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| The Divine Master's Shrine |
If you're curious about the reason, feel free to skip ahead
to the final paragraph. However, if you're willing to join me on this journey,
let's begin by exploring where it all began.
It all started on Mount Moriah, also known as the Temple
Mount, in Jerusalem. This is where the first temple of Jerusalem was located. It
was a sacred building that served as the center of worship and national
identity for the ancient Israelites. It was also known as Solomon's Temple,
because it was built by King Solomon, the son of David, who had unified the
twelve tribes of Israel under his rule.
According to the biblical tradition, this was the place
where Abraham was ready to sacrifice his son Isaac to God, before an angel
intervened and provided a ram instead. The temple was designed to house the Ark
of the Covenant, a wooden chest that contained the stone tablets of the Ten
Commandments and other sacred objects.
The temple was constructed in the 10th century BCE,
according to most scholars, although some have questioned its historical
existence and date. The temple consisted of three main parts: a porch, a main
hall, and an inner sanctum called the Holy of Holies. The Holy of Holies was
the most sacred part of the temple, where only the high priest could enter once
a year on Yom Kippur, the Day of Atonement. There he would sprinkle blood on
the mercy seat, a gold cover on top of the Ark, to atone for the sins of the
people. It also had a large courtyard where various altars and basins were
located for sacrifices and rituals. The temple was surrounded by a storehouse
where offerings and utensils were kept. The temple was richly decorated with
gold, silver, bronze, wood, and stone. It had carvings of cherubim, palm trees,
and flowers. It also had lamps, tables, and musical instruments.
The temple was not only a place of worship, but also a place
of assembly for the Israelites. It was where they celebrated their festivals,
such as Passover, Pentecost, and Tabernacles. It was where they heard the words
of God from the prophets and priests. It was where they expressed their
gratitude, joy, sorrow, and repentance to God. But in 587/586 BCE, the
Babylonian king Nebuchadnezzar destroyed the temple after he besieged Jerusalem
and deported many Jews to Babylon.
This was a devastating event for the Israelites, who saw it
as a punishment from God for their sins and a loss of their covenant
relationship with him. However, it also strengthened their faith and hope for a
restoration of their land and their temple.
The Second Temple of Jerusalem
The Second Temple of Jerusalem was built on the same
location as the First Temple, which was destroyed by the Babylonians in 587
BCE. It was completed in 516 BCE under the Persian rule, and later renovated by
King Herod the Great in the first century BCE. The Second Temple was a
magnificent structure, with a large courtyard, several altars, a bronze basin,
and a sanctuary that housed the Ark of the Covenant and the Divine Presence.
The Second Temple was built by Jews who returned from exile
in Babylon with the permission of Cyrus the Great, the king of Persia. The
construction was completed around 516 BCE, marking the beginning of the Second
Temple period in Jewish history. The Second Temple was smaller and simpler than
the First Temple, but it still housed the Ark of the Covenant, which contained
the tablets of the Ten Commandments.
The temple underwent several renovations and expansions over
time, especially under the rule of Herod the Great, who reigned from 37 BCE to
4 BCE. Herod transformed the Second Temple into a magnificent complex with a
large courtyard, a massive altar, a huge bronze basin, and many other
structures and decorations. The Second Temple became one of the most impressive
buildings in the ancient world, and attracted many pilgrims and visitors.
It was also the scene of many important events in Jewish
history, such as the Maccabean revolt against the Greeks, the ministry of Jesus
and his followers, and the Jewish-Roman wars. However, the Second Temple was
destroyed by the Romans in 70 CE, after a long siege of Jerusalem. The Romans
burned and demolished the Temple, leaving only a part of the western wall
standing. This wall, known as the Western Wall or the Wailing Wall, is now the
most sacred site for Jews, who come to pray and mourn for the lost Temple. The
destruction of the Second Temple was a devastating blow to the Jewish people
and a turning point in their history.
Today, the site of the Second Temple is occupied by the Dome
of the Rock, a Muslim shrine built in the 7th century CE. The Dome of the Rock
is one of the oldest and most beautiful Islamic monuments, with a golden dome
and intricate mosaics. It is believed to be the place where Muhammad ascended
to heaven.
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| The Western Wall and the Temple Mount, as seen from Aish HaTorah World Center's rooftop |
The Temple Mount, as the site is called, is one of the most
contested and sensitive places in the world, as it is holy to three major
religions: Judaism, Islam, and Christianity. The access to the site is
restricted and regulated by various authorities, and any change or disturbance
can spark violence and conflict. The Temple Mount is also a symbol of the
Israeli-Palestinian conflict, as both sides claim sovereignty over it.
The Second Temple of Jerusalem and its Relation to Early
Christianity
The Second Temple was the center of Jewish worship and
sacrifice, and also the place where Jesus of Nazareth visited and taught during
his ministry. It had a significant influence on the development of early
Christianity, both in terms of theology and history. Here are some of the ways
that the Second Temple shaped the Christian faith:
- The Second Temple was the place where Jesus claimed to be
the Messiah, the Son of God, and the fulfillment of the Jewish scriptures. He
also performed miracles and confronted the religious authorities who challenged
his authority and teachings. His actions and words in the Temple provoked both
admiration and hostility from different groups of Jews, and ultimately led to
his arrest and crucifixion by the Romans.
- The Second Temple was also the place where the early
Christian community gathered after Jesus' resurrection and ascension. According
to the book of Acts, the apostles and other believers met daily in the Temple
courts to pray, worship, and preach the gospel. They also witnessed the
outpouring of the Holy Spirit on Pentecost, which empowered them to speak in
different languages and attract many converts to their faith.
- The Second Temple was also the place where the early
Christian movement faced persecution and conflict from both Jewish and Roman
authorities. Some of the apostles were arrested, beaten, and even killed for
their testimony about Jesus. The first Christian martyr, Stephen, was stoned to
death outside the Temple after he accused the Jewish leaders of rejecting Jesus
as their Messiah. The persecution led to the dispersion of many Christians from
Jerusalem to other regions, where they spread their faith to Jews and Gentiles
alike.
- The Second Temple was also the place where some of the key
theological debates and controversies among early Christians took place. For
example, some Jewish Christians insisted that Gentile converts should follow
the Jewish law and customs, such as circumcision and dietary rules. This issue
was resolved at the Council of Jerusalem, where the apostles decided that
Gentiles did not have to observe these requirements to be saved by grace
through faith in Jesus. Another example was the question of whether Jesus was
equal to God or subordinate to him. This issue was addressed by some of the
early Christian writers, such as John and Paul, who affirmed that Jesus was
fully divine and fully human, and that he shared in God's glory and nature.
The Second Temple of Jerusalem was a crucial factor in the
formation and growth of early Christianity. It was both a source of inspiration
and challenge for the followers of Jesus, who saw him as the fulfillment of
God's promises to Israel. It was also a witness to God's presence and power
among his people, who experienced his grace and Spirit in their midst. The
destruction of the Second Temple by the Romans in 70 CE marked a turning point
in Jewish and Christian history, as both groups had to redefine their identity
and mission in a new context.
Ezekiel's Vision: The Dream of the Third Temple
The Third Temple is a term that refers to a future Jewish
temple that will be built in Jerusalem, on the site of the first two temples
that were destroyed by the Babylonians and the Romans. The Third Temple is a
central theme in Jewish eschatology, as it is believed to be a sign of the
coming of the Messiah and the restoration of God's presence among His people.
It is also a foreshadowing of the heavenly temple that will descend to earth in
the end times, as described in Revelation 21:1-22:5. The third temple is a
symbol of God's eternal kingdom and glory.
The origins of the idea of the Third Temple can be traced
back to the biblical prophets, especially Ezekiel, who had a detailed vision of
a new temple in the 25th year of the Babylonian exile. However, this vision was
not fulfilled by the Second Temple, which was built by Zerubbabel and later
expanded by Herod. The Second Temple was also lacking some of the key features
of the first temple, such as the Ark of the Covenant, the Urim and
Thummim, and the fire from heaven. Therefore, many Jews hoped for a Third
Temple that would match Ezekiel's description and restore the full glory of
God's dwelling.
It will be much larger than the previous temples. According
to Ezekiel 40-42, the temple complex will cover an area of 3,000 by 3,000
cubits (about 512.5 acres), which is 36 times larger than the second temple's
area of 500 by 500 cubits (about 14.2 acres). The temple itself will have three
levels of side chambers, a large inner courtyard with an altar, a holy place
with a table and a lampstand, and a most holy place with a wooden throne for
God. It will be square in shape, unlike the previous temples that were
rectangular. The outer courtyard, also known as the ezrat nashim
(women's court), will surround the inner courtyard on all four sides, forming a
square. The inner courtyard, also known as the azarah (priests' court),
will also be square, with four gates facing each direction. The temple building
will be aligned with the inner courtyard, with its entrance facing east.
The third temple will include iron in its construction,
unlike the previous temples that avoided iron because it was associated with
war and bloodshed. Ezekiel 40:3 describes a man with a measuring rod of iron
who shows Ezekiel around the temple. Ezekiel 40:42 mentions iron hooks for
hanging the sacrificial animals. Ezekiel 41:22 says that the altar in the holy
place will be made of wood overlaid with gold and iron. The third temple will
be built by God Himself, not by human hands. Ezekiel 43:1-5 describes how the
glory of God enters the temple from the east, filling it with His presence.
Ezekiel 43:7 says that God declares: "This is where I will live among the
Israelites forever." Ezekiel 43:10-12 instructs Ezekiel to show the temple
plan to the people of Israel, so that they may be ashamed of their sins and
repent. Ezekiel 43:13-27 outlines the regulations for consecrating the altar
and offering sacrifices.
At present, some Jewish groups, such as the Temple Institute
and the Temple Mount Faithful, have been preparing for the construction of the
Third Temple by making replicas of its vessels and instruments, studying its
laws and rituals, and lobbying for access to the Temple Mount, where they
believe it should be located. However, the Temple Mount is also a sacred site
for Muslims, who believe that it is where Muhammad ascended to heaven on his
night journey. The Dome of the Rock and the Al-Aqsa Mosque are two Islamic
structures that currently occupy the Temple Mount. Any attempt to build a
Jewish temple there would likely spark a violent conflict between Jews and
Muslims, as well as between Israel and its neighbors. Moreover, most of the
international community does not recognize Israel's sovereignty over Jerusalem,
which both Israel and Palestine claim as their capital.
Attempts to Build
The idea of rebuilding the third Temple has also been
influenced by various historical events and movements. For example, during the
Bar Kochba revolt in the 2nd century CE, some Jews attempted to rebuild the
temple, but failed. Later, during the Middle Ages, some Jewish mystics and
philosophers speculated about the spiritual and symbolic aspects of the Third
Temple. In modern times, some religious Zionists and Orthodox Jews have
advocated for the rebuilding of the temple as part of their vision for Israel's
redemption. However, this idea has also been contested by Muslims, who regard
the Temple Mount as a holy site for Islam and have built the Dome of the Rock
and the Al-Aqsa Mosque there. The Temple Mount has therefore become a source of
conflict and controversy between Jews and Muslims, as well as a subject of
debate in the Israeli-Palestinian peace process.
The Byzantine Empire was the eastern half of the Roman
Empire, which survived for a thousand years after the western half had crumbled
into various feudal kingdoms and which finally fell to Ottoman Turkish
onslaughts in 1453. The Byzantine Empire was known for its rich and diverse
culture, its political and military achievements, and its distinctive
architectural style.
One of the most fascinating aspects of Byzantine
architecture is the relationship between the Christian church and the Jewish
temple. During the Byzantine Empire, there were some attempts to rebuild the
temple, but these were ultimately unsuccessful. During the Islamic period,
several Muslim rulers allowed Jews to pray on the Temple Mount, but none of
them allowed the reconstruction of the temple.
The first attempt to rebuild the temple was made by the
Roman emperor Julian, who ruled from 361 to 363 CE. Julian was a pagan who
rejected Christianity and tried to restore the traditional Roman religion. He
also wanted to undermine the Christian claim that the destruction of the temple
in 70 CE was a sign of God's judgment on the Jews. He issued an edict that
authorized and funded the reconstruction of the temple, hoping to win over the
Jews and embarrass the Christians.
However, his plan was thwarted by various obstacles, such as
earthquakes, fires, and hostile local populations. According to some Christian
sources, miraculous signs and divine intervention prevented the work from
progressing. Julian died in battle against the Persians before he could see his
project completed.
The second attempt to rebuild the temple was made by a group
of Jews in 614 CE, when Jerusalem was captured by the Sassanid Persians. The
Persians were Zoroastrians who opposed Christianity and allied with the Jews
against the Byzantines. They allowed the Jews to return to Jerusalem and to
take part in the administration of the city. Some Jews hoped that this was an
opportunity to restore their ancient glory and worship.
However, their hopes were dashed when the Byzantine emperor
Heraclius recaptured Jerusalem in 629 CE after a long and bloody war. He
expelled or massacred most of the Jews in the city and restored Christian
control over the holy sites. He also forbade any further attempts to rebuild
the temple.
The third attempt to rebuild the temple was made by a Jewish
messianic movement led by a man named Shlomo ben David in 691 CE. Shlomo
claimed to be a descendant of King David and announced that he would lead his
followers to Jerusalem and rebuild the temple. He gathered a large army of Jews
from North Africa, Egypt, Syria, and Iraq, and marched towards Palestine.
However, he faced a formidable enemy: the Umayyad caliph Abd
al-Malik, who ruled over most of the Islamic world at that time. Abd al-Malik
had recently built a magnificent dome over the rock where Abraham had prepared
to sacrifice his son Isaac, according to Jewish and Muslim traditions. This
dome, known as the Dome of the Rock, was intended to assert Muslim supremacy
over Jerusalem and to rival or surpass Christian churches in beauty and
splendor.
Abd al-Malik sent his troops to confront Shlomo's army near
Ramla, a town south of Jerusalem. The battle was fierce and bloody, but Abd
al-Malik's forces prevailed and Shlomo was killed along with most of his
followers. The remaining Jews fled or were captured and enslaved. The Dome of
the Rock remained standing as a symbol of Islamic faith and power.
These three attempts to rebuild the temple show how
Jerusalem was a contested site for different religious groups throughout
history. They also show how each group tried to use architecture as a way of
expressing their identity and authority over the sacred space. The temple
remains a source of longing and controversy for Jews, Christians, and Muslims
today.
Eliphas Levi and the Plan of the Third Temple
Eliphas Levi, born Alphonse Louis Constant, was a French
occultist and author who lived in the 19th century. He is widely regarded as
one of the most influential figures in the history of Western esotericism,
especially for his contributions to the fields of ceremonial magic, tarot, and
Kabbalah. He wrote several books on these topics, such as Dogme et Rituel de
la Haute Magie (Dogma and Ritual of High Magic), Histoire de la Magie
(History of Magic), and La Clef des Grands Mystères (The Key to the
Great Mysteries).
One of his most famous works is “The History of Magic,” in
which he reveals his vision of the plan of the third temple, or the spiritual
temple of humanity which he believed was a symbolic and spiritual project that
would herald the advent of a new era of humanity. He claimed that he had
received this revelation from a mysterious entity called the Angel of the
Presence, one of the initiators of this grand project, who appeared to him in a
series of visions and communications. He said that he had received from the
angel a set of keys that would unlock the secrets of the Third Temple and that
he had encoded these keys in his writings and drawings. He also said that he
had been given a mission to spread his teachings and inspire others to join him
in his work. Levi's vision for the third temple was heavily influenced by
Kabbalah, which he saw as the key to understanding the mystical nature of the
universe. He believed that the third temple would represent the culmination of
the spiritual evolution of humanity, and that its construction would usher in a
new era of enlightenment and spiritual awakening.
The third temple is a "universal temple" that would unite all religions, philosophies, and sciences under the banner of a universal religion based on love, wisdom, and harmony.
According to Levi, the third temple is not only a physical
building, but a symbolic representation of the universal harmony and
equilibrium that can be achieved by the human race through the practice of
magic. He writes: "The third temple is not made with hands; it is the
edifice of truth and justice which will be raised in all hearts by the light of
reason and the fire of love." He described it as a "universal
temple" that would unite all religions, philosophies, and sciences under
the banner of a universal religion based on love, wisdom, and harmony. He also
said that it would be a "living temple" that would manifest itself in
various forms throughout history, such as art, literature, music, architecture,
and social movements.
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| The Third Temple according to Levy |
Levi bases his plan of the third temple on the philosophic cross, which is a symbol that he derived from the ancient Egyptian ankh and the Hebrew letter tau. According to Levi, the philosophic cross was a representation of the four elements of earth, air, fire, and water, as well as the four directions of north, south, east, and west. The cross was also a symbol of the union of the divine and the human, and the reconciliation of heaven and earth. The philosophic cross consists of a vertical line that represents the divine principle, a horizontal line that represents the human principle, and a circle that represents the universal principle. Levi explains: "The circle is God; the vertical line is man aspiring to God; the horizontal line is man extended upon earth; and their conjunction in the center is the realized ideal, or humanity made divine by love."
He assigns different meanings and correspondences to each
part of the philosophic cross, such as colors, elements, planets, zodiac signs,
virtues, vices, angels, demons, etc. He also relates them to different aspects
of human nature, such as intellect, will, imagination, sensation, etc. He claims
that by understanding and balancing these forces within oneself and in relation
to others, one can achieve spiritual perfection and become a living temple of
God.
His plan of the third temple is not only a metaphysical
concept, but also a practical guide for magicians who wish to perform rituals
and ceremonies that can help them attain their spiritual goals. He provides
detailed instructions on how to construct and consecrate a magical circle based
on the philosophic cross, how to invoke and communicate with various spiritual
entities, how to perform different types of magic such as natural magic,
ceremonial magic, talismanic magic, etc., and how to use various tools and
symbols such as pentagrams, hexagrams, seals, sigils, etc.
Levi's plan of the third temple is a fascinating and complex
system that reflects his vast knowledge and synthesis of various esoteric
traditions and sources. It is also a visionary and inspiring project that
challenges us to seek our true potential and destiny as human beings. As he
writes: "The third temple will be built when all men shall be brothers;
when there shall be no more masters or servants; when each shall respect in
others liberty and dignity; when tyranny shall be banished from earth; when all
shall be initiated into science and love; when religion shall be one and
universal; when God shall be all in all."
He also believed that the third temple should be constructed
as an informational center, with a focus on the dissemination of knowledge and
wisdom. He saw the temple as a place where people could come to learn about the
mysteries of the universe and the nature of God. In his view, the third temple
would serve as a beacon of light and knowledge, illuminating the path to
spiritual enlightenment for all who sought it.
While Levi's plans for the third temple were never realized,
his ideas continue to influence occult and mystical traditions to this day. His
vision of the temple as an informational center has resonated with many people,
and his emphasis on the union of opposites and the reconciliation of all things
has inspired generations of spiritual seekers.
Levi's vision of the Third Temple was met with mixed
reactions from his contemporaries and later generations. Some praised him as a
visionary and a prophet, while others dismissed him as a deluded and dangerous
fanatic. Some saw him as a precursor of modern ecumenism and interfaith
dialogue, while others accused him of syncretism and heresy. Some admired his
artistic and literary talents, while others criticized his lack of rigor and
coherence.
Regardless of how one views him, Eliphas Levi remains a
fascinating and influential figure in the history of Western esotericism. His
vision of the Third Temple may not have been realized in the way he expected,
but it has inspired many people to seek for a higher and deeper understanding
of themselves and the world. Whether one agrees with him or not, one cannot
deny his originality and creativity.
Jesus’ Disconnection Notice: John 4:20-24
Many Christians are fascinated by the idea of the Third
Temple, a prophesied Jewish temple that will be rebuilt in Jerusalem before the
return of Christ. Some even believe that they have a duty to support or
participate in the construction of this temple, as a sign of their loyalty to
God and Israel. But what does the Bible actually say about the Third Temple?
And how does it relate to Jesus' saying in John 4:20-24, where he told a
Samaritan woman that the true worshipers of the Father will no longer be in
Jerusalem?
"Believe
me, woman, the hour is coming when you will worship the Father neither on this
mountain nor in Jerusalem. You worship what you do not know; we worship what we
do know, for salvation is from the Jews. Yet a time is coming and has now come
when the true worshipers will worship the Father in spirit and truth, for they
are the kind of worshipers the Father seeks. God is spirit, and his worshipers
must worship in spirit and truth." (John 4:21-24 NIV)
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| Jesus and the Samaritan woman at the well |
What did Jesus mean by this? How does this relate to the
Third Temple that many Jews and Christians expect to be built in Jerusalem
before or during the end times?
The first thing we need to understand is that the Third
Temple is not explicitly mentioned in the New Testament. The only references to
a future temple are found in the Old Testament, especially in the books of
Daniel, Ezekiel and Zechariah that a Third Temple will be built and that it
will be associated with the coming of the Messiah and the establishment of
God's kingdom on earth (e.g., Ezekiel 40-48, Daniel 9:24-27, Zechariah
6:12-13). These prophecies describe a glorious temple that will be built by the
Messiah or his representative, and that will be the center of God's presence
and worship on earth. However, these prophecies are not always clear or consistent
about the details of this temple, such as its location, size, design, function
and duration. Some scholars suggest that these prophecies are symbolic or
conditional, and that they may have been fulfilled partially or spiritually by
the second temple (which was destroyed by the Romans in 70 AD) or by the church
(which is called the temple of God in 1 Corinthians 3:16 and 2 Corinthians
6:16).
The second thing we need to understand is that Jesus
fulfilled and transcended many aspects of the Old Testament temple system. He
claimed to be greater than the temple (Matthew 12:6), and to be the true place
where God dwells among his people (John 1:14; 2:19-21). He also declared that
he was the fulfillment of the law and the prophets (Matthew 5:17), and that he
instituted a new covenant based on his blood (Luke 22:20). He taught that God
is not confined to a physical building or location, but that he seeks
worshipers who worship him in spirit and truth (John 4:20-24). He also
predicted that the second temple would be destroyed within a generation
(Matthew 24:1-2), and that he would come again in glory to judge the living and
the dead (Matthew 24:30-31).
The third thing we need to understand is that the New
Testament writers applied many of the Old Testament prophecies about the future
temple to Jesus and his followers. For example, Paul wrote that Christ is the
cornerstone of a spiritual temple made up of believers from all nations
(Ephesians 2:19-22), and that we are being built into a holy priesthood to
offer spiritual sacrifices to God (1 Peter 2:4-10). John saw a vision of a new
Jerusalem coming down from heaven, where there was no need for a temple,
because God and the Lamb are its temple (Revelation 21:22). These passages
suggest that the ultimate fulfillment of God's plan for his dwelling place is
not only a physical building, but a spiritual community.
Some Christians also believe that a Third Temple will be
built in Jerusalem as part of God's plan for the end times. They base their
view on passages from the New Testament that seem to imply that a temple will
exist during the tribulation period, when an antichrist figure will set himself
up as God in it and demand worship from all people (e.g., Matthew 24:15-16, 2
Thessalonians 2:3-4, Revelation 11:1-2). Some Christians also see the
rebuilding of the temple as a sign of Jesus' imminent return and as a
fulfillment of biblical prophecy.
However, not all Christians agree with this interpretation.
Some argue that the New Testament passages that mention a temple are not
referring to a literal building, but to a spiritual reality or a symbolic
representation of God's people or presence. They point out that Jesus himself predicted
that not one stone of the Second Temple would be left on another (Matthew
24:2), and that he claimed to do and be what the temple was and did (John
2:19-21, John 4:21-24). They also emphasize that Jesus fulfilled all the types
and shadows of the Old Testament temple system by his death and resurrection,
and that he inaugurated a new covenant that does not depend on a physical
location or ritual for worshiping God (Hebrews 8:1-13). They believe that
Christians are now God's temple, individually and corporately, by virtue of
being indwelt by his Spirit (1 Corinthians 3:16-17, 1 Peter 2:4-10). They also
look forward to a new heaven and a new earth where God himself will dwell with
his people and where there will be no need for a temple (Revelation 21:1-4,
Revelation 21:22).
"The Old Testament is a Gematria."
– Blaise Pascal
The important question that requires attention is the reason behind Jesus' statement that worship will no longer be confined to Jerusalem. Consequently, the pressing
matter at hand is the location of the third temple's construction.
We read in Jeremiah 31:10,
Hear the word of the LORD, O
nations, proclaim it on distant coasts, and say: He who scattered Israel, now
gathers them together, he guards them as a shepherd his flock.
This is the prophecy of return of the lost tribes of Israel.
The lost tribes of Israel are a fascinating topic for many people who are
interested in the history and identity of the Jewish people. The Bible tells us
that after the death of King Solomon, the united kingdom of Israel split into
two: the northern kingdom of Israel, composed of ten tribes, and the southern
kingdom of Judah, composed of two tribes. The northern kingdom was conquered by
the Assyrian empire in 722 BCE, and its inhabitants were exiled and dispersed
among the nations. The fate of these ten tribes has been a mystery ever since.
Many theories and claims have been proposed over the
centuries regarding the whereabouts and descendants of the lost tribes. Some
have suggested that they migrated to various regions of Asia, Africa, Europe,
or America. Some have identified them with various ethnic groups or nations
that have some resemblance or connection to Israelite culture or religion. Some
have even claimed that they are hidden behind a miraculous river that flows
only six days a week and rests on the Sabbath.
However, none of these theories or claims have been
conclusively proven or accepted by mainstream scholars or Jewish authorities.
Most historians agree that the lost tribes assimilated into the local
populations where they were exiled, and lost their distinct identity and
heritage. Some of them may have joined the Jewish communities that existed in
other lands, such as Babylon, Persia, or Rome. Some of them may have converted
to other religions, such as Christianity or Islam. Some of them may have simply
vanished from history.
But does this mean that the lost tribes are gone forever?
Not according to the Jewish tradition and faith. The Bible and other Jewish
sources contain many prophecies and promises that one day, God will gather all
the scattered children of Israel from all corners of the earth, and restore
them to their land and their covenant. This will be part of the messianic era,
when peace and justice will prevail on earth, and God's name will be known by
all.
However, the question arises, where exactly are these distant coasts located? In Isaiah 24:14-16, we can find a possible answer to this inquiry:
…from the sea they proclaim the majesty of the LORD:
"For this, in the coastlands, give glory to the LORD! In the coastlands of the sea, to the name of the LORD, the God of Israel!"
From the end of the earth we hear songs: "Splendor to the Just One!"
The said coastlands or coastlands of the sea are hidden in
the very same words “from the sea” supported by the “from the ends of the earth.”
Isaiah chapter 24 describes a prophecy of judgment against
the earth (which alludes to Jerusalem here) for its sin and rebellion against
God. The chapter begins with a declaration that the Lord will lay waste to the
earth and scatter its inhabitants. The entire earth will be affected, with both
the common people and the leaders suffering the same fate. The earth will be
emptied, and only a few people will remain. The reason for this judgment is
that the people of the earth have violated God's laws and broken His covenant.
From the first destruction and dispersion of Israel in 722
BCE until 70 AD the future of Israel is already written: a remnant will be
saved. From the gathering of Israel till the end of times the path of the future
remnant of Israel is already laid out in the Bible.
Isaiah 62:1-12 depicts the New Jerusalem as the Bride of the Lord and the restoration of Zion. Verse 2 and 3 reveal that Jerusalem will be bestowed with a new name. The Lord declares,
You shall be called by a new name pronounced by the mouth of the LORD.
You shall be a glorious crown in the hand of the LORD, a royal diadem held by your God.
This prophetic passage speaks of the glorious transformation that awaits Jerusalem, as it becomes a symbol of divine beauty and grace. The Lord's promise of a new name signifies a fresh start and a renewed identity for the city, while the imagery of a crown and a diadem highlights its elevated status in the eyes of God. As we delve deeper into the text, we are reminded of the power of faith for those who trust in the Lord's promises.
Furthermore, the Lord utilizes symbolic language to depict the New Jerusalem in verses 4 and 5, which read as follows:
For the LORD delights in you, and makes your land his spouse.
As a young man marries a virgin, your Builder shall marry you; And as a bridegroom rejoices in his bride so shall your God rejoice in you.
In the following verse 7, the Lord proclaims His intention to
re-establish the ancient city of Jerusalem to its former glory.
…until he re-establishes Jerusalem And makes of it
the pride of the earth.
But will it be in the same Jerusalem of the old
days? Jesus said,
“…neither on this mountain nor in Jerusalem.”
So where is
it? It is for the one who is to come the Savior in verse 11,
See, the LORD proclaims to the ends of the earth:
Say to daughter Zion, your savior comes! Here is his reward with him, his
recompense before him.
Here we read it
clear,
the LORD proclaims to the ends of the earth…
The New Jerusalem, where the Savior will come, is said to be "from the ends of the earth," as mentioned in Isaiah 24. This location is also referred to as "from the sea" and the "coastlands of the sea." Accompanying the Savior will be His reward, which is the holy people, also known as the redeemed of the Lord.
Here is his reward with him, his recompense before him.
They shall be called the holy people, the redeemed of the LORD, and you shall be called "Frequented," a city that is not forsaken.
Together with the Savior lies a city that is frequently
visited. This city holds a special place in the hearts of many, as it is a
symbol of hope, faith, and salvation. Its streets are lined with the stories of
those who have found redemption and peace within its walls. It is a place of
pilgrimage for those seeking solace and guidance, and a beacon of light for
those lost in the darkness. The city's name may be unknown to some, but its
significance is felt by all who have been touched by its grace.
Now let us apply the art of Kabbalistic Gematria we mentioned
in our previous post. Let us quote fully from the book En Esto Creo: In This I Believe from pages 74- 79.
[1]We have
ON DISTANT COASTS
65 4912152 361121 = 49
is the place
DINAGAT SAN JOSE
4951712 115
1615 = 49
Consider other locations that meet the requirements of
being on a distant coast with the Kabbalah of 49 and serve as a reference point
for the entire contextual interpretation of our quoted Bible verse. This is the
place where God, in the latter days, will gather His chosen people. This is the
place where Jesus Christ referred to in the New Testament—that He would go and
prepare a place for them and come back again to bring them with Him. Now, if we
take the phrase from Isaiah 24:14, we can see that this is a reference to the
place where God will gather His chosen people in the latter days. This place is
a symbol of hope and faith for those who believe in the promises of God. It is
a place of refuge and security, a place where God's chosen people can find
solace and peace.
FROM THE SEA
6964 285 151 = 47
which is also
CABILAN ISLAND
3129315 913154 = 47
Because Cab-ilan is from Dinagat Island, which is from
the root word ‘dagat,’ which means ‘sea,’ hence, “from the sea.” There are many
names conferred by God on these "distant coasts" particularly in the
Old Testament books. It is also called the "City of the Lord," or
"Zion of the Holy One of Israel." But let us quote the verses from
Isaiah 62: 2-5,
Nations shall behold your
vindication,
And all kings your glory;
You shall be called by a new name
pronounced by the mouth of the
Lord.
You shall be a glorious crown
In the hand of the Lord,
a royal diadem held by your God.
No more shall men call you
“Forsaken”
Or your land “Desolate,”
But you shall be called “My
Delight,”
And your land “Espoused.”
For the Lord delights in you,
and makes your land his spouse.
As a young man marries a virgin,
your Builder shall marry you;
And as a bridegroom rejoices in
his bride
So shall your God rejoice in you.
Zion, the mountain of the Lord, "shall be called by a
new name." Let us perform Kabbala.
 |
| The fleur-de-lis has been the symbol of French Royalty. France is Reuben! |
GLORIOUS CROWN
73699631 39655 = 72
This is the place
of
SAN JOSE DINAGAT ISLAND
115 1615 4951712 913154 = 72
MY DELIGHT
47 4539782 = 49
is the short description of
DINAGAT SAN JOSE
4951712 115 1615 = 49
Formerly, the land was "Forsaken" and
"Desolate," now it is a delight to the Lord and its people. (Is.
65:18) Only the original inhabitants of Dinagat can attest to the descriptions
of the land as "Forsaken" and "Desolate." We will not do
kabbala for the word 'ESPOUSED,' because the following verses give its
explanation:
As a young man marries a virgin,
Your Builder shall marry you;
 |
| Lalaking Bukid |
 |
| Babaing Bukid |
This geographically describes the place of Dinagat San
Jose. We all know Lalaking Bukid and Babaeng Bukid. And the builder, according
to the verse, shall marry the land as a young man marries a young woman.
Remember, the builder of the sacred pillar? If the verses from 2-5 of Isaiah 62
give the name of the place and its location, the verses from 6-12 allude to
what will happen. In fact, the title of these verses is the "Restoration
of Zion." Let us quote verse 11.
See, the Lord proclaims to the
ends of the earth:
Say to daughter Zion,
"Your savior comes!"
Here is his reward with him, his
recompense before him.
They shall be called the holy
people, the redeemed of the LORD,
And you shall be
called "Frequented," a city that is not forsaken.
THE ENDS OF THE EARTH
285 5541 66 285 51928 = 82
This refers to the municipality and province of
DINAGAT DINAGAT ISLANDS
4951712 4951712 9131541 = 82
or
CABILAN ISLAND MINDANAO
3129315 913154 49541516 = 82
Why Cab-ilan Island? Is it truly Cab-ilan Island? Other
locations with this number can be proposed. But that location should also
describe what the verses are saying, like what we are doing now. The Lord has
promised a savior who will come from the ends of the earth, which is no
surprise to us because we know the savior who came from Cab-ilan.
As we continue reading, the "reward" or
"recompense before him" is mentioned—"the holy people,"
"the redeemed of the Lord." The Savior’s followers are referred to as
his "holy people." They are redeemed by the Lord, which means they
are saved by the Lord. However, if we do kabbala, we have
THE HOLY PEOPLE
285 8637 756735 = 72
But who are these holy people? They are members of the Spiritual
Division represented by the 72 stars of the Rubenian International, Inc. This
is the "Glorious Crown" of the shrine in San Jose of Dinagat Islands.
Now it will be called
FREQUENTED
6958355254 = 52
The term ‘frequented’ refers to a place that people
regularly go to or visit, as well as a center of gathering. This is similar to
the principle expressed in Matthew’s Gospel: "Wherever the corpse is,
there the vultures will gather."
DINAGAT ISLAND
4951712 913154 = 52
And for all we know, this is ‘frequented’ mostly in the
months of May and December. The last phrase is
A CITY THAT IS NOT FORSAKEN
1 3927 2812 91 562 66911255 = 93
If we remember, we mentioned that once the place of the
Lord was called "forsaken," but now that the Lord chose it and made
it his "delight," it will no longer be called "forsaken."
But then, as we know, Dinagat is not yet a city. This is a clear reference to a
future where, out of Dinagat, a place will become a city. But this number 93 is
a gematria that points to its exact address. This is equivalent to
PHILIPPINE ISLANDS
7893977955 9131541 = 93
Thus, we have,
FREQUENTED
6958355254 = 52
DINAGAT ISLAND
4951712 913154 = 52
A CITY THAT IS NOT FORSAKEN
1 3927 2812 91 562 66911255 = 93
PHILIPPINE ISLANDS
7893977955 9131541 = 93
The
Great Arcanum
Because it is not the same Jerusalem as we showed above.
It is written
"I also saw the holy city, a new Jerusalem, coming
down out of heaven from God, prepared as a bride adorned for her
husband. I heard a loud voice from the throne saying, "Behold God’s
dwelling is with the human race. He will dwell with them and they will be his
people and God himself will always be with them [ God]. He will wipe every tear
from their eyes, and there shall be no more death or mourning, wailing or pain,
[for] the old order has passed away." (Rev.21:2-4)
(Here we see the full description from
the words such as, new Jerusalem, a bride, a husband, which re-echoes
Isaiah’s As a young man marries a virgin which describes the Lalaking
Bukid and Babaeng Bukid.)
 |
| Divine Master Ruben E. Ecleo, Sr. with his people |
THE HOLY CITY A NEW JERUSALEM
285 8637 3927 1 555 159311354 = 108
which is
DINAGAT ISLAND SAN JOSE SURIGAO
4951712 913154 115 1615 1399716 = 108
COMING DOWN OUT OF HEAVEN FROM GOD
364957 4655 632 66 851455 6964 764=147
SAN JOSE DINAGAT ISLAND SURIGAO DEL NORTE
1151615 4951712 913154 1399716 45356925=147
GOD’S DWELLING IS WITH THE HUMAN RACE
7641 45533957 91 5928 285 83415 9135 = 147
is also equivalent to the place
SAN JOSE DINAGAT ISLAND SURIGAO DEL NORTE
115 1615 4951712 913154 1399716 453 56925 = 147
You will read more details from the book En Esto Creo: In This I Believe. But let
me share to you my dear brothers and sisters the message from one of the members of the Spiritual Division.
“…that the island of Dinagat is the star or the Pearl of the
Orient. Dinagat is the NEW JERUSALEM. Dinagat Island is the pearl or the place
of our KING OF KINGS. My friends, if you have to determine what is Dinagat, if
you have to determine how many parts would the island be divided among the
people, I don’t know how big is your share. If all the people will claim throughout
the world, I don’t know if you will be given on tip left of your finger to
equal the people now. There are millions of people that now are created by God.
Then this island of Dinagat will be divided among the people. I don’t know,
kana lang tingali nga mamilit sa inyong mga kamot mao lang tingali ang inyong
kabahinanan. Apan dili Ninyo makuha ang inyong kabahinan pinasikad didto kon
asa nga dapit. Kana mga igsoon ko ang moabot didto sa atong hunahuna. Mao kana
ang makakuha ug makahatag sa inyong kaugalingon ug kadasig. Ang isla sa Dinagat
mao’y isla nga diin mao’y gipili sa Dios nga alang sa mga tawo nga matarong.
Maybe you left your things that maybe, kadto nga mga butang makabuhi kaninyo.
Nganong gibiyaan Ninyo? Gibiyaan Ninyo aron inyo lamang buhaton nga handumanan
ug aron sa diha naana buhaton ta pa ang lain pang kinabuhi. You escape your
places in order that you could also escape your lives. Mao kana ang tuyo nato.
Mga igsoon ko, waka kita mag-anhi dinhi aron kita magpakamatay. Nag-anhi kita
dinhi aron kita mabuhi. Busa lig-ona Ninyo ang inyong hunahuna kanunay, hatagi Ninyo
kanunay ug kadasig ang inyong kaugalingon sa kadasig. Pangita kamo’g mga
maayong paagi nga mabuhi kamo. Ang tibook isla sa Dinagat, alang kini
kanato,kitang mga matarong. Ayaw kamo kahadlok nga bisan asa kamo maglakawlakaw
dinhi sa lungsod o sa isla sa Dinagat, alang kini kanato. Kamong’ng mga membro
sa kapunungan nga diin nagdawat sa mga buhat nga matarong, naghambin naanang
maputi nga kasingkasing, lakat kamo bisan asa nga baybayon sa isla sa Dinagat
kay diha mabuhi kamo. Ayaw kamo’g kahadlok sa unsa man nga mga hulga sa
panahon.Ayaw kamo kalisang sa kang bisan kinsa nga tawo. MAGTAGO AKO BISAN
bisan asa nga dapit nga dili ako makita-an sa akong mga katawhan kay tingali
unya’g makadahig ko sa tanan nga sama kaninyong mga bootan. Apan paningkamotan
ko mga kaigsoonan ko, maningkamot ako sa
akong pagkasulogoon sa pundok karon ako unta’ng maitudlo diha kaninyo kining
buhi kong handumanan, buhi kong mga hunahuna nga alang sa AKONG MGA KATAWHAN
iyawat nalang buhaton ninyo ug handumanan nga dinhi ning kalibutan ADUNAY USA
KA TAWO O KINABUHI NGA MALINIS ALANG SA PAGREPRESENTAR SA PAGBALIK UNYA SA
ATONG GINOO aron pagahukman ang tawo….kining dapita sa San Jose, kining isla sa
Dinagat BUHATON ang usa ka handumanan, ibalik ang dapit sa Jerusalem
kaniadto. Jerusalem is the birthplace of Jesus Christ my friends and
Jerusalem is the Kingdom of Kings. Jerusalem was the place where God was born. Now
comes the repetition of the history.[2]
Ang inyong sulogoon nagpakatawo sa isla sa Dinagat nga mao’y inyong gitoohan
nga mao’y makahatag kaninyo’g kaluwasan alang sa inyong kinabuhi. Kana kay maoman
ang inyong pagtoo, there is no reason why , walay katarungan nga dili kamo
mapunit ngadto sa inyong kaluwasan. Apan limpioha Ninyo ang inyong kaugalingon.
You discover yourself; you clean yourself and follow in my regulations. Sunda Ninyo
ang atong mga regulasyon.”
---Dr. Hugh Tovar on December 25, 1974 at Main Office.
[1] Chua, R. D. En
Esto Creo: In This I Believe - Kindle edition by Chua, R. D. . Religion &
Spirituality Kindle eBooks @ Amazon.com. pp. 74-79
[2] History has indeed repeated itself. Similar to how Jesus was betrayed by his own people, the Grand Master has also suffered the same fate. It is a striking parallel that highlights the cyclical nature of human behavior and the tragic consequences that can result from it. This event serves as a reminder that even those in positions of power and authority are not immune to the treachery of those closest to them. Historia est vitae magister— history is the teacher of life!
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