Episodes
This thought-provoking video explores the intriguing question: "Was Jeremiah preaching from the Moses Scroll?" Delve into the historical context of the scroll discovered in 622 BCE during King Josiah's reign, coinciding with Jeremiah's early prophetic years. As Jeremiah, a priest in lineage, potentially connects to Hilkiah—the very priest who found the scroll—we examine whether Jeremiah could have been influenced directly by this text. The video builds on the compelling theory that Jeremiah...
Published 05/04/24
Food and diet play a major role in the Hebrew Bible, beginning in the Garden of Eden. In this class, we discuss the biblical diets with a focus on the laws of Leviticus chapter eleven and Deuteronomy chapter fourteen. After covering some basic regulations and restrictions, the texts of Leviticus eleven and Deuteronomy fourteen are compared and contrasted in a horizontal study.
Published 04/27/24
Published 04/27/24
The meaning, cause, and remedy of the biblical ‫צרעת‬ have been the source of much debate. Traditional translations have rendered the word as leprosy, usually with the somewhat confusing caveat that despite the retention of leprosy, it does not mean leprosy. The root צרע‬ yields our problematic ‫צרעת‬ , proper names, and three occurrences of a stinging insect capable of chasing out Hivites, Canaanites, Hittites, and two Amorite kings! Shapira’s MSS sensibly suggests a more dangerous fiend to...
Published 04/13/24
The Shapira Saga: XVI INFAMOUS Fragments [Episode 12] Dive into the pivotal twelfth episode of "INFAMOUS: The Shapira Saga," where hosts Ross K. Nichols and Jono Vandor dissect Clermont-Ganneau's decisive rejection of the Shapira Fragments. As skepticism casts long shadows, this episode unravels the tensions and repercussions of a scholarly showdown that challenges the authenticity of a historical enigma. Watch as the drama of discovery and dispute unfolds, shedding light on a controversy...
Published 04/11/24
This class is based on material found in Leviticus 8, 9, and 10. In chapter eight, Aaron and his sons are consecrated for their role as priests. This involves an anointing ceremony from which all later "messiah" studies must be based. In the Pentateuch, only the priest was anointed and therefore referred to as hacohen hamashiach. Aaron and his sons were Moses' messiahS. Chapter nine details a reported manifestation of the Kavod YHVH (Glory of YHVH). Chapter ten reports the killing of two of...
Published 04/11/24
Explore the enigmatic ritual of the Red Heifer, a ceremony shrouded in mystery and steeped in the depths of spiritual and prophetic significance. This video delves into an examination of sources spanning from ancient times to the modern era, from the sparse verses of Numbers 19 in the Hebrew Bible through the insights of the Dead Sea Scrolls and the Mishna to early Christian writings and the Qur'ān. Our journey even extends into the clandestine communications of modern-day leaders, piecing...
Published 04/03/24
As Dr. Ginsburg's analysis of the manuscript strips intensifies. Public fascination grows, with fragments displayed in the British Museum drawing crowds, including Prime Minister Gladstone. However, the scholarly storm brews; despite Ginsburg's silence on its authenticity, debates ignite, echoing the controversies of the Moabite Stone. With scholars split, accusations of forgery surface, challenging the scroll's legitimacy. Join us as we explore the unfolding drama and scrutinize the...
Published 03/27/24
Pentateuch: A New Look -Torah Portion: Vayikra & Tzav -Book: Leviticus -Chapters: 1:1 - 8:36 Video: https://www.youtube.com/rossknicholstv
Published 03/27/24
Pentateuch: A New Look -Torah Portion: Pekudei -Book: Exodus -Chapters: 38:21 - 40:38 Video: https://www.youtube.com/rossknicholstv
Published 03/16/24
In this riveting episode of INFamous: The Shapira Saga, titled "Global News: Discovery of a Differing Deuteronomy," we delve into the sensational global reaction to Moses Shapira's presentation of a mysterious leather scroll to London's scholars in 1883. Described intriguingly as a "very curious Phœnician copy of Deuteronomy," this artifact quickly captivated the world's imagination. Was it possible that Shapira had acquired the oldest known biblical manuscript, predating even the famed Dead...
Published 03/15/24
In this gripping episode of INFamous: The Shapira Saga, we journey with Moses Shapira as he steps into the heart of London, unwavering and convinced of the authenticity of his biblical manuscript. Arriving unannounced at the Palestine Exploration Fund (PEF) headquarters in July 1883, Shapira sets the stage for what William Simpson would describe as 'Shapira’s Grand Performance.' Through meticulous historical accounts, including Simpson’s firsthand narrative and Sir Walter Besant’s...
Published 03/14/24
In this episode, Jono and Ross explore a captivating story from Leipzig, Germany, in 1883, where German scholars at Hotel Hauffe examined the Shapira Fragments, ancient texts that challenge our understanding of the Bible entirely! Despite their conviction, Berlin's academic authorities dismissed the fragments as forgeries, sparking a scholarly rebellion. The episode uncovers the mysteries of the Leipzig Letters, revealing a tale of intrigue and hidden battles within academia, and a growing...
Published 03/14/24
This episode unfolds the captivating tale of Moses Shapira's quest to validate his ancient manuscript strips. Spurred by Friedrich Bleek's insights and facing scholarly skepticism, Shapira embarks on a dramatic journey to Germany, challenging the academic world with his belief in the biblical significance of his discovery. It begins with a ten-page letter to Hermann Strack. Ross and Jono have that letter! This enthralling narrative is more than just history; it's a story of unwavering...
Published 03/14/24
Dive into Jerusalem's mysterious and historic realms in this episode of INFamous: The Shapira Saga, titled "The Story of the Siloam Inscription's Discovery." This episode promises to weave together the lesser-known connection of Moses Shapira with one of Jerusalem's most ancient treasures, the Siloam Inscription, and the poignant story of a young boy whose discovery in 1880 leads to an adoption by the Spafford family, known for their tragic narrative and enduring faith. Explore the...
Published 03/14/24
In this fascinating episode of "Infamous: The Shapira Saga," hosts Ross K. Nichols and Jono Vandor delve into the enigmatic actions of Moses Wilhelm Shapira after acquiring sixteen leather fragments that he believed could be one of the oldest manuscripts of the Bible. On September 24, 1878, Shapira sent a transcription of part of the manuscript to Professor Schlottmann in Halle, only to receive a stern rebuke on October 17, 1878, challenging the authenticity and ancient origin of the scrolls....
Published 03/14/24
Following the 1868 discovery of the Mesha Stele, a series of artifacts emerged, suggesting a rich Moabite culture. These finds, known as the Moabitica, quickly caught the attention of collectors and scholars, igniting a fervent race among nations to secure these treasures. At the heart of this tale is Moses Wilhelm Shapira, an antiquities dealer in Jerusalem, who found himself entangled in a web of ambition, deception, and scholarly rivalry. Despite initial excitement, doubts about the...
Published 03/14/24
Four biblical kings (the kings of Israel, Judah, Edom, and Moab) face off in the Battle of Moab. The story has long been known to us because of the Second Book of Kings, but in the latter half of the nineteenth century, an archaeological treasure surfaced that provided another account of this battle. Explore an extraordinary discovery made in August 1868: the Mesha Stele; also known as the Moabite Stone. Recognized as one of the most significant archaeological finds related to the Hebrew...
Published 03/14/24
In this installment; "The Dead Sea Scrolls' Precursor," Ross and Jono explore the remarkable story of Moses Wilhelm Shapira and his acquisition of sixteen mysterious leather fragments. The episode links Shapira's find to the groundbreaking discovery of the Dead Sea Scrolls at Qumran, providing new insights into the historical context of both finds. Initially, Shapira's claims about the origins of his scroll were met with skepticism by his contemporaries. However, with our current...
Published 03/14/24
Episode One of "INFAMOUS: XVI Fragments" introduces the mysterious world of Moses Wilhelm Shapira. This episode rewinds to December 2019, marking a shift in Shapira's story from a mere historical intrigue to the heart of our project. Here, Ross and Jono recount their paths to discovering Shapira, setting up a season of intriguing discoveries, discussions, and historical investigations. The episode offers a glimpse into what lies ahead: the fascinating aspects of Shapira's life, the...
Published 03/14/24
Pentateuch: A New Look -Torah Portion: Vayakhel -Book: Exodus -Chapters: 35:1 - 38:20 Video: https://www.youtube.com/rossknicholstv
Published 03/14/24
Pentateuch: A New Look -Torah Portion: Ki Tissa -Book: Exodus -Chapters: 30:11 – 34:35 Video: https://www.youtube.com/rossknicholstv
Published 03/02/24
Pentateuch: A New Look -Torah Portion: Tetzaveh -Book: Exodus -Chapters: 27:20 - 30:10 -Host: Dr. James D. Tabor Video: https://www.youtube.com/rossknicholstv
Published 02/24/24