I am writing this response to a YouTube video circulating widely on the internet in in which Eddie Long, the troubled pastor of the New Birth Missionary Baptist Church in Atlanta GA is apparently crowned king with the ritual use of a Jewish Torah scroll. (The reader may know him for the recent scandal in which he was accused by five young men of sexual misconduct. After initially denying the allegations, he went into settlement talks with them.) A number of specious claims are made during the ritual which I would like to refute.
The unidentified man who, (in the YouTube video to which I had access he is identified subsequently as Ralph Messer), represents himself as a Jew. He may well be some sort of Messianic Jew, a person who claims Jewish heritage and recognizes Jesus as the Son of God, but who is not part of one of the major Jewish movements: Orthodox, Reform, Conservative, Reconstructionist, Reform, Renewal. He does not, however, represent recognizable Jewish thought or practice in his (mis-) representations of the Torah and other Jewish sancta -- or for that matter, New Testament and Christian biblical interpretation and theology.
The claim that Holocaust Torahs cannot be insured "because there are no more" is patently false. They are regularly insured as are other one of a kind objects d'art, i.e. the works of Picasso.
The Torah cover is not a "foreskin." Hyper-masculine, hyper-sexualization of the Torah reduces the holy Torah to a problematic phallic symbol -- God's? or Long's? -- and categorizes the most destructive behaviors associated with New Birth ministries in recent years. Grammatically and symbolically, the Torah is feminine in Hebrew and is personified as "She," as in "She is a Tree of Life," in Prov. 3:18.
The Temple in Jerusalem was not a synagogue or Beth Midrash, where Torah scrolls were kept and studied.
The Torah wrapper is not referred to as a "belt of righteousness."
The tree in the vision in the book of Revelation whose "leaves are for the healing of the nations," (22:2), is a fruit tree -- not a Torah scroll -- and the text does not say that there are "39 leaves" as claimed in the video.
The claim that "only one of great authority" is given a "finger" to touch the scroll is patently false. Any bar or bat mitvah, girl or boy, woman or man, who has completed the rite of passage, can chant the Torah according to the (minhag) custom in their congregation. Torah scroll pointers, called "hands," (yadayim), not "fingers" are common gifts and possessions in Jewish families and communities.
The claim that 90 percent of the Jews in the world have "never seen, approached or touched" Torah scrolls is utterly without foundation. The Torah is taken out of the Ark during Shabbat and other services; it is processed through the assembly twice where people reverence it (Her!) by touching and kissing it/Her.
The frequent references to significant numbers may be an attempt to mimic the Jewish mystical tradition of Gematria that elicits meanings from numbers and their contexts. The speaker is devising his own system without reference to any of the classical texts in Judaism, frequently by simple free- and word-association.
There is no verse in the scriptures where Jesus calls himself "the eternal government of God" as claimed by the speaker.
The point that "these" -- presumably Torah scrolls or just Holocaust Torah scrolls are only given to "cities in need of anointing" is false. Individuals, families and religious communities own and commission Torah scrolls and keep or give them as they see fit, to synagogues, Jewish seminaries and other schools and museums.
Even if the speaker identifies as a Jew and has Israeli citizenship, he does not speak for "the Jewish people," "the land of Israel" or "the state of Israel."
His address of Eddie Long as a biblical or Israelite king is without foundation in the scriptures or in reality.
The notion that there is such a thing as a "king chromosome" is a fiction, as is the claim that it is kohenic, that is priestly; the Israelite and Judean monarchs -- there were queens as well -- were not priests.
The man's articulation of what "God wants," is to say the least unsubstantiated outside that particular setting.
The man never says how he knows that none of Long's ancestors or relatives has ever seen a Torah scroll.
While there are some traditional reflections on the human body -- including DNA and chromosomes -- in the mystical Kabbalistic tradition, the speaker is crafting a verbal montage without reference to the classical texts or their theologies.
He attributes a quote to "Jewish doctors" stereotyping an entire community as conflating cellular biology with his Hebrew mysticism without actually naming or quoting any single "Jewish doctor" who holds such an opinion.
The "crowns" in Torah scrolls stem from a particular -- now-normative -- calligraphy style, but other types of calligraphy have been used through the ages to produce legitimate Torah scrolls.
The claim that the kings of Israel were crowned with Torah scrolls wrapping them has no foundation in the biblical text. According to the bible's own chronology the written Torah did not come into existence until the reign of King Josiah in the sixth century BCE (2 Kgs 22), some four hundred years after the time of David. However, the great second century rabbi Hanina ben Teradion, was however wrapped in a Torah scroll and burned alive in his martyrdom. Perhaps he has confused or conflated the traditions.
While the Torah poles are called, etzim, "trees," they are not known as "justice and blessing."
The speaker's claim that his speaking "life" to Eddie Long as a Jew has some meaning, is utterly without meaning.
The speaker's prediction that the ritual -- his antecedent is unclear -- will arouse either "death" or "life" in someone -- Long? Or the congregation? -- is his own Gnosticism, knowledge that is not shared by those outside that particular setting.
There is no precedent for presenting anyone, even a fictitious Israelite-ish monarch with the Torah wrapper.
The donning of the tallit, prayer shawl, is done by those who have completed their bar or bat mitzvah -- whatever it was that just occurred, it had none of the requisite elements of a bat or bar mitzvah. In addition the tallit is donned by pulling it over one's head and reciting the traditional prayer, which was not done. It is also not draped like a clergy stole.
The elevation of Long lifted in the chair by four men seems to have been borrowed from Jewish wedding festivities and has noting to do with coronation; there is no evidence of this practice among Israelite or Judean monarchs.
The Aaronic blessing (Num 6:24-26) is a blessing for the people and not a putative leader.
It is unfortunate that the speaker chose to plunder the sacred traditions of Judaism as he invented novel interpretations of biblical texts and imagery affirm and elevate an individual who had admittedly broken the sacred trust between pastor and congregant.
The civil rights issue of our time is gay marriage, and the key players in our country's most significant civil rights movement are on the wrong side of it. The black church has taken on a new role: oppressor.
Jesus' ministry was primarily a message to the Jewish people in preparation for a Messianic Kingdom. But it was Paul who targeted a larger community after being forced out of synagogue.
I have been amazed at how quickly and conveniently these coalitions between NOM and several black pastors and leaders have come together; I have also been alarmed by the rhetoric.
There's nothing more awkward than to be the one southern black man in the room who says that he's not quite sure about Christianity. No one attacks you for asking questions, they just "pray" for you.
Only trust your pastor if he is worthy of being trusted, and even then, realize that he may not be fully aware of everything himself. Far too many of us are quick to believe anything our pastor says, and anyone the pastor endorses.
Sexually repressive religions suffer numerous allegations of sexual abuse, which makes sense when you consider the effect that their scripture might have on normal sexual behavior.
In the time it takes for the brain's signals to pass through the neck's constricted channel, Jewish mystics identify that the transference of a thought into its physical interpretation occurs.
As an Orthodox Jew, I have to disagree with you on one point, Rev. Gafney. 2 King 22 doesn't say that no scroll of the law was written before that time. Indeed, it says it was FOUND in the Temple. The Torah itself that the king was write two copies of the Torah on a scroll in Deut. 17:18 You also don't point out another f the myriad sillinesses of Mr. Messer -- his claim that the Torah has 39 parchment sections, corresponding to the 39 stripes of J. In fact, it has over 80.
Michael_Turniansky: As an Orthodox Jew, I have to disagree with you
Messy Ralph Messer Response by Michael Rood
Hebrew Roots teacher Michael Rood responds to a video of a self-proclaimed Messianic Jewish Rabbi anointing Bishop Eddie Long, who recently settled a multi-million dollar lawsuit for allegedly molesting teenage boys.
Michael sets the record straight on so-called Messianic Rabbis and exposes "Rabbi" Ralph Messer as a fraud. Find out why Messer can't read the Hebrew Scriptures and what he has failed to understand in the scriptures because of it.
Michael, citing scripture:
* Explains why Messianic Judaism and Messianic Rabbis are oxymorons
* Teaches on the true meaning of the word "rabbi" and what Yeshua said about calling each other by that name
* Tells us what Yeshua had to say about the man-made rules and regulations set in place by the Pharisees - the same rules and regulations that Messianic Jews regard today
"If you don't know the scriptures, you can easily be taken in by these con artists out there who are making their money off of the new Hebrew Roots movement; this is exactly what Messer has been doing," Michael explains.
Watch as Michael breaks down how Messianic Judaism feigns a true Messianic religion, but in its beliefs rejects the very teachings of the Messiah it claims to follow.
BuildingSukkahs: http://michaelrood.tv/blog/messy-ralph-messer/ Messy Ralph Messer Response by Michael Rood Hebrew Roots
But before you watch the videos above, go to www.AReallyRudeAwakening.com and read the truth about Michael written by the panel of judges who reached a conclusion regarding his handling of business/ministry affairs with his former business partner and the rest of the former "A Rood Awakening" staff. That way, you won't be taken in by Rood too!
IndieAnnaJones: But before you watch the videos above, go to www.AReallyRudeAwakening.com
That whole thing is a farce. You can watch any video that Michael Rood has, and clearly see for yourself, that he teaches scripture, and others don't like that, and that is why he gets attacked by people :). Of which is an honor, Matthew 5:11 “Blessed are you when people reproach you, persecute you, and say all kinds of evil against you falsely, for my sake." :D. You really just have to pursue Yehovah's truth yourself, and not hold on to anything else:) we could be wrong about some things, you know?lol.
BuildingSukkahs: That whole thing is a farce. You can watch any
I believe that just as each of us has to stand before the Lord our God come judgement day, so must Eddie Long.1st Timothy Chapter 3: gives us knowledge of the qualifications of a bishop, by virtue of KJV, Eddie Long does NOT qualify as meeting the standards set forth in the Holy Bible. So this madness about Eddie Long being a King, is just that madness. It is absurd that the congregation at New Birth is allowing this mess to go on, in the church, in the media, in Atlanta. Looks and sounds like a whole lot of creature worship, as opposed to creator worship. New Birth gives a whole new meaning to "don't let your good be evil spoken of". I'd wash my face, anoint my head, turn my plate down, and seek GOD, while it is yet day, this mess MUST come to an end, souls are at stake here, not just one man's ego.
The time it takes to post these comments we could have been praying for each other, because the prayer of the right thinker availeth much. Pray PREY. Except for the grace of Almighty God we could all be Eddie Long. Pray for one another so that we enter not into temptation. All leaders are stalked
on a daily basis. So whatever our aspirations are we are all vunerable. This comment is about Universal Government, and its Precepts, Ordinances and Statutes.This comment is not about manis government. When man is done talking it is Universal Law that rules and super rule. It is my hearts desire that we all thrive in Love, Life,Truth,Peace,Hope,Faith,Knowledge,Wisdom,Understanding,
Mercy and Grace. Those who have ears to hear, please HEAR!
thelmarowens: The time it takes to post these comments we could
Rev Dr. Gafney - Thanks for a well informed and informative post. Because you obviously care about the truth and deplore hype, you and your readers need to know that Mr Messer does NOT represent Messianic Judaism. In fact, the Union of Messianic Jewish Congregations and the Messianic Jewish Alliance of America have both been quick to indicate that Messer is neither a rabbi nor a representative of Messianic Judaism rightly so called. See the document here: http://umjc.org/home-mainmenu-1/news-mainmenu-40/1-latest/746-umjc-mjaa-respond-to-messer-video
Hashivestu: Rev Dr. Gafney - Thanks for a well informed and
Interesting. You don't know me or my friends but already you have us pegged! Amazing! And do you do tea leaves and crystal balls too? Your comment is so biased, that I trust the good people who read the Huffington Post to see it for what it is. I would be happy to defend my sanity and the intellectual viability of my views with anyone truly interested is something other than making clairvoyant insults. :-)
Hashivestu: Interesting. You don't know me or my friends but already
I agree with all that was written ... except point number 9, that "There is no verse in the scriptures where Jesus calls himself "the eternal government of God" as claimed by the speaker." Isaiah 9:6, which was spoken by Yeshua, states "For unto us a Child is born, Unto us a Son is given; And the government will be upon His shoulder. And His name will be called Wonderful, Counselor, Mighty God, Everlasting Father, Prince of Peace." Far be it from me to agree with Ralph Messer on anything, but .......
Suzanne_Dingus: I agree with all that was written ... except point
1) The name Hezekiah means "G-d is my strength," NOT "Mighty G-d;"
2) The Talmud, Midrash and Targum Jonathan all tell us that this passage is Messianic in nature. Even the Midrash on Deut. 2:4 tells us that Isaiah 9:6 is Messianic!
So, do not act as if we are simply pulling this interpretation out of our hats. This is the historical interpretation of this passage!
Suzanne_Dingus: 1) The name Hezekiah means "G-d is my strength," NOT
When I saw this I was outraged that this ritual was taking place in a church. How can the congregation allow this to happen. Eddie will do anything to get back on top,but this was the most un-christian thing ever done in a pulpit. Like I said before Hell will be full of preachers.
Verna_Harris: When I saw this I was outraged that this ritual
Yes I watched this too... I could hardly believe my eyes. I didn't know how to feel, what to think and I kept looking at some of the expressions of some of the members in his church. I just couldn't believe it. All my 40+ years of being in church around some of the most prominent minsters of the Gospel and I have never in my life seen anything at all like that! It was truly an eye opener!
DeAdra_Phillips: Yes I watched this too... I could hardly believe my
What is the world coming to...Eddie Long should be in a hospital not in a church. It is so sad to see so many people being deceived and no one to stand up for the real truth...
Kathykak: What is the world coming to...Eddie Long should be in
Makes me believe that some day, my traditional witchcraft might be considered main stream ~ we don't harm and maim ~ we heal and grow ~ and it seems there's MUCH healing needs done amongst mainly men. Get over yourselves.
mommadona: Makes me believe that some day, my traditional witchcraft might
A lot of these pastors in these churches today are using sorcery and magic to bewitch and deceive their congregations--Remember the man in the book of Acts, his name was Simon he had bewitched the whole city of Samaria into thinking he was someone great--I believe this same spirit has eneterd many churches in America today--For false Christs and false prophets shall arise...and deceive many...they shall shew sign and wonders, to seduce, if it were possible, even the elect. Eddie Long is no King there is only one King and his name is Jesus Christ!
prettylites2011: A lot of these pastors in these churches today are
THIS IS BULLSH_T THIS THE REASON THAT POLLUTICS AND EVERYTHING ELSE SHOULD BE LEFT OUT OF CHURCH HE SAID HE WANTED HIS DAY IN COURT NOW HES IN SEATTLEMENT TALKS YOU MISSED YOUR CALLING YOU OUGHT TO RUN FOR PRESIDENT
acraw0421: THIS IS BULLSH_T THIS THE REASON THAT POLLUTICS AND EVERYTHING
RIDICULOUS. 1st of all, Biblical Kings had to READ, Meditate, and Write the Torah, not wrap themselves in it, and they weren't allowed to multiply gold unto themselves.
DISGUSTING. I'm tired of this tomfoolery disguised as Godliness. This is nothing but the doctrine of the Nicolaitans... another way to manipulate and Lord over others. http://killingidols.com
killingidols: RIDICULOUS. 1st of all, Biblical Kings had to READ, Meditate,
Another good reference for information regarding this crazyiness is Michael Rood, one of the leading Messianic / Hebrew Roots leaders in the United States. Rood said, "This is NOT Torah or at all scriptural." His recommendation to his supporters was to watch "Who is your Unauthorized Covering", which can be found on YouTube.
aroodawakening: Another good reference for information regarding this crazyiness is Michael
"Michael Rood, one of the leading Messianic / Hebrew Roots leaders in the United States"
Mr. Rood, puffing air into your sail is egotistic and intended to focus the masses’ eyes on YOU, not the Holy One.
But that's your consistent track record – arrogant and manipulative. Faithful Believers around the world who once worked with your ministry won't touch you with a forty-foot-pole -- and, in fact, say they'll never work with you again!
Teenage Boy Molestor: Pastor Eddie Long Coronated King ...
Messy Ralph Messer Response by Michael Rood
Hebrew Roots teacher Michael Rood responds to a video of a self-proclaimed Messianic Jewish Rabbi anointing Bishop Eddie Long, who recently settled a multi-million dollar lawsuit for allegedly molesting teenage boys.
Michael sets the record straight on so-called Messianic Rabbis and exposes "Rabbi" Ralph Messer as a fraud. Find out why Messer can't read the Hebrew Scriptures and what he has failed to understand in the scriptures because of it.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=ePfpO5ZjhaE
Michael, citing scripture:
* Explains why Messianic Judaism and Messianic Rabbis are oxymorons
* Teaches on the true meaning of the word "rabbi" and what Yeshua said about calling each other by that name
* Tells us what Yeshua had to say about the man-made rules and regulations set in place by the Pharisees - the same rules and regulations that Messianic Jews regard today
"If you don't know the scriptures, you can easily be taken in by these con artists out there who are making their money off of the new Hebrew Roots movement; this is exactly what Messer has been doing," Michael explains.
Watch as Michael breaks down how Messianic Judaism feigns a true Messianic religion, but in its beliefs rejects the very teachings of the Messiah it claims to follow.
on a daily basis. So whatever our aspirations are we are all vunerable. This comment is about Universal Government, and its Precepts, Ordinances and Statutes.This comment is not about manis government. When man is done talking it is Universal Law that rules and super rule. It is my hearts desire that we all thrive in Love, Life,Truth,Peace,Hope,Faith,Knowledge,Wisdom,Understanding,
Mercy and Grace. Those who have ears to hear, please HEAR!
This passage in Hebrew refers to king Hezekiah, who's name literally means "Mighty G-d." And the literal translation is authority, not government.
So agree with him, you're still wrong.
2) The Talmud, Midrash and Targum Jonathan all tell us that this passage is Messianic in nature. Even the Midrash on Deut. 2:4 tells us that Isaiah 9:6 is Messianic!
So, do not act as if we are simply pulling this interpretation out of our hats. This is the historical interpretation of this passage!
DISGUSTING. I'm tired of this tomfoolery disguised as Godliness. This is nothing but the doctrine of the Nicolaitans... another way to manipulate and Lord over others.
http://killingidols.com
Mr. Rood, puffing air into your sail is egotistic and intended to focus the masses’ eyes on YOU, not the Holy One.
But that's your consistent track record – arrogant and manipulative. Faithful Believers around the world who once worked with your ministry won't touch you with a forty-foot-pole -- and, in fact, say they'll never work with you again!
Of course, www.AReallyRudeAwakening.com documents all the particulars.