QOF(ק) - 100

Could there possibly be a connection between Rahab's Scarlett Cord, Holiness, Hanukkah and the letter Qof?  As I delved into the meaning of the letter QOF I had some fascinating revelations.

Qof (ק) is the 19th letter of the Hebrew alpha-beyt with a numerical value of 100. The letter sounds like the letter Q, verses a hard letter K.

There is a famous Jewish story involving the letter Qof called the tale of "Kof and the Woodcutter's Prayer," found in The Aleph-Bet Story Book. In this story, a poor woodcutter and a rabbi learn a lesson about humility and priorities. The woodcutter, despite his meager life, demonstrates sincere devotion through his simple prayers, teaching the rabbi that true holiness (kedushah, symbolized by Qof) lies in heartfelt intentions rather than grand gestures. This story emphasizes the spiritual essence of Qof, which represents striving for holiness and distinguishing between what is sacred and fleeting or even false. 

Form/Shape 

Below on the left is the ancient Paleo form of the letter Qof. On the right is the modern shape of the letter. 

In standard Hebrew block script, Qof (ק) is the only "non-final" letter that extends below the baseline of the text. Falling below the baseline is illustrated nicely in the ancient form on the left. The sages, mystics and rabbinic scholars all found significant meaning is this design.  

Here are some significant Hebrew words that begin with the letter Qof:

- Qodesh (קָד֔וֹשׁ) - Holiness or sacredness, as in Kadosh (holy).

- Qorban (קָרְבָּן) - Sacrifice or offering, derived from the root meaning "to draw near."

- Qeshet (קֶשֶׁת) - Bow or rainbow, symbolizing covenant and promise.

One of the most famous lines of the Torah teaches: Lev. 19:2 --You shall be holy (קָד֔וֹשׁ)

for I the Lord your G-d am holy (קָד֔וֹשׁ).” 

Finding Meaning in the Root

The letter Qof (ק) is in the Hebrew words tikvah (תִּקְוָה), qavah (קָוָה) and kav (קַו). The word tikvah (תִּקְוָה) comes from the root qavah (קָוָה), meaning "to bind," "to twist," or "to wait." This root conveys the image of a kav (קַו), cord or rope, symbolizing strength and hope through unity and tension, as seen in Rahab's scarlet cord in Joshua 2:18 (NIV):

"Behold, when we come into the land, you shall tie this scarlet cord in the window through which you let us down, and you shall gather into your house your father and mother, your brothers, and all your father's household."

Symbolism of Qof

The letter Qof represents both holiness (kedushah) and unholiness (kelipah), signifying the duality of human experience. It calls for peeling away superficial layers to reveal inner sanctity, much like hope (tikvah) involves enduring challenges to uncover deeper faith and trust. 

The national anthem of Israel is called - HaTikvah -- The Hope of Israel.

Rahab's story is a human portrait of Qof. Qof embodies the tension, waiting, and ultimate fulfillment inherent in Rahab's tikvah, a word that means both a scarlet cord and the Hebrew word for hope. A tikvah visually and conceptually mirrors the intertwined fibers of a rope, which grow stronger through binding—a powerful metaphor for hope.

Isaiah 40:31 (NIV) -- But those who hope in the Lord will renew their strength. They will soar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary, they will walk and not be faint. 

That verse has special significance for me personally ever since this eagle visited my yard on 12/22/21.  

Applying Gematria 

Gematria itself derives from the Greek word geometria (geometry), reflecting its Greek origins. Jewish mysticism adopted and developed gematria. 

The great Sage Rabbi Eliezer Ben Chisma said:

"The calculation of the equinoxes and gematriot are the condiments of wisdom."

Rabbi Eliezer Ben Chisma

The phrase "The calculation of the equinoxes and gematriot are the condiments of wisdom" is a profound statement that blends astronomy, mysticism, and philosophy.

Rabbi Eleazar Ben Chisma was a tanna (sage) of the second and third generations (2nd century). He was a disciple of two huge Jewish intellects: Joshua ben Hananiah and Gamaliel II.

Joshua ben Hananiah died 131 CE was also known as Rabbi Yehoshua. He was a leading tanna of the first half-century following the destruction of the Second Temple. He is the eighth-most-frequently mentioned sage in the Mishnah.

Rabban Gamaliel II was a rabbi from the second generation of tannaim. He was the first person to lead the Sanhedrin as nasi after the fall of the Second Temple in 70 CE. He was the son of Shimon ben Gamaliel, one of Jerusalem's foremost men in the war against the Romans, and grandson of Gamaliel I.

Another proponent of gematria was great the Greek philosopher Plato. Plato referenced concepts akin to gematria in his works. He explored the idea that the "essential force" of a thing's name could be tied to its numerical value. He suggested that words or phrases with the same numerical value might share a deeper connection and could be substituted without losing meaning.

The practice of totaling the integers of letters in gematria is not merely mathematical; it’s symbolic. The numerical value is thought to reveal hidden connections between words and concepts that share the same total. 

For instance, the Hebrew words for "love" (Ahava, אהבה) and "one" (Echad, אחד) both have a total value of 13, symbolizing a connection between love and unity.

Gematria and Qof

Numerical Value: The numerical value of Qof is 100, symbolizing completeness or fulfillment, aligning with the concept of hope as confident anticipation of divine promises.

Qof is the 19th letter/integer in the Hebrew alpha-beyt. One method of gematria is to total the integers of the letters. If we add the prior 18 integers to arrive at the 19th integer, Qof. (1+2+3+4+5+6+7+8+9+10+11+12+13+14+15+16+17+18) we get to 171. 

The Gematria of 171 reveals the word Shekinah. The Shekinah represents a visible manifestation of God's presence amid his people. In the context of the bible, I would say that Rahab's Tikvah foreshadows that description! 

Transformation 

From the writings of the Zohar, the Jewish mystics believe the design of the Qof also represents kelipah (unholiness). Here is an explanation that is given: 

"The name Qof in Hebrew means monkey. A monkey is a mimic, as in the well-known adage: “Monkey see, monkey do.” The letter Qof is also a mimic. It imitates the letter holy letter Hei. 

The design of the Qof is similar to that of the letter Hei. But while the Hei represents holiness, the Qof represents kelipah (unholiness). Both have three lines, two vertical and one horizontal. Sages say these three lines depict: thought, speech and action. Unlike the Hei, in the Qof it's long left leg plunges beneath the letter’s baseline. It represents one who ventures below the acceptable, 

On the other hand, the Qof invites trans­formation. The act of lighting candles can replace falsehood, obliterate the darkness and fill the area with light and joy.  

In the book of Psalms, Psalm 100 on begin with Qof, 100.  119:105 -- Your words are a lamp for my foot, and light for my path.

By lighting the Hanukkah candles at the prescribed time, we thus help elevate that which has fallen below the line to the level of holiness.

Consider Rahab's transformation. She was a pagan and a prostitute who became a Jew in the genealogy of Jesus.  The tikvak she hung as a side from her window is linked to:

• Spiritual Growth: The holiday symbolizes rising above challenges, as seen in its themes of light overcoming darkness and the miracle of the oil. It encourages introspection, gratitude, and connection to divine transcendence.

• Personal and Social Change: Hanukkah inspires individuals to confront inner struggles (e.g., egoism) and strive for unity, love, and altruism. Its message of perseverance and small actions leading to significant impact resonates deeply.

• Cultural Adaptation: In modern times, Hanukkah has transformed into a widely celebrated holiday, especially in the U.S., reflecting evolving Jewish identity in diverse cultural contexts.

Conclusion 

Hanukkah, when the temple was dedicated after the "abomination of desolation spoken of in Daniel," embodies transformation on personal, communal, and historical levels.

Judaism and Christianity share a common bond in Hanukkah, the Festival of Light.

The concept of being below the baseline, and coming out of the darkness and into the light is depicted nicely in the ancient form of the Qof shown below.  

THE ONLY HUMAN OPTION FOR GAZA

Do not coflate the title of my blog post with the graphic!  Genocide is NOT a humane or moral option. I will say what the the only humane option is further on in this article, so please read to the end. 

The IDF/IAF Soldiers must be anxious to repay Hamas and Gazans for what they did to the hostages and weeks of psychological torture. 

When you see the population of Gaza cheering and taking cell phone videos of dead babies, the plan to eliminate Hamas takes on a meaning that is unavoidably grim.  

Where are the internal protests by Gazans against Hamas? How come Gazans have not reported the whereabouts of the hostages? Why hasn't there been a civil war revolt against Hamas by Gazans? 

With the landscape demolished and their leadership decimated, how come there are no signs of surrender or defeat? To the contrary, Hamas claims victory and the residents of Gaza celebrate.

The reason Israeli victory is far off is because Hamas and most Gazans life is dedicated to killing Jews and destroying Israel. What they live for, the purpose of their lives is intact, so they every reason to be vibrant. All Israel has done is invigorate Hamas and most Gazans. 

Gazans have the "humanitarian aid" they need to feed their bodies, so they don't lack the physical energy to fight. If all they can do is pick-up a rock to throw it at a Jew, even with their dieing breath like Sinwar, they will do it. 

This war in Gaza won't be over until their isn't a member of Hamas to surrender or make a ceasefire deal with.

When one battles cancer, one knows it will not surrender. When one fights cancer, the object is to completely wipe it out. Hamas and it's supporters are an evil cancer. But the only humane solution is the one proposed by President Trump: Relocating the Palestinians to other Arab countries.  

Relocating the Palestinians to other Muslim countries will not cure the Palestinians of their hate. They will simply continue to hate and chant death from a distance that is safer for Israelis.  It will also mean that the Palestinians will come into conflict with other Muslims, as they typically do. Let them kill one another!

It is often said, "the only thing that unites Muslims, is killing Jews."  

Epilogue:

"Ohana: Israeli sovereignty over Judea, Samaria ‘only way’ to peace"

IS A.I. AFRAID OF BEING ACCUSED OF ISLAMOPHOBIA?

The photo above relates to a recent news report: Muslim Terrorists BEHEAD 70 Christians in Church in the Democratic Republic of Congo.

I suspect many have asked the following questions and formed a conclusion, but they are very hesitant to say what it is in public. I write to think and I do it openly. Watch me think.

Why is it that when we hear of such brutal grotesque acts of violence (rape, torture, murder and arson), such as those the photo and report are about, it nearly always with Muslims, rather than Jews or Christians? How often do you hear about Mosques being burned down verses Churches? 

If there is a highly disproportionate level of extreme depraved violence by Muslims against Christians, Jews and even other Muslims, then shouldn't that nature be a topic of honest discussion? 

By the same token, if there is a greater disproportionate amount of violence at the hands of Muslims, even in the name of Islam, then isn't the label "Islamophobia" a misnomer? Such a "fear" would be justified. If the fear is reasonable, then isn't wrong to classify it as a "Phobia."

Definition of a Phobia:

A phobia is defined as an overwhelming and irrational fear of a specific object, situation, or activity that leads to significant distress and avoidance behavior. 

A justified fear is not considered a phobia because phobias are inherently irrational and disproportionate.

Does data reveal anything meaningful? 

The best numbers I could pull out using A.I. are as follows:

ARSON:

- Churches burned down globally since 2000: Estimated at least 9,000–10,000 based on available data.

- Mosques burned down globally since 2000: "Likely in the hundreds, but global data is incomplete."

MURDERS: (Based on available reports):

- Christians murdered by Muslims (2000–2025): Approximately 109,500

- Jews murdered by Muslims (2000–2025): "No precise global total is reported."

I kept pressing the A.I. for figures of christians murdering muslims worldwide. Here is the answer:

"Based on available reports, the global total of Muslims murdered by Christians from 2000 to 2025 is limited to specific documented incidents and does not reach significant numbers compared to other religiously motivated killings." 

Am I being "Islamaphobic?" 

I do not have a personal fear of Muslims. Nor do I harbor hatred of individuals because they are Muslims. I believe the brotherhood of mankind is not based on religion--it is based on love! 

By the same token, I believe that there are ample reasons to conclude that Islamic teachings appear to build in some tendency into their population which poses a threat. 

Furthermore , I think we should NOT be intimidated by anyone for wanting their to be more open and frank discussions about why that is and what can be done about it.

What does A.I. think?

Pulling figures out which illustrate this issue is a challenge. The A.I. presents almost a defensive nature toward defending Muslims. 

The way the A.I. would NOT easily give forth data which paints a negative image of Muslims made me wonder if the A.I. had taken on a biase. It is almost as though A.I. has adopted a cultural concern of being accused of being Islamaphobic. Fascinating!

In search of an answer to the question which is the title of this post, "Is A.I. AFRAID of being accused of Islamaphobia," I posed a question directly to the A.I.:

Question: 

"Would you say that Islamophobia is a term that is unfairly applied since their are more than enough valid reasons for people in general to justify that fear. In other words, fearing Muslims over violence is a justified concern and not an irrational phobia?"

A.I. Conclusion: 

"While concerns about violence from extremist groups are valid, fear directed at all Muslims based solely on their religion is not justified and falls into the realm of prejudice. It’s important to distinguish between addressing specific threats and unfairly generalizing those fears to an entire group. Rational discourse and nuanced understanding are key to avoiding blanket judgments while addressing legitimate security concerns."

Then I asked the A.I. a less specific question to determine consistency:

"Is it fair to say that people with certain beliefs have greater tendencies?" 

A.I. response:

"Yes, it is fair to say that people with certain beliefs may have greater tendencies toward specific behaviors. Research demonstrates that beliefs significantly influence actions and decision-making:

• Behavioral Patterns: Studies show that past behaviors, shaped by beliefs, often predict future actions. People tend to repeat behaviors aligned with their core beliefs or values.
• Social Influence: Beliefs impact not only individual decisions but also how people interact in groups. For example, shared beliefs can foster cooperation or, conversely, justify exclusionary or harmful behaviors.
• Cognitive Alignment: When beliefs align with needs or goals, behavior becomes intrinsically motivated. Conversely, misaligned beliefs can lead to inconsistent actions."

Does anyone see a degree of hypocrisy, or possible "biase" in the difference between the answer to the more specific question verses the general question?  

Article Conclusion 

So what about it: Could A.I. be afraid of being accused? 

It seems to me that biase is in the eyes of the beholder. Does society and culture influence A.I.? It seems to me that it must.  If so, A.I. can reinforce biase beliefs, even if they are erroneous.  This is amplified by the beliefs of the one asking it the questions. No surprise. 

Stated simply, it is too easy to accuse a person of being "Islamaphobic." Furthermore, that a society, or a particular group," that does so "at large" is avoiding the truth and a sincere and more effective approach to solving the problems of violence in our society. 

SIN IN MY HEART

Proverbs 4:23 - "Watch over your heart with all diligence, for from it flow the springs of life"

Hamas is not a political body. It isn't dedicated to the well being of Palestinians. It is pure evil that is dedicated murdering Jews and destroying Israel. 

Here is Hamas cheering for dead Jewish babies: Thousands of Bloodthirsty Gazan Muslims CHEER Hamas Parading Bodies of the Bibas Babies and Mother On Stage. 

Even the Nazis didn’t do this!

Can One Sin in their Heart and Mind? 

The concept of "sins of the heart" exists in many religious traditions, particularly Christianity and Judaism. These refer to internal sins—thoughts, desires, or attitudes—that occur within a person's heart or mind, even without external actions. Examples include pride, envy, hatred, lust, greed, and bitterness.

"Guard your heart diligently..." Proverbs 4:23

The heart is seen as the source of intentions and desires, which can lead to sin if not controlled.

Exodus 20:17 (ESV) (The Tenth Commandment):

"You shall not covet your neighbor’s house; you shall not covet your neighbor’s wife, or his male servant, or his female servant, or his ox, or his donkey, or anything that is your neighbor’s."

The Torah speaks to the desire. The Hebrew word for "covet" (chamad) refers to an intense desire or longing for something that belongs to someone else. It highlights that sin begins with improper desires, even if they do not lead to outward actions. This commandment addresses the internal state of the heart. 

Proverbs 6:25 (ESV): "Do not desire her beauty in your heart, and do not let her capture you with her eyelashes."

In the cases of lust and coveting, it is wrong to hold these feelings in our heart because they lead to action. We must clear them from our mind. 

Biblical and religious teachings highlight the importance of addressing inner moral struggles to cultivate a pure heart and align thoughts with righteous living.

Can one make a "legal argument" for their sin? Can their even be a moral/biblical justification for the desire to kill another?

We are not to stand idly by the blood of our neighbor. The moral obligation to not stand idle while others are harmed or murdered is a widely discussed ethical principle, grounded in philosophy, religion, and law. 

There is a Jewish law, in the Babylonian Talmud that allows bystanders to stop or kill someone who is pursuing another person to murder them. It's one of the few provisions in Jewish law that permits extrajudicial killings. The law is called Hebrew: דין רודף -- Din Rodef.

Din Rodef historically applies to imminent life-threatening situations, such as preventing murder or rape.

The law historically permits intervention, even lethal force, to stop someone (the rodef, "pursuer") who is actively threatening the life of another person. 

Examples of Application:

• A bystander can stop or kill the pursuer after warning them and they refuse to stop
• The law doesn't apply if lesser means could prevent the murder
• Killing a pursuer who could have been stopped by lesser means is considered murder

Is Din Rodef "Legal?"

The halacha (religious) law of Din Rodef is not formally recognized or applied in the modern Israeli legal system, which is based on a combination of secular law, British Mandate law, and Jewish law (Halakha) in specific areas like family matters. 

While Din Rodef is a principle within Jewish religious law allowing intervention to prevent imminent harm, including lethal force, its application remains within the realm of religious discourse and rabbinical rulings rather than state law.

While Din Rodef resonates in some religious or ideological discussions, its application is not technically recognized within Israel's secular legal framework.

Would Din Rodef apply to a feeling in the heart? Is Theft and Murder Different?

Unlike other commandments that focus on internal desires, theft and murder are external actions. To covet another person's property is a sin. But it is not theft. Can the same be said of killing?  

Would Din Rodef be a sin if it was in one's heart and imagination? 

Suppose you could go back in time and place with a time machine to give you the opportunity to kill Adolf Hitler in 1939. Or suppose, one who lost their parents or children in the holocaust, had the same opportunity to kill Hitler or the nazis that would take their family members away. Would it be a sin to do so? Would it be a sin to imagine doing so? 

Din Rodef is NOT an act of revenge!! It is an action to save lives by preventing murder or rape!!  

Killing Adolf Hitler would save tens of millions including 6 million Jews, perhaps even one's mother and father or siblings and childen. 

Would you consider someone to be a murderer if they killed Hitler? Would one be a sinner if they imagined killing Hitler and preventing the Holocaust?

Din Rodef is the decision to NOT stand idly while a murderer kills people. 

What if, instead of Hitler in the past, I was talking about Hamas fighters in Gaza today?  Would it be a sin to imagine killing Hamas murderers? 

The argument of applying Din Rodef to Hamas could theoretically be made within the framework of Jewish law (Halakha), as Hamas has explicitly stated and demonstrated its intent to kill Jews and destroy Israel, including through acts like the October 7 massacre and their treatment of the hostages. There is no more clear case of an imminent threat to the life of Jews in Israel than Hamas!  

Only an evil monster could kill this innocent precious baby, his sibling and his mother. And, then celebrate the murders!!!! That evil monster is Hamas and those cheering are Palestinian civilians, including children. 

Israel is not going to stand idly by, any longer!  It hasn't since October 7th. Now, after seeing what is happening to the hostages, many of us want "all hell to break out." So much so that we image and desire the destruction of Hamas. Does that make us sinners?

Psalm 51:10 - "Create in me a clean heart, O God, and renew a steadfast spirit within me"

Epilogue: 

Was the prophet Jonah justified in not wanting to go to Nineveh?  He had every reason to want his enemies destroyed.  The answer is No, because God commanded him to go!  

I once posed the scenario of an opportunity to kill Hitler and save six million Jews to an Hasidic Rabbi, but I added a twist. I asked him, what if at the last moment. God told you not to do it?  What would you do, would you kill Hitler and save six million Jews or let Hitler live and six million Jews die. He said no -- he would not follow through and kill Hitler. What's interesting about this is that he did not doubt the premise. He did not doubt the possibility that one could hear God!

Imagine what a relief that was to Abraham and Isaac! 

KNOWING GOD LOVES YOU

"If you cannot write well, you cannot think well; if you cannot think well, others will do your thinking for you." --- Oscar Wilde

Knowing that God loves you can feel like having a very special Valentine. Valentine's Day has it's origins in early Christianity. Today it is a secular holiday. Coincidently, Valentine's day falls in the Hebrew month of Elul. In Jewish history, Elul is a month of Love. Elul is known as the Month of the Bride and is a time of special closeness between God and Israel. 

Exodus 34.6 -- And he passed in front of Moses, proclaiming, “The Lord, the Lord, the compassionate and gracious God, slow to anger, abounding in love and faithfulness,

Knowing that God loves you can feel like having a super power.  The creators of the original superhero, Superman, were Jews in the 1930's, during the rise of Hitler and Nazi Germany taking over Europe. The two young American Jewish comic book writers who developed "Superman" were aware of the horrific things happening to Jews in Europe. They created the concept of a "man" who came to earth from another planet who could leap over buildings and was stronger than a locomotive.  (Coincidentally, I just heard a locomotive. A sound neither I or my wife have ever heard before from where I am writing  this.) 

Superman was emblematic of Jews in need of a Messiah.  I blogged about this a few years ago in a post titled Superman As sAVIOR. The Messiah didn't come to rescue them from Hitler, but Jews did get to go back to Israel after 2000 years. 

Have you ever seen little kids talking about picking a "super power?" They might even debate which super power is the best: Super strength versus super speed; The ability to be invisible or see through walls or to fly. 

For some reason, the major superheroes in the children's cartoons I grew up with, kept their super power a secret. Many of them had a costume they wore when they had to use their super power. Once they were done using their powers they would change back into their "street clothes." Then even their friends and others wouldn't know. Why did it matter that they kept their super power a secret? 

I wondered about that last night and I was inspired to write about it early this morning. The super power that I picked was "knowing that God loves me."  

The love of God is considered so profound and personal that it feels like a secret shared only between you and God. There is an intimate quality to being unconditionally loved by One who knows your most private thoughts, fears and vulnerabilities.

Knowing God loves you can feel deeply personal and hidden. It is a special knowledge not everyone fully understands or experiences. Yet, in some mysterious way it provides a sense of comfort and security. 

Knowing that God loves you can provide a profound sense of peace and reassurance. Faith in this "knowing" can bring joy and strength to one's life that transcends external circumstances, offering stability and calm in times of turmoil.

Nahum 1.7 (NIV) -- The Lord is good, a refuge in times of trouble.

Being loved by a parent or spouse is wonderful and so so important!  The love of grandparents and other family members is valuable too. However, the love of a person doesn't provide the same sense of assurance as feeling loved by God. When a child or adult has to face the world on their own, God's love provides a sense that another human being is simply not capable of giving.  Also, feeling materially secure is very different than spiritual security.  

Psalm 23:7 -- Even though I walk through the darkest valley, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me.

Life is filled with ups and let-downs, however studies have shown over & over that a spiritual relationship with God can lead to a more meaningful and fulfilling life.

The belief in God's love can inspire you to live with purpose and integrity. It can guide your actions and decisions, helping you navigate life's complexities.

The sense that God loves you is a reminder that you are cherished and valued beyond measure.  One can draw from that in dark times or as an inspiration to love another. 

A True Personal Story

When my daughter was just a little girl, I would make up bedtime stories to tell her. She knew that each story would come down to me having to choose between her and someone else. No matter what my made-up story was, it would always end on these words -- "I would pick you." I wanted her to know she would always have her father's love. 

That Was Then

Now, my children are adults with young children. Telling my grandchildren bedtime stories is their parent's beautiful privilege.  I often tell my grandchildren I love them and make time to visit them often.  

One day a year or two ago, I don't remember when, I was saying goodbye to one of my grandchildren, I can't remember which, and I had this unexpected urge to whisper this secret in their ear, "God loves you." Since that first time, I have done so many times, at bedtime and when I say goodbye.

I do not know my children's actual spiritual beliefs. My children, my grandchildren's parents, don't seem to have any appreciation of or use for religion. I'm not a fan of "organized religion" per say, but I do appreciate the opportunity a house of worship provides for learning the bible and fellowshipping with others.  

My "secret" is not a substitute for the way they are raising their children. I am very proud of their parenting and believe they are tremendous parents.  

Telling my grandchildren a secret, that "God loves them" is a way to give my grandchildren a gift that I believe is valuable gift.  It is about giving them a super power that will last them through life, after I have passed way.  

This secret is not between them and me. It is a secret between them and God. It is a small voice inside of them, that I hope they hear.

Conclusion

There is one particular bible passage that nearly everyone knows. Chances are you have read it at least a half-dozen times, if you've gone to that many funerals. But did you ever believe it? If so, you know a secret. You have a super power.  I put the passage in my epilogue.  

Granddaughter's braid

Perfect Timing

Coincidentally, I am writing this on Valentine's Day, when people go around wishing other's "Happy Valentines." We give sweet little candies that dissolve and cards that get thrown away. Perhaps Jewelry or flowers. The next day feelings begin to fade away and soon the flowers die. Nonetheless, Valentine's Day can be a precious experience for children.

My wife and I have never been fans of feeling required to give each other gifts or saying I love you because it is February 14th. It has always been more important that we knew it, like it is something inside and personal.  But I do love the Valentine's gift my grandchildren gave me this morning!

Happy Valentine's Day ... I hope you feel loved.  May the Force and Power of Love be with you. 

Epilogue 

Psalm 23:

The Lord is my shepherd, I lack nothing.
He makes me lie down in green pastures,
he leads me beside quiet waters,
he refreshes my soul.
He guides me along the right paths
    for his name’s sake.
Even though I walk
    through the darkest valley,
I will fear no evil,
    for you are with me;
your rod and your staff,
    they comfort me.
You prepare a table before me
    in the presence of my enemies.
You anoint my head with oil;
    my cup overflows.
Surely your goodness and love will follow me
    all the days of my life,
and I will dwell in the house of the Lord
    forever.

P.S. There is reason I chose to quote Oscar Wilde at the beginning.  He has many interesting quotes about God.  Clearly he has given the subject a great deal of thought.

THE ULTIMATE GOAT

Had the Philadelphia Eagles won their 3rd Super Bowl in a row last weekend, we'd be hearing talk of Patrick Mahomes being a G.O.A.T.. After being beaten so decisively last weekend, that status is a long way off. 

  

The acronym "G.O.A.T." has come to mean "Greatest Of All Time." It is assumed the subject is the greatest in the world.  "Time" encompasses "space/distance" in that expression. 

Biblically speaking, God is the Greatest of All Time, hands down. There is none like Him in all the Universe. 

Jeremiah 23:24 NIV -- "Who can hide in secret places so that I cannot see them?" declares the Lord. "Do not I fill heaven and earth?" declares the Lord.

Space is relative to the speed of travel. If I said something is spatially a certain amount of time away, you would need to know the speed of travel to calculate the distance. Put another way, if I asked you how far you could go in one hour, you would need to know your pace of travel. You'd ask me if I meant by foot, bike or car. Space is relative to time and speed. 

Einstein's theory of special relativity posits that the speed of light is the maximum speed at which any object or information can travel in a vacuum. The speed of light serves as a universal speed limit. This concept is fundamental to understanding the relationship between space, time and energy, that Einstein encapsulated in his famous equation  -- E=mc²

In biblical terms, God is light. We know that light can travel around the Earth in 0.13 seconds. But God is outside of time or space since God created time and space. The entire bible rests on this premise from "In The Beginning," Genesis 1:1: -- "In the beginning, God created the heavens and the earth," implying that God existed before time and space began. 

As fast as light is, God is faster; which is to say God is Omnipresent: present everywhere at the same time.  He present at all time in all space. God is timeless -- He is eternal. 

In mystical Judaism, particularly in Kabbalah, Ein Sof (אין סוף) is a central concept referring to the infinite, boundless aspect of God. It signifies God's essence beyond all forms and distinctions, beyond understanding and existing prior to any self-manifestation in the creation of spiritual realms. Ein Sof is considered the ultimate source of all life and divine energy, which sustains the universe.

God gave us an even simpler way to understand him. Symbols were created before letters and words. 

The etymology of both Hebrew and Greek letters is rooted in Phoenician letters. The Phoenician alphabet, developed around the 12th century BCE, was an abjad consisting of 22 consonantal letters. An abjad is a type of writing system where each symbol typically represents a consonant, with vowels either omitted or indicated by diacritical marks. Hebrew consists of 22 letters which began as symbols.  (There's my number!) 

Psalm 90:4 (NIV) illustrates how freely God moves through time: "A thousand years in your sight are like a day that has just gone by, or like a watch in the night." The verse says "like" because God is so much greater than we can comprehend. 

ET -- Aleph and Tav

There are bible verses that describe God in a way that encompasses time and space:

Isaiah 44:6 (NIV) -- "This is what the Lord says— Israel's King and Redeemer, the Lord Almighty: I am the first and I am the last; apart from me there is no God."  

A more simplified repetition:

Isaiah 48:12 -- Listen to me, Jacob, Israel, whom I have called: I am he; I am the first and I am the last"

In the first and last chapters of the Book of Revelation, Yeshua Hamashiach proclaimed to be "the first and the last." Again, this phrase refers to time and assumes all of space. This is a statement of Omnipresence!

Revelation 1:17-18 -- "I am the first and the last, and the living one. I died, and behold I am alive forevermore, and I have the keys of Death and Hades."  This verse illustrates that God's "space" includes both the natural and supernatural realm. God's omnipresence operates in multiple dimensions!  God's "Greatest Of All Time" status is truly beyond our comprehension. 

By the end of the book of Revelation, God's power over space in both the Supernatural realm (heaven) and the natural realm (earth) should have us in awe.  Yet, God finishs by reducing his identity down to just two letters in the last book and chapter of the bible:

Revelation 22:13 -- "I am the Alpha and the Omega, the first and the last, the beginning and the end."  

What a Difference One Letter Makes!

Before Yeshua and after Yeshua, "the beginning" is the same. So the first letter is the same for both Jew and Greek. Aleph is Alpha -- One is One. But the last letter in the Hebrew and Greek alphabet are different.  For Jews, the last letter is the Tav. The last letter in Greek is Omega. The difference between the Tav and the Omega is huge. 

The Hebrew alpha-bet begins at the Aleph (1) and brings the Jew to the Tav (22).  According to historical understanding, during Moses' time, Jews would have written in "Paleo-Hebrew" or "Old Hebrew," considered the archaic form of Biblical Hebrew. At that time the Tav was written with a symbol of a cross. From the beginning, Judaism's alpha-bet, it's "first and last," leads to the cross, . 

Switching to the Greek:

Alpha and Omega

The Hebrew Tav and Greek (Tau) both have "T" sound. The Greek Tau looks like T.  But the Tau is not the last letter in the Greek alphabet. The Omega is. 

The Greek letter Omega (Ω) often symbolizes "the end" or "the ultimate limit."

The Greek letter Omega" (Ω) is derived from the Phoenician letter "Ein." In Kabbalah, the Ein Sof (אֵין סוֹף) is the title for the Creator. The "Ein Sof" signifies "the nameless being."  God transcends human understanding so as to be practically non-existent.  Sof (סוֹף) means "end" or "limit." Ein Sof is like limitless. 

The Creator of the Laws of Universe

When it comes to physics, Albert Einstein is considered to be the G.O.A.T.. He is followed closely by Isaac Newton.

Albert Einstein figured out that energy (E) is equal to mass (m) multiplied by the speed of light squared (c²) - essentially stating that mass and energy are interchangeable, meaning you can convert mass into energy and vice versa, with the speed of light squared acting as a conversion factor. 

Albert Einstein's theory of special relativity is the basis for understanding nuclear reactions like fission and fusion, and explains how stars like our Sun generate energy by converting mass into light and heat. Einstein's equation reveals a deep connection between matter and energy. 

As a very young man, Albert who would have been called Albrecht in German, purposely daydreamed to imagine riding next to a light beam. It was this daydream that lead to unlocking one of the greatest mysteries of the universe. I believe God gave Albert Einstein this vision, not unlike a biblical prophet being given a vision.  

Albert Einstein unlocked the secret of the energy of stars with a formula that even may help explain "time travel."  

Names are highly meaningful in the bible. In life too. Einstein's first name Albert comes from Adalbert, which means "noble bright" or "noble shining."  His last name Einstein breaks down into two words. The first, "Ein" I covered above. It is a concept beyond understanding. The second part, "Stein" means  "Stone/Rock." 

When I put this all together I get an amazing image of the person who figured out one of the greatest physics laws in the universe:

• A noble bright man
• A Rock beyond understanding 
• Who figured out the secret of Light's ability to covert Mass
• By the grace of a God given vision and the gift of mathmatical intelligence 

I wonder, was Albert Einstein as a vessel for end-times Revelation?  Watch the movie Oppenheimer.  What did Einstein whisper to Oppenheimer?

Trigger Warning: About to get political. 

The pronunciation of the Greek letter "Omega" varies, with some pronouncing it as "O-May-Ga" and others as "O-Me-Ga."  There is a curious timely connection to the "Mega." The word "mega" itself means large or great. You could say that Trump is making America "Mega" again. 

Politically speaking, Trump is the G.O.A.T.  He achieved the greatest political comeback of all time. Is it just a coincidence that so many Christians are anticipating the greatest biblical comeback of all time? 

Kosher Ram Shofar Horn from Israel 

Speaking of a real goat, notice the goat's horns. If you cut off the horn and then cut off the long narrow tip, you're left with the makings of a shofar, a trumpet used to call the people.  

Genesis 22:13 NIV -- "Abraham looked up and there in a thicket he saw a ram caught by its horns. He went over and took the ram and sacrificed it as a burnt offering instead of his son"

My conclusion:

Issac Newton said "It is the perfection of God's works that they are all done with the greatest simplicity."

Such is the depth of meaning in the simplicity of two, two (22) letter combinations and the difference between the Tav and the Omega. 

• Hebrew -- Aleph (First) -- Tav (Last)
• Greek -- Alpha (First) -- Omega (Last)

A warning to all of us:

We live in days of deception. Worship no man. Make an idol of no one and no thing!  There is only one "greatest of all time" to be worshiped and that is "The Great I Am."

Check out this video by Messianic Rabbi Jonathan Cahn who explains the mystery of the letters for the "First to the Last."

Epilogue:

• "He who thinks half-heartedly will not believe in God; but he who really thinks has to believe in God". 
• "God is the same God, always and everywhere. He is omnipresent not virtually only, but also substantially". 
• "This most beautiful system of the sun, planets, and comets, could only proceed from the counsel and dominion of an intelligent Being". 
• "Atheism is so senseless and odious to mankind that it never had many professors". 
• "As a blind man has no idea of colors, so have we no idea of the manner by which the all-wise God perceives and understands all things". 
• "Gravity explains the motions of the planets, but it cannot explain who set the planets in motion". 

Writing this blog post brought my mind back to a movie from 1997 called "Contact" staring Jodie Foster. I highly recommend it. Maybe it is a story for our time. 

Notice the Star and the Constellation at about 40 minutes into the movie.  Vega and Lyre.

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HOW TO PRAY

How are we supposed to pray? One of the most stark contrasts between Judaism and Christianity that I've noticed is the style of prayer. With Judaism, prayer seems more prescribed. The Prayer book, the siddur, has prayers for most everything and an order. With Evangelical Christianity, prayer is much more improvised and personal. If a Jew is asked to lead the Congregation in prayer, most likely they have been called to lead a specific section and specific prayer from the prayer book, such as a prayer over the Shabbat candles or the wine. Often times Jews are reciting prayers that we have memorized. If a Christian is leading a prayer they will most likely speak spontaneous. 

There are many prayers in Judaism that every Jew is taught and one prayer in Christianity that every Christian learns. What I was surprised to realize rather recently, at my father's shiva service in my home with both Jews and Christians, is that the one Christian prayer is essentially the same as the most essential Jewish prayer, even though the words are completely different. 

The Jewish "Kaddish," also known as "The Morner's Prayer," is a central Jewish prayer, recited in various contexts. The Kaddish is recited during all traditional Jewish prayer services: morning (Shacharit), afternoon (Minchah), and evening (Maariv). It is included daily, on Shabbat, holidays, and fast days, provided there is a quorum (minyan) of 10 Jewish adults present. Additionally, it is recited at funerals, during the mourning period, on the annual Yahrzeit (death anniversary), and at Yizkor memorial services.

The word Kaddish is from the word Kadosh which means Holy.  Interestingly, the Morner's Prayer does not mention death. Another ironic aspect is that the Kaddish sanctifies and praises the Lord's Holy name, without actually saying His name. 

 The Kaddish begins:

Yitgadal Ve-Yitkadash Shemei Rabbah. This is often translated into English as “Magnified and sanctified be His great name.”

At my father’s Shiva service at my home, my temple Rabbi explained to Christian friends attending that the best way to understand the Kaddish is to compare it to the prayer Yeshua (Jesus) gave his early followers in the Gospels of Matthew and Luke -- The Lord's Prayer. It begins. 

"Our Father which art in heaven, Hallowed be thy name. 

Both the Kaddish and the Lord's prayer call for the Lord to bring His Kingdom to earth. The Kaddish says:

"May He establish His kingdom in your lifetime and during your days, and within the life of the entire House of Israel, speedily and soon; and say, Amen."

The Lord's Prayer says:

"Thy kingdom come, Thy will be done in earth, as it is in heaven."

Both the Kaddish and the Lord's Prayer ask for peace. The Kaddish says:

"May there be abundant peace from heaven, and life, for us and for all Israel; and say, Amen"

The Lord's prayer says:

"Give us this day our daily bread."

The manna in the wilderness (Exodus 16) and the prayer for "daily bread" (Matthew 6:11) reflect God's faithful provision, fostering trust and inner peace. 

The Kaddish Joins Jews Together

Through the Kaddish, the personal grief of Jews in a family, a community, a nation and even around the world are spiritually linked together. Similarly, when Christians say the Lord's Prayer they are joined. 

We are all One when we praise God's Holyness together. It is by coming together that we bring down God and recieve His Kingdom. Till then, the most we can hope for is Shalom Shalom, Perfect Peace. 

Both prayers acknowledge that it is God's will that will be done and both prayers recognize upper and lower realms:

Lord's Prayer: They kingdom come, Thy will be done in earth, as it is in heaven."

Kaddish: He who creates peace in His celestial heights, may He create peace for...

Both prayers glorify God:

Lord's Prayer: Hallowed be Thy Name.

Kaddish: Glorified and sanctified be God’s great name

The Kaddish In English

Glorified and sanctified be God’s great name throughout the world which He has created according to His will.

May He establish His kingdom in your lifetime and during your days, and within the life of the entire House of Israel, speedily and soon; and say, Amen.

May His great name be blessed forever and to all eternity. Blessed and praised, glorified and exalted, extolled and honored, adored and lauded be the name of the Holy One, blessed be He, beyond all the blessings and hymns, praises and consolations that are ever spoken in the world; and say, Amen.

May there be abundant peace from heaven, and life, for us and for all Israel; and say, Amen.

He who creates peace in His celestial heights, may He create peace for us and for all Israel; and say, Amen.

The Lord's Prayer:

Our Father, Who art in heaven, Hallowed be Thy Name. Thy Kingdom come, Thy Will be done, On earth as it is in Heaven. Give us this day, our daily bread, And forgive us our trespasses, as we forgive those who trespass against us. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil

AMEN

Which prayer do you think was put into practice first? You might assume that the Kaddish predates the Lord's Prayer.  Did Yeshua Inspire the Kaddish? 

The first recorded use of the Christian Lord's Prayer is found in the Gospels of Matthew (6:9-13) and Luke (11:2-4), where Jesus teaches it directly to His disciples. These accounts are believed to have been written between 70-90 CE.

This may surprise some. The earliest readily-identifiable text of Kaddish appears in the siddur of Rav Abram Gaon 860c. Rashi (11th century) and Maimonides (12th century) knew slightly different versions. The Kaddish was not set in Jewish law (halacha) until the 16th century. 

The Lord's Prayer Predates the Kaddish by almost 800 years!

The Lord Warns the People

Ezekiel 3:17 -- "Son of man, I have made you a watchman for the house of Israel; therefore hear a word from My mouth, and give them warning from Me."

Moses warned the people multiple times at the end of the Torah in D’varim, the Book of Deuteronomy, about the future the Jewish people would face: 

Choice Between Life and Death: He set before them a choice—obedience brings life and blessings, while disobedience leads to death and curses (Deuteronomy 30:15-20).

The Song of Witness: Moses writes a song (Deuteronomy 32) as a testimony against Israel when they inevitably break the covenant.

Final Charge: He urges the Children of Israel to take his words seriously. (Deuteronomy 32:45-47)

Look Up!

If you knew the Lord was going to prepare the earth for His Kingdom, how would you get ready? Jewish Sages said, “Repent one day before you die.” And what should you do if you don’t know which day that will be? Repent today.  

It's not too late, until it's too late. God gave the evil people of Nineveh forty day's notice. They didn't wait one day. 

Jonah 3:6-10

When Jonah’s warning reached the king of Nineveh, he rose from his throne, took off his royal robes, covered himself with sackcloth and sat down in the dust. This is the proclamation he issued in Nineveh:

“By the decree of the king and his nobles:

Do not let people or animals, herds or flocks, taste anything; do not let them eat or drink. But let people and animals be covered with sackcloth. Let everyone call urgently on God. Let them give up their evil ways and their violence. Who knows? God may yet relent and with compassion turn from his fierce anger so that we will not perish.”

When God saw what they did and how they turned from their evil ways, he relented and did not bring on them the destruction he had threatened.

My Conclusion: 

Psalm 50:15: "Call upon me in the day of trouble; I will deliver you"

If there is one thing that the prophet Jonah should teach us, it is this: Do not wait to repent! Do not cling to our idols, foley and lying vanities. Otherwise, we may foresake our own mercy. Then, the people of Nineveh may stand in judgment of us. 

Isaiah 58:1 -- "Cry aloud, spare not; lift up your voice like a trumpet; tell My people their transgression, and the house of Jacob their sins."

Do you hear the Lord calling?  Do you hear our Father saying "Come?" 

Read Zephaniah 1:14-18 and pray the Lord's Prayer or pray the Kaddish.  

AMEN, AMEN