The Hidden Orchard Podcast: Recent Episodes
The Hidden Orchard
The Hidden Orchard Project offers a fresh look at Spirituality, the Bible, science, and many relevant concepts. We will combine ancient wisdom with emerging sciences, uncover lost truths, learn ancient meditative techniques, reframe the New Testament in its 1st-century Jewish context, and learn how to apply these concepts in our daily lives. For more info, visit: www.thehiddenorchard.com
What impact does this have on the soul? Could the music we indulge in regularly sabotage our spiritual development? In this article, we'll explore the tradition and some ways to protect ourselves.
For more info, visit: https://www.thehiddenorchard.com/how-music-influences-the-soul/
What does it mean that G_D is in us, and we are in G_D? Learn how the deep mystical concept of Ibur holds a prominent place in the Apostolic writings, unlocking insight and dispelling errant theologies.
https://www.thehiddenorchard.com/ibur-the-entanglement-of-the-soul-in-1-john/
If we examine where the knots and wrappings are placed from a TCM point of view, it appears that the tefillin and wraps form a potent acupuncture point formula aimed at elevating the spirit and clearing the mind.
https://www.thehiddenorchard.com/the-deep-connection-between-chinese-medicine-and-tefillin/
This is a good example that shows how Jesus co-opts a Midrash that he knew his students would grasp. In this, he uses many metaphoric elements of the Rabbinic tradition and also teaches on repentance from the mystical dimension.
https://www.thehiddenorchard.com/the-parable-of-lost-sheep/
If you take a step back from the New Testament, you will notice that the texts are surprisingly quiet on major topics that readers have come to take for granted. Entire religions and theologies have been built upon these ideas, yet, they are not thoroughly explained amid the pages.
https://www.thehiddenorchard.com/messiah/
No legal system on earth holds verbal insults and thought crimes in the same category as more egregious and obvious crimes like murder and adultery. However, in the spiritual economy of the Bible, these are very much connected.
www.thehiddenorchard.com/soul-refinement-guarding-our-speech/
As summer fades into autumn, a sacred period arrives in the Jewish calendar that carries profound spiritual significance. We're all invited to embark on a transformative journey of self-discovery, repentance, and reconnection with the Divine during this time.
https://www.thehiddenorchard.com/40-days-of-spiritual-metamorphosis/
Often used as a proof-text for the abrogation of the Torah [commandments], in Matthew 5, Jesus cites a well-known Midrash to prove quite the opposite. Despite many modern (popular) interpretations, he forbids his audience from ever thinking of such an idea!
https://www.thehiddenorchard.com/abolishing-the-torah/
In this episode, we compare Paul's letters with Rabbinic Responsa, legal correspondence. How does this change the way we interact and view these works?
https://www.thehiddenorchard.com/how-to-read-the-letters-of-paul/
In an ancient Midrash, the moon approached the Creator, asking how it should find its place amid the sun's brightness. The Creator's instruction provides insight for us today as to how we might best fulfill our purpose in life.
https://www.thehiddenorchard.com/the-light-of-the-moon/
In this episode, we look at an excellent story of how we balance our traits and how we impact others.
https://www.thehiddenorchard.com/developing0the-soul-mussar-part-1/
Among the many brilliant statements in a writing known as The Ethics of the Fathers, a beautiful and profound statement brings us very close to understanding the 'meaning of life'.
https://www.thehiddenorchard.com/all-the-life-in-the-world-to-come/
In this episode, we look at the hidden complexity of Jewish law behind Jesus' rebuke of Pharisees and understand his words in a more constructive and contextual way.
https://www.thehiddenorchard.com/the-pharisees-who-wash-the-outside-of-cups/
In this episode, a quick message to the listeners, and a thank you!
https://www.thehiddenorchard.com/
The wisdom of the Bible calls us to view our actions and experiences, not as isolated singularities, but as connected and holistic. This is especially true when it comes to money.
http://www.thehiddenorchard.com/rethinking-money
Want to learn a quick method for spiritual elevation? In this episode, we'll learn how doing nothing might be the best step for your growth.
https://www.thehiddenorchard.com/accepting-insults/
At first glance, the popular interpretation of these passages has become so entrenched, the heading of this section is called, “The Superiority of the New”. The translators are preemptively telling us that what is “new” is better. Is this what we're to take away from this teaching?
http://www.thehiddenorchard.com/new-wine-old-wineskins
In this episode, we look at the bizarre account where Jesus takes his vengeance out upon a random fig tree on the side of the road. This story concludes with many rightfully scratching their heads. Let's see if we can make sense of this passage.
https://www.thehiddenorchard.com/the-cursing-of-the-fig-tree/
In this episode, we look at the difference between "Faith" as it is commonly understood an the Hebrew word "Emunah", from which it originates.
http://www.thehiddenorchard.com/how-we-get-faith-wrong/
In the Zohar, there is a discussion based upon the Torah commandment to 'pay a laborer, or servant his wages the same day he works for them'. There is a striking parallel to a gospel passage that seems to bring a new spin on an old parable.
https://www.thehiddenorchard.com/parable-of-the-talents/
What does it mean to be made in the image and likeness of the Creator? Is there a difference in these two words? For centuries, many have pondered this statement, and the Midrashic tradition alone bears the fruits of this intellectual labor.
https://www.thehiddenorchard.com/adam-and-damah/
In this episode, we look at a somewhat controversial topic that emerges around this time every year. We briefly explore what the New Testament says that might contradict what we see in media and movies like "The Passion of the Christ".
https://www.thehiddenorchard.com/who-killed-jesus/
of fear and respect for G_D - it is commanded in Deuteronomy that Israel both remember what they did, and blot out their memory. How are we to remember, and also forget at the same time? In this episode, we see the hidden message about wrestling with Doubt.
https://www.thehiddenorchard.com/battling-doubt/
In part two, we explore the significance of the Jerusalem Council and what the Apostolic community was attempting to resolve as they included Gentiles in to the Synagogue communities.
https://www.thehiddenorchard.com/the-missing-context-of-the-new-testament-pt-2/
One of the most important components to understanding the "New Testament" is found amid an incident that most Bible readers have never heard of. We'll learn how a particular disagreement between predominant Pharisaic schools shaped the contours and the perplexing milieu of first-century Judaism.
https://www.thehiddenorchard.com/the-missing-context-of-the-new-testament-pt-1/
Obscured amid the detailed instructions for the building of the Tabernacle, there is a fundamental key to the service of G_D. We'll also explore how the Midrash is the idea behind Paul's statement in Romans 11.
https://www.thehiddenorchard.com/the-dough-offered-as-firstfruits/
Not only in Hebrew, but in latin we see the words Spirit and Breath are connected through the word, Spīro (to breathe), also Spiritus. We can clearly see the etymological root to the word respiratory.
https://www.thehiddenorchard.com/the-connection-between-breathing-and-the-soul/
In the Zohar, a story is told about a traveler, who seems to have evaded death in his sleep – not once, but twice. The Rabbis are puzzled by these miracles, and ask the man about his secret. The answer is surprisingly simple, yet profoundly difficult.
https://www.thehiddenorchard.com/the-power-of-forgiveness/
This episode explores the difference between the Hebrew word, Amen, and the modern idea of "faith".
https://www.thehiddenorchard.com/3-levels-of-emunah-faith/
The Bible uses five different words to describe (5) distinct levels of the human soul, each of which has its own unique properties and expressions. In this episode, we explore these components and build a foundation for other topics.
https://www.thehiddenorchard.com/your-expansive-soul/
One of the key ideas perpetuated through replacement theology,(also known as supercessionism) is taught under the heading of the "New Covenant". On the surface, this seems innocent enough, perhaps even quite logical, however, when we explore this in-depth, some assumptions are revealed.
https://www.thehiddenorchard.com/the-new-covenant/
Paul makes frequent references to the Jewish tradition regarding Adam, the first Adam. As is the case for many Rabbis, this tradition heavily influences Paul's worldview, both eschatologically & practically. Did he intend to nullify Jewish and Gentile, male and female, and other distinctions?
Who is the New Man in Ephesus
In the New Testament, Paul recounts a trip he took to the third heaven. What is this place, and is there a similar idea in Jewish thought that we can leverage to understand this mysterious account? In fact, there is, and we explore this idea in this episode.
Visit:
https://www.thehiddenorchard.com/the-third-heaven/
In Romans 11, Paul leverages a few Midrashic themes from the Rabbinic tradition that many readers may not be aware of. These affirm the selection and enduring covenantal place the Jewish people have with G_D when understood.
Visit:https://www.thehiddenorchard.com/misunderstanding-pauls-message-in-romans-11/
History is full of surprising twists and inexplicable events that have forever changed the course of the world. This can also be said of tragedies, though, usually from a downstream vantage point.
Read in article form:
https://www.thehiddenorchard.com/the-great-mystery-of-divine-providence/
In this episode, we explore the hidden tradition of meditation in the Bible. What makes Biblical, ancient Jewish meditation different from modern methods and mindfulness?
https://www.thehiddenorchard.com/jewish-meditation/
If you've been around the world of Jewish thought for a while, you might likely already be familiar with the concept encapsulated in the acronym - PaRDeS. This system of studying and interpreting Torah is ordered into (4) methods of interpretation.
Sign up for more on at:
https://www.thehiddenorchard.com/
A careful and objective study of the Pharisees, their worldview(s), and their general thinking process has brought me to an entirely new place. Getting it wrong is not inconsequential; understanding the context and nuance surrounding the Pharisees will become an increasingly vital tool for understanding the New Testament.
https://www.thehiddenorchard.com/pharisees/
In this story, we learn a powerful lesson of simplicity, one that all of us can employ today and in the darkest of times.
"Into the Orchard" will serve as a guide from which readers can become acquainted with the socio-religious milieu of the New Testament and late Second Temple Judaism. Most importantly, this book may serve as an interface to begin a productive inter-faith dialogue that leaves polemics and antagonism behind.
Visit our website:
www.thehiddenorchard.com
Find us on Facebook
New book available on Amazon:
Into The Orchard - The Midrashic Tradition in the New Testament
In this episode is one of my favorite ancient stories with a simple message to reframe how we view the events and experiences that shape who we are.. Like most wisdom, the lesson is simple, but the application is difficult.
"Into the Orchard" will serve as a guide from which readers can become acquainted with the socio-religious milieu of the New Testament and late Second Temple Judaism. Most importantly, this book may serve as an interface to begin a productive inter-faith dialogue that leaves polemics and antagonism behind.
Visit our website:
www.thehiddenorchard.com
Find us on Facebook
New book available on Amazon:
Into The Orchard - The Midrashic Tradition in the New Testament
...
Throughout the Epistles of Paul, he makes frequent references to the Rabbinic traditions regarding Adam HaRishon, the first Adam. As is the case for many Torah Jews, this tradition heavily influences Paul's worldview, both eschatologically and practically.
In this episode, we explore how a Midrash might be the key to understanding Paul's words
For a Written version:
https://www.thehiddenorchard.com/who-is-the-new-man-in-ephesians/
"Into the Orchard" will serve as a guide from which readers can become acquainted with the socio-religious milieu of the New Testament and late Second Temple Judaism. Most importantly, this book may serve as an interface to begin a productive inter-faith dialogue that leaves polemics and antagonism behind.
Visit our website:
www.thehiddenorchard.com
Find us on Facebook
New book available on Amazon:
Into The Orchard - The Midrashic Tradition in the New Testament
...
In Romans 11, Paul leverages a few Midrashic themes from the Rabbinic tradition that many readers may not be aware of. When understood, these change the way we understand the words of Paul.
For a written version:
www.thehiddenorchard.com/misunderstanding-pauls-message-in-romans-11/
"Into the Orchard" will serve as a guide from which readers can become acquainted with the socio-religious milieu of the New Testament and late Second Temple Judaism. Most importantly, this book may serve as an interface to begin a productive inter-faith dialogue that leaves polemics and antagonism behind.
Visit our website:
www.thehiddenorchard.com
Find us on Facebook
New book available on Amazon:
Into The Orchard - The Midrashic Tradition in the New Testament
...
As a child growing up in the church, admittedly, I had acquired a negative view of the Pharisees. The dark villains of many Sunday school stories and their combative portrayal in the Gospel readings, it seemed the word ‘Pharisee’ was an acceptable form of a curse word.
Later, it would become clear to me that I had made a mistake. Through study, I would find a different reality, one that we scratch the surface on in this episode.
For a written version:
www.thehiddenorchard.com/pharisees
Visit our website:
www.thehiddenorchard.com/
"Into the Orchard" will serve as a guide from which readers can become acquainted with the socio-religious milieu of the New Testament and late Second Temple Judaism. Most importantly, this book may serve as an interface to begin a productive inter-faith dialogue that leaves polemics and antagonism behind.
Visit our website:
www.thehiddenorchard.com
Find us on Facebook
New book available on Amazon:
Into The Orchard - The Midrashic Tradition in the New Testament
...
In this episode, we'll look at the connection between the soul and the respiratory system. In the Bible, many levels of the soul derive their name from some word connected to 'breathing'. we'll see why this is the case, and learn a quick meditation to use for emotional balance, and anxiety.
For a written version:
www.thehiddenorchard.com/the-connection-between-breathing-and-the-soul
Visit our website:
www.thehiddenorchard.com/
"Into the Orchard" will serve as a guide from which readers can become acquainted with the socio-religious milieu of the New Testament and late Second Temple Judaism. Most importantly, this book may serve as an interface to begin a productive inter-faith dialogue that leaves polemics and antagonism behind.
In this episode, we explore a puzzling passage in the Gospel of Matthew, and seek to understand it within its Jewish context. When Yeshua says, "the kingdom is taken by force", many readers have understood this within a framework of Replacement theology. However, an ancient collection of Midrash from the Galilee may hold the key to understanding this statement.
For a written version:
www.thehiddenorchard.com/heaven-has-suffered-violence
Visit our Website:
www.thehiddenorchard.com
"Into the Orchard" will serve as a guide from which readers can become acquainted with the socio-religious milieu of the New Testament and late Second Temple Judaism. Most importantly, this book may serve as an interface to begin a productive inter-faith dialogue that leaves polemics and antagonism behind.
Whether you observe Rosh Hashanah or not, the whole world is beginning to move into a new year and era of human history. The world events reflect this shift, and we should pause to realign with our purpose, strengthening ourselves for what the new year brings for us.
Read a written version:
www.thehiddenorchard.com/for-the-sake-of-the-world-you-were-created/
Visit our Website:
www.thehiddenorchard.com
In this episode, we look at how we might better optimize our modern morning routine for success, using ancient wisdom. How do you spend the first 45 minutes of your day? Are you aware that this transitional time for your brain provides a powerful long-lasting opportunity to help or hinder your growth?
For a written version, visit:https://www.thehiddenorchard.com/what-is-your-morning-routine/
Managing your thoughts will bring the highest degree of complexity. To be sure, the only way to truly develop this skill is through regular practice. Meditation is an accumulative process
In this episode, we look at a few quick and easy tips to maximize your time and get the most out of your meditation practice.
For a written version:
http://www.thehiddenorchard.com/tips-for-calming-the-mind-for-meditation
If you have been around the world of Jewish thought for a while, you might likely already be familiar with the concept encapsulated in the acronym - PaRDeS. This system of studying and interpreting Torah is ordered into (4) methods of interpretation; Peshat, Remez, Drush, and Sod.
In this episode, we will unpack these levels and introduce you to a new way of reading scripture.
Subscribe to our site for more:
https://www.thehiddenorchard.com
For a written version:
https://www.thehiddenorchard.com/peshat-pardes/
While many in the US have a day off of school, Rosh Hashanah is generally considered a Jewish holiday. In Hebrew, Rosh Hashanah literally means 'the head of the year', but most consider it the Jewish New Year.
A little known secret, though this holiday is observed by Jews, this day is actually important for everyone on earth! On Rosh Hashanah, the report-card of every individual in the world undergoes a review.
In this episode, we explore ways to make use of this time, even if you are not Jewish or religious.
In this episode, we will discuss one of the more difficult concepts in the Bible; the categories of; Pure and Impure, Holy and Common. What adds to the confusion is the inconsistency and imprecision in which some of these words are rendered in various English translations.
For a written version:
https://www.thehiddenorchard.com/holy-common-impure-and-pure/
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https://www.thehiddenorchard.com/
It is not uncommon for many modern readers to question the real reason(s) behind keeping Kashrut (dietary laws known as Kosher) today - and not just Jews, as I know many Gentiles who shop the Kosher food section. Often, many opt for the logic of a health-based rationale, such as; the avoidance of Trichinosis, limiting the amount of chemicals and hormones from processing plants, and many other modern [important] points of focus.
In this episode, we explore a perhaps hidden dimension to the prohibition of avoiding blood.
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http://www.thehiddenorchard.com
For a written version:
http://www.thehiddenorchard.com/the-blood-and-the-life-force
In Hebrew, the word most commonly used for command[ment] is ‘Mitzvah’. Through these, we may come to recognize that all of the Torah is a kind of program to cultivate closeness with the Source of Life.
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https://www.thehiddenorchard.com
For a written version:
https://www.thehiddenorchard.com/how-to-seek-the-creator
In this episode, we look at a favorite story of mine from the Zohar. This story teaches us that there is a hidden power in forgiveness. In a world where retaliation or grudge-bearing are the norm - forgiveness is a life-giving and other-worldly gift to be shared.
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https://www.thehiddenorchard.com
For a written version:
https://www.thehiddenorchard.com/the-power-of-forgiveness/
The Bible uses five different words to describe (5) distinct levels of the human soul, each of which has its own unique properties and expressions. (In this episode, we will build a foundation from which we will discuss often in our works.
Subscribe to our website:
https://www.thehiddenorchard.com/
For a written version:
https://www.thehiddenorchard.com/your-expansive-soul/
In Hebrew, the word for 'orchard' is pardes (פרדס). The four letters that spell this word also serve as an acronym for four primary methods, or levels, of scriptural interpretation. You might say, four different entrances into the orchard of Torah wisdom.
For many centuries, Bible readers have not been made aware of these [uniquely Jewish] concepts, or have been taught non-native methodologies to interpret scripture. Though these may be useful on some level, they serve to conceal, and even sever the truths hidden in the text.
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https://www.thehiddenorchard.com/about/