PDF Summary:Sitting at the Feet of Rabbi Jesus, by Ann Spangler and Lois Tverberg

To fully grasp the significance of Jesus Christ's life and teachings, one must delve into his cultural heritage and the Jewish traditions that shaped him. In Sitting at the Feet of Rabbi Jesus, Ann Spangler and Lois Tverberg argue that analyzing the Gospels through a Jewish lens enlightens and enriches our understanding of Jesus.

The authors explore how Jewish customs and observances foreshadowed major events surrounding Christ. They unpack how Old Testament festivals, rituals, and celebrations coincided in metaphorical and symbolic ways with Jesus's birth, ministry, death, and resurrection. By examining familiar biblical narratives against this vivid backdrop, readers discover deeper meaning in the life and message of the Rabbi.

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Understanding the meaning and purpose of customs like wearing phylacteries, reciting the core Jewish profession of faith, and participating in the standing prayer.

The writers explore the meaning and purpose behind traditional practices in Judaism, including the wearing of phylacteries, reciting the core declaration of faith, and participating in the standing prayer. They explain that these traditions arise from a dedication to honor God and to follow the guidelines prescribed in the Torah, demonstrating how the Jewish view of devotion and righteousness is woven into their everyday life.

In the opening chapter, Spangler captures the attention of her readers by describing her experience of feeling like an outsider on an El Al flight to Israel, surrounded by devout Jews, several wearing customary religious attire and fastening phylacteries to their bodies. Tverberg conveys her initial unease with these customs, acknowledging that they often appeared peculiar and excessively rule-bound. As their understanding deepened, they grew increasingly intrigued, beginning to grasp not only the significance of these customs but also the deep reverence they embodied for their ancestors and the divine being who had liberated them from bondage.

Context

• While the basic practice is consistent, there are slight variations in how tefillin are worn among different Jewish communities, reflecting diverse traditions within Judaism.
• Reciting the Shema is not just a ritual but a spiritual practice that involves focusing one's heart and mind on God, reinforcing a sense of connection and commitment.
• Participating in the Amidah is seen as a direct communication with God, offering a moment for personal introspection and spiritual elevation.
• Engaging in these practices requires discipline and mindfulness, encouraging practitioners to focus on spiritual growth and ethical living. They are seen as ways to cultivate a deeper relationship with God and to live in accordance with divine will.
• These customs are often taught from a young age, instilling a sense of community and continuity. They provide a framework for understanding Jewish values and ethics, reinforcing the teachings of the Torah in practical, everyday ways.
• Observant Jews often maintain their religious practices even in public or unconventional settings, reflecting the integration of faith into daily life.
• Tverberg's journey from unease to intrigue reflects a broader theme of how exposure to and education about different religious practices can lead to greater empathy and understanding. It underscores the importance of interfaith dialogue and learning in fostering mutual respect.

Jesus' teachings and actions were profoundly shaped by the traditional rituals associated with Jewish worship.

They delve deeper into how Jesus' actions and teachings are deeply rooted in longstanding Jewish spiritual practices. The authors depict the alignment between Jesus' teachings to wholly devote oneself to loving God and the Shema, which is a prayer recognizing the uniqueness of God and the commitment to cherish and follow His commands. Understanding the Jewish prayers that Jesus himself would have uttered deepens our awareness and subsequently amplifies our appreciation for the depth and substance of the teachings of Rabbi Jesus.

Context

• Jewish law included numerous regulations about ritual purity, which influenced daily life and religious practice. Jesus' interactions with these laws often highlighted themes of inner purity and compassion over ritual compliance.
• In the Gospels, Jesus references the Shema when asked about the greatest commandment, highlighting its significance in his teachings. He expands on it by linking it with the command to love one's neighbor, thus broadening its application.
• Jewish prayers often include physical actions, like wearing tefillin or facing Jerusalem, which reflect a holistic approach to worship that Jesus would have been familiar with.

Investigating the profound connections between customary religious festivities and the existence, demise, and resurrection of Jesus.

The writers demonstrate how the holy festivities anticipated the divine plan for fulfilling His intentions with the coming of the Messiah, especially concerning the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus.

The commemoration of Passover, among other significant festivals, foreshadowed and found fulfillment in the deeds and existence of Christ.

The authors delve into how the life and deeds of Jesus were foreshadowed and embodied in the observance of Passover, the commemoration of the Feast of Unleavened Bread, the celebration of Firstfruits, and numerous other significant Jewish festivities. Tverberg, for instance, shares her personal struggles to fully grasp the profound implications of the crucifixion. As a young girl, she often dozed off during Maundy Thursday services when the atmosphere turned silent and dim, particularly when the narrative of Jesus being apprehended and his ensuing trial was recounted. She gained insight into why Jesus's disciples dozed off in Gethsemane only after she tried to replicate a Passover celebration with friends.

In the time of Jesus, it was customary to observe Passover with an elaborate meal and numerous servings of wine, often lasting late into the evening. The chief religious leader meticulously orchestrated Jesus' capture to occur during festivities that would guarantee empty streets in Jerusalem, with the populace remaining within their homes. She empathized with their physical and emotional constraints, recognizing that they were likely exhausted from the abundant food and drink, as well as the stress and fatigue of extensive travel and meticulous planning.

The writers also depict the way in which the symbolism of Unleavened Bread mirrors the untainted nature of Jesus. The writers observe that the Feast of Unleavened Bread had various roles, one of which was to serve as a remembrance for the Israelites of the sustenance provided by God as they fled Egypt. The unleavened bread they consumed represented the quickly prepared sustenance for their abrupt exodus from Egypt. God's command to His followers to rid their homes of leaven symbolized purification and foreshadowed the presentation of Jesus's spotless body as an offering.

Context

• In Christian theology, Jesus is often referred to as the "Lamb of God," symbolizing the sacrificial lamb in the Passover story. This connection highlights the belief that Jesus's sacrifice offers salvation, similar to how the lamb's blood protected the Israelites.
• The Feast of Firstfruits involves offering the first harvest to God, symbolizing gratitude and trust in future provision. Jesus's resurrection is seen as the "firstfruits" of those who have died, indicating the promise of eternal life for believers.
• Understanding the crucifixion requires knowledge of both Jewish and Roman practices of the time. Crucifixion was a Roman method of execution reserved for the most serious offenders, often used to instill fear and maintain control over occupied territories.
• The Seder is a ceremonial dinner that includes the retelling of the Exodus story. It features specific foods, prayers, and songs, each with symbolic meaning. The meal is structured around the Haggadah, a text that guides participants through the rituals.
• The Jewish leaders were aware of the significance of Passover and may have seen the timing as symbolically appropriate, given the themes of sacrifice and deliverance associated with the festival.
• The use of unleavened bread in Christian rituals, such as Communion, reflects the belief in Jesus's purity and his role in spiritual redemption, drawing a parallel between the physical act of eating and the spiritual act of accepting Jesus's sacrifice.
• In Jewish tradition, leaven (yeast) is often associated with sin and corruption because it causes dough to ferment and change. During Passover, Jews remove all leaven from their homes to symbolize a break from the past and a commitment to purity.

The book explores the profound symbolic meaning and the foreshadowing of biblical feasts that subtly hint at Jesus' role as the Messiah.

The writers explore the profound emblematic meanings and the messianic hints embedded in the scriptural celebrations, pointing to Jesus as the anointed one. The fascinating connection between Shavuot, as celebrated in Jewish tradition, and the Christian commemoration of Pentecost is emphasized. Tverberg explains that Shavuot is celebrated fifty days after Passover, coinciding with the Israelites' arrival at Mount Sinai following their exodus from Egypt. She also notes that during Shavuot, the customary scriptural passages recited describe the event when God descended upon Mount Sinai, and amid flames, established His covenant and gave Moses the stone tablets inscribed with the commandments.

The authors highlight the connection between Shavuot and the events described in Acts, particularly when God, following Christ's resurrection, revealed Himself in flames to His disciples, signifying the initiation of a fresh covenant. Believers were now empowered by the Holy Spirit, who inscribed God's commandments not on stone tablets, but deep within their hearts. Tverberg notes that Ezekiel's early passages, traditionally recited during Shavuot's morning, describe his celestial encounter where he is endowed with the Holy Spirit, enabling him to convey the divine edict to the Israelites.

The writers highlight the striking similarities between Ezekiel's visionary experiences and the occurrences witnessed by the disciples at Pentecost. The followers of Jesus gained the capacity to speak in various languages following an occurrence that seemed like a strong wind and seeing what appeared to be tongues of fire, which allowed them to disseminate Jesus' teachings to Jews from every nation. God bestows upon His followers the strength through the control of wind and fire, as well as the gift of speaking in different languages, equipping them with the vital energy to spread His teachings.

Context

• The symbolic meanings of these feasts often involve themes of liberation, covenant, and divine revelation. For Christians, these themes are seen as prefiguring the new covenant established through Jesus.
• Shavuot originally had an agricultural significance, marking the wheat harvest in Israel. It was a time of bringing the first fruits to the Temple as an offering of gratitude.
• During Shavuot, it is customary to read the Book of Ruth, which highlights themes of loyalty and conversion, reflecting the acceptance of the Torah.
• The Ten Commandments are central to Jewish law and ethics, serving as a moral foundation not only for Judaism but also influencing Christian and Islamic traditions.
• Shavuot, also known as the Feast of Weeks, occurs fifty days after Passover. Pentecost, which means "fiftieth" in Greek, is celebrated fifty days after Easter, marking the descent of the Holy Spirit on the apostles.
• The Pentecost event is seen as the birth of the Christian Church, as it empowered the apostles to begin their mission of spreading Jesus' teachings to the world, marking the start of the Church's global mission.
• The empowerment by the Holy Spirit is often associated with transformation, enabling believers to live out their faith actively and share it with others. This empowerment is seen as a fulfillment of prophecies and a continuation of Jesus' mission.
• Ezekiel was a prophet during the Babylonian exile, a period when the Israelites were taken captive by the Babylonians. His prophecies often addressed the themes of judgment and restoration for Israel.
• In both Ezekiel's visions and the Pentecost event, wind and fire are significant symbols. Wind often represents the Spirit of God, while fire signifies purification and divine presence.
• The account of the disciples speaking in different languages is found in the New Testament book of Acts, specifically in Acts 2:1-4. This event is described as a fulfillment of Jesus' promise to send the Holy Spirit to empower His followers.
• The descent of the Holy Spirit is viewed as the establishment of a new covenant, where God's laws are internalized by believers, echoing the promise in Jeremiah 31:33 of writing the law on their hearts.

Investigating Jesus' life and teachings from a Jewish cultural perspective can deepen Christian understanding and provide enlightening perspectives.

Christians can deepen their understanding and relationship with Jesus by embracing a Jewish perspective, as elucidated by Ann Spangler and Lois Tverberg, leading to a more authentic and fulfilling path of following Him.

The spiritual growth within the community of Jesus and his peers was profoundly shaped by their relationships and collective experiences.

The importance of interpersonal relationships and individual interactions in fostering spiritual growth was demonstrated through the interactions between Jesus and his contemporaries. They argue that in Jesus' time, following the disciple's way meant engaging in a collective quest for knowledge and growth, under the mentorship of a master well-versed in the laws and teachings of Judaism.

Understanding the intricate nature of a rabbi's relationship with their student is essential for fully valuing the core aspects of mentorship and spiritual guidance.

The authors explore the unique bond between a teacher in the Jewish tradition and their student, setting it apart from modern Western teaching practices. During the initial century, young Jewish males gained knowledge by interacting with their environment rather than just taking in information in a conventional classroom setting. Learners acquired proficiency and direction through hands-on experience, during which they attentively watched their mentors and gradually honed a range of abilities, from craftsmanship to scriptural knowledge to everyday activities.

Students work in pairs The authors illustrate the custom of working alongside a companion, conveying the assurance that Jesus expressed: whenever even a modest group convenes in His honor, they are assuredly in the presence of God.

Other Perspectives

• The emphasis on the rabbi-student relationship might overlook the importance of self-guided learning and personal exploration in spiritual growth and mentorship.
• The idea of a unique bond could be seen as a subjective interpretation, as the strength and nature of mentorship bonds can vary widely even within the Jewish tradition, depending on the individuals involved.
• While hands-on learning was indeed a component of Jewish teaching practices in the initial century, it was not exclusive to Jewish education and can be found in various ancient cultures, suggesting that the practice was not unique to Jewish tradition.
• In some fields, hands-on experience without prior comprehensive instruction could be dangerous or counterproductive.
• Some knowledge domains, particularly abstract or theoretical ones, might not be effectively learned through environmental interaction alone and could necessitate formal education methods.
• It assumes that all mentors have the capability to model best practices effectively, which may not always be the case.
• The concept of working in pairs, although beneficial, might not always be practical in certain learning environments due to constraints such as space, resources, or the nature of the task at hand.
• Others might suggest that the concept of God's presence is a matter of personal faith and belief, which can be experienced individually without the need for group affirmation.

The community highly esteemed collective scriptural study and the shared enrichment of their faith, reflecting the customary Jewish practices of the first century.

The authors encourage people to value the communal exploration and deepening of their spiritual insight through interaction with the Scriptures, in a manner reminiscent of ancient Jewish customs. After her first visit to Israel, Tverberg imparts knowledge gained from her involvement in a Bible study group. As she and her companions probed the sacred texts with greater intensity, their informal gatherings evolved into a fervent congregation, energized by the collective insights they discovered. Their bond as haverim and haverot was profoundly strengthened by their collective passion for this respected approach to learning, which greatly enhanced their understanding of the holy texts.

Context

• This practice helped to build a sense of unity and shared purpose within the community, as members worked together to understand and apply their religious teachings.
• The authors suggest that contemporary readers can benefit from adopting these ancient practices, as they promote a deeper connection to the text and to each other, enhancing both personal and communal faith journeys.
• Synagogues served as centers for learning and community gatherings. They were not only places of worship but also venues for teaching and discussing the Scriptures.
• The practice of studying in groups allows for diverse perspectives, which can lead to a deeper and more nuanced understanding of the texts.
• The transformation from informal gatherings to a fervent congregation suggests a shift from casual study to a more structured and passionate pursuit of spiritual knowledge, reflecting a deeper commitment to their faith.
• This approach to learning emphasizes active participation and dialogue, contrasting with more passive forms of education. It encourages critical thinking and personal engagement with the material.
• These are Hebrew terms meaning "friends" or "companions," often used in the context of study partners in Jewish learning. The terms emphasize the importance of community and partnership in the pursuit of knowledge.
• The rabbinic method of study, which includes argumentation and dialogue, is designed to uncover deeper meanings and applications of the texts, fostering a more comprehensive understanding.

Grasping the Jewish viewpoint on the law, which intertwines deeply with God's love and compassion, can significantly shape a Christian's interaction with the law.

The exploration by Spangler and Tverberg of how love and compassion are woven into the Jewish understanding of law deepens a Christian's connection with legal principles. In Western culture, the law is often seen in a negative light, considered as nothing more than random rules, which results in a misunderstanding of the gracious intentions that God intended.

Grasping the importance of shaping one's existence in harmony with divine direction and realizing His purposes, not through rigid compliance with the law but by nurturing a life that mirrors the essence of Christ.

The authors emphasize the importance of earnestly living out God's purposes and following His direction, motivated not by a rigid observance of the law but by a sincere desire to mold our lives in the image of Jesus, which is an essential element of being a disciple. Viewing the Torah as heavenly counsel for leading a satisfying life frees us from the burden of complying with a lengthy catalog of rules.

Practical Tips

• Volunteer for a cause that resonates with your understanding of divine direction. Through service, you can experience the practical application of living in harmony with your beliefs and witness the impact of your actions on others, reinforcing the connection between your values and your existence.
• Create a "ripple effect" kindness challenge for yourself. Set a goal to perform a specific number of random acts of kindness each week, such as paying for a stranger's coffee or writing an encouraging note to a coworker. The aim is to cultivate a habit of spontaneous generosity, which is a core aspect of living a life reflective of Christ's essence.
• Develop a "purpose buddy" system with a friend or family member where you check in with each other weekly to discuss actions taken towards living out your purpose. This creates accountability and support. For instance, if your purpose includes promoting education, you and your buddy might share experiences of mentoring a student or donating books to a library.
• Create a daily "reflection and action" journal where you write down one characteristic of Jesus each morning and note how you plan to embody that trait throughout the day. For example, if you choose "compassion," you might look for opportunities to help a colleague or reach out to a friend who's going through a tough time.
• Develop a "compass card" system, where you create small cards with reminders of key principles or scriptures that guide your behavior. Carry these cards with you and refer to them when faced with decisions, to help steer your choices in line with your spiritual direction. If a card reminds you to be compassionate, and you encounter someone in distress, the card can prompt you to act in a way that reflects your spiritual values.
• Engage in a monthly "wisdom swap" with friends or family members. Each month, gather with a small group to share insights or lessons learned that contribute to a satisfying life. This could be wisdom gleaned from personal experiences, stories of resilience, or ethical dilemmas faced and how they were navigated. Sharing these experiences can help you and others gain new perspectives and apply them to your own lives.
• Simplify your daily routines by identifying one area of your life where rules feel particularly burdensome and experiment with a 'rule-free week'. During this week, rely on intuition and immediate judgment to make decisions in this area. For instance, if you usually follow a strict diet, allow yourself to eat intuitively for a week, paying attention to how your body feels and what it craves, rather than counting calories or macros.

Exploring the profound significance of love as the crucial cornerstone for understanding the instruction of the Torah as presented by Jesus.

In their work, Spangler and Tverberg highlight that Jesus placed the highest importance on love, drawing inspiration from the Shema and promoting the principle of loving one's neighbor as oneself, which is a core precept rooted in Jewish law. In his conversation with the Galatians, Paul emphasized that the core principle of the law is encapsulated in a single commandment: to love others as oneself.

Our understanding of discipleship, service, forgiveness, and scriptural interpretation undergoes a profound transformation when we consider these two essential teachings. They argue that the expression of divine love is evident in the establishment of guidelines aimed at reducing conflict, promoting peace, ensuring justice, and fostering a stronger sense of togetherness. Spangler and Tverberg advocate for the adoption of the ancient Jewish custom of giving thanks to God for all aspects of life, which not only recognizes His presence in our everyday experiences but also strengthens our commitment to following His path.

Practical Tips

• You can practice empathy by spending a day actively listening to others without giving advice or sharing your own experiences. This helps you understand their feelings and perspectives, fostering a deeper connection and mirroring the principle of treating others with the same respect and attention you'd want for yourself.
• Create a 'forgiveness roadmap' for personal use, where you outline steps to forgive someone who has wronged you, incorporating love as the guiding principle. This might include writing a letter of forgiveness (without necessarily sending it), reflecting on the situation from the other person's perspective, and identifying positive outcomes from the experience.
• Create a "Justice Jar" in your home or office where you and others can contribute notes about acts of fairness or justice observed in daily life. Regularly review the contents together to celebrate these moments and discuss ways to encourage more just actions in your surroundings.
• Create a gratitude jar where you drop a note of thanks for small blessings you encounter throughout the day. At the end of the week, read through them to reflect on the abundance in your life. This could include appreciation for a stranger's smile, a delicious meal, or a moment of silence amidst a busy schedule.