Eusebius Ecclesiastical History: The Martyrdom of James

BOOK II

CHAPTER 23 ECCLESIASTICAL HISTORY:
The Martyrdom of James, who was called the Brother of the Lord. 

1. But after Paul, in consequence of his appeal to Cæsar, had been sent to Rome by Festus, the Jews, being frustrated in their hope of entrapping him by the snares which they had laid for him, turned against James, the brother of the Lord, to whom the episcopal seat at Jerusalem had been entrusted by the apostles. The following daring measures were undertaken by them against him. 

FRIENDS. THIS "EPISCOPAL SEAT"
IS THE HIGHEST SEAT OF THE CHURCH ON THE EARTH.

2. Leading him [JAMES] into their midst they demanded of him that he should renounce faith in Christ in the presence of all the people. But, contrary to the opinion of all, with a clear voice, and with greater boldness than they had anticipated, he spoke out before the whole multitude and confessed that our Saviour and Lord Jesus is the Son of God. But they were unable to bear longer the testimony of the man who, on account of the excellence of ascetic virtue and of piety which he exhibited in his life, was esteemed by all as the most just of men, and consequently they slew him. Opportunity for this deed of violence was furnished by the prevailing anarchy, which was caused by the fact that Festus had died just at this time in Judea, and that the province was thus without a governor and head. 

3. The manner of James' death has been already indicated by the above-quoted words of Clement, who records that he was thrown from the pinnacle of the temple, and was beaten to death with a club. But Hegesippus, who lived immediately after the apostles, gives the most accurate account in the fifth book of his Memoirs. He writes as follows: 

4. James, the brother of the Lord, succeeded to the government of the Church in conjunction with the apostles. He has been called the Just by all from the time of our Saviour to the present day; for there were many that bore the name of James. 

5. He was holy from his mother's womb; and he drank no wine nor strong drink, nor did he eat flesh. No razor came upon his head; he did not anoint himself with oil, and he did not use the bath. 

READ UP ON THE VOW OF A NAZARITE IN NUMBERS 6 & JUDGES 13 & 16

6. He alone was permitted to enter into the holy place; for he wore not woolen but linen garments. And he was in the habit of entering alone into the temple, and was frequently found upon his knees begging forgiveness for the people, so that his knees became hard like those of a camel, in consequence of his constantly bending them in his worship of God, and asking forgiveness for the people. 

HE WEARS LINEN GARMENTS.
JUST AS THE PRIESTS ARE INSTRUCTED. 

HE ENTERS THE TEMPLE ALONE.
HE BEGS FORGIVENESS. UPON HIS KNEES.
HE PRAYS ASKING FORGIVENESS FOR THE PEOPLE. 

SURELY HE IS RIGHTEOUS.

7. Because of his exceeding great justice he was called the Just, and Oblias, which signifies in Greek, 'Bulwark of the people' and 'Justice,' in accordance with what the prophets declare concerning him. 

WHAT DID THE PROPHETS DECLARE ABOUT JAMES?

WHERE CAN WE READ WHAT WAS WRITTEN? WHICH PROPHETS?

8. Now some of the seven sects, which existed among the people and which have been mentioned by me in the Memoirs, asked him, 'What is the gate of Jesus?' and he replied that he was the Saviour. 

WHO WERE THESE (7) SEVEN SECTS?

9. On account of these words some believed that Jesus is the Christ. But the sects mentioned above did not believe either in a resurrection or in one's coming to give to every man according to his works. But as many as believed did so on account of James. 

10. Therefore when many even of the rulers believed, there was a commotion among the Jews and Scribes and Pharisees, who said that there was danger that the whole people would be looking for Jesus as the Christ. Coming therefore in a body to James they said:

'We entreat you, restrain the people; for they are gone astray in regard to Jesus, as if he were the Christ. We entreat you to persuade all that have come to the feast of the Passover concerning Jesus; for we all have confidence in you. For we bear you witness, as do all the people, that you are just, and do not respect persons. Matthew 22:16 11.

Therefore, persuade the multitude not to be led astray concerning Jesus. For the whole people, and all of us also, have confidence in you. Stand therefore upon the pinnacle of the temple, that from that high position you may be clearly seen, and that your words may be readily heard by all the people.

For all the tribes, with the Gentiles also, have come together on account of the Passover.' 

12. The aforesaid Scribes and Pharisees therefore placed James upon the pinnacle of the temple, and cried out to him and said: 

'You just one, in whom we ought all to have confidence, forasmuch as the people are led astray after Jesus, the crucified one, declare to us, what is the gate of Jesus.' 

13. And he answered with a loud voice:

'Why do you ask me concerning Jesus, the Son of Man? He himself sits in heaven at the right hand of the great Power, and is about to come upon the clouds of heaven.' 

14. And when many were fully convinced and gloried in the testimony of James, and said, 'Hosanna to the Son of David,' these same Scribes and Pharisees said again to one another:

'We have done badly in supplying such testimony to Jesus. But let us go up and throw him down, in order that they may be afraid to believe him.' 

15. And they cried out, saying, 'Oh! Oh! The just man is also in error.' And they fulfilled the Scripture written in Isaiah:

'Let us take away the just man, because he is troublesome to us: therefore they shall eat the fruit of their doings.'

16. So they went up and threw down the just man, and said to each other:

'Let us stone James the Just.' 

And they began to stone him, for he was not killed by the fall; but he turned and knelt down and said:

'I entreat you, Lord God our Father, forgive them, for they know not what they do.'            Luke 23:34 

17. And while they were thus stoning him one of the priests of the sons of Rechab, the son of the Rechabites, who are mentioned by Jeremiah the prophet, cried out, saying:

'Stop. What are you doing? The just one prays for you.' 

18. And one of them, who was a fuller, took the club with which he beat out clothes and struck the just man on the head. And thus he suffered martyrdom. And they buried him on the spot, by the temple, and his monument still remains by the temple. He became a true witness, both to Jews and Greeks, that Jesus is the Christ. And immediately Vespasian besieged them. 

19. These things are related at length by Hegesippus, who is in agreement with Clement. James was so admirable a man and so celebrated among all for his justice, that the more sensible even of the Jews were of the opinion that this was the cause of the siege of Jerusalem, which happened to them immediately after his martyrdom for no other reason than their daring act against him. 

20. Josephus, at least, has not hesitated to testify this in his writings, where he says, These things happened to the Jews to avenge James the Just, who was a brother of Jesus, that is called the Christ. For the Jews slew him, although he was a most just man. 

21. And the same writer records his death also in the twentieth book of his Antiquities in the following words: But the emperor, when he learned of the death of Festus, sent Albinus to be procurator of Judea. But the younger Ananus, who, as we have already said, had obtained the high priesthood, was of an exceedingly bold and reckless disposition. He belonged, moreover, to the sect of the Sadducees, who are the most cruel of all the Jews in the execution of judgment, as we have already shown. 

22. Ananus, therefore, being of this character, and supposing that he had a favorable opportunity on account of the fact that Festus was dead, and Albinus was still on the way, called together the Sanhedrin, and brought before them the brother of Jesus, the so-called Christ, James by name, together with some others, and accused them of violating the law, and condemned them to be stoned. 

23. But those in the city who seemed most moderate and skilled in the law were very angry at this, and sent secretly to the king, requesting him to order Ananus to cease such proceedings. For he had not done right even this first time. And certain of them also went to meet Albinus, who was journeying from Alexandria, and reminded him that it was not lawful for Ananus to summon the Sanhedrin without his knowledge. 

24. And Albinus, being persuaded by their representations, wrote in anger to Ananus, threatening him with punishment. And the king, Agrippa, in consequence, deprived him of the high priesthood, which he had held three months, and appointed Jesus, the son of Damnæus. 

25. These things are recorded in regard to James, who is said to be the author of the first of the so-called catholic epistles. But it is to be observed that it is disputed; at least, not many of the ancients have mentioned it, as is the case likewise with the epistle that bears the name of Jude, which is also one of the seven so-called catholic epistles. Nevertheless we know that these also, with the rest, have been read publicly in very many churches.

The High Priest who was Jesus's Brother. James The Just.

Hello Again friends,

About ten years ago I began to pick at a thread pulling upon it to see where it led. I had speculation about the Birth Tribe of Yeshua; the one many call "Jesus." This speculation flies in the face of the traditional beliefs about Yeshua. The thread I speak of happens to be the thread of a connection to the Tribe of Levi. Specifically the Tribe of Kohath; a Sub division of Levi from which all High Priests were selected.  

Would I find evidence? Indeed I have. And it troubles me.

It troubles me because it means that Yeshua ("Jesus") has been grossly misrepresented for millennia. It means that we have only been exposed to HALF of His true Identity. We generally accept the connection with Judah; but, have failed to see the connection to Kohath, to Levi. In accordance with Scripture. 

In accordance with the words spoken to Moses. 

Kohath the Sub Tribe of Levi.

From which all High Priests were Chosen.

Today We are going to begin by looking at what the Gospels themselves tell us about Jesus brother James. He wasn't the only sibling of Jesus we read about in the Gospels. There were in fact other brothers; and, sisters too who are written about as well.

• James
• Joseph/Joses
• Simon
• Jude (Judas)
• Salome

The first thing I would like you to consider is that these siblings are different from Jesus in a particular way. NONE of them are "virgin" births. Mary never engaged in intercourse with Joseph until AFTER Jesus had been born. Therefore the "virginity" claim disappears with her first sexual encounter with Joseph. You can't have multiple children and still be considered a Virgin. Mary is not a perpetual virgin. She is a woman. A woman who was chosen to bear the Christ. The Messiah. A woman who was pure enough in body and spirit to be considered worthy to bear the Prophet Like Unto Moses. 

Yeshua. The one whom many call "Jesus."

What I do find intriguing about James is that he would have been privileged to know Jesus growing up. He would have seen all the things we don't; which would likely contribute to his brothers and sisters own unbelief; and, stark skepticism about who He really was; and, what He was here to do. 

We are told of this skepticism within the Gospels themselves. 

"Is not this the carpenter's son? is not his mother called Mary? And his brethren, James, and Joses, and Simon, and Judas?" "And his sisters, are they not all with us? Whence then hath this [man] all these things?" "And they were offended in him. But Jesus said unto them, A prophet is not without honour, save in his own country, and in his own house."

[Matthew 13:55-57 KJV]

His brothers mocked him; suggesting that he go to Judea to perform miracles openly to gain popularity instead of in secret. As you read this. Just imagine their biting sarcastic tone.

'His brothers therefore said to Him:

"Depart from here and go into Judea, that Your disciples also may see the works that You are doing. For no one does anything in secret while he himself seeks to be known openly. If You do these things, show Yourself to the world.""

'For even His brothers did not believe in Him.  

Then Jesus said to them, "My time has not yet come, but your time is always ready. The world cannot hate you, but it hates Me because I testify of it that its works are evil. You go up to this feast. I am not yet going up to this feast, for My time has not yet fully come."

When He had said these things to them, He remained in Galilee.

[John 7:3-9 NKJV]

At one point they sought to seize him because they believed he had gone mad. 

Then the multitude came together again, so that they could not so much as eat bread. But when His own people heard [about this], they went out to lay hold of Him, for they said, "He is out of His mind." Then His brothers and His mother came, and standing outside they sent to Him, calling Him. And a multitude was sitting around Him; and they said to Him, "Look, Your mother and Your brothers are outside seeking You." But He answered them, saying, "Who is My mother, or My brothers?" And He looked around in a circle at those who sat about Him, and said, "Here are My mother and My brothers! For whoever does the will of God is My brother and My sister and mother." 

[Mark 3:20-35 NKJV]

Not only did they believe he was mad. He was accused of having a demon. Jesus asserts that it isn't the bond of blood that makes others his brothers and sisters. But rather those who do the Will of God.

So what intrigues me the most about James is that after Jesus is resurrected He is visited privately. Yeshua chooses to appear to Him alone. Just the two of them. Imagine what that conversation must have been like. His own brother Yeshua ("Jesus") whom he had likely seen crucified just days ago was alive. Breathing. Standing before him. In the flesh. I imagine James had a moment with Yeshua that was probably filled with weeping, profuse apology, and pleading for forgiveness. 

He forgives. Just as Joseph forgave his brothers who wronged him. Do you? Do you forgive? 

"For if you forgive men their trespasses, your heavenly Father will also forgive you. But if you do not forgive men their trespasses, neither will your Father forgive your trespasses."

Matthew 6:14-15 NKJV

The very one who had previously rejected his brother now would become a pillar of the faith. A Leader within the Jerusalem Church. His behavior if you pay close attention seems to mirror a Nazarite Vow; and, that of a Kohanim. A High Priest. Except I assert he wasn't selected simply because of his attachment to the Kohanim. He was meant to be like Yeshua. A Melchizedek. A King - Priest.

James is the author of the New Testament book bearing his name. James. In the book of Acts we discover that he is also in the upper room praying with other believers.

After his suffering [Jesus], he presented himself to them and gave many convincing proofs that he was alive. He appeared to them over a period of forty days and spoke about the kingdom of God.

Acts 1:3.

"...and that He was seen by Cephas [Peter], then by the twelve. After that He was seen by over five hundred brethren at once, of whom the greater part remain to the present, but some have fallen asleep. After that He was seen by James, then by all the apostles. Then last of all He was seen by me also [Paul], as by one born out of due time." 

1 Corinthians 15:5-8 NKJV

Stop with me for just a moment to consider that Jesus's mother Mary; his sister Salome; and His brothers James and Joses were looking on from afar witnessing the brutal treatment. I can only imagine their own trauma and excruciating grief at watching their flesh and blood feel the full weight of the Roman Government wielded through deception and manipulation to extinguish a tongue they feared. They saw first hand his suffering. A humiliating death. Which He endured joyfully because of what He would purchase with His own blood.  

Then someone ran and filled a sponge full of sour wine, put [it] on a reed, and offered [it] to Him to drink, saying, "Let Him alone; let us see if Elijah will come to take Him down." Then the veil of the temple was torn in two from top to bottom. So when the centurion, who stood opposite Him, saw that He cried out like this and breathed His last, he said, "Truly this Man was the Son of God!" There were also women looking on from afar, among whom were Mary Magdalene, Mary the mother of James the Less and of Joses, and Salome, who also followed Him and ministered to Him when He was in Galilee, and many other women who came up with Him to Jerusalem.

Mark 15:36-41 NKJV

What would your response be? If you saw your own brother, or son brutally murdered very publicly. Then witnessing his dead lifeless body taken down by Joseph of Arimathea to be wrapped in fine linen and laid in a tomb hewn from rock. 

We know today that those who witness brutal traumatic deaths suffer from the following:

• Shock and numbness
• Anger and rage
• Severe Anxiety
• Fear and hypervigilance
• Guilt and Helplessness
• Profound Sadness
• Vivid Flashbacks
• Nightmares
• PTSD 

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When my best friend Kirk took his own life. I wasn't there to witness it. I wasn't present to see him being taken down from the tree he had hung himself upon. I was halfway across the country. Didn't even find out until it was too late. My sister Keri would inform me. For the first few days I felt numb. It took me talking to others who had seen him dead before I would believe it. Then all the emotions hit me like a two ton heavy thing. I was a mess. A wreck. Waves of grief would overtake me through the day and I would spend time rocking back and forth in emotional pain as I wept uncontrollably. This went on for months. There are still days today that I grieve. Bitterly. 

Just a few days later I was eating at a local taco shop in Covina California. As I looked out the window a man was walking thru the parking lot towards the restaurant. I had to stop and stare. Was that my friend? It looked like him. A LOT like him. Were my eyes playing tricks on me? Yes indeed they were. Kirk was gone. He wasn't coming back. 

*** *** *** *** *** *** ***

Yeshua's family and those who loved him didn't hear it second hand after the fact. They witnessed all the bloody details which aren't recorded in the Gospels. Before I went into the Marine Corps I had gone thru a training program to become a licensed practical nurse. I thought I wanted to go into medicine. So when I would read an article about Crucifixion from a medical standpoint of what happens to the victim it was shall I say. Rather shocking. I warn you. Some of this is graphic.

CRUCIFIXION UP CLOSE

"Crucifixion was one of the grizzliest tortures invented; a form of suffocation that was worse than waterboarding. It could last for days and only ended when the person ran out of strength. Breathing becomes more and more difficult when you hang from your arms, unless you raise yourself. But that means pulling on nails through your wrists, or pushing on nails through your ankles. Bones have more pain sensors than skin, and grinding metal on bone is excruciating.

Romans only allowed crucifixion for slaves who betrayed their masters and for non-Romans who were guilty of particularly heinous crimes. They banned it a few centuries later because even though they entertained themselves by watching deaths in the circus, they considered it too barbaric.

THE HUMILIATION OF THIS DEATH

Public humiliation was exacerbated by nakedness, but this was the least of the shame suffered during crucifixion. First came urination, caused by fear. Then came defecation, caused by the pain. Worse was to come (and I suggest you skip to the next paragraph unless you have a strong stomach). I learned more than I wanted to know in lectures on forensic pathology.

People are killed and kill themselves in many inventive ways that never make the papers. I was surprised at how many die accidentally though suffocation as a means of sexual gratification. This strange physiological reaction was the final shame of a crucified man: erection and ejaculation due to the slow suffocation. 

https://www.premierunbelievable.com/topics/autopsy-of-a-crucifixion/11989.article

This was something that isn't written about in the Gospels. Probably because it is to shameful to even discuss. Did Messiah Yeshua urinate upon himself as he was dying upon the cross? Did Messiah Yeshua defecate upon himself, from extreme pain as he baked in the heat of the sun. His own tongue sticking to the roof of his mouth. Was he completely shamed and humiliated as this article suggest he may have been?

*** *** *** *** *** *** ***

James was there. He saw it with his own eyes. He heard the clanging of the iron as the nails were driven into Jesus's wrists. He heard the sounds of wailing and weeping from the women. The groans of pain escaping the lips of all three men crucified together that day. He saw, heard, and smelt things that aren't recorded. Then just a few days later. A man he had mocked. His own brother stood alive before him. The two of them alone. 

I imagine "Please forgive me" must have escaped James lips repeatedly as he begged Yeshua for mercy. His unbelief most likely rooted in familiarity. Viewing him only as a Carpenter. Tears streaming down his face as he shook with many emotions including fear, bewilderment; and, even joy. 

Yeshua could have told James to go pound sand. HE could have told him. You know what? You didn't believe. You aren't worthy to even untie the sandals upon my feet. Hit the road Jack. But. He didn't do any of those things. He forgave. And gave His brother a mission. 

So what would be James' response to Yeshua's (Jesus's) resurrection? 

James would become a very important pillar within the early church. With historians such as Hegesippus (2nd Century AD), Josephus (1st Century AD) Antiquities of the Jews; and, Eusebius all writing about him; we have more data to consider, about his tribal affiliation. 

He is indeed the son of Joseph.
He is indeed the son of Mary.
He is indeed the brother of Yeshua.
The one whom many call "Jesus."

Meaning. He also is cousin of John the Baptist.
Meaning he has a legitimate connection to Judah through Joseph.
But, just as Jesus had connection to Levi so does James.

HOW you ask? -- Through Mary --

If you have been following my blog then you may be familiar with my work surrounding Deuteronomy 18 and how important its role is in establishing that Yeshua MUST BE OF LEVI. He MUST be descended from Moses brethren. Just as the text declares. Moses and Aaron were both of Kohath. The sub tribe of Levi where all High Priests are to be selected from. Neighbors, I am thoroughly convinced that Yeshua is the Prophet Like unto Moses. Please. Hear me out. I already know that you are likely to reject what I have to say without even studying it out for yourselves. 

The false teaching about Messiah is systemic. System Wide Corruption. 

Yeshua Levite Hypothesis

If Jesus is only of Judah. As we are led to believe. And his birth is considered to be a "virgin birth." Where then does His brother James obtain the right to be the High Priest of Jerusalem? That was something reserved for a Kohanim. A Levite Descended of Aaron. Descended thru Phinehas. Then descended thru Zadok. Finally passed through Zachariah and Elizabeth to John; and yes my friends to even Yeshua as well. 

How does James obtain this? Through deception? Through Trickery?
If so he is a fraudster. Except. I don't believe that. 

If he isn't a Kohen by birth then his entering into the Sanctuary was something forbidden according to the Written Torah. This function, this duty, this right was something according to the Written Torah that was obtained ONLY via BIRTHRIGHT. 

Friends, if you study out "atonement" you will discover that it is brought about by the High Priest who makes the Sin Sacrifice. Yeshua is a Legitimate High Priest. He is legitimately able to offer the blood of the Sin Sacrifice. His own blood. Yeshua is called our High Priest some 17 times in the book of Hebrews.

"And no man takes this honor to himself, but he who is called by God, just as Aaron [was]." 

Hebrews 5:4 NKJV

Yeshua was called to His ministry. Just as Aaron was himself called to ministry. Except Yeshua's station as High Priest would supercede even Aaron. You could NOT (legally) be the High Priest if you weren't of the Tribe of Levi; a descendant of Aaron. Yeshua couldn't be an Aaronic High Priest because His own "father" (the alleged father) was of Judah; not of LEVI. This is proven by the Geneaologies in Matthew and Luke. Yet, Yeshua's Priesthood is that of an even Higher Order than even an Aaronic High Priest. 

If Yeshua is of the same stock as John the Baptist; as I assert (in several places on this blog) then so is Jesus's brother James. This birthright is not obtained thru Joseph either. But rather THROUGH THEIR MOTHER MARY. 

Tribal affiliation is related to your FATHER'S TRIBE. Jesus's (assumed) father was Joseph. His real father according to the Gospels is the Holy Spirit. The Spirit of the Living God. Therefore Jesus was viewed as being "of Judah." Which is why Hebrews declares it is "apparent" He is of Judah. That much is obvious. What isn't obvious is His connection to Levi.

I suspect that this is why the temple is set within the borders of Judah.
Priests aren't given an allotment of land to possess.
Their inheritance isn't land.  

It is why YHVH chose Judah; because the Messiah would be the way many are grafted into Judah. Through the Levite who would teach the Goyim how to Walk uprightly in righteousness. The Melchizedek who would set everything right. The Great High Priest who calls us beckoning us to return to the Covenant of Life and Peace He has authority to give; and, to take away. 

Friends, to even be considered a "JEW" your MOTHER'S pedigree was paramount. Your status was dependant upon your mother being a Jew. If she wasn't Jewish then neither are you; (according to the Halacha of Judaism).  

Elizabeth is Mary's Suggenes. The Greek equivalent of DODAH. Meaning "the Sister of Your Father" among other things. Again. I'm asserting Elizabeth (the mother of John the Baptist) is "the sister of Mary's unnamed father." If Elizabeth is of Levi; a descendant of Aaron; then wouldn't it stand to reason that her brother (Mary's unnamed father) is also of Levi; a descendant of Aaron? Friends. I am asserting strenuously that Mary and Elizabeth share an ancestor in common. 

This is more significant than you can possibly imagine. 
So did James take this honor to himself without authority? 

I tell you the truth. Elizabeth; and, Her Niece Mary are BOTH of the Tribe of Kohath. They are both Daughters of Aaron. Giving Jesus the perfect pedigree. Levi & Judah. His birth tribe of LEVI is why we find Jesus teaching in the Temple DAILY. Friend. You couldn't teach in the temple if you weren't a Levite. My recommendation?

Study out "Teach," "teacher," "teachers," "teaches," "teaching," and "taught." 

That framework will help you to see more clearly. It was rather illuminating for me personally. I can't stress this enough. Jesus teaching in the temple DAILY should be a huge enormous clue just by itself. Just on its own Merit. This is something most pastors completely miss. 

Then there was issue with the woman caught in the act of adultery. 

This woman who isn't identified was brought before Him, in the Temple in the midst of those He was teaching. Publicly asking Him to judge her. They sought her condemnation. An act that requires two (2) to (3) three witnesses. An act that requires a trial. An act that requires 70 Levites of the Sanhedrin (the Supreme Court of Israel) to condemn her. An Act that requires a High Priest. 

Except the one who was to become the Legitimate High Priest was already present. 

Judah wasn't responsible for judgment. Levi was. So. Why would the Levites ask one descended of David to JUDGE a woman caught in the act of adultery? Their actions indicate something deeper than just the narrative of the story. I assert to you THEY KNEW HE WAS OF LEVI. For why else would they bring her before Him for Judgment? For why else would He be permitted to teach DAILY in the Temple? 

Guess who the Bible declares is to teach?
You guessed it. Levi. The Descendants of Aaron.    

Follow along with me as we read together the words of Hegessipus regarding James the Just. Brother of Messiah Yeshua ("Jesus").

Concerning the martyrdom of James, the brother of the Lord, from Book V.

"James, the Lord's brother, succeeds to the government of the Church, in conjunction with the apostles. He has been universally called the Just, from the days of the Lord down to the present time. For many bore the name of James; but this one was holy from his mother's womb. He drank no wine or other intoxicating liquor, nor did he eat flesh; no razor came upon his head; he did not anoint himself with oil, nor make use of the bath. He alone was permitted to enter the holy place: for he did not wear any woollen garment, but fine linen only. He alone, I say, was wont to go into the temple: and he used to be found kneeling on his knees, begging forgiveness for the people-so that the skin of his knees became horny like that of a camel's, by reason of his constantly bending the knee in adoration to God, and begging forgiveness for the people. Therefore, in consequence of his pre-eminent justice, he was called the Just, and Oblias, which signifies in Greek Defence of the People, and Justice, in accordance with what the prophets declare concerning him."

James, alone was permitted to enter the holy place.  

This was an honor that only those descended of Kohath; descended thru Aaron then Phinehas; then Zadok were given by YHVH Himself. Remember, Yeshua ("Jesus") is given the Throne of David. A King who elevated the Zadok to a position of honor. A position that had been usurped by the Scribes and Pharisees. 

The High Priesthood was no longer adhering to the familial line which was supposed to be permanent; but, instead was being sold to the highest bidder; or, having one appointed by the Roman Government, instead of being selected per the instructions of the Most High. Should you read Maccabees this will become crystal clear. Again, regarding James the Just; Hegessipus declares:  

• He was Holy from his mother's womb
• He drank No Wine or Intoxicating Liquor
• He ate No flesh
• No Razor came upon his head
• He entered the Holy Place Alone
• He wore fine linen just as Torah instructs High Priests

If you haven't read about the Nazarite vow in Numbers 6; or in Judges 13 I encourage you to do so. Once you do it will be clear to you that James has taken a Nazarite Vow. And that this was something done since his birth. He was Holy from the Womb. What tribe is instructed to be Holy?  

"And you shall be to Me a kingdom of priests and a holy nation. These [are] the words which you shall speak to the children of Israel."   Exodus 19:6 NKJV

Who is to speak these words to Israel? Moses. A Kohathite.
One from the Tribe where all High Priests were to be selected.   

What position did James Hold? 

That of a Kohen. A High Priest.
In this case. A Melchizedek.
Just like his brother Yeshua. 

Just like us when He raises us. 
An entire nation of King Priests. 

The ENTIRE Story of James | Jesus' Brother Turned Martyr

 

"James the Just" Brother of Yeshua

Hello Again Friend,

Today I would like share with you some of my thoughts about "James the Just." 
Brother of Yeshua "Jesus" of Nazareth.

There is something about him I hope that you will pick up on.

*** His Connection to the tribe of Levi; and, to the High Priests, the Kohanim. ***

*** *** *** ***

Back when I was still strictly enmeshed within the traditional "Christian understanding" of the genealogies contained within Matthew and Luke; I held to the belief system that one genealogy was Joseph's; and, the other belonged to Mary. Much like this graphic below depicts.

(Illustration modified from Nelson’s Complete Book of Bible Maps and Charts,

copyright 1993 by Thomas Nelson, Inc., page 342.)

There are in fact several different theories regarding these two (2) genealogies we find in the Synoptic Gospels. What I would like you to pick up on; is how different the genealogy of Luke is, compared to all the other genealogies that are present within the TaNaK (Hebrew Old Testament). 

The majority of the genealogies within the Bible's text; are contained within the book of Numbers. IF you have never read it before; I suggest that you do so for the express purpose of exposure to these other genealogies. Look for the term "beget" as you do. 

Beget implies procreation.

*** *** *** ***

Should you be familiar with Dr. Michael Heiser then perhaps you have heard him say

"If it is unique. It is important."

First let's talk a bit about these genealogies; and, what makes them different. Please open your Bible to to Gospel of Matthew Chapter one. I ask that you would use a highlighter pen; or pencil, carefully reading through the genealogy in Matthew. As you do please stop to highlight; or, circle the word "begot" each time it appears. Once done do it again a second time just to be certain you haven't missed any. Then count them. Do it twice; again, to be certain. You should find that the word "begot" appears 39 times. 

*** BEGOT ***

Next. Turn your bible to the Gospel of Luke 3:23 and read carefully through to verse 38.
Each time you see "the son" in italics please highlight; or underline "the son."

The italics means that this phrase "the son" is NOT included within the Greek text. It means that "the son" was added into the text. Neighbor "the son" is NOT organic to the text. Now. Count how many time "the son" was added to the text. You should find it appears 74 times in Luke's genealogy.

*** the son ***

Did you notice that the term "begot" is conspicuously absent?
Did you notice it appears nowhere in Luke's genealogy?

It wouldn't be until a good friend of mine pointed out to me something I had missed (something that would alter the direction of my own study); that I would be able to more clearly see WHY there are two (2) differing genealogies. I would discover an answer to WHY one genealogy (Luke's) has the word "begot" completely absent from its text.

*** *** *** ***

In our zeal; and, desire to uncover the truth we had gone from examining the English; then the Greek Textus Receptus (which all Modern Western Bibles are based upon) for the New Testament segment. From there we had gone and also examined the Aramaic New Testament (The AENT) published by Andrew Gabriel Roth. We were (at the time) discussing the Aramaic term gowra or gabra ܓܒܪܗ meaning: man, husband, person.

We were kicking around a theory that Andrew Gabriel Roth had spoken about which suggests Joseph was Mary's Guardian; rather than her husband. It was at this point My friend looks directly at me and says: "Bro. I thought you said that you read Eusebius?"

Bro. I thought you said you read Eusebius?

"Well." I answered. "I have a searchable pdf version on my laptop. However I hadn't read it cover to cover." So he says to me. "Bro. You need to go and READ Chapter 7 of Ecclesiastical History: The Alleged discrepancy in the Gospels In Regards to the Genealogy of Jesus Christ. So. Back to the drawing board I went armed with a new piece of data.

Julio. If you are reading this. Thank you brother. 

Purchase Your Own Copy on Amazon

Chapter VII. -The Alleged Discrepancy In The Gospels In Regard To The Genealogy Of Christ.
SERMON INDEX LINK     CATHOLIC LIBRARY.ORG LINK

Church History
By Eusebius Pamphilius

Chapter VII.--The Alleged Discrepancy in the Gospels in regard to the Genealogy of Christ.

1. Matthew and Luke in their gospels have given us the genealogy of Christ differently, and many suppose that they are at variance with one another. Since as a consequence every believer, in ignorance of the truth, has been zealous to invent some explanation which shall harmonize the two passages, permit us to subjoin the account of the matter which has come down to us, and which is given by Africanus, who was mentioned by us just above, in his epistle to Aristides, where he discusses the harmony of the gospel genealogies. After refuting the opinions of others as forced and deceptive, he gives the account which he had received from tradition in these words:

2. "For whereas the names of the generations were reckoned in Israel either according to nature or according to law; -- according to nature by the succession of legitimate offspring, and according to law whenever another raised up a child to the name of a brother dying childless; for because a clear hope of resurrection was not yet given they had a representation of the future promise by a kind of mortal resurrection, in order that the name of the one deceased might be perpetuated; --

According to Nature vs. According to Law

3. whereas then some of those who are inserted in this genealogical table succeeded by natural descent, the son to the father, while others, though born of one father, were ascribed by name to another, mention was made of both of those who were progenitors in fact and of those who were so only in name.

Natural Fathers vs. Fathers in Name Only

4. Thus neither of the gospels is in error, for one reckons by nature, the other by law. For the line of descent from Solomon and that from Nathan were so involved, the one with the other, by the raising up of children to the childless and by second marriages, that the same persons are justly considered to belong at one time to one, at another time to another; that is, at one time to the reputed fathers, at another to the actual fathers. So that both these accounts are strictly true and come down to Joseph with considerable intricacy indeed, yet quite accurately.

ONE BY NATURE VS. ONE BY LAW 
One the Natural Line vs. Legal Line (In Name Only)

BEGET vs. NO BEGET
Actual Fathers VS. Reputed Fathers

One Implies the line of Procreation
The other Implies Legal Lineage ONLY

*** *** *** ***

READ THE FULL ACCOUNT - EUSEBIUS
ECCLESTICAL HISTORY CHAPTER 7:
LINK

*** *** *** ***

What this helped me to see was that BOTH of these genealogies listed in Matthew; and, in Luke belong EXCLUSIVELY TO JOSEPH. Their purpose is to PROVE that a legitimate offspring of Joseph's would have a legitimate claim to the Throne of David. The Tribe of Judah. This throne is something that must be given to Yeshua. Implying that is isn't something he naturally possess. It must be given to Him. Why is it given to Him? Because He is born of Mary; not of Joseph. And. She is of Levi. Not Judah. Many have been misled about the fullness of His true identity. I tell you the truth He is the prophet like unto Moses. Prophesied to us in Deuteronomy 18.

We have likely all heard that Yeshua the one whom many call "Jesus" is the Lion of the Tribe of Judah. The One whom Revelation asserts has prevailed; and, opened the scrolls.

He shall be great, and shall be called the Son of the Highest: and the Lord God shall give unto him the throne of his father David: -- Luke 1:32

"But one of the elders said to me, "Do not weep. Behold, the Lion of the Tribe of Judah, the Root of David has prevailed to open the Scroll and to loose its seven seals." Revelation 5:5

*** *** *** ***

HOW IS MESSIAH RELATED TO THE TRIBE OF JUDAH.

HOW IS HE THE SON OF DAVID? HOW ARE THEY RELATED?

JESUS ASKS THE SCRIBES AND PHARISEES
HOW CAN THEY (THE SCRIBES & PHARISEES)
SAY THAT MESSIAH IS OF DAVID.

"How can they say this?"

Matthew 22:  -- Mark 12: 35-37 -- Luke 20:41-42 

IN THE MESSIAH'S REMEZ (PART I) 
I DISCUSS THE THREE PASSAGES ABOVE

Matthew 22:  -- Mark 12: 35-37 -- Luke 20:41-42 

ALONG WITH PSALM 110 WHICH MESSIAH CITES

THERE I POINT OUT SOMETHING MOST HAVE MISSED - HIS CONNECTION TO LEVI
AND AN IMPORTANT OLD TESTAMENT TITLE BELONGING TO THE WORD OF THE LORD

*** *** *** ***

Friend. Have you heard about Yeshua's ("Jesus") and James's even more important connection? Their connection to the Tribe of Levi. His Connection to the Sub Tribe of Kohath; and, to Aaron the High Priest? I ask you to consider; from which of Yeshua's parents does "James the Just" obtain the right to do the very things which were reserved for Legitimate High Priests? 

HOW IS JAMES THE JUST A KOHEN?
HOW IS HE A HIGH PRIEST?

*** Were you aware of this? ***

Yeshua is called the Lamb of God that takes away the Sins of the World. Lambs were not sacrificed by those of Judah. They were sacrificed by the Levites; the Kohanim twice each day. Every day. 365 days a year. Lambs Sacrificed in accordance with the Law of Moses; given upon Mt. Sinai, by the one who would someday dwell in a tent of flesh. They are also intimately connected to Passover. 

The next day John saw Jesus coming toward him; and said, "Behold! The Lamb of God who takes away the sin of the world!" John 1:29

And looking at Jesus as he walked, he said, "Behold the Lamb of God!"                              John 1:36 

*** *** *** ***

Lambs are associated with the Sin Sacrifice. They are also specifically associated with Passover. They are associated with the Tribe of Levi. So when I read about James the Just; brother of Jesus doing things which are the function of the High Priest; like entering the Sanctuary ALONE, to pray; it gives me pause. 

Only Kohanim were allowed to enter into the Sanctuary Itself. Only those of Levi, descended of Aaron from Kohath, then through Phinehas, then through Zadok. Therefore I must ask. 

HOW DOES HE COME TO HOLD THIS HONOR?

FROM WHICH OF HIS PARENTS (MARY vs. JOSEPH)
DOES JAMES THE JUST OBTAIN THIS LEGAL BIRTHRIGHT?

In my next article. We will be examining what has been written about James the Just within early church history. Specifically Hegessipus. We shall read the very words together that give me pause. I hope that you are ready to have your world view of Messiah shaken just a bit. Not in a negative way. But rather in a way that should give you fear. 

Fear. Is the Beginning of Wisdom.
Come and See Messiah As He Truly Is.
Not how He has been grossly Misrepresented.

Shalom Friends

Comparing the Septuagint and Masoretic Using Luke 7-18 - Post Apostolic Church - # 14

 

Comparing the Septuagint and Masoretic Using Luke 1-6 - Post Apostolic Church - # 13

 

Comparing the Septuagint and Masoretic Using Mark 12-16 - Post Apostolic Church - # 12

 

Comparing the Septuagint and Masoretic Using Mark 1-11 - Post Apostolic Church - # 11

 

Comparing the Septuagint and Masoretic Using Matthew 23-28 - Post Apostolic Church - # 10

 

Comparing the Septuagint and the Masoretic Using Matthew 20-22 - Post Apostolic Church - # 9

 

Comparing the Septuagint and the Masoretic Using Matthew 13-19 - Post Apostolic Church - # 8

 

Comparing the Septuagint and the Masoretic Using Matthew 6-12 - Post Apostolic Church - # 7

 

Comparing the Septuagint and the Masoretic Using Matthew 4-5 - Post Apostolic Church - # 6

 

Comparing the Septuagint and the Masoretic Using Matthew 1-3 - Post Apostolic Church - # 5

 

New Testament Quotations that Follow the Septuagint - Post Apostolic Church - # 4

 

Notable Differences between the Masoretic and the Septuagint - Post Apostolic Church - # 3

 

History of the Septuagint - Post Apostolic Church - # 2

 

Introduction to the Septuagint - Post-Apostolic Church # 1

 

The Septuagint Got It Right When Everyone Else Was Wrong!

 

Septuagint Conspiracies EXPOSED: What Scholars Actually Say

 

A Translator’s Take on the Septuagint vs. the Masoretic Text

 

Surprising NT Quotes That Follow the LXX Over the Hebrew Text!

 

Dead Sea Scrolls: The Shocking Evidence for the Septuagint!

 

The Angelic Delivery of the Law: A Forgotten Biblical Tradition

 

Did Jesus Really Use the Septuagint? What James Reveals!

 

Jesus Used a Different Bible Than You Think

 

10 Shocking Differences Between Septuagint and Hebrew Bible!

 

LXX: The Startling Claims of the Church Fathers!

 

Dead Sea Scrolls: The Shocking Evidence for the Septuagint!

 

Before the Rabbinic Backlash: What Jews Actually Thought of the Septuagint

 

The Bible’s Most Overlooked Change: A 1,400-Year Discrepancy

 

The LXX (Septuagint): The Most Important Bible You Haven't Heard Of

Friends,

This is Wess Huff. I have a great deal of respect for Wess. Although I don't agree with him 100% of the time. He has interesting things to say about the LXX. I'd like for you to hear what he has to say. I've been using the LXX in my own study for some time now. I became aware of differences between Protestant Bibles; and, Catholic Bibles because I went to Catholic School for four years as a child.

The LXX has been vital for my own understanding of the book of Daniel because of the Apocryphal books that are contained within it.

Enjoy 

ARE YOU THE PROPHET ?

 

https://bible.art/p/u3L1rcuCa8Kk0MMZd1fC

Hello again Neighbor,

Today I'd like to present a few questions; and, observations to hopefully place a stone in your shoe. To cause you to dig deeper; and, think more critically about Messiah. In the Gospel of John chapter 1, there are several questions presented to John the Baptist (Cousin of Yeshua the one whom many call "Jesus"). It is the third question itself that has held my attention more than ANY of the others; causing me to dig even deeper; and, ask more critical questions. 

• "Are you the Christ?"
• "Are you Elijah?"
• "Are you the prophet?"
• "Who are you?"

For the first three questions John simply answers them "I am not."
But when asked "Who are you?" He responds in this manner:

"I am the voice of one crying in the wilderness: 'Make straight the way of the LORD."  -- Isaiah 40:3 

ARE YOU THE PROPHET?
Which prophet? 

Do you even know how many people in the Bible are considered to be prophets? There are 66 books, written by over 40 different authors, over a period of 2,000 years. The phrase "the prophet" appears in the Bible's text some 164 times in 157 passages. 

So which prophet are they asking about? Which one? 
Just chew on that for a minute as we keep going.

Friend. What I find intriguing is this. 

John the Baptist is NOT FROM THE TRIBE OF JUDAH.
John; and, His family were clearly from:

• The Tribe of Levi
• Descended of the High Priest Aaron
• Kohathite's - the Tribe all High Priests are selected from
• Making both John; and, Yeshua potential "Matches" to Deuteronomy 18 

If they were expecting someone from Judah.
Then why question John the Baptist?
The only reason to question John the Baptist.
Is that they were looking for somebody from LEVI.
Somebody descended of AARON. A KOHATHITE.
And John happened to match this pattern.

Follow?

In Deuteronomy 18 the text prophesies to the Nation of Israel; and, to the Tribe of Levi who carries the "Covenant of Life and Peace" (See Malachi: 2:5) of a coming prophet. 

THE VERY ONE WHO PROPHESIES TO MOSES
IS THE SPIRIT OF PROPHECY (REV. 19:10).

THE SPIRIT WHO BECAME FLESH

"“Sacrifice and offering You did not desire,

But a body You have prepared for Me"

HEBREWS 10:5

This "Prophet Like Unto Moses" was expected to come. A real living person. Not some disembodied being; or, an Anunnaki from the Heavens. They had heard about Him (The "Memra") within the Targums when they were read in the Synagogue aloud. Again the people were expecting Him to come.

READ WHAT THE TARGUMS SAY ABOUT MESSIAH
THE TARGUMS ARE ARAMAIC TRANSLATIONS
OF THE OLD TESTAMENT. OF THE TANAK. 

This particular chapter Deuteronomy 18 opens thus:

"The priests, the Levites (LEVI'IM) -- all the tribe of Levi shall have no part nor inheritance with Israel."

Levi itself has three (3) Sub Divisions. Gershon, Kohath, and Merari. So This Chapter is addressing also these three subtribes. Moses and Aaron are of Kohath. They are both Levites. All High Priests were selected from Kohath. 

We are instructed in verse 13:

"You shall be blameless before the LORD your God"

In the Gospels when it speaks of Jesus's Aunt Elizabeth and Uncle Zachariah it declares this:

And they were both righteous before God, walking in all the commandments and ordinances of the Lord Blameless. But they had no child, because Elizabeth was barren; and, they were both well advanced in years.

Friends. Jesus's Family are observant of the Written Torah. Called The Torah Schibictov in Judaism. It is NOT the only collection of writings they call "Torah." Which causes many to stumble at Law; just as the Prophet Malachi declares. The Bible's text is telling us:

• This Family is obedient. 
• This Family is Torah Observant. 
• This Family is Loyal to YHVH The Most High Elohim.

*** Which Torah ***
Written Vs. Oral Traditions

The fact that John the Baptist is asked if He is "the prophet" is SO SIGNIFICANT because of His own Tribal Affiliation. It matches what Deuteronomy 18 declares. It explains why John was asked "Are you the prophet?" They are inquiring of Him:

"Are you the one Deuteronomy 18 declares is coming?" 

If you look at the above graphic you will be able to clearly follow the Line of Priesthood from Aaron down through Phinehas; then Zadok; then through Zachariah who had a vision while serving as High Priest on the Day of Atonement in the Temple. 

Neighbor, I assert to you that HE  [ZACHAIRAH] was the TRUE HIGH PRIEST as far as YHVH is concerned. 

"Caiaphas had not obtained the High Priesthood by way of the traditional, hereditary, lifelong method; but, was instead appointed by Rome. While the position was not directly "purchased" in a straightforward cash transaction recorded by history, the office was heavily influenced by bribery and, in that era, often went to the highest bidder or those most subservient to Rome."

Caiaphas. IS NOT. Legitimate. 

Zachariah is the one whom YHVH CHOOSES.
And. He's perfect. Why?

Because Zachariah's wife is barren.
Just like Abraham's Wife. Sarai.
Just like Isaac's Wife. Rebekah.

Just like Jacob's Wife. Rachel.

Just like Hannah. Wife of Elkanah.
Mother of the prophet Samuel.

Just like Sampson's mother wife of Manoah.

Just like the Shunammite Woman.
Who showed Kindness to Elisha.
And Was Rewarded with a Son.

Zachariah and Elizabeth are PERFECT for YHVH to show His power.
He blesses their righteousness with fertility.
And then He does it again with Yeshua's Mother Miriam. 
Proving His power over even those who are infertile.
Over even a young girl who was a Virgin.
To fulfill the prophecy of Isaiah 7:14.

To produce a Holy, Set Apart, Vessel (Temple). 

From the Very beginning.
Likely conceived on the first day of Chanukah.

The 24th Day of the 9th Month. Kislev.

Giving Him yet another connection
To the Menorah within the Temple.
The Sanctuary Itself. And.
The Festival of Lights.

Giving him a date of birth within the 7th month.

The Holiest Month upon the Hebrew Calendar.

‘Consider now from this day forward, from the twenty-fourth day of the ninth month, from the day that the foundation of the LORD’s temple was laid—consider it: -- Haggai 2:18

Neighbor, I bothered to study out when the foundation stones were laid for both temples. They were both laid in the 2nd month of the Hebrew Calendar, the month called "ZIV."

So which "temple" is this speaking about? Do you remember when the people thought that Jesus had declared He would tear down the Temple and raise it again in three days?

He was talking about the "Temple" of His Body. 
I suggest to you that Haggai 2:18 is offering us a clue.
About the timing of Yeshua's conception.
Allowing us to apply the normal gestational cycle
of a pregnancy to get an idea of the due date.
He was born during Tishri. (Sept - Oct).
The Holiest Month of the Hebrew Calendar.
He was definitely NOT born In December.

Likely between the 1st - 14th of Sept.

Friends. Yeshua is the prototype we are to conform to. 

The Second Adam. The one thru whom
Life and Peace would come.

I tell you the truth. 

Zachariah's son John; and, His Cousin Yeshua
Were the last 2 Righteous Zadok.
Chosen to usher in the New Priesthood.
The Melchizedek Priesthood. 
Where the Zadok has right
to the Chamber of the South.
Formerly only for Kohathites. 

SEE: Ezekiel 40:46; Ezekiel 43:19; Ezekiel 44:15; Ezekiel 44:23-24; Ezekiel 48: 11; 

A time when the Written Torah shall be be Made Great Again.
A time when it shall be honored among the Nations.
A time when many shall walk in equity. Uprightly.

John's very function; His reason to Exist.
Was to Baptize His Cousin. In Righteousness.
Yeshua the Messiah. The Two a Pair.
Just like Moses and Aaron.
One a King. The Other The High Priest.
The King (Moses) & His High Priest (Aaron).

Both Stations Held by Yeshua. The Melchizedek.
Who desires to raise up an entire nation.
Just like Himself. King Priests. Melchizedek.

https://www.deviantart.com/davedsign/art/Hakohen-Gadol-the-ultimate-1245235315

Only a Legitimate High Priest could baptize another.

Into His station as a New High Priest.

This is why it was vital for John to Baptize Yeshua. 

For righteousness sake. To Follow the instructions.

Given upon Sinai to Moses; and, Aaron.

To Lead the Children of Israel In the Way. 

The people were not looking for a Prophet from Judah. But the Scribes and Pharisees were. 
The Scribes and the Pharisees believed that the Messiah would be the Son of David. 
See the discussion in (Matthew 22:41-46; Mark 12: 35-37; Luke 20:39-44).

SEE MY ARTICLE
"YESHUA LEVITE HYPOTHESIS"

Yeshua the one whom many call "Jesus" declared we are to BEWARE of THEIR DOCTRINE.
Wouldn't that mean we should beware of those who declare Messiah comes from Judah?
SEE: (Matthew 16:6; Matthew 16:11; Matthew 16:12; Mark 8:15; Mark 12:38; Luke 12:1)

Within Judaism there is the belief that Messiah is of Judah.  
This is based upon the following passages:

"The scepter shall not depart from Judah, Nor a lawgiver from between his feet, Until Shiloh comes; And to Him shall be the obedience of the people." --

Genesis 49:10

There are three (3) things in this passage I would Like you to recognize. 

First this passage in Genesis does not claim Messiah is of Judah. It does however; claim that the Scepter (of the King) shall not depart from Judah (the Tribe that all Kings are selected from); UNTIL "Shiloh" comes. 

Meaning the Scepter of the King will remain within Judah UNTIL Messiah Comes. So. What happens when He comes? Does Judah loose the right to Rule? No. He Continues to Rule. But in Peace & Safety.

The scepter was a symbol of Kingship. So. What does Shiloh (שׁילו) mean? The root of Shiloh is (שִׁילֹה) which only appears twice. H7786. But it comes from another word. Shalah (שָׁלָה). To be tranquil, i.e. secure or successful:- be happy, be in safety. There is a hint here. 

*** The inclusion of symbolism of the Scepter; and, the lawgiver. ***

Secondarily. This passage mentions "nor a lawgiver from between His feet.."

Neighbor, Judah was not tasked with the giving of the Law.
That was a function that belonged to the Kohathites.
Those specifically descended from AARON the High Priest.  

Third. "And to Him shall be the obedience of the people."

The word used here for Obedience is (יקּהה) yiqqâhâh meaning:

Obedience; cleansing; gathering to obey. purging

Shiloh is a gatherer of the people.
Causing obedience.
And cleansing them from their sins.
Which Tribe has this duty?
Who is to teach Israel the Way?
Who instructs in Obedience?
Only the Tribe of LEVI.

Friend. Do you remember the promises that YHVH made to the Two (2) Families in the prophet Jeremiah? Have you ever read it? If not follow along with me please in your own bible as you read along with me please. Make sure to mark this place well. I encourage you to read the entire passage as it is pregnant with meaning.

""For thus says the LORD 'David [JUDAH] shall never lack a man to sit on the throne of the house of Israel; nor shall the priests, the Levites, [LEVI] lack a man to offer burnt offerings before Me, to kindle grain offerings, and to sacrifice continually.'" 

--  Jeremiah 33:17-18 NKJV

"Have you not considered what these people have spoken, saying, 'The two families which the LORD has chosen, He has also cast them off'? Thus they have despised My people, as if they should no more be a nation before them."

-- Jeremiah 33:24 NKJV

Friends, Messiah Yeshua is a not just of Judah; nor, not just of Levi. 

HE IS BOTH

His connection with Judah began not with Joseph; but, with His ancestor AARON who married a woman of the tribe of JUDAH named Elisheba (Elisheva) which in Greek is (Ελισαβεθ). The name of Zachariah's wife Elizabeth is (Ἐλισάβετ) a derivation of Elisheva.

"Aaron took to himself Elisheba, daughter of Amminadab, sister of Nahshon, as wife; and she bore him Nadab, Abihu, Eleazar, and Ithamar." -- Exodus 6:23 NKJV

 "Of Judah; Nahshon the son of Amminadab." -- Numbers 1:7 KJV

"And he that offered his offering the first day was Nahshon the son of Amminadab, of the tribe of Judah:" Numbers 7:12 KJV

So. All of Aaron's descendant's. All of the High Priests are a mixture of Levi-Judah. A Family. A Progenitor of Levitical High Priests; and, a Wife of Judah. Yet. The Pattern of Yeshua is flipped.

A King for His Father; and, a Kohanim (high priestly line) from His Mother.  A MELCHIZEDEK.
Meaning He MUST Have connection to Both Tribes. He has the natural connection to Judah even without Miriam's marriage to Joseph. What Yeshua gains through Joseph is the Throne of the King which He didn't receive through Aaron's wife. 

This is reinforced with Davidic lineage in the Gospels; and, Hebrews 7:14

For it is evident that our Lord arose from Judah, of which tribe Moses spoke nothing concerning priesthood. -- Hebrews 7:14

Yeshua's mother Miriam married a man of Judah.
Meaning that Yeshua's tribal affiliation became Judah.

Just as Aaron's wife (who was of Judah) lived with her Husband.
In the area for the High Priest and their families Aaron's Tent (Kohen Ha Gadol).

However this connection to Judah is already included when Miraim become's pregnant with Yeshua within her Womb; overshadowed by the power of the Most High. The power of the Holy Spirit. Miriam's marriage to Joseph doesn't expunge Yeshua's (natural birth family connection) to Levi, to Aaron, to Kohath, to Phinehas; and, Zadok. 

HE IS BORN A KOHEN.
OF THE SAME STOCK AS JOHN
A WARRIOR PRIEST
WHO COMES FIRST IN PEACE
BUT LATER COMES TO MAKE WAR

We are instructed in Hebrews some 17 Times
That Yeshua is "High Priest." 
But of an order HIGHER
Than that of his predecessors. 
Of the Order of Melchizedek.

While He is Teaching within the Temple
Yeshua very publicly questions the Scribes
And the Pharisees regarding the identity
Of the one expected to come.
The Messiah.

While the Pharisees were gathered together, Jesus asked them, saying, "What do you think about the Christ? Whose Son is He?" They said to Him, "The Son of David." 

He said to them, "How then does David in the Spirit call Him 'Lord,' saying: 'The Lord said to my Lord, "Sit at My right hand, Till I make Your enemies Your footstool" '? 

"If David then calls Him 'Lord,' how is He his Son?" And no one was able to answer Him a word, nor from that day on did anyone dare question Him anymore.

MATTHEW 22:42-46 NKJV   

IF YOU WANT TO REALLY UNPACK WHAT HE IS ASKING.
PLEASE WATCH MY TEACHING "THE MESSIAH'S REMEZ."

Yeshua asks both the scribes and pharisees very publicly "How can they say this?" None of the Scribes; or the Pharisees offers Him an answer. They are silent before Him offering no passage from the TaNaK to support their belief regarding this matter. "

FRIENDS YESHUA THE ONE WHOM MANY CALL "JESUS"

IS PUBLICLY CHALLENGING THE PREVAILING THINKING

ABOUT MESSIAH'S TRUE TRIBAL AFFILIATION.

Here is what is interesting about the Sub Tribe KOHATH (LEVI); descended of AARON.

• The only tribe from which ALL HIGH PRIESTS are selected.
• The only tribe that was authorized to ENTER into the HOLY OF HOLIES.
• The only tribe that was authorized to CARRY THE TORAH SCROLL (within the Ark upon poles).
• The only tribe that was authorized to BE in the presence of the TEMPLE MENORAH.
• The only tribe that was authorized to prepare, bake, and display the SHOWBREAD which sits within the HOLY OF HOLIES.

The Showbread was "The Bread of the Presence."
It is included within the Bread of His Covenant.

Again The only tribe from which ALL HIGH PRIESTS are selected.
Again. The only tribe that was authorized to prepare; bake; and display the SHOWBREAD.

I tell you the truth. The titles "The Bread of Life" and "The Prince of Peace" are both intimately connected to The Covenant of Life and Peace. See Proverbs 3:2, Malachi 2:5, & Romans 8:6.

John was asked if HE was "The Prophet."
Which Prophet?

The Prophet Like Unto Moses.
The Levite. Descended of Aaron.
A Kohathite. 

Whom they expected. 

I tell you the truth. 

Jesus Christ.

Is the SAME.

Yesterday. Today. Forever.

See Him as He truly Is. 

Not how HE has been misrepresented. 

A KOHEN. FOREVER. 

PSALM 110 YOU ARE A KOHEN FOREVER.

Shalom