Genesis 11 – Seder 9 of the Triennial Torah Cycle

November 25, 2007

In this class, Ross explores the connecting theme between the Torah reading and Prophets reading for this 9th seder of the Ancient Triennial Torah cycle. The theme is “unity” and specifically as it relates to language.

In the torah reading from Genesis 11 we find that the whole earth had one language and the same words. Their purposes however were not aligned with the goals of God. It is recorded that they sought to make a name for “themselves”.

The prophet reading is from Zephaniah chapter 3 this week and it also contains the idea of a single language, but in this text it is God that ‘reverses the curse’ of Genesis 11, and converts the people to the same language so that they may call upon Him.

In this class, Ross talks about Babel and the origins of Babylon. He also teaches on the relevance of this “mother of harlots and abominations” both historically as well as prophetically.

Beginning with a “parable” of sorts in Genesis 25:19ff, he tells of two nations that emerged from the womb or cradle of civilization – Babylon and Abram. Two distinct manner of nations would emerge. One sought and continues to seek to make a name for themselves, while the other has a destiny to make God’s name known in the earth.

Ross explores the various manifestations of the evil incarnation of Babylon (Shinar) and illustrates that as Abram was the first to answer the call to “come out of her my people” so too we must answer the call.

As an interesting point, it is pointed out in this week’s lesson that Kislev 15 is the date on which the “Abomination of Desolation” is erected by order to Antiochus Epiphanes. This date, recorded in I Maccabees chapter one happens to correspond with the date on which this class is given (14 Kislev)! There is a detailed entry in Ross’ blog on this topic. It remains the most popular of all entries to date and so you may want to read it as this was touched on this week.

This story in I Maccabees begins with a decree that all should be “one people” – and this idea then is connected with the attempts of the builders of the tower of Babel.

You really need to hear this class, but be prepared to take notes and have fun keeping up. We cover lots of texts as always.

Shalom