The Meaning of the Name of Israel

Skip to main content Toggle navigation Donate Hebrew School with Danny Ben Gigi The Meaning of the Name Israel, Yis•ra•el The important names in the Bible are not random. As the story concerning each character unfolds, we learn how closely connected the Hebrew name is to the narrative. All other languages fall short in demonstrating how: The biblical name foreshadows the future of each personality, The Hebrew name both mirrors and substantiates the truthfulness of biblical events and prophecies. Although reading the Bible in English is also perceived by Believers as reading truth, the immediate sense of substantiation, as reflected in the mere Hebrew name, is missing from the non-Hebrew reading experience. This is just one reason why it is so important for every Bible follower to obtain some knowledge of Hebrew. Certainly, it will help you understand Israel better. The most prevalent name in the Bible is Israel. It appears more than 2,500 times in the Old Testament and about 80 times in the New Testament. Israel is also a perfect example of the Name-Fate connection we see frequently in biblical names. The name Israel was first introduced in the Bible in Genesis 32:28: ‘And he said, Your name shall be called no more Jacob, but Israel; for as a prince you have power with God and with men, and have prevailed.’ In fact, the translation: ‘you have power’ is somewhat weak. The Hebrew word that is used in this verse is ‘sa• ri• ta’ It is a past tense verb that comes from the root word ‘Sar.’ Sar is ‘a prince’ or ‘leader,’ but as a verb, such as in this verse, it relates to the main characteristic associated with leadership: fighting. In the verse above, ‘sa• ri• ta’ relates to the biblical verb that means ‘to fight’ or even better, ‘to wrestle.’ In a way, taking the action of a prince, leader, or hero...giving a fight! Say ‘Israel’ out loud, and you won’t miss the sound connection between the two words: ‘Israel’ and ‘wrestle.’ Can you hear the similarity between these two otherwise unrelated words? Now you know the origin of the word ‘wrestle’ and you also know the full meaning of the name Israel: ‘wrestled with God.’ Get the Isaiah 53 Wall Art Package One of the most powerful Messianic passages in the Holy Scriptures is presented in this beautiful, framed piece of art for your wall. An ancient Hebrew manuscript of Isaiah 53:5 is replicated on an aged parchment-like background. ADD TO CART Author Danny Ben Gigi Tags Speaking Hebrew Categories Messianic Judaism Teachings Share this article Related Articles The Gospel To The Jew First Israel Holds the Key to World Redemption We Know That Jesus Loves Kids Bringing Healing, Health, and Hope Restoration Of All Things The Restoration of Israel Update - The Igbo of Nigeria Contact Financial Governance Press Releases Privacy Get Email Updates © 2018, Jewish Voice Ministries UK Site design and build by newmedia

Jewish Family Finder

Skip to main content Toggle navigation Donate Jewish Family Finder Spiritual Significance of DNA Testing Throughout the writings of the prophets of the Old Testament, God promised that in the Last Days, He would restore the Jewish people. This promised restoration is both spiritual−through His promised Messiah−and physical,a regathering back to the Land of Israel. This restoration, beginning with the rebirth of the modern state of Israel and continuing on with the retaking of Jerusalem in 1967 and the current aliyah (immigration back to the Land) from all over the world is being fulfilled before our very eyes. In Isaiah 11:11, for example, God says that He will "recover the outcasts of Israel." In that day, the Lord will reach out His hand a second time to reclaim the surviving remnant of His people from Assyria, from Lower Egypt, from Upper Egypt, from Cush, from Elam, from Babylonia, from Hamath and from the islands of the Mediterranean. −Isaiah 11:11 The recovery of the "Lost Tribes" scattered to the remote corners of the earth in places like Ethiopia, India, and Zimbabwe is part of this astounding Last Days prophecy unfolding. The advances in the science of DNA testing, which have already played a significant role in identifying this scattered remnant, will continue to play a more central role in the days ahead. Watch the interview with Bennett Greenspan Jewish Voice Ministries International has partnered with the largest provider of DNA testing, a leader in the industry who has pioneered the use of DNA testing in the field of genealogy, providing a new way to break through barriers in your family history. The genetic tests that we offer as part of this partnership can determine relationships with a 99.9% degree of accuracy! Each DNA kit contains two swabs to ensure accurate results from your collected genetic data. Each DNA kit that you order is meant to test only one person. Kits should not be shared with another family member or friend. If you wish to obtain a "family" kit, you will need to order separate kits for each family member. Please note also that results of your DNA test will take 6-8 weeks. Get the “Lost Tribes” Map Enjoy a fascinating and eye-opening reference guide to the miraculous rediscovery of Israel’s “Lost Tribes” and Jewish Voice’s efforts to reach and bless them—updated with the latest research and insights. (Makes a wonderful prayer reminder!) Download Now ‹ Previous Topic Next Topic › Share this article Related Questions Further Scattering of “Lost Tribes” “Lost” and Scattered Tribes With Whom We’re Connected Messianic Resources Hebrew Word of the Day Messianic Parsha Readings Looking for a local messianic congregation? Find A Congregation Contact Financial Governance Press Releases Privacy Get Email Updates © 2018, Jewish Voice Ministries UK Site design and build by newmedia

Lost and Scatteted Tribes with Whom connected by

Skip to main content Toggle navigation Donate “Lost” and Scattered Tribes With Whom We’re Connected Ethiopian Jews For centuries, the Beta Israel of Gondar, the Beta Abraham of Addis Ababa, and the Gefat of Woliso and Hosanna have endured persecution for their felasha or “foreigner” status among Ethiopians. Many believe they are from the tribe of Dan. Thousands were rescued from poverty and brought to Israel during the massive airlifts of 1984, 1985, and 1991. The aliyah (return of the Jews to their homeland) program sponsored by Israel has been stopped and resumed a number of times since then. Only those Jewish people who have not converted to another religion and are considered by authorities to remain solely Jewish in their faith are permitted to make aliyah. We know of many thousands of people who belong to small tribal groups and we are continuing to reach out to them with the love of their Jewish Messiah. Yibir of Somaliland The origin of the Yibir is unclear. It is one of the oldest ethnic groups in Somaliland and are said to predate Islam in the area. They are known as highly secretive of their language, not letting members of other ethnic groups around them even hear them speak it. Some suggest they came from the Beta Israel of Ethiopia, and are, therefore, also believed to be from the tribe of Dan, having made their way into Somaliland. While it remains disputed and uncertain, the Yibir do have some things in common with the Beta Israel, namely their outcast status in their countries and metal working trades. They have not sought to make themselves known to Israel and Jewish officials because it would create more problems for the Yibir people who already endure a despised position among their countrymen. B'nei Menashe of India When the Bnei Menasha Jews of India were “found,” they called themselves Israelites, rather than Jews, and they claim the tribe of Manasseh. After the Assyrian conquest, some of Israel’s people of the Northern Kingdom followed the Silk Route into China. The Silk Route was a 4,000-mile-long road system developed for commerce between China and the Middle East. Some believe that, after settling in China, some Jewish people migrated south into the northern regions of India. Some of the Bnei Menashe dispute this, saying they do not have the same customs as the Chinese. They remember their fathers sacrificing an animal, taking the blood, and painting it onto the doorposts at Passover. Igbo of Nigeria The Igbo are said to have migrated from Syria, Portugal and Libya into West Africa after the Assyrian army deported them. They also believe themselves to be of the tribe of Dan. In the ninth century, a Jewish traveler came across the Igbo and wrote that they had the entire body of Jewish Scriptures except the books of Esther and Lamentations. Written records were lost during years of persecution in Muslim areas. However, they maintained many Jewish practices over the centuries including circumcision on the eighth day, observance of some of the dietary laws, laws of uncleanness, and celebration of Jewish holidays, including Yom Kippur, Rosh Hashanah, Sukkot, and Passover. Lemba of Zimbabwe The Lemba are believed to have fled Jerusalem after the Temple was destroyed around 586 BC. Though not among the traditionally described Ten “Lost Tribes of Israel,” these Jewish people were scattered when the Southern Kingdom of Judah fell to Babylonia. It is believed they fled Judea and ended up in Yemen. From Yemen they migrated to Africa, eventually settling in Ethiopia and Tanzania. Many left Ethiopia, moved south to Zimbabwe and became known as the Lemba. Seventy percent of the Lemba have tested to possess Cohanim DNA, lending credibility to their claim of ties to the ancient people of Israel, particularly the Levites. Lost and Found…to us The history of the ”Lost Tribes” is fascinating, and we rejoice in being a part of reaching and gathering these scattered people back to Israel – and more importantly, back to God through Yeshua. We’ve seen firsthand that God is reconciling them to Himself in extraordinary numbers! ‹ Previous Topic Share this article Related Questions Further Scattering of “Lost Tribes” Jewish Family Finder Messianic Resources Hebrew Word of the Day Messianic Parsha Readings Looking for a local messianic congregation? Find A Congregation Contact Financial Governance Press Releases Privacy Get Email Updates © 2018, Jewish Voice Ministries UK Site design and build by newmedia

Further Scattering of Lost Tribes

Skip to main content Toggle navigation Donate Further Scattering of “Lost Tribes” Worldwide persecution over the centuries has further scattered God’s Chosen People to the four corners of the earth, causing many to hide their heritage and faith. Some were forced to convert, at least outwardly, to other religions. Many continued their faith and Jewish customs in secret, generation after generation. Populations of these dispersed tribes have been discovered in surprising places the world over including China, Ethiopia, India, Zimbabwe, Somaliland, Afghanistan, Nigeria, and more. These “Lost Tribes of Israel” – spread throughout the earth and outwardly oppressed by the societies to which their ancestors dispersed – have maintained their Jewish identity against all odds. Historical Jewish customs, religious practices, and their own claims point to their Jewish roots. Modern DNA testing has confirmed that these pockets of dispersed people are indeed Jews. Jewish Voice Ministries International has been involved in serving these peoples for more than two decades through our Medical Outreaches and discipleship and community-building work. If you’d like to have a first-hand look at our efforts, we invite you to order our inspiring photo book, The Lost Tribes of Israel. Click here to learn about recent ministry outreaches to these tribes who have never been lost to God. Get the “Lost Tribes” Map Enjoy a fascinating and eye-opening reference guide to the miraculous rediscovery of Israel’s “Lost Tribes” and Jewish Voice’s efforts to reach and bless them—updated with the latest research and insights. (Makes a wonderful prayer reminder!) Download Now ‹ Previous Topic Next Topic › Share this article Related Questions “Lost” and Scattered Tribes With Whom We’re Connected Jewish Family Finder Messianic Resources Hebrew Word of the Day Messianic Parsha Readings Looking for a local messianic congregation? Find A Congregation Contact Financial Governance Press Releases Privacy Get Email Updates © 2018, Jewish Voice Ministries UK Site design and build by newmedia

Who are the LOST TRIBES of Israel?

Skip to main content Toggle navigation Donate Who Are The “Lost Tribes of Israel”? After King David’s son Solomon died in the tenth century B.C., the internal strife and sin divided their single united kingdom into two separate entities. The Northern Kingdom was called Israel and included ten of the twelve tribes: Reuben, Simeon, Manasseh, Issachar, Zebulun, Ephraim, Dan, Asher, Naphtali, and Gad. The Southern Kingdom was called Judah and included the tribes of Benjamin and Judah. Immersed throughout both kingdoms were members of the priestly family of Levi. Israel didn’t heed any of the warnings to return to God given her by the prophets, and in 722 B.C., Assyria conquered the Northern Kingdom of Israel, taking captive and deporting the members of the ten tribes. These tribes dispersed and became absorbed into the surrounding pagan cultures – for the most part. There was a small, nearly-invisible remnant that continued to maintain a form of Jewish identity, many of whom immigrated south into the kingdom of Judah. Get the “Lost Tribes” Map Enjoy a fascinating and eye-opening reference guide to the miraculous rediscovery of Israel’s “Lost Tribes” and Jewish Voice’s efforts to reach and bless them—updated with the latest research and insights. (Makes a wonderful prayer reminder!) Download Now In approximately 586 B.C., the Southern Kingdom was conquered by Babylon. The Babylonians destroyed the Temple Solomon built, and took many of the people captive. Around 445 B.C., Nehemiah led a remnant of the Jewish people back to Jerusalem and rebuilt its walls and gates. Over 500 years later, in 70 A.D., the Romans destroyed the Second Temple and, again, Jewish people were driven from their homeland and dispersed throughout the known world. Jewish Family Finder Further Scattering of “Lost Tribes” “Lost” and Scattered Tribes With Whom We’re Connected Next Topic › Share this article Messianic Resources Hebrew Word of the Day Messianic Parsha Readings Looking for a local messianic congregation? Find A Congregation Contact Financial Governance Press Releases Privacy Get Email Updates © 2018, Jewish Voice Ministries UK Site design and build by newmedia

Celebrating on Earth and in Heaven

Skip to main content Toggle navigation Donate Celebrating on Earth and in Heaven! I recently was reviewing the results from our Medical Clinic efforts in the past year. And I was moved by all God has done – and continues to do – to meet both physical and spiritual needs through the work of Jewish Voice. In eight Medical Clinics – three in Ethiopia, three in Zimbabwe and two eye clinics in Israel – we were able to serve 60,122 patients! This included 447 eye surgeries for cataracts and trachoma, 621 other surgeries, and dental care for 8,807 people. Nearly 29,000 LifeStraws were distributed, providing a year’s worth of clean, healthy water to thousands of individuals and hundreds of families. And more than 11,000 people received needed eyeglasses. In our Israel Clinics, we were able to help 791 elderly Holocaust survivors. Most important of all, more than 12,000 of our Clinic patients visited our Prayer Rooms to receive personal prayer, and 1,612 professed new faith in Yeshua the Messiah! All of this (especially the new personal relationships with the Lord) brings great joy to my heart, as I know it brings joy to God’s heart. As Jesus said in Luke 15:7: . . . there will be more joy in heaven over one repenting sinner than over the ninety-nine righteous people who have no need of repentance. - A great part of my joy – and I trust part of the joy the Lord feels as well – is in knowing that all this physical and spiritual caregiving was made possible by the prayers and gifts of our friends and partners. For your part in this – for your compassion and support – I thank you from the bottom of my heart. Author Jonathan Bernis Tags Medical Outreach Categories Global Outreaches Share this article Related Articles Thank you for transforming lives through your love and compassion! Covenant concern Contact Financial Governance Press Releases Privacy Get Email Updates © 2018, Jewish Voice Ministries UK Site design and build by newmedia

Covenant Consern

Skip to main content Toggle navigation Donate Covenant concern I’m often asked, Why doesn’t the covenant God made with Moses cover the salvation of all Jewish people? This question refers to the Mosaic Covenant, God’s law and standards for the ancient Jewish people. Under this covenant, which is a corporate covenant for the Nation of Israel, there’s no plan for individual salvation. But it does clearly point to the coming Messiah, to whom the Jewish people would look for redemption and liberation. Unfortunately, when Yeshua (Jesus) did come, the Jewish people were under Roman rule and tyranny. They expected Him to be a physical deliverer – a military and political leader. But Yeshua came to bring spiritual salvation. Even in the Old Covenant Scriptures, Jesus is presented as the only means of personal salvation. Read Isaiah 53, for example. You’ll see this is not just a New Covenant concept. This covenant of salvation, established only through Yeshua, was seen by the prophets of old literally centuries before Jesus came. So you see, while the Mosaic Covenant provided standards of conduct before God, it’s the New Covenant in Yeshua that brings us personal salvation and the removal of sin. He alone is the way, the truth and the life. No one can come to the Father except through Him (John 14:6). And there’s no other name under heaven by which we can be saved (Acts 4:12). This is true for the Jew first and then the Gentile (Romans 1:16). Author Jonathan Bernis Tags Biblical Teaching Categories Messianic Judaism Teachings Share this article Related Articles Thank you for transforming lives through your love and compassion! Celebrating on Earth and in Heaven! Contact Financial Governance Press Releases Privacy Get Email Updates © 2018, Jewish Voice Ministries UK Site design and build by newmedia