at the north side of the 'altar for burnt offering', put his hand on its head and kill it in the Lord's presence. The priest should dip his fingers into the blood and put it on the projections of the altar. Then the animal must be burnt in the altar for burnt offerings.
One of the common people
If it is a common man, he should bring a female goat without any defects. After this the same procedure that a ruler performs must be followed.
High Priest
If it is the High Priest who commits a sin unintentionally, he brings guilt to the people and should sacrifice a young bull without any defects to remove his sin. He should bring it in front of the Tent and kill it in the Lord's presence. He should then take some of the bulls blood and carry it into the tent. He should sprinkle some of it in front of the sacred curtain. He should put some on the projections of the incense altar. He should then come out and pour the rest at the base of the altar for burnt offerings. Then he should burn the animal in the altar for burnt offerings.
Community
If it is the whole community who commits a sin and it is brought to light, they should bring a young bull for sacrifice. The High should perform the exact same ceremony that he would do if he committed the sin.
Ruler
If it is a ruler who sins, he should bring a male goat without any defects. He should bring it to the Tent, at the north side of the 'altar for burnt offering', put his hand on its head and kill it in the Lord's presence. The priest should dip his fingers into the blood and put it on the projections of the altar. Then the animal must be burnt in the altar for burnt offerings.
One of the common people
If it is a common man, he should bring a female goat without any defects. After this the same procedure that a ruler performs must be followed.
Monday, March 15, 2010
Day 93 - Leviticus : Chapter 3
Leviticus 3 : Fellowship Offerings
This is almost similar to Chapter 1. A person can offer his cattle or sheep or bird as a sacrifice for fellowship offering. The priest shall burn these on the altar. No Israelite may eat any fat or blood from these.
This is almost similar to Chapter 1. A person can offer his cattle or sheep or bird as a sacrifice for fellowship offering. The priest shall burn these on the altar. No Israelite may eat any fat or blood from these.
Sunday, March 14, 2010
Day 92 - Leviticus : Chapter 2
Leviticus 2 : Grain Offerings
Grain
When one presents grain offering to the Lord, it must be ground into flour and should have olive oil and incense mixed in it. The person who is giving the offering should bring it to the Aaronite priest who will take a handful and burn it on the altar. The rest is holy and belongs to the priests.
Bread
If the offering is bread baked in an oven, it must be made without yeast. It may be of flour mixed with olive oil or brushed with olive oil.
If the offering is bread cooked on a griddle, it is to be made with flour with olive oil without yeast.
If the offering is bread cooked in a pan, it must be made of flour cooked in olive oil.
The bread should be brought to the priest and he will take part of it and burn it on the altar. The rest is holy and belongs to the priests.
Grain
When one presents grain offering to the Lord, it must be ground into flour and should have olive oil and incense mixed in it. The person who is giving the offering should bring it to the Aaronite priest who will take a handful and burn it on the altar. The rest is holy and belongs to the priests.
Bread
If the offering is bread baked in an oven, it must be made without yeast. It may be of flour mixed with olive oil or brushed with olive oil.
If the offering is bread cooked on a griddle, it is to be made with flour with olive oil without yeast.
If the offering is bread cooked in a pan, it must be made of flour cooked in olive oil.
The bread should be brought to the priest and he will take part of it and burn it on the altar. The rest is holy and belongs to the priests.
Saturday, March 13, 2010
Day 91 - Leviticus : Chapter 1
Leviticus contains rules and regulations from God to the priests and the people of Israel.
Leviticus 1 : Sacrifices burnt whole
One can offer his cattle or sheep or bird as a sacrifice for burnt offering. This would be accepted as a sacrifice to take away the sins.
If it is cattle, he must bring a bull without any defects and present it at the entrance of the Tent of God's presence. He should kill the bull there and the Aaronite priests should offer the blood to the Lord and put it on four sides of the altar outside the tent. Then he should skin the animal and cut it up. The Aaronite priest would arrange the fire on the altar and light it.
If it is sheep or goat, it must be a male without any defects. He should kill it on the north side of the altar and the priest shall throw blood on four sides of the altar. Then he should skin the animal and cut it up. The Aaronite priest would arrange the fire on the altar and light it.
If it is a bird, it must be a dove or a pigeon. The priest should present it at the altar, wring its neck and burn its head on the altar. The blood must be drained on the side of the altar. He should burn it on the altar.
It might seem too gruesome to us since we wouldn't have killed or seen killing of cattle or birds in our entire life. But during those days, this was very common. It might be common to us may be if we lived in a village or a ranch.
Leviticus 1 : Sacrifices burnt whole
One can offer his cattle or sheep or bird as a sacrifice for burnt offering. This would be accepted as a sacrifice to take away the sins.
If it is cattle, he must bring a bull without any defects and present it at the entrance of the Tent of God's presence. He should kill the bull there and the Aaronite priests should offer the blood to the Lord and put it on four sides of the altar outside the tent. Then he should skin the animal and cut it up. The Aaronite priest would arrange the fire on the altar and light it.
If it is sheep or goat, it must be a male without any defects. He should kill it on the north side of the altar and the priest shall throw blood on four sides of the altar. Then he should skin the animal and cut it up. The Aaronite priest would arrange the fire on the altar and light it.
If it is a bird, it must be a dove or a pigeon. The priest should present it at the altar, wring its neck and burn its head on the altar. The blood must be drained on the side of the altar. He should burn it on the altar.
It might seem too gruesome to us since we wouldn't have killed or seen killing of cattle or birds in our entire life. But during those days, this was very common. It might be common to us may be if we lived in a village or a ranch.
Friday, March 12, 2010
Day 90 - Exodus : Chapter 40
Exodus 90 : Setting up and dedicating the Tent of the Lord's Presence
After all the work has been done, the tent is set up. This chapter explains about how and when it was done.
Moses does everything as the Lord had commanded. On the first day of the first month of the second year after they left Egypt, the Tent of the Lord's presence is set up. He sets up the tent, takes the tablets containing Ten Commandments and places them in the covenant box and covers it. He puts a curtain in front of it so that it is sealed from the rest of the tent. He puts table in the tent on the north side outside the curtain and placed on it, the bread offered to the Lord. He puts the lamp-stand in the tent on the south side opposite the table and lit the lamps. He puts the gold altar in front of the curtain and burns the sweet smelling incense. He hangs a curtain at the entrance of the tent and there, he places the altar for burnt offerings. On it he sacrifices the burnt offering and grain offering. He puts the wash basis between the tent and the altar and fills it with water. Moses, Aaron and his sons washed their hands and feet whenever they went into the altar. Moses finishes all the work as God had commanded.
Then a cloud covers the tent and dazzling light of God's presence fills us. After that Israelites moved their camp only when the cloud lifted up from the tent.
Layout of the tabernacle -> http://www.gods-word-first.org/Images/tabernacle.gif
This completes Exodus. Thank you God.
After all the work has been done, the tent is set up. This chapter explains about how and when it was done.
Moses does everything as the Lord had commanded. On the first day of the first month of the second year after they left Egypt, the Tent of the Lord's presence is set up. He sets up the tent, takes the tablets containing Ten Commandments and places them in the covenant box and covers it. He puts a curtain in front of it so that it is sealed from the rest of the tent. He puts table in the tent on the north side outside the curtain and placed on it, the bread offered to the Lord. He puts the lamp-stand in the tent on the south side opposite the table and lit the lamps. He puts the gold altar in front of the curtain and burns the sweet smelling incense. He hangs a curtain at the entrance of the tent and there, he places the altar for burnt offerings. On it he sacrifices the burnt offering and grain offering. He puts the wash basis between the tent and the altar and fills it with water. Moses, Aaron and his sons washed their hands and feet whenever they went into the altar. Moses finishes all the work as God had commanded.
Then a cloud covers the tent and dazzling light of God's presence fills us. After that Israelites moved their camp only when the cloud lifted up from the tent.
Layout of the tabernacle -> http://www.gods-word-first.org/Images/tabernacle.gif
This completes Exodus. Thank you God.
Thursday, March 11, 2010
Day 89 - Exodus : Chapter 39
Exodus 39 : Making of priestly garments
The people made magnificent garments for the priests to wear when they served in the holy place. Garments were made of blue, purple and red wool with exact dimensions and engravings and gold bordering as the Lord had commanded Moses.
With the completion of priestly garments and ephod and breastpiece, all the work on the Tent of the Lord's presence was finally completed.
The Israelites made everything just as the Lord had commanded Moses.
The people made magnificent garments for the priests to wear when they served in the holy place. Garments were made of blue, purple and red wool with exact dimensions and engravings and gold bordering as the Lord had commanded Moses.
With the completion of priestly garments and ephod and breastpiece, all the work on the Tent of the Lord's presence was finally completed.
The Israelites made everything just as the Lord had commanded Moses.
Wednesday, March 10, 2010
Day 88 - Exodus : Chapter 38
Exodus 38 : Building the altar and enclosure
The craftsmen built the altar and enclosure to the tent of God's presence in the exact dimensions as God had mentioned to Moses. The chapter details about how these things were done.
The chapter also explains in detail about the metal used to make everything.
The craftsmen built the altar and enclosure to the tent of God's presence in the exact dimensions as God had mentioned to Moses. The chapter details about how these things were done.
The chapter also explains in detail about the metal used to make everything.
Tuesday, March 09, 2010
Day 87 - Exodus : Chapter 37
Exodus 37 : Making of Covenant Box, The Sacred Table, Lamp stand, The Sacred Altar, Anointing Oil
Bezalel (with his craftsmen) makes the covenant box , the sacred table, lampstand, the sacred altar and the anointing oil exactly as per instructions from God.
Bezalel (with his craftsmen) makes the covenant box , the sacred table, lampstand, the sacred altar and the anointing oil exactly as per instructions from God.
Monday, March 08, 2010
Day 86 - Exodus : Chapter 36
Happy Women's day to all the women out there.
Exodus 36 : The crafts men start the construction
Bezalel, Oholiab and all the other craftsmen set out to do exactly as what God had commanded. Moses had asked the people of Israel to bring offerings to construct the sacred tent and everything inside it as God had commanded. People bring so many things that the craftsmen say 'Enough, it is too much. We have more than what is necessary to start'.
This was such a revelation ! In today's time, when Church wants to start a project and asks people for money, Church generally falls short. People were very giving those days.
The craftsmen made the tent of God's presence in the exact measurements and material as per God's instructions.
Exodus 36 : The crafts men start the construction
Bezalel, Oholiab and all the other craftsmen set out to do exactly as what God had commanded. Moses had asked the people of Israel to bring offerings to construct the sacred tent and everything inside it as God had commanded. People bring so many things that the craftsmen say 'Enough, it is too much. We have more than what is necessary to start'.
This was such a revelation ! In today's time, when Church wants to start a project and asks people for money, Church generally falls short. People were very giving those days.
The craftsmen made the tent of God's presence in the exact measurements and material as per God's instructions.
Sunday, March 07, 2010
Day 85 - Exodus : Chapter 35
Exodus 35 : Observance of Sabbath & offerings to God
Moses calls together the whole community and tells them about the observance of Sabbath. He says that the Lord has commanded that Sabbath is to be a holy day and must be observed strictly by each and every person. Any person not observing Sabbath must be put to death ! The people are not even to light a fire on that day.
He also tells people about offerings to God. Everyone is to make offerings from what they have to God.
People listen to what Moses says and obey them. They bring all kinds of offerings to God. They also bring tools and materials needed by the craftsmen to construct Temple of God's presence.
Moses calls together the whole community and tells them about the observance of Sabbath. He says that the Lord has commanded that Sabbath is to be a holy day and must be observed strictly by each and every person. Any person not observing Sabbath must be put to death ! The people are not even to light a fire on that day.
He also tells people about offerings to God. Everyone is to make offerings from what they have to God.
People listen to what Moses says and obey them. They bring all kinds of offerings to God. They also bring tools and materials needed by the craftsmen to construct Temple of God's presence.
Saturday, March 06, 2010
Day 84 - Exodus : Chapter 34
Exodus 34 : Second set of tablets and commandments
The Lord tells Moses to cut 2 new stone tablets. Moses does so and goes up the Mount Sinai. Moses again asks for forgiveness and requests God to be with them as they set out from Mount Sinai.
God makes a covenant with the people of Israel. God says God will be with them if they obey God's commandments.
> Do not worship other gods.
> Do not make treaties with the people of the land that God is going to give to them.
> Do not have sons marry foreign women.
> Do not make idols of metals and worship them.
> Observe the festival of unleavened bread.
> Dedicate every first born male to God.
> Observe Sabbath strictly.
Moses stayed there with the LORD forty days and nights, eating and drinking nothing. He writes on the tablets the words of the covenant---the Ten Commandments.
Moses came down the mountain and spoke to people. They saw that his face was shining. After he spoke with them, he covered his face with a veil.
After that whenever Moses went to the tent of God's presence, he would remove the veil and talk to God. He would address the people soon after and once that was done, he would cover his face with the veil.
The Lord tells Moses to cut 2 new stone tablets. Moses does so and goes up the Mount Sinai. Moses again asks for forgiveness and requests God to be with them as they set out from Mount Sinai.
God makes a covenant with the people of Israel. God says God will be with them if they obey God's commandments.
> Do not worship other gods.
> Do not make treaties with the people of the land that God is going to give to them.
> Do not have sons marry foreign women.
> Do not make idols of metals and worship them.
> Observe the festival of unleavened bread.
> Dedicate every first born male to God.
> Observe Sabbath strictly.
Moses stayed there with the LORD forty days and nights, eating and drinking nothing. He writes on the tablets the words of the covenant---the Ten Commandments.
Moses came down the mountain and spoke to people. They saw that his face was shining. After he spoke with them, he covered his face with a veil.
After that whenever Moses went to the tent of God's presence, he would remove the veil and talk to God. He would address the people soon after and once that was done, he would cover his face with the veil.
Friday, March 05, 2010
Day 83 - Exodus : Chapter 33
Exodus 33 : Lord asks Israelites to go forward to Canaan from Sinai
God says to Moses to ask people to leave this place and go to the promised land of Canaan. But God will not be with them on their journey because the people are so stubborn that if God is with them, God might destroy them due to their sins.
Moses tells this to people and they get very sad. They remove all their ornaments and go into mourning.
People pack their bags and start travelling towards Canaan. Wherever they stopped, they set up the tent of God's presence a little away from the place where they stayed. Whenever they had any problem, they would go to the tent and pray. God would talk to Moses in the tent. When God came, there would be a pillar of cloud and when people saw this, they would bow down.
Moses asks forgiveness from God and tells God that without God people will not be able to survive. God promises to be with people. Moses asks God if he could see God's dazzling presence. God says if Moses saw God's dazzling presence he would not live. God asks Moses to stand behind a rock, covers Moses's eyes and passes in front of him. Moses sees the dazzling light pass in front of him.
God says to Moses to ask people to leave this place and go to the promised land of Canaan. But God will not be with them on their journey because the people are so stubborn that if God is with them, God might destroy them due to their sins.
Moses tells this to people and they get very sad. They remove all their ornaments and go into mourning.
People pack their bags and start travelling towards Canaan. Wherever they stopped, they set up the tent of God's presence a little away from the place where they stayed. Whenever they had any problem, they would go to the tent and pray. God would talk to Moses in the tent. When God came, there would be a pillar of cloud and when people saw this, they would bow down.
Moses asks forgiveness from God and tells God that without God people will not be able to survive. God promises to be with people. Moses asks God if he could see God's dazzling presence. God says if Moses saw God's dazzling presence he would not live. God asks Moses to stand behind a rock, covers Moses's eyes and passes in front of him. Moses sees the dazzling light pass in front of him.
Thursday, March 04, 2010
Day 82 - Exodus : Chapter 32
Exodus 32 : The Golden Calf
While Moses was in the mountain with God, the people ask Aaron about Moses and tell him to make a god for them to worship. Aaron makes a golden calf for the people and they start worshiping it and host a festival of merriment.
God tells Moses about this and tells that God will strike down on the people. Moses begs God and says that God must forgive the people. After all, God got them out of Egypt and if they are killed, everyone would say God used his might to bring people out of Egypt only to kill them in the desert.
Moses comes down the mountains, sees the people worshiping the calf and is furious. He breaks the tablets, burns the calf and makes it into powder, makes the people drink the water with this powder. Moses then asks everyone who is with God to stand by him. The Levites stand with him. Moses asks them to go and kill the others. That day 3000 people are killed. Moses says to the Levites "Today you have consecrated yourselves as priests in the service of the LORD by killing your sons and brothers, so the LORD has given you his blessing."
Moses then goes up the mountain and asks forgiveness from God for the people's sins. God tells that he will punish those who sinned, not by taking away their life but by sending down a plague.
While Moses was in the mountain with God, the people ask Aaron about Moses and tell him to make a god for them to worship. Aaron makes a golden calf for the people and they start worshiping it and host a festival of merriment.
God tells Moses about this and tells that God will strike down on the people. Moses begs God and says that God must forgive the people. After all, God got them out of Egypt and if they are killed, everyone would say God used his might to bring people out of Egypt only to kill them in the desert.
Moses comes down the mountains, sees the people worshiping the calf and is furious. He breaks the tablets, burns the calf and makes it into powder, makes the people drink the water with this powder. Moses then asks everyone who is with God to stand by him. The Levites stand with him. Moses asks them to go and kill the others. That day 3000 people are killed. Moses says to the Levites "Today you have consecrated yourselves as priests in the service of the LORD by killing your sons and brothers, so the LORD has given you his blessing."
Moses then goes up the mountain and asks forgiveness from God for the people's sins. God tells that he will punish those who sinned, not by taking away their life but by sending down a plague.
Wednesday, March 03, 2010
Day 81 - Exodus : Chapter 31
Exodus 31 : Craftsmen for God
God tells Moses - "I have chosen Bezalel, the son of Uri and grandson of Hur, from the tribe of Judah, and I have filled him with my power. I have given him understanding, skill, and ability for every kind of artistic work for planning skillful designs and working them in gold, silver, and bronze; for cutting jewels to be set; for carving wood; and for every other kind of artistic work. I have also selected Oholiab son of Ahisamach, from the tribe of Dan, to work with him."
Bezalel and Oholiab are to be the chief craftsmen who will execute the plans of creating the altar and the tent of God's presence.
God also tells Moses that people must very strictly observe the sabbath.
God then give Moses 2 tablets with commandments written on it.
God tells Moses - "I have chosen Bezalel, the son of Uri and grandson of Hur, from the tribe of Judah, and I have filled him with my power. I have given him understanding, skill, and ability for every kind of artistic work for planning skillful designs and working them in gold, silver, and bronze; for cutting jewels to be set; for carving wood; and for every other kind of artistic work. I have also selected Oholiab son of Ahisamach, from the tribe of Dan, to work with him."
Bezalel and Oholiab are to be the chief craftsmen who will execute the plans of creating the altar and the tent of God's presence.
God also tells Moses that people must very strictly observe the sabbath.
God then give Moses 2 tablets with commandments written on it.
Tuesday, March 02, 2010
Day 80 - Exodus : Chapter 30
Exodus 30 : Instructions for the Altar
Israelites are to make an altar out of acacia wood, for burning incense. It is to be square 18 X 18 X 36 inches with projections on corners. Its top has to be covered with pure gold. This has to be kept outside the curtain which hangs in front of the Covenant Box. That is the place where God will meet the people. Aaron has to perform purification of the altar once every year.
The Lord tells Moses that he is to take census every year each man is to pay God a price for his life, since God saved them from Egypt.
God also gives instructions about making a bronze basin for priests to wash their hands, oil to anoint sacred items, incense in front of the ark.
Israelites are to make an altar out of acacia wood, for burning incense. It is to be square 18 X 18 X 36 inches with projections on corners. Its top has to be covered with pure gold. This has to be kept outside the curtain which hangs in front of the Covenant Box. That is the place where God will meet the people. Aaron has to perform purification of the altar once every year.
The Lord tells Moses that he is to take census every year each man is to pay God a price for his life, since God saved them from Egypt.
God also gives instructions about making a bronze basin for priests to wash their hands, oil to anoint sacred items, incense in front of the ark.
Monday, March 01, 2010
Day 79 - Exodus : Chapter 29
Exodus 29 : Consecrating the priests
Consecrating a priest was a gory affair those days !
God gives instructions to Moses about dedicating Aaron and his sons as priests for God. They are to take one young bull and two rams without any defects. They are to give ritual bath to Aaron and adorn him with priestly garments. Aaron is to come to the front of the Tent of God's presence and hold his hand over the bull's head. They are to kill the bull there, take some blood and put on the projections of the altar and pour rest of its blood to the base of the altar. Burn best internal organs and liver in the altar as an offering to God, burn the bull's flesh, its skin, and its intestines outside the camp as an offering to take away the sins of the priests.
They are to take one of the rams and tell Aaron and his sons to put their hands on its head. Once they do that they need to kill the ram, take its blood and throw it against all four sides of the altar. Burn the whole ram on the altar as a food offering.
After this, they need to take the other ram kill it, and take some of its blood and put it on the lobes of the right ears of Aaron and his sons, on the thumbs of their right hands and on the big toes of their right feet. After this they are to throw the rest of the blood against all four sides of the altar. This dedicates Aaron and his sons to the service of the Lord.
The ordination service would be for 7 days and is to be observed for all time to come. Aaron should pass on his priestly garments to his sons and his sons to their sons.
Consecrating a priest was a gory affair those days !
God gives instructions to Moses about dedicating Aaron and his sons as priests for God. They are to take one young bull and two rams without any defects. They are to give ritual bath to Aaron and adorn him with priestly garments. Aaron is to come to the front of the Tent of God's presence and hold his hand over the bull's head. They are to kill the bull there, take some blood and put on the projections of the altar and pour rest of its blood to the base of the altar. Burn best internal organs and liver in the altar as an offering to God, burn the bull's flesh, its skin, and its intestines outside the camp as an offering to take away the sins of the priests.
They are to take one of the rams and tell Aaron and his sons to put their hands on its head. Once they do that they need to kill the ram, take its blood and throw it against all four sides of the altar. Burn the whole ram on the altar as a food offering.
After this, they need to take the other ram kill it, and take some of its blood and put it on the lobes of the right ears of Aaron and his sons, on the thumbs of their right hands and on the big toes of their right feet. After this they are to throw the rest of the blood against all four sides of the altar. This dedicates Aaron and his sons to the service of the Lord.
The ordination service would be for 7 days and is to be observed for all time to come. Aaron should pass on his priestly garments to his sons and his sons to their sons.
Sunday, February 28, 2010
Day 78 - Exodus : Chapter 28
Chile was hit with a major earthquake yesterday. All the news channels were covering the news. There were many tsunami alerts in Hawai, Japan, Russia and Australia; but now they've been called off. Lord, we pray to you to help the people of Chile recover fast and restore normalcy. photos from CNN.
Today is the 3rd Sunday of The Great Lent. It is about the healing of the paralysed man.
Exodus 28 : Priestly Garments
God gives instructions to Moses about garments that Aaron and his sons and the priests would wear. God asks Moses to get the best skilled workers among Israelites and have them make a breastpiece, an ephod, a robe, an embroidered shirt, a turban, and a sash using blue, purple, and red wool, gold thread, and fine linen.
The ephod is to be of blue, purple, and red wool, gold thread, and fine linen, decorated with embroidery. Two shoulder straps, by which it can be fastened, are to be attached to the sides. A finely woven belt made of the same materials is to be attached to the ephod so as to form one piece with it.
They are to take two carnelian stones and engrave on them the names of the twelve sons of Jacob, in the order of their birth, with six on one stone and six on the other. The stones are to be put on the shoulder strap so that when Aaron wears them he is carrying the names of the 12 tribes on his shoulders.
Breastpiece is to be of the same material and embroidery as ephod and should have 4 rows of precious stones - 12 of them representing 12 tribes of Israel. The breastpiece is to have golden chains to tie it to the shoulder strap.
The robe is to be made of entirely blue wool. It is to have pomegranates of blue, purple, and red wool, alternating with gold bells at the lower hem so that when the priest walks, it could be heard.
An ornament that will be a headband should have "Dedicated to the LORD" engraved on it and Aaron should wear it on his head.
Aaron and his sons and the priests to come are to wear it always when they come into the presence of the Lord.
Today is the 3rd Sunday of The Great Lent. It is about the healing of the paralysed man.
Exodus 28 : Priestly Garments
God gives instructions to Moses about garments that Aaron and his sons and the priests would wear. God asks Moses to get the best skilled workers among Israelites and have them make a breastpiece, an ephod, a robe, an embroidered shirt, a turban, and a sash using blue, purple, and red wool, gold thread, and fine linen.
The ephod is to be of blue, purple, and red wool, gold thread, and fine linen, decorated with embroidery. Two shoulder straps, by which it can be fastened, are to be attached to the sides. A finely woven belt made of the same materials is to be attached to the ephod so as to form one piece with it.
They are to take two carnelian stones and engrave on them the names of the twelve sons of Jacob, in the order of their birth, with six on one stone and six on the other. The stones are to be put on the shoulder strap so that when Aaron wears them he is carrying the names of the 12 tribes on his shoulders.
Breastpiece is to be of the same material and embroidery as ephod and should have 4 rows of precious stones - 12 of them representing 12 tribes of Israel. The breastpiece is to have golden chains to tie it to the shoulder strap.
The robe is to be made of entirely blue wool. It is to have pomegranates of blue, purple, and red wool, alternating with gold bells at the lower hem so that when the priest walks, it could be heard.
An ornament that will be a headband should have "Dedicated to the LORD" engraved on it and Aaron should wear it on his head.
Aaron and his sons and the priests to come are to wear it always when they come into the presence of the Lord.
Saturday, February 27, 2010
Day 77 - Exodus : Chapter 27
Chemmachen came. Everyone liked him. God, please guide us in the right path and help make everything go well.
Exodus 27 : Instruction for the altar
God gives detailed instructions to Moses about creating the altar. The altar is to be made of acacia wood, it is to be of dimensions 7 1/2 feet long and 7 1/2 feet wide, and it is to be 4 1/2 feet high. Should be covered with bronze, should have pans for collecting ashes (since the altar is made to give burnt offerings), should have shovels, bowls, firepans, grating, carrying pans - everything made of bronze. Moses also gets detailed instructions about the curtains and other enclosures of the altar.
What surprises me most is, merely by reading the details, we get to know how costly this would have been. I wonder how the people of Israel were able afford it in the desert.
God also asks Moses to command the people of Israel to bring the best olive oil for the lamp, so that it can be lit each evening. Aaron and his sons are to set up the lamp in the Tent of God's presence outside the curtain which is in front of the Covenant Box. There it is to burn from evening until morning. This command is to be kept forever by the Israelites and their descendants.
Exodus 27 : Instruction for the altar
God gives detailed instructions to Moses about creating the altar. The altar is to be made of acacia wood, it is to be of dimensions 7 1/2 feet long and 7 1/2 feet wide, and it is to be 4 1/2 feet high. Should be covered with bronze, should have pans for collecting ashes (since the altar is made to give burnt offerings), should have shovels, bowls, firepans, grating, carrying pans - everything made of bronze. Moses also gets detailed instructions about the curtains and other enclosures of the altar.
What surprises me most is, merely by reading the details, we get to know how costly this would have been. I wonder how the people of Israel were able afford it in the desert.
God also asks Moses to command the people of Israel to bring the best olive oil for the lamp, so that it can be lit each evening. Aaron and his sons are to set up the lamp in the Tent of God's presence outside the curtain which is in front of the Covenant Box. There it is to burn from evening until morning. This command is to be kept forever by the Israelites and their descendants.
Friday, February 26, 2010
Day 76 - Exodus : Chapter 26
Exodus 26 : Instructions to build the holy tent
In this chapter God gives detailed explanations to Moses about how to build God's sacred tent. It has descriptions about the size of the tent, the material used to construct the tent, layers of cloth used, dividing the interior as holy and the most holy place, separating them with a veil, accacia posts that hold the tent, the doors of the tent ..etc.
In this chapter God gives detailed explanations to Moses about how to build God's sacred tent. It has descriptions about the size of the tent, the material used to construct the tent, layers of cloth used, dividing the interior as holy and the most holy place, separating them with a veil, accacia posts that hold the tent, the doors of the tent ..etc.
Thursday, February 25, 2010
Day 75 - Exodus : Chapter 25
Exodus 25 : God's instructions to build a temple and an ark for the covenant
Offerings
God asks Moses to give instructions to people about giving offerings to God. Everyone needs to give offerings to God. The offerings are to be: gold, silver, and bronze, fine linen - blue, purple, and red wool, cloth made of goats' hair, rams' skin dyed red, fine leather, acacia wood, oil for the lamps, spices for the anointing oil and for the sweet-smelling incense, carnelians and other jewels to be set in the ephod of the High Priest and in his breastpiece.
Sacred Tent
God gives instructions to make a sacred Tent for worship.
The people are to make a sacred Tent so that God may live among them.
Sacred Box to store the covenant
God gives instructions to create a sacred box to store the stone tablets with commandments. Box is to be of acacia wood of dimensions 45 X 27 X 27. Cover it with pure gold inside and out and put a gold border all around it. God also gives instructions about the rings in the box. It needs to have a lid of pure gold with 2 golden winged creates at the top.
After this, people are to make a table made of gold and it is to be placed in front of the Covenant Box, and on the table there is always to be the sacred bread offered to God.
Make a lampstand of pure gold with six branches extending from its sides, three from each side. Make seven lamps for the lampstand and set them up so that they shine toward the front.
Offerings
God asks Moses to give instructions to people about giving offerings to God. Everyone needs to give offerings to God. The offerings are to be: gold, silver, and bronze, fine linen - blue, purple, and red wool, cloth made of goats' hair, rams' skin dyed red, fine leather, acacia wood, oil for the lamps, spices for the anointing oil and for the sweet-smelling incense, carnelians and other jewels to be set in the ephod of the High Priest and in his breastpiece.
Sacred Tent
God gives instructions to make a sacred Tent for worship.
The people are to make a sacred Tent so that God may live among them.
Sacred Box to store the covenant
God gives instructions to create a sacred box to store the stone tablets with commandments. Box is to be of acacia wood of dimensions 45 X 27 X 27. Cover it with pure gold inside and out and put a gold border all around it. God also gives instructions about the rings in the box. It needs to have a lid of pure gold with 2 golden winged creates at the top.
After this, people are to make a table made of gold and it is to be placed in front of the Covenant Box, and on the table there is always to be the sacred bread offered to God.
Make a lampstand of pure gold with six branches extending from its sides, three from each side. Make seven lamps for the lampstand and set them up so that they shine toward the front.
Wednesday, February 24, 2010
Day 74 - Exodus : Chapter 24
Exodus 74 : The covenant is sealed
God asks Moses, Aaron, Nadab, Abihu, and seventy of the leaders of Israel to come up to Mount Sinai. God tells that while Moses and the leaders are away, people are to live by obeying the laws.
Moses talks to people about God's Laws. People respond that they will follow the laws diligently.
Moses writes down all the Lord's commands. Next morning, he builds an altar at the foot of the mountain and sets up 12 stones for the 12 tribes of Israel. He takes half the blood of the animals sacrificed and puts it into bowls and the other half he throws against the altar.
Then he takes the book of the covenant, in which the Lord's commands were written and reads it aloud to people. They say they will obey the Lord. Moses then takes the blood in the bowls and throws it on the people saying that it is the blood that seals the covenant between God and Israelites.
Moses and the leaders of Israel went up the mountain. They saw God !
It is described that God's feet looked like a pavement of sapphire, as blue as the sky.
They must have felt so blissful !
God asks Moses to come up to the Mountain top and take 2 stone tablets that God would give. These tablets are to contain all the laws.
Moses and Joshua got ready and went up. Joshua is with Moses upto certain point to protect him. Then Moses goes up and the mountain top gets covered with clouds. To the people below, the mountain is covered with clouds and they see fire coming out at the top. After 6 days God calls Moses. Moses stays on top of the mountain for 40 days and nights.
God asks Moses, Aaron, Nadab, Abihu, and seventy of the leaders of Israel to come up to Mount Sinai. God tells that while Moses and the leaders are away, people are to live by obeying the laws.
Moses talks to people about God's Laws. People respond that they will follow the laws diligently.
Moses writes down all the Lord's commands. Next morning, he builds an altar at the foot of the mountain and sets up 12 stones for the 12 tribes of Israel. He takes half the blood of the animals sacrificed and puts it into bowls and the other half he throws against the altar.
Then he takes the book of the covenant, in which the Lord's commands were written and reads it aloud to people. They say they will obey the Lord. Moses then takes the blood in the bowls and throws it on the people saying that it is the blood that seals the covenant between God and Israelites.
Moses and the leaders of Israel went up the mountain. They saw God !
It is described that God's feet looked like a pavement of sapphire, as blue as the sky.
They must have felt so blissful !
God asks Moses to come up to the Mountain top and take 2 stone tablets that God would give. These tablets are to contain all the laws.
Moses and Joshua got ready and went up. Joshua is with Moses upto certain point to protect him. Then Moses goes up and the mountain top gets covered with clouds. To the people below, the mountain is covered with clouds and they see fire coming out at the top. After 6 days God calls Moses. Moses stays on top of the mountain for 40 days and nights.
Tuesday, February 23, 2010
Day 73 - Exodus : Chapter 23
Exodus 23 : Laws of Justice
These laws seemed like Jesus's sayings.
Do not spread false rumours. Do not bear false witness against the poor.
Do not be against justice even if the majority are against it.
If you see your enemy's donkey or cow, running loose, take it to him. Don't let the poor animal die since the owner is your enemy.
Do not mistreat a foreigner.
Harvest for 6 years and take rest in the seventh. Work for 6 days and take rest on the seventh.
3 great festivals to be celebrated every year
1. Festival of Unleavened Bread - In the month of Abib, in the same month that Israelites left Egypt, celebrate the festival to remember this event.
2. Harvest Festival - Celebrate this festival when you begin to harvest your crops.
3. Festival of Shelters - Celebrate this festival in the autumn, when you gather the fruit from your vineyards and orchards.
These laws seemed like Jesus's sayings.
Do not spread false rumours. Do not bear false witness against the poor.
Do not be against justice even if the majority are against it.
If you see your enemy's donkey or cow, running loose, take it to him. Don't let the poor animal die since the owner is your enemy.
Do not mistreat a foreigner.
Harvest for 6 years and take rest in the seventh. Work for 6 days and take rest on the seventh.
3 great festivals to be celebrated every year
1. Festival of Unleavened Bread - In the month of Abib, in the same month that Israelites left Egypt, celebrate the festival to remember this event.
2. Harvest Festival - Celebrate this festival when you begin to harvest your crops.
3. Festival of Shelters - Celebrate this festival in the autumn, when you gather the fruit from your vineyards and orchards.
Monday, February 22, 2010
Day 72 - Exodus : Chapter 22
Exodus 22 : More Laws - About Repayment, Morality
If someone steals something, he needs to pay 4 or 5 times the value of the object.
If someone borrows something and if it gets killed or destroyed, he must go to the Temple and take an oath that he was not responsible for it.
If someone unintentionally damages someone's property, he must go to the Temple and take an oath. But if it is intentional or could be avoided (like starting a fire or letting cattle graze to other fields), he must pay for the damages.
In case of property or possession disputes, both parties have to come to the temple to solve it.
If a man seduces a woman who is a virgin, he must pay the bride-price and marry her. If her father would not allow it, the man must pay the amount to her father anyway.
A man who has sexual relations with an animal must be put to death.
No one should mistreat foreigners.
Everyone should give offerings from their grain when they are due.
On the 8th day, a first born male has to be dedicated to God.
If someone steals something, he needs to pay 4 or 5 times the value of the object.
If someone borrows something and if it gets killed or destroyed, he must go to the Temple and take an oath that he was not responsible for it.
If someone unintentionally damages someone's property, he must go to the Temple and take an oath. But if it is intentional or could be avoided (like starting a fire or letting cattle graze to other fields), he must pay for the damages.
In case of property or possession disputes, both parties have to come to the temple to solve it.
If a man seduces a woman who is a virgin, he must pay the bride-price and marry her. If her father would not allow it, the man must pay the amount to her father anyway.
A man who has sexual relations with an animal must be put to death.
No one should mistreat foreigners.
Everyone should give offerings from their grain when they are due.
On the 8th day, a first born male has to be dedicated to God.
Sunday, February 21, 2010
Day 71 - Exodus : Chapter 21
Exodus 21 : Laws for Slaves & killing
The Laws of those days were very strict but they came directly from God and Moses ensured that people followed them. People led a nomadic life and they needed laws to be disciplined.
If a man owns a Hebrew slave, he could be set free after 6 years. If the slave was unmarried and got a wife and child during the years of slavery, the wife and child belong to the master. If the slave was married before, the wife and children and the slave's.
Female slaves need not be set free until they are not fairly treated. If they are not fairly treated, the slave should be handed back to the owner. An owner cannot sell a female slave to a foreigner.
If someone intentionally kills someone, he should be put to death. But if it was an accident, he could flee to a different place. If someone causes an injury to someone, he should pay for the injury and lost time to the victim.
If someone hits or even curses his father or mother, he should be put to death.
If someone has a bull that kills another person, the bull has to be put to death. If the owner had been warned about the bull's behavior before and had not taken action, he should pay fine.
The Laws of those days were very strict but they came directly from God and Moses ensured that people followed them. People led a nomadic life and they needed laws to be disciplined.
If a man owns a Hebrew slave, he could be set free after 6 years. If the slave was unmarried and got a wife and child during the years of slavery, the wife and child belong to the master. If the slave was married before, the wife and children and the slave's.
Female slaves need not be set free until they are not fairly treated. If they are not fairly treated, the slave should be handed back to the owner. An owner cannot sell a female slave to a foreigner.
If someone intentionally kills someone, he should be put to death. But if it was an accident, he could flee to a different place. If someone causes an injury to someone, he should pay for the injury and lost time to the victim.
If someone hits or even curses his father or mother, he should be put to death.
If someone has a bull that kills another person, the bull has to be put to death. If the owner had been warned about the bull's behavior before and had not taken action, he should pay fine.
Saturday, February 20, 2010
Day 70 - Exodus : Chapter 20
The thread that connects people is amazing. I've been wanting to call my dad since yesterday. I somehow felt that something had happened. Couldn't get him yesterday. Spoke to him the first thing in the morning. One of his long time friends, Kumarettan, had died yesterday in an accident. He said, the whole evening, he's been pondering over everything in the past 30 years !
"Any mans death diminishes me,
because I am involved in Mankind"
~ John Donne
Exodus 20 : The Ten Commandments
In a thunderous voice, God speaks the commandments by which the Israelites are to live. There are actually more than 10 if you take every sentence as a commandment. Was surprised to see the corresponding Wikipedia entry in which different groups parse them differently. The Orthodox version is below.
People hear God's voice and tremble with fear. They tell Moses that they don't want God to talk to them. It is fine if Moses talks to them. They stay far away from Mount Sinai.
God gives instructions to Moses about building an altar.
"In every place that I set aside for you to worship me, I will come to you and bless you. " [24]
"Any mans death diminishes me,
because I am involved in Mankind"
~ John Donne
Exodus 20 : The Ten Commandments
In a thunderous voice, God speaks the commandments by which the Israelites are to live. There are actually more than 10 if you take every sentence as a commandment. Was surprised to see the corresponding Wikipedia entry in which different groups parse them differently. The Orthodox version is below.
- I am the Lord your God. You shall have no other gods before me
- You shall not make for yourself an idol
- You shall not make wrongful use of the name of your God
- Remember the Sabbath and keep it holy
- Honor your father and mother
- You shall not murder.
- You shall not commit adultery
- You shall not steal.
- You shall not bear false witness against your neighbor
- You shall not covet your neighbor's wife . You shall not covet anything that belongs to your neighbor
People hear God's voice and tremble with fear. They tell Moses that they don't want God to talk to them. It is fine if Moses talks to them. They stay far away from Mount Sinai.
God gives instructions to Moses about building an altar.
"In every place that I set aside for you to worship me, I will come to you and bless you. " [24]
Friday, February 19, 2010
Day 69 - Exodus : Chapter 19
7 new bishops have been elected. http://www.ds-wa.org/malankara-association-2010-7-new-metropolitans-elected.html . Praise the Lord for making everything smooth and May the Lord bless the new thirumenis abundandly.
Exodus 19 : God reveals himself on Mount Sinai, the holy mountain
It has been 3 months since the people of Israel left Egypt. They reach Mount Sinai and set up camp there. Moses goes up the mountain to meet with God. The Lord says to Moses that the people of Israel will be God's chosen people and if they obey God's commands, God will take care of them. God has been taking care of the people like an eagle takes care of its chicks. Moses tells this to the leaders and all the people say that they will obey God completely.
Moses goes up the mountain again. God tells Moses that God will come down the mountain as a cloud and speak to Moses so that people would definitely believe. God tells Moses to ask people to purify themselves for the next 2 days and draw a boundary around Mount Sinai so that people will not cross it.
The people of Israel purify themselves and the next day, the Lord comes down the mountain as a giant cloud. Huge thunder is heard and lightning strikes. The Lord tells Moses to bring Aaron up to the mountain and ask people not to cross the boundary. Moses does as he is told.
Exodus 19 : God reveals himself on Mount Sinai, the holy mountain
It has been 3 months since the people of Israel left Egypt. They reach Mount Sinai and set up camp there. Moses goes up the mountain to meet with God. The Lord says to Moses that the people of Israel will be God's chosen people and if they obey God's commands, God will take care of them. God has been taking care of the people like an eagle takes care of its chicks. Moses tells this to the leaders and all the people say that they will obey God completely.
Moses goes up the mountain again. God tells Moses that God will come down the mountain as a cloud and speak to Moses so that people would definitely believe. God tells Moses to ask people to purify themselves for the next 2 days and draw a boundary around Mount Sinai so that people will not cross it.
The people of Israel purify themselves and the next day, the Lord comes down the mountain as a giant cloud. Huge thunder is heard and lightning strikes. The Lord tells Moses to bring Aaron up to the mountain and ask people not to cross the boundary. Moses does as he is told.
Thursday, February 18, 2010
Day 68 - Exodus : Chapter 18
Exodus 18 : Moses appoints Judges
Moses's father in law, Jethro comes to know of everything that has been happening and comes over to the camp of Israelites with his daughter and grandsons. Moses is very happy to see his wife and children. He tells them the story of how God rescued the Israelites from Egyptians.
Jethro stays with Moses for a few days and sees that he works throughout the day in settling the disputes of people. He advises Moses to choose some wise men and make them Judges so that they would handle minor disputes and only for major ones people could come to Moses. Moses heeds to his father in law's advice and appoints Judges. Jetro sees that everyone is happy and goes back to his home.
Moses's father in law, Jethro comes to know of everything that has been happening and comes over to the camp of Israelites with his daughter and grandsons. Moses is very happy to see his wife and children. He tells them the story of how God rescued the Israelites from Egyptians.
Jethro stays with Moses for a few days and sees that he works throughout the day in settling the disputes of people. He advises Moses to choose some wise men and make them Judges so that they would handle minor disputes and only for major ones people could come to Moses. Moses heeds to his father in law's advice and appoints Judges. Jetro sees that everyone is happy and goes back to his home.
Wednesday, February 17, 2010
Day 67 - Exodus : Chapter 17
Exodus 17 : More miracles from God
Israelites walk on and come to a place full of rocks but no water. They cry for water but do not get it. Moses prays to God. God asks Moses to tap a rock with his stick. He does so and water comes out.
As they move on, one day, a tribe called Amalekites attack the Israelites. Moses asks Joshua to take the strongest men and go forward to defend the Israelites. He tells that he will stand on the hill and hold his hands with God's staff up. As long as Moses held his hands up, Israelites win, but when he lowers, they lose. So Aaron and Hur come beside him and hold his hands up. Israelites will the war and the people escape from being harmed by the Amalekites.
Israelites walk on and come to a place full of rocks but no water. They cry for water but do not get it. Moses prays to God. God asks Moses to tap a rock with his stick. He does so and water comes out.
As they move on, one day, a tribe called Amalekites attack the Israelites. Moses asks Joshua to take the strongest men and go forward to defend the Israelites. He tells that he will stand on the hill and hold his hands with God's staff up. As long as Moses held his hands up, Israelites win, but when he lowers, they lose. So Aaron and Hur come beside him and hold his hands up. Israelites will the war and the people escape from being harmed by the Amalekites.
Tuesday, February 16, 2010
Day 66 - Exodus : Chapter 16
Exodus 16 : God gives Manna to Israelites
The Israelites walked and came to the desert of Sin. They see desert everywhere and do not find any food. While they are starving, they complain to Moses. They cry that they might die in the desert. Moses prays to God.
God rains food from the next day. God also gives instructions about how the food should be stored and eaten. Every person is to taken only that is necessary from his/her family for that day. If they store for the next day, it would get spoilt. On the 6th day, they should gather for 2 days so that they do not have to gather food on the Sabbath.
People are very happy to get food every day. They call it 'Manna'. Some try to store it for next day but it develops worms. God rebukes people for not being fully obedient.
The Israelites walked and came to the desert of Sin. They see desert everywhere and do not find any food. While they are starving, they complain to Moses. They cry that they might die in the desert. Moses prays to God.
God rains food from the next day. God also gives instructions about how the food should be stored and eaten. Every person is to taken only that is necessary from his/her family for that day. If they store for the next day, it would get spoilt. On the 6th day, they should gather for 2 days so that they do not have to gather food on the Sabbath.
People are very happy to get food every day. They call it 'Manna'. Some try to store it for next day but it develops worms. God rebukes people for not being fully obedient.
Monday, February 15, 2010
Day 65 - Exodus : Chapter 15
Exodus 15 : The Song of Moses
Moses is so ecstatic that God saved them from the jaws of death by Egyptians at Red Sea, he sings a song in the praise of God. The prophet Miriam, Aaron's sister also sings a song.
Then the people reach a place where the water is very bitter. They complain to Moses. Moses prays to God and God tells him to throw a wooden log into the water. The water gets purified and people drink happily.
Moses is so ecstatic that God saved them from the jaws of death by Egyptians at Red Sea, he sings a song in the praise of God. The prophet Miriam, Aaron's sister also sings a song.
Then the people reach a place where the water is very bitter. They complain to Moses. Moses prays to God and God tells him to throw a wooden log into the water. The water gets purified and people drink happily.
Sunday, February 14, 2010
Day 64 - Exodus : Chapter 14
Exodus 14 : Crossing the Red Sea
This incident is the most momentous in the history of Israelites. It is also the mostly widely told and marks a dramatic moment.
As it happens, the king realizes that the people of Israel have gone. He realizes that all the grand buildings and other projects in the country would stop because Israelites are gone. He takes and army and pursues them.
The people are on their feet and the king's army is on horses. So the king catches up with Israelites soon. The people get scared and cry to Moses for help. Moses prays to God. God tells Moses to raise his staff towards the sea. He does that and the sea opens up, parts to both sides leaving land in the middle. The people are amazed and run into the land. Egyptians follow them. But their chariots get stuck and God rains fire and smoke over them and they cannot see. Israelites cross the Red sea and Moses brings his staff down. This drowns all the Egyptians who are caught in the sea.
This incident is the most momentous in the history of Israelites. It is also the mostly widely told and marks a dramatic moment.
As it happens, the king realizes that the people of Israel have gone. He realizes that all the grand buildings and other projects in the country would stop because Israelites are gone. He takes and army and pursues them.
The people are on their feet and the king's army is on horses. So the king catches up with Israelites soon. The people get scared and cry to Moses for help. Moses prays to God. God tells Moses to raise his staff towards the sea. He does that and the sea opens up, parts to both sides leaving land in the middle. The people are amazed and run into the land. Egyptians follow them. But their chariots get stuck and God rains fire and smoke over them and they cannot see. Israelites cross the Red sea and Moses brings his staff down. This drowns all the Egyptians who are caught in the sea.
Saturday, February 13, 2010
Day 63 - Exodus : Chapter 13
Exodus 13 : Dedication of the first borns
Moses tells Israelites that the command from God is that they should dedicate their first borns to God. The first born animals belong to God but people should buy back the first born child from God. The observance is to remember that God brought the Israelites out of Egypt when they were suffering.
While the Israelites were traveling in the desert, God was with them all the time. During the day, God was in front of them as a pillar of cloud and during the night, God was with them as a pillar of fire. Israelites marched on on their journey fearlessly since the Lord was with them.
Moses tells Israelites that the command from God is that they should dedicate their first borns to God. The first born animals belong to God but people should buy back the first born child from God. The observance is to remember that God brought the Israelites out of Egypt when they were suffering.
While the Israelites were traveling in the desert, God was with them all the time. During the day, God was in front of them as a pillar of cloud and during the night, God was with them as a pillar of fire. Israelites marched on on their journey fearlessly since the Lord was with them.
Friday, February 12, 2010
Day 62 - Exodus : Chapter 12
Exodus 12 : Feast of Passover
God gives instructions to Moses and Aaron about observing the passover feast. Each Israelite household is to sacrifice a lamb and put the blood over their doorposts. In the night, the angel of death would pass over all the households in Egypt and take away the lives of the first borns except the houses which had blood over the doorpost.
Plague 10 : Death of first born
Moses tells people and they obey. Things happen as God says and all the first born children and men and cattle of Egyptians die that night. The whole land is grief stricken. The king asks Moses and the Israelites to go out of Egypt.
Instructions for passover to be celebrated forever in the remembrance of this event.
1. Day 1 : This month is the first month of the year. On the first day, get rid of all the yeast. Meet for worship on this day.
2. For the next seven days, do not eat any bread with yeast.
3. Day 7 : Meet for worship on the seventh day.
4. Day 10 : 10th day choose a lamb or a young goat. It should be without defects and only 1 year old. If the family is too small, share with another small family.
5. Day 14 : On the evening of the fourteenth day of the month, the whole community of Israel should kill the animals. The people should take some of the blood and put it on the doorposts and above the doors of the houses in which the animals are to be eaten. Roast the meat fully that night and eat with with bitter herbs and with bread made without yeast. Do not leave anything till morning. If anything is left, should be burned.
6. From the evening of the fourteenth day to the evening of the twenty-first day, should not eat any bread made with yeast.
God gives instructions to Moses and Aaron about observing the passover feast. Each Israelite household is to sacrifice a lamb and put the blood over their doorposts. In the night, the angel of death would pass over all the households in Egypt and take away the lives of the first borns except the houses which had blood over the doorpost.
Plague 10 : Death of first born
Moses tells people and they obey. Things happen as God says and all the first born children and men and cattle of Egyptians die that night. The whole land is grief stricken. The king asks Moses and the Israelites to go out of Egypt.
Instructions for passover to be celebrated forever in the remembrance of this event.
1. Day 1 : This month is the first month of the year. On the first day, get rid of all the yeast. Meet for worship on this day.
2. For the next seven days, do not eat any bread with yeast.
3. Day 7 : Meet for worship on the seventh day.
4. Day 10 : 10th day choose a lamb or a young goat. It should be without defects and only 1 year old. If the family is too small, share with another small family.
5. Day 14 : On the evening of the fourteenth day of the month, the whole community of Israel should kill the animals. The people should take some of the blood and put it on the doorposts and above the doors of the houses in which the animals are to be eaten. Roast the meat fully that night and eat with with bitter herbs and with bread made without yeast. Do not leave anything till morning. If anything is left, should be burned.
6. From the evening of the fourteenth day to the evening of the twenty-first day, should not eat any bread made with yeast.
Thursday, February 11, 2010
Day 61 - Exodus : Chapter 11
Exodus 11 : God tells Moses about the ultimate punishment for Egyptians
God tells Moses that there will be only one more punishment for Egyptians. That will be the most fierce and after that they will beg Moses and Israelites to go away from Egypt. The Lord also asks Moses to tell Israelites to borrow jewelery from Egyptians.
The LORD says, 'At about midnight I will go through Egypt, and every first-born son in Egypt will die, from the king's son, who is heir to the throne, to the son of the slave woman who grinds grain. The first-born of all the cattle will die also.There will be loud crying all over Egypt, such as there has never been before or ever will be again. But not even a dog will bark at the Israelites or their animals. Then you will know that I, the LORD, make a distinction between the Egyptians and the Israelites.'
[11:5 - 11:7]
Moses tells this to the king but he doesn't believe.
God tells Moses that there will be only one more punishment for Egyptians. That will be the most fierce and after that they will beg Moses and Israelites to go away from Egypt. The Lord also asks Moses to tell Israelites to borrow jewelery from Egyptians.
The LORD says, 'At about midnight I will go through Egypt, and every first-born son in Egypt will die, from the king's son, who is heir to the throne, to the son of the slave woman who grinds grain. The first-born of all the cattle will die also.There will be loud crying all over Egypt, such as there has never been before or ever will be again. But not even a dog will bark at the Israelites or their animals. Then you will know that I, the LORD, make a distinction between the Egyptians and the Israelites.'
[11:5 - 11:7]
Moses tells this to the king but he doesn't believe.
Wednesday, February 10, 2010
Day 60 - Exodus : Chapter 10
Exodus 10 : More Plagues
Plague 8 : Locusts
Moses and Aaron go back to the king and the king tells them that he will let them go but wants to know who will be going. Moses answers him that all the Hebrew men, women, children and cattle will go. The king gets alarmed. He says that it is not possible. Only men could go to worship but not women.
The Lord asks Moses to lift up his hand over the land of Egypt. Moses does so and a strong east wind blows. Swarms of locusts cover the whole to Egypt and eat away everything that is green, every single edible thing that is left after the hail.
The king asks Moses to pray to God to remove this curse. Moses prays and God send a strong west wind and the locusts go away.
But the king is still stubborn and doesn't let them go.
Plague 9 : Darkness
The Lord tells Moses to raise his hand. When Moses does that, darkness fills the whole of Egypt (except Goshen where Israelites lived) and continues for three days.
The king calls Moses and says that his people, women and children can go but should leave their cattle and possessions behind. Moses says they need to take their cattle also. The king is angry with Moses.
Plague 8 : Locusts
Moses and Aaron go back to the king and the king tells them that he will let them go but wants to know who will be going. Moses answers him that all the Hebrew men, women, children and cattle will go. The king gets alarmed. He says that it is not possible. Only men could go to worship but not women.
The Lord asks Moses to lift up his hand over the land of Egypt. Moses does so and a strong east wind blows. Swarms of locusts cover the whole to Egypt and eat away everything that is green, every single edible thing that is left after the hail.
The king asks Moses to pray to God to remove this curse. Moses prays and God send a strong west wind and the locusts go away.
But the king is still stubborn and doesn't let them go.
Plague 9 : Darkness
The Lord tells Moses to raise his hand. When Moses does that, darkness fills the whole of Egypt (except Goshen where Israelites lived) and continues for three days.
The king calls Moses and says that his people, women and children can go but should leave their cattle and possessions behind. Moses says they need to take their cattle also. The king is angry with Moses.
Tuesday, February 09, 2010
Day 59 - Exodus : Chapter 9
Exodus 9 : More Plagues
Plague 5 : Disease on the livestock
The king is still stubborn and does not let the Israelites go. The Lord punishes the Egyptians by sending a terrible disease on all the animals. All the animals of the Egyptians die due to the disease but those of the Israelites are spared.
The king sees this and still doesn't relent.
Plague 6 : Unhealable boils
Then the Lord says to Moses to take a few handfuls of ashes from a furnace and throw them into the air in front of the king. Moses does as he is told. The dust spreads all across Egypt and produces boils on everybody. The Isrealites and the king are spared. Even the magicians get the boils and are not able to come in front of the king.
The king's mind still doesn't change.
Plague 7 : Heavy hailstorm
The Lord asks Moses to raise his hand towards the sky. Moses does so and a very heavy hailstorm accompanied by severe thunder and lightning. The hailstorm destroys everything in Egypt except the properties and livestock in Goshen where Israelites lived.
The king get worried and tells Moses to pray to God to stop the hailstorm. Moses prays to God and the hailstorm ends.
But the king changes his mind and does not let the people go.
Plague 5 : Disease on the livestock
The king is still stubborn and does not let the Israelites go. The Lord punishes the Egyptians by sending a terrible disease on all the animals. All the animals of the Egyptians die due to the disease but those of the Israelites are spared.
The king sees this and still doesn't relent.
Plague 6 : Unhealable boils
Then the Lord says to Moses to take a few handfuls of ashes from a furnace and throw them into the air in front of the king. Moses does as he is told. The dust spreads all across Egypt and produces boils on everybody. The Isrealites and the king are spared. Even the magicians get the boils and are not able to come in front of the king.
The king's mind still doesn't change.
Plague 7 : Heavy hailstorm
The Lord asks Moses to raise his hand towards the sky. Moses does so and a very heavy hailstorm accompanied by severe thunder and lightning. The hailstorm destroys everything in Egypt except the properties and livestock in Goshen where Israelites lived.
The king get worried and tells Moses to pray to God to stop the hailstorm. Moses prays to God and the hailstorm ends.
But the king changes his mind and does not let the people go.
Monday, February 08, 2010
Day 58 - Exodus : Chapter 8
Exodus 8 : More miracles by the Lord
Plague 2 : Frogs everywhere
Since the king doesn't yield yet, the Lord asks Aaron to hold his stick over the waters of Nile, the pools and canals. Aaron does as the Lord said and frogs come out of everywhere. The whole of Egypt is filled with frogs and frustrate people a lot.
The king tells Moses to pray to the Lord and end the misery. He says he will let the people go if Moses got rid of the frogs. Moses prays to God and gets rid of the frogs.
The king is happy that the frogs are gone but still doesn't release the Israelites.
Plague 3 : Destruction by gnats
Then the Lord tells Moses to tell Aaron to strike the ground with his stick. Aaron does as he is told and all the dust in Egypt turned into gnats and it covers the people and the animals. The magicians in the kings court try to make the gnats go away but they cannot. But the king does not still relent.
Plague 4 : Destruction by flies
The next day, Lord sends great swarms of flies into the king's palace and the houses of his officials. The whole land of Egypt is brought to ruin by the flies.
The king asks Moses to pray for the Egyptians. Moses goes to the desert and prays for them and God takes the curse of the flies away from them.
Even then, the king's mind does not change.
Plague 2 : Frogs everywhere
Since the king doesn't yield yet, the Lord asks Aaron to hold his stick over the waters of Nile, the pools and canals. Aaron does as the Lord said and frogs come out of everywhere. The whole of Egypt is filled with frogs and frustrate people a lot.
The king tells Moses to pray to the Lord and end the misery. He says he will let the people go if Moses got rid of the frogs. Moses prays to God and gets rid of the frogs.
The king is happy that the frogs are gone but still doesn't release the Israelites.
Plague 3 : Destruction by gnats
Then the Lord tells Moses to tell Aaron to strike the ground with his stick. Aaron does as he is told and all the dust in Egypt turned into gnats and it covers the people and the animals. The magicians in the kings court try to make the gnats go away but they cannot. But the king does not still relent.
Plague 4 : Destruction by flies
The next day, Lord sends great swarms of flies into the king's palace and the houses of his officials. The whole land of Egypt is brought to ruin by the flies.
The king asks Moses to pray for the Egyptians. Moses goes to the desert and prays for them and God takes the curse of the flies away from them.
Even then, the king's mind does not change.
Sunday, February 07, 2010
Day 57 - Exodus : Chapter 7
Exodus 7 : Moses and Aaron perform their miracles
God tells Abraham and Aaron to go and talk to the king, this time showing him the miracles. Moses is eighty years old, and Aaron is eighty-three at this time.
1st Miracle
Moses and Aaron go to the king's palace to talk to him. Aaron throws his walking stick on the ground and it turns into a snake. The king calls for his wise men and magicians, and by their magic they do the same thing. But Aaron's stick swallows theirs. The king is still stubborn and doesn't listen to them.
The beginning of plagues
Plague 1 : Water turns into blood
The Lord tells Aaron to strike the river Nile with his stick and make it turn into blood. Aaron does as he is told. All the rivers, pools and canals turn into blood. All the animals and the plants in the waters die. There is blood everywhere in Egypt.
The king's magicians are also able to do the same thing.
The king is still stubborn and doesn't let the Israelites go.
God tells Abraham and Aaron to go and talk to the king, this time showing him the miracles. Moses is eighty years old, and Aaron is eighty-three at this time.
1st Miracle
Moses and Aaron go to the king's palace to talk to him. Aaron throws his walking stick on the ground and it turns into a snake. The king calls for his wise men and magicians, and by their magic they do the same thing. But Aaron's stick swallows theirs. The king is still stubborn and doesn't listen to them.
The beginning of plagues
Plague 1 : Water turns into blood
The Lord tells Aaron to strike the river Nile with his stick and make it turn into blood. Aaron does as he is told. All the rivers, pools and canals turn into blood. All the animals and the plants in the waters die. There is blood everywhere in Egypt.
The king's magicians are also able to do the same thing.
The king is still stubborn and doesn't let the Israelites go.
Saturday, February 06, 2010
Day 56 - Exodus : Chapter 6
Exodus 6 : God promises deliverace
God tells Moses that he will force king to set the Israelites free. God says that he will abide by the covenant that he had made with Abraham, Isaac and Jacob.
Moses tells this to Israelites but they don't listen to him. They have become bitter and have already been crushed in spirit.
Next section is about genealogy of Jacob's sons. Writing down Levi's descendants below.
Levi's sons -> Gershon, Kohath, and Merari;
Kohath's sons -> Amram, Izhar, Hebron, and Uzziel.
Aaron and Moses were Amram's sons.
I think this is the first instance where it is clearly said that Aaron is Moses's brother.
God tells Moses that he will force king to set the Israelites free. God says that he will abide by the covenant that he had made with Abraham, Isaac and Jacob.
Moses tells this to Israelites but they don't listen to him. They have become bitter and have already been crushed in spirit.
Next section is about genealogy of Jacob's sons. Writing down Levi's descendants below.
Levi's sons -> Gershon, Kohath, and Merari;
Kohath's sons -> Amram, Izhar, Hebron, and Uzziel.
Aaron and Moses were Amram's sons.
I think this is the first instance where it is clearly said that Aaron is Moses's brother.
Friday, February 05, 2010
Day 55 - Exodus : Chapter 5
Exodus 5 : Moses and Aaron go to the king of Egypt
Moses and Aaron go to the king and tell him that their God has revealed himself to them and asked them to tell the king to release the Israelites.
The king becomes furious. He thinks that people are getting these ideas since they do not have enough work. He wants to make them work always and crush their spirits. He tells his officials to stop giving the people straw for making bricks and make them go and find it for themselves. He also puts a condition that people should make the same number of bricks as before.
The Egyptian slave drives beat the Israelites when they are not able to make same number of bricks as before. Israelites complain to Moses that because of them the people are suffering more.
Moses cries to God for help.
Moses and Aaron go to the king and tell him that their God has revealed himself to them and asked them to tell the king to release the Israelites.
The king becomes furious. He thinks that people are getting these ideas since they do not have enough work. He wants to make them work always and crush their spirits. He tells his officials to stop giving the people straw for making bricks and make them go and find it for themselves. He also puts a condition that people should make the same number of bricks as before.
The Egyptian slave drives beat the Israelites when they are not able to make same number of bricks as before. Israelites complain to Moses that because of them the people are suffering more.
Moses cries to God for help.
Thursday, February 04, 2010
Day 54 - Exodus : Chapter 4
Exodus 4 : Moses is able to perform miracles
Moses is still not convinced that he should be the right person to lead Israelites. He tells God that people will not believe him.
God tells Moses to drop his stick. The moment Moses drops his stick on the ground, it turns into a snake and he gets frightened. God asks Moses to hold the snake by its tail. When Moses does that, it turns back into his stick.
God then asks Moses to put his hands inside his robe and take it out. When he does that, he sees that his hands became diseased, covered with white spots. God asks him to put his hands into his robe again. When Moses does that again, the spots are gone.
God tells Moses that these miracles will suffice to make people believe.
Moses is still not convinced that he should be the right person to lead Israelites. He tells God that people will not believe him.
God tells Moses to drop his stick. The moment Moses drops his stick on the ground, it turns into a snake and he gets frightened. God asks Moses to hold the snake by its tail. When Moses does that, it turns back into his stick.
God then asks Moses to put his hands inside his robe and take it out. When he does that, he sees that his hands became diseased, covered with white spots. God asks him to put his hands into his robe again. When Moses does that again, the spots are gone.
God tells Moses that these miracles will suffice to make people believe.
Wednesday, February 03, 2010
Day 53 - Exodus : Chapter 3
Exodus 3 : God calls Moses
One day while Moses is taking care of the sheep and goats in the slopes of Mount Sinai, he sees a burning bush. He notices that the flames were not consuming the bush. He goes nearer.
The Lord's voice speaks to him. God asks him to remove his sandals since it is holy land. Moses does. He closes his eyes since it is too bright and he doesn't want to see God face to face.
God tells him that he has seen the plight of his people and heard their cries. He asks Moses to go and deliver them from slavery.
Moses is stunned. He says he is no one and none of the Israelites will listen to him. God says if he goes they will listen to him.
One day while Moses is taking care of the sheep and goats in the slopes of Mount Sinai, he sees a burning bush. He notices that the flames were not consuming the bush. He goes nearer.
The Lord's voice speaks to him. God asks him to remove his sandals since it is holy land. Moses does. He closes his eyes since it is too bright and he doesn't want to see God face to face.
God tells him that he has seen the plight of his people and heard their cries. He asks Moses to go and deliver them from slavery.
Moses is stunned. He says he is no one and none of the Israelites will listen to him. God says if he goes they will listen to him.
Tuesday, February 02, 2010
Day 52 - Exodus : Chapter 2
This year 10 movies have been nominated for Best Picture at the Oscars. Avatar is one of them.
Exodus 2 : Birth of Moses
During this time, when all the male Hebrew children were being killed, a child was born to a Levite man and woman. The woman hid the child for the first 3 months but was afraid that she could be caught.
Now, she puts the baby in a basket and leaves it by the bank of river Nile. The baby's sister hides in a corner to see what happens. The daughter of the king comes by and sees the baby. She feels sorry when she hears the baby's cries. The baby's sister comes by and offers help also says that she knows a wet nurse who can nurse the baby. Thus the baby's mother nurses the child.
The baby is taken to the palace after weaning. The princess names him Moses. Moses grows in the palace.
Once Moses sees an Egyptian killing a Hebrew. He kills the Egyptian. Later when he tries to mediate fight between 2 Hebrews, they tell him that they saw him killing the Egyptian. He gets scared that everyone knows and so flees from the place.
He reaches Midian and sees a group of women being mistreated by some men. He rescues them. They happen to be the priest Jethro's daughters. He gets invited to their house and makes friendship with them. Jethro gives him one of his daughters Ziporah in marriage. Moses has a son through Ziporah - Gershom.
Exodus 2 : Birth of Moses
During this time, when all the male Hebrew children were being killed, a child was born to a Levite man and woman. The woman hid the child for the first 3 months but was afraid that she could be caught.
Now, she puts the baby in a basket and leaves it by the bank of river Nile. The baby's sister hides in a corner to see what happens. The daughter of the king comes by and sees the baby. She feels sorry when she hears the baby's cries. The baby's sister comes by and offers help also says that she knows a wet nurse who can nurse the baby. Thus the baby's mother nurses the child.
The baby is taken to the palace after weaning. The princess names him Moses. Moses grows in the palace.
Once Moses sees an Egyptian killing a Hebrew. He kills the Egyptian. Later when he tries to mediate fight between 2 Hebrews, they tell him that they saw him killing the Egyptian. He gets scared that everyone knows and so flees from the place.
He reaches Midian and sees a group of women being mistreated by some men. He rescues them. They happen to be the priest Jethro's daughters. He gets invited to their house and makes friendship with them. Jethro gives him one of his daughters Ziporah in marriage. Moses has a son through Ziporah - Gershom.
Monday, February 01, 2010
Day 51 - Exodus : Chapter 1
When times are hard, remember that God WILL provide.
Exodus 1 : From wealth to slavery - Fall of Israelites
When Joseph and his sons and grandsons lived, Israelites had a high standing in Egyptian society. But as time went by, with new generations, history was forgotten. Egyptians began to think of Israelites as a threat than friends. They grew so much in number that the new king thought if Israelites continued this way, in case of a war they will have options to join the enemy.
So the king orders that Israelites should do hard labour. They build cities of Remeses and Pithom. But the spirit of Israelites is not crushed even after hard labour.
Seeing that hard labour is not working, the king orders the midwives to kill baby boys but spare girls. But the midwives don't do it fearing God.
The king finally makes it public. He orders the killing of every new born Hebrew boy.
Exodus 1 : From wealth to slavery - Fall of Israelites
When Joseph and his sons and grandsons lived, Israelites had a high standing in Egyptian society. But as time went by, with new generations, history was forgotten. Egyptians began to think of Israelites as a threat than friends. They grew so much in number that the new king thought if Israelites continued this way, in case of a war they will have options to join the enemy.
So the king orders that Israelites should do hard labour. They build cities of Remeses and Pithom. But the spirit of Israelites is not crushed even after hard labour.
Seeing that hard labour is not working, the king orders the midwives to kill baby boys but spare girls. But the midwives don't do it fearing God.
The king finally makes it public. He orders the killing of every new born Hebrew boy.
Sunday, January 31, 2010
Day 50 - Genesis : Chapter 50
Today is the 4th Sunday after Denaha - "All departed priests" day. Today's Gospel reading is about the faithful servant and the evil servant - Matthew 24:42-51
Genesis 50 : Burial of Jacob
Jacob dies and everyone mourns including the Egyptians. They embalm his body and with the king's permission, Joseph and family go back to Canaan. They bury Joseph in the same cave that he wanted to be buried in, the cave that Abraham had bought.
After their father's death, the brothers are reluctant to go with Joseph fearing that he might take revenge. Joseph comes to know of this and assures his brothers that he has no ill feeling towards them and that everything happened as per God's wish. They go back to Egypt and live there.
After many years, When Joseph is about to die, he asks his sons to take his body to Canaan when God leads them there in the future. Joseph dies at the age of 110.
Genesis 50 : Burial of Jacob
Jacob dies and everyone mourns including the Egyptians. They embalm his body and with the king's permission, Joseph and family go back to Canaan. They bury Joseph in the same cave that he wanted to be buried in, the cave that Abraham had bought.
After their father's death, the brothers are reluctant to go with Joseph fearing that he might take revenge. Joseph comes to know of this and assures his brothers that he has no ill feeling towards them and that everything happened as per God's wish. They go back to Egypt and live there.
After many years, When Joseph is about to die, he asks his sons to take his body to Canaan when God leads them there in the future. Joseph dies at the age of 110.
Saturday, January 30, 2010
Day 49 - Genesis : Chapter 49
Catcher in the Rye author J D Salinger died yesterday. He did create a deep impact in the minds of many with his book. A quote from the book..
"What really knocks me out is a book, when you're all done reading it, you wished the author that wrote it was a terrific friend of yours and you could call him up on the phone whenever you felt like it."
Genesis 49 : Jacob's last words to his sons
Jacob knows that he is about to die. He calls all of his sons and speaks to them.
Rueben is the first born, the proudest and strongest. But he will not be the most important since he slept with his father's concubine.
Simeon and Levi are very fierce. Their anger is their undoing. In their anger they had massacred men in Shechem. For this reason, they will be scattered all over.
Judah is of good character. His brothers will praise him and he will be the king.
Zebulun will live beside the sea.
Issachar will live like a donkey and work like a slave.
Dan will be a ruler of his people but will be like a snake by the side of the road that strikes horses down.
Gad will be attacked by robbers but he will fight back.
Asher's land will produce rich food.
Naphtali is like a deer that runs free.
Joseph is like a wild donkey in the spring. His enemies will attack and pursue him. But he will be protected by the God of Israel.
Benjamin is like vicious wolf who kills in the morning an evening.
Having said all this, he requests that he be buried in Canaan in the same cave as his father and grand father.
Jacob lies back and dies.
"What really knocks me out is a book, when you're all done reading it, you wished the author that wrote it was a terrific friend of yours and you could call him up on the phone whenever you felt like it."
Genesis 49 : Jacob's last words to his sons
Jacob knows that he is about to die. He calls all of his sons and speaks to them.
Rueben is the first born, the proudest and strongest. But he will not be the most important since he slept with his father's concubine.
Simeon and Levi are very fierce. Their anger is their undoing. In their anger they had massacred men in Shechem. For this reason, they will be scattered all over.
Judah is of good character. His brothers will praise him and he will be the king.
Zebulun will live beside the sea.
Issachar will live like a donkey and work like a slave.
Dan will be a ruler of his people but will be like a snake by the side of the road that strikes horses down.
Gad will be attacked by robbers but he will fight back.
Asher's land will produce rich food.
Naphtali is like a deer that runs free.
Joseph is like a wild donkey in the spring. His enemies will attack and pursue him. But he will be protected by the God of Israel.
Benjamin is like vicious wolf who kills in the morning an evening.
Having said all this, he requests that he be buried in Canaan in the same cave as his father and grand father.
Jacob lies back and dies.
Friday, January 29, 2010
Day 48 - Genesis : Chapter 48
Day of the move and nothing .. almost nothing.. is done yet. We need to get rushing now.
Genesis 48 : Jacob blesses Joseph's sons
Joseph hears that his father is ill and goes to him. Jacob says that God has blessed him and he would like to give the blessings to Joseph's sons.
Joseph brings his sons Manasseh and Ephraim to Jacob. Jacob crosses his hands, puts his right hand on Ephraim the younger and left on Manasseh the elder. Joseph tries to change thinking that his father is mistaken. But Jacob says Ephraim, even though he is younger will have a greater nation than Manasseh.
Jacob also gives the land of Shechem to Joseph.
Genesis 48 : Jacob blesses Joseph's sons
Joseph hears that his father is ill and goes to him. Jacob says that God has blessed him and he would like to give the blessings to Joseph's sons.
Joseph brings his sons Manasseh and Ephraim to Jacob. Jacob crosses his hands, puts his right hand on Ephraim the younger and left on Manasseh the elder. Joseph tries to change thinking that his father is mistaken. But Jacob says Ephraim, even though he is younger will have a greater nation than Manasseh.
Jacob also gives the land of Shechem to Joseph.
Thursday, January 28, 2010
Day 47 - Genesis : Chapter 47
Saw a terrifying episode of Medium yesterday. "What are you willing to give ?" keeps ringing in my ears.
Genesis 47 : Joseph uses the famine to make king rich
Joseph takes his brother and father to the king. The king gives them the land of Goshen.
The famine intensifies and people have exhausted all their money in buying food. They come to Joseph and beg for food. They say they don't have money but have cattle. Joseph trades cattle for food. Next year, people are out of cattle and they sell their land to get food. This way, the king of Egypt becomes the owner of all the land in Egypt. Joseph also tells people that they have to give 1/5th of their produce to the king when they start harvesting. People agree because they are dying of hunger. By this, Joseph ensures revenue for the king in the future also.
Jacob is about to die and he calls Joseph and makes him promise that he will be buried in Canaan and not in Egypt. Joseph accepts.
Genesis 47 : Joseph uses the famine to make king rich
Joseph takes his brother and father to the king. The king gives them the land of Goshen.
The famine intensifies and people have exhausted all their money in buying food. They come to Joseph and beg for food. They say they don't have money but have cattle. Joseph trades cattle for food. Next year, people are out of cattle and they sell their land to get food. This way, the king of Egypt becomes the owner of all the land in Egypt. Joseph also tells people that they have to give 1/5th of their produce to the king when they start harvesting. People agree because they are dying of hunger. By this, Joseph ensures revenue for the king in the future also.
Jacob is about to die and he calls Joseph and makes him promise that he will be buried in Canaan and not in Egypt. Joseph accepts.
Wednesday, January 27, 2010
Day 46 - Genesis : Chapter 46
Read a couple of articles on 3 day lent
- Fast of Nineveh
- 3 day lent
Genesis 46 : Jacob and family go to Egypt
Jacob is very glad to know that Joseph is alive and gets ready with his family to go to Egypt. At Beersheeba, the Lord appears to him in a dream and tells him that it is good to go to Egypt.
Jacob , his sons, sons' wives, their children and grand children, cattle and all the livestock set out to Egypt. The chapter gives an account of all of Jacob's sons and their sons. Total number of direct descendants of Jacob is 70, excluding all the women.
Jacob and family reach Goshen and is received by Joseph. Joseph is very glad to see his father and rest of family. He tells the king about his family and the king gives them land near Goshen.
- Fast of Nineveh
- 3 day lent
Genesis 46 : Jacob and family go to Egypt
Jacob is very glad to know that Joseph is alive and gets ready with his family to go to Egypt. At Beersheeba, the Lord appears to him in a dream and tells him that it is good to go to Egypt.
Jacob , his sons, sons' wives, their children and grand children, cattle and all the livestock set out to Egypt. The chapter gives an account of all of Jacob's sons and their sons. Total number of direct descendants of Jacob is 70, excluding all the women.
Jacob and family reach Goshen and is received by Joseph. Joseph is very glad to see his father and rest of family. He tells the king about his family and the king gives them land near Goshen.
Tuesday, January 26, 2010
Day 45 - Genesis : Chapter 45
Today is the commemoration of our previous Bava thirumeni, Moran Mar Baselios Marthoma Mathews II. From the time I became aware of Orthodox Church, he was the Bava. He passed away a couple of years back. Angel Bava
Genesis 45 : Joseph reveals himself
Joseph is no longer able to hold his emotions. He sends his servants away, cries out loud and hugs his brothers. He tells them that he is Joseph whom they had sold to traders. They are terrified but he assures them that everything happened as per God's plan. He has been sent to Egypt by God ahead of time to be in a position to provide for his people.
In the meantime, servants hear Joseph's sobs and come to know that the Hebrews are Joseph's brothers. They inform the king. The king is very pleased to hear this. He tells Joseph that they can have the best land in Egypt and live there.
Joseph gives wagons and gifts to his brothers so that they can go back and bring their father and rest of the family to live in Egypt.
They return and tell the story to Jacob. He is very surprised and happy. He thanks God for the good fortune.
Genesis 45 : Joseph reveals himself
Joseph is no longer able to hold his emotions. He sends his servants away, cries out loud and hugs his brothers. He tells them that he is Joseph whom they had sold to traders. They are terrified but he assures them that everything happened as per God's plan. He has been sent to Egypt by God ahead of time to be in a position to provide for his people.
In the meantime, servants hear Joseph's sobs and come to know that the Hebrews are Joseph's brothers. They inform the king. The king is very pleased to hear this. He tells Joseph that they can have the best land in Egypt and live there.
Joseph gives wagons and gifts to his brothers so that they can go back and bring their father and rest of the family to live in Egypt.
They return and tell the story to Jacob. He is very surprised and happy. He thanks God for the good fortune.
Monday, January 25, 2010
Day 44 - Genesis : Chapter 44
Today is the first day of 3 day lent. 2 years back, at this time we were in Puthupally.
Genesis 44 : Joseph's cup
Joseph gives his brothers enough corn and they set out to go. While they were getting ready to go, he goes to his chief servant and tells him to put money back into the brothers' sacs. Also tells him to place his silver cup in Benjamin's bag. Unaware of these happenings, the brothers set out on their way to Canaan.
In a short while, they see Egyptians racing towards them. They recognize the main person as Joseph's servant. They ask him why he has come. He says that they have stolen his master's silver cup. They deny it and say that it is impossible. The Egyptians search all the bags and find the silver cup in Benjamin's bag. The brothers are filled with sorrow. They return back to Egypt.
The brothers reach Joseph's house in Egypt. Joseph questions them about the cup and says that the person who stole the cup will be his slave and others can return. Then Judah says that he will take the blame. He will tell him about Jacob and how he might die of heartbreak if he hears this news.
Genesis 44 : Joseph's cup
Joseph gives his brothers enough corn and they set out to go. While they were getting ready to go, he goes to his chief servant and tells him to put money back into the brothers' sacs. Also tells him to place his silver cup in Benjamin's bag. Unaware of these happenings, the brothers set out on their way to Canaan.
In a short while, they see Egyptians racing towards them. They recognize the main person as Joseph's servant. They ask him why he has come. He says that they have stolen his master's silver cup. They deny it and say that it is impossible. The Egyptians search all the bags and find the silver cup in Benjamin's bag. The brothers are filled with sorrow. They return back to Egypt.
The brothers reach Joseph's house in Egypt. Joseph questions them about the cup and says that the person who stole the cup will be his slave and others can return. Then Judah says that he will take the blame. He will tell him about Jacob and how he might die of heartbreak if he hears this news.
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