The Hebrew Yeshua vs. the Greek Jesus (Paperback)

~ (Author)

Editorial Reviews

Review

Gordon places Yeshua into his Hebraic context and allows Yeshua's own words to sparkle within their original Semitic setting! -- Avi Ben Mordechai, Preface

Yeshua's brutally honest words in the Hebrew version of Matthew are nothing short of revolutionary for the believer. -- Michael Rood, Introduction

Product Description

An astonishing realization has recently gripped the Christian world: "Jesus Christ" was not a blond-haired, blue-eyed Gentile. Yeshua of Nazareth was raised in an observant Jewish family in a culture where the Torah (five books of Moses) was the National Constitution. Yeshua's teachings, which supposedly form the basis for Western Christianity, are now filtered through 2000 years of traditions born in ignorance of the land, language, and culture of the Bible. The issues over which Yeshua wrestled with the Pharisees are simply not understood by modern Christians; nor are his most important instructions followed by those who claim to be his disciples.

Former Pharisee, Nehemia Gordon, a Dead Sea Scrolls scholar and Semitic language expert, explores the ancient Hebrew text of the Gospel of Matthew from manuscripts long hidden away in the archives of Jewish scribes. Gordon's research reveals that the more "modern" Greek text of Matthew, from which the Western world's versions were translated, depicts "another Jesus" from the Yeshua portrayed in the ancient Hebrew version of Matthew. Gordon explains the life-and-death conflict Yeshua had with the Pharisees as they schemed to grab the reins of Judaism in the first century, and brings that conflict into perspective for both Jew and Christian alike.

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Product Details

• Paperback: 128 pages
• Publisher: Hilkiah Press (January 1, 2005)
• ISBN-10: 097626370X
• ISBN-13: 978-0976263708
• Product Dimensions: 8.2 x 5.4 x 0.4 inches
• Shipping Weight: 5.6 ounces (View shipping rates and policies)
• Average Customer Review: 4.4 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (18 customer reviews)
• Amazon.com Sales Rank: #46,107 in Books (See Bestsellers in Books)

Customer Reviews

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

89 of 93 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars WHAT CARL SAGAN DID FOR ASTRONOMY . . ., May 1, 2005

By	C. J. Leach (Midwest, United States) - See all my reviews (REAL NAME)

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What Carl Sagan did for astronomy, Nehemiah Gordon has done for the field of English-Hebrew-Greek linguistics as it is connected to the synoptic New Testament gospels. A bold statement, but arguably true for this narrow biblical topic. This short, readable, scholarly work is a must read for anyone who seeks to to know what Jesus (Yeshua in the Hebrew) REALLY said about some lifestyle choices. Though having broad implications, the book mostly deals, exhaustively, with a small passage from Matthew chapter 23 where Jesus spoke regarding obedience to the Pharisees. Gordon's credentials as a linguist are impressive. Remarkably, Gordon is not a believer in Jesus as Messiah, but rather is a Jewish Israeli-American "Karaite" (scrict Hebrew scripturalist). The work is objective and I had originally intended to comment that Gordon had no Christian agenda (he doesn't), but after considering the matter I realized that he DOES have an agenda . . . to portray Jesus as a Karaite (again, one who adheres to the Hebrew, or so-called "Old Testament", scriptures). And I found that I must agree. Gordon handles the issue of Jesus-Yeshua's identity as the Messiah respectfully, and does not offend those of us that accept Him as the Son of God and our Savior. There have been many books written relatively recently, rightfully discussing the life of Yeshua in the 1st century Jewish context. This one is unique and should be read, ESPECIALLY by Messianic believers who are trying to figure out what to do with Oral Torah and rabbinical mandates. Also - SOME knowledge of Hebrew will enhance your understanding and enjoyment of this book. However, due to the author's careful "teaching" style no other language skill is required above the ability to read high school level English.

32 of 37 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars Attention Messianics!, April 14, 2005

By	W. Lopez "student of The Master" (Denver, CO) - See all my reviews (REAL NAME)

The key to unlocking the truth of Scripture is understanding proper context. The specific passage researched by Mr. Gordon in this book has long puzzled me. This author has resolved the seeming conflict of Yeshua's supposed affirming words in this passage against His condemning addresses to the Pharisees in so many other passages. This short, easy-to-read study is rich with historial and cultural context, honorable scholarship, and a touch of humor. This book could change your life!

14 of 16 people found the following review helpful:

5.0 out of 5 stars You gotta get this book, or the DVD., March 12, 2007

By	Trish "Lorica Lady" (USA) - See all my reviews

How many people know there is a Hebrew version of Matthew and how it differs
from the Greek version? Well, everyone who loves Scriptural truths will love
this book. You will learn a lot about Orthodox and Rabbinical Judaism, not
to mention learning at a deeper level what Yahusha was up against when
confronting the nonbelieving Pharisess. In the DVD one can learn a great
deal also, and Gordon is an excellent speaker, able to rivit the attention
without any high tech visuals. I think it must take a significant amount
of courage to speak out against traditions that Gordon was raised in and
I applaud him for that and for the fact that he has brought a great treasure
to our attention. Like many truly great treasures, it will probably be
considered a trinket, or worse, to so many in the world.