Isaiah's prophecy about Jesus

[ContinuingCorletta]

I didn't know what to categorize this question/ discussion under, and because Christianity stems from Judaism and the Hebrew OT, I thought it could go under this category. I have a Jewish friend who tells me that I can't understand the Old Testament unless I read it in Hebrew. She says that there is a numerical way of understanding the Hebrew Bible (our OT). Although I believe that God isn't limited by language to communicate His truth to us, my friend believes that we cannot understand the meaning of the OT if we merely read it in English. She says that in Isaiah 9, virgin isn't the correct translation. Can anyone help me to understand the Hebrew number system because I don't know what she is talking about and I want to learn what I can to help her know that Jesus is the Messiah. Thank you for your help.

[farouk]

Some ppl are into numerology and wish to focus upon numbers rather the the blessed Person.

The witness of Isaiah53 - for example - is so very clear, right?

[In the Clouds]

20 hours ago, ContinuingCorletta said:

I didn't know what to categorize this question/ discussion under, and because Christianity stems from Judaism and the Hebrew OT, I thought it could go under this category. I have a Jewish friend who tells me that I can't understand the Old Testament unless I read it in Hebrew. She says that there is a numerical way of understanding the Hebrew Bible (our OT). Although I believe that God isn't limited by language to communicate His truth to us, my friend believes that we cannot understand the meaning of the OT if we merely read it in English. She says that in Isaiah 9, virgin isn't the correct translation. Can anyone help me to understand the Hebrew number system because I don't know what she is talking about and I want to learn what I can to help her know that Jesus is the Messiah. Thank you for your help.

Methodology is not a study of numbers so much as it is a study of languages and their translations.  English and western languages are considered to be more two dimensional than multidimensional Hebrew.  The Bible has meaningful depth that goes beyond words on a page.  And, this is probably what your friend is talking about.  However having understanding and discernment includes many methods of teaching besides words.  The Bible is Truth, the teachings and guidance of the Holy Spirit are gifts, too.  Prayer is an amazing communication with the Lord so that we may rest in the spirit with Him.  The more you ask for understanding and relationship, the more is given.  Not only does it bless you but it blesses the Lord, too.  

[Who me]

On 1/1/2025 at 1:06 AM, ContinuingCorletta said:

She says that in Isaiah 9, virgin isn't the correct translation.

Virgin or young woman/girl who is unmarried. Ask her what the difference is.

[Tristen]

On 1/1/2025 at 11:06 AM, ContinuingCorletta said:

I didn't know what to categorize this question/ discussion under, and because Christianity stems from Judaism and the Hebrew OT, I thought it could go under this category. I have a Jewish friend who tells me that I can't understand the Old Testament unless I read it in Hebrew. She says that there is a numerical way of understanding the Hebrew Bible (our OT). Although I believe that God isn't limited by language to communicate His truth to us, my friend believes that we cannot understand the meaning of the OT if we merely read it in English. She says that in Isaiah 9, virgin isn't the correct translation. Can anyone help me to understand the Hebrew number system because I don't know what she is talking about and I want to learn what I can to help her know that Jesus is the Messiah. Thank you for your help.

I don't know much about Hebrew numerology, but it sounds to me that she is trying to dodge the obvious implications of what Hebrew scripture teaches about the Jewish Messiah (which is OK - the flesh has to try).

I would consider that:

- Historical Jesus is a Jewish Rabbi - and therefore fluent in the Hebrew language and Old Testament scriptures (But also, the primary Author of scripture and very Word of God Himself).

- The Apostle Paul was a trained religious Pharisee - and therefore highly proficient in both Hebrew language and the Old Testament.

- Many of the Jews in the synagogues where Paul preached were fluent in Hebrew language and the Old Testament scriptures - and were "persuaded" by Paul's interpretations (see Acts 17:1-4, 10-12).

- Most authors of the New Testament, where the Old Testament is commonly quoted and applied, were Jews.

- Translators of the Old Testament are experts in classical Hebrew.

- There are also English translations of Old Testament scriptures (as well as other languages) that have been translated by Jews for Jews who may not have grown up with Hebrew.

- There are many Jewish people, raised in Jewish culture and Hebrew language, who have converted to Christianity - seeing the Jewish Messiah of Hebrew scripture revealed in the person and life of Jesus Christ.

- There is nothing in scripture itself indicating a requirement for a special code to unlock the meaning of scripture.

 

I would therefore (as suggested by @Who me), politely (and sincerely) ask your friend to show/teach you how the "numerical way of understanding the Hebrew Bible" changes the meaning away from the obvious meaning derived from the standard English translation - for each verse you investigate. I'd personally be especially curious about how Isaiah 53 comes through the process. Perhaps she could translate it properly for you.