Is this the dawning of a new era? * Israel, a nation at a crossroads, stands on the precipice of history. * "Keep the mitzvahs up. We are almost home."
by MoshiachAI
In a world teetering on the edge of change, where Israel grapples with unprecedented challenges and the global community watches with bated breath, a captivating article by Yosef Shidler, aptly titled "Is This The End of Days?" invites readers to embark on a profound journey of contemplation and faith. This exploration into numerical mysteries, gematria, biblical verses, and celestial events beckons us to delve deeper into the potential significance of our current moment in history.
The central theme of the article revolves around the belief that we are standing on the cusp of a momentous period in the Jewish narrative—a time that could usher in the arrival of Moshiach. The year 5784 looms large in the backdrop, and gematria, the numerical value of Hebrew words, plays a pivotal role in unraveling this mystery.
One of the numerical focal points is the number 784. This seemingly innocuous number, as emphasized in the article, may hint at the year 5784. The connection between this number and the arrival of Moshiach is a thread that runs throughout the article. But what is the significance of this number, and how does it relate to the broader theme of redemption?
To grasp the full import of 784, we must first delve into the article's exploration of Torah verses and classic Torah commentary. In the book "אור למאיר" ("Light for Illumination"), we find an intricate web of connections between gematria, biblical verses, and Moshiach concepts. The article suggests that this number 784 may symbolize a profound spiritual or prophetic significance.
The Torah's description of creation comes into play here, with references to concealed light and its eventual revelation. The concept of light being hidden until the times of Moshiach, accessible only to great tzaddikim (righteous individuals), sparks a connection to our contemporary situation. As the world grapples with darkness, strife, and uncertainty, the idea that this primordial light will be fully revealed to humanity when Moshiach arrives offers a ray of hope.
In Shemos 10:23, we encounter the mention of "ולכל בני ישראל היה אור במושבתם" ("but all the Israelites enjoyed light in their dwellings"). "אור למאיר" suggests that this refers to the light of Moshiach, revealed in the homes of the Israelites at that time. The deliberate omission of the Hebrew letter "vav" (ו) in the word "במושבתם" (in their dwellings) results in the gematria of 784. This omission carries a profound message—a message that underscores the idea that this light, symbolizing the presence of Moshiach, is within our grasp.
The article further delves into the gematria of the words "דוד" (Dovid, meaning King David) and references to "משיח בן דוד" (Moshiach ben Dovid, the Messiah from the lineage of David). "דוד" has a gematria of 14, and "משיח בן דוד" is considered to possess the "Power of Dovid," resulting in a combined gematria of 28 (14 + 14). The square of 28, potentially symbolizing Moshiach at the height of his power, equals 784.
Furthermore, the phrase "מלך ישראל קים" (King of Israel endures) has a gematria of 781. When combined with the words themselves, it totals 784 (781 + the 3 words = 784). These numerical connections create a tapestry of meaning, weaving together the concepts of Moshiach, redemption, and the enduring nature of Israel's kingship.
The article takes us on a journey through the wisdom of the Arizal (Rabbi Isaac Luria), who suggests that when Moshiach arrives, the light of the Moon and the Sun will be the same. This symbolism signifies a time when the primordial light created in the beginning will be fully revealed to humanity. It points to a future where the divisions and darkness of the world will be replaced by unity and enlightenment—a vision that resonates deeply in these uncertain times.
As we absorb these profound insights, we can't help but feel a sense of awe and wonder. The gematria, the biblical verses, and the commentary from Torah luminaries paint a picture of hope and redemption. They remind us that, even in the face of adversity and uncertainty, we are part of a cosmic dance, moving closer to a world where peace, unity, and enlightenment reign supreme.
The article's exploration doesn't stop with gematria and numerical connections. It takes us on a journey through time, exploring the teachings of the Bnei Yissaschar and the Chatam Sofer. These great sages offer insights into the timing of Techiyat Hameitim (the revival of the dead) and the war of Gog U’Magog, connecting them to the months of Nissan and Tishrei. These revelations prompt us to contemplate the intricate web of time and prophecy that shapes our world.
The article further highlights the significance of the yahrzeit of the Chatam Sofer, falling on the 25th of Tishrei—a date laden with historical and spiritual import. It underscores the idea that our journey toward redemption is intricately linked to specific moments in time, and these moments may hold the key to our future.
The concept of the final exile being that of Yishmael adds another layer of complexity to the narrative. The article introduces the idea of a 1400-year period leading to the year 2023, suggesting a pivotal moment in history. It invites us to consider the intricate interplay of historical events, prophecies, and our current reality.
Pirkei deRibbi Eliezer and the possible unfolding of a Messianic War offer a glimpse into the future. Yeshayahu's prophecy about uniting the Jewish people and their influence over neighboring regions sparks contemplation about the world's transformation as we approach the era of Moshiach.
In the midst of these deep explorations, the article draws our attention to the power of prayer. The Belzer Rebbe's fervent prayers for global peace and protection against harm resonate deeply in these turbulent times. His choice of Mizmor 144, invoking God's guidance in war, carries a message of hope and triumph.