Main Themes and Important Ideas
The Nature of YHVH and Israel (and Judah)
The text consistently emphasizes the oneness and dominion of YHVH over all creation. Neum teaches us that YHVH is a merciful, loving, and patient God, but also one who will enact judgment for unrighteousness. Her songs frequently address Israel and Judah, highlighting their covenant with YHVH, their current state of sin and straying, and the prophecies concerning their future. Judah is often depicted as having fallen into wickedness, idolatry, and neglecting the poor. Her prophecies of suffering, scattering, and eventual restoration are prominent. The concept of building Zion is mentioned throughout the record, often associated with a state of righteousness, equality, and peace.
The Significance of the “Daughters of Israel” and “Daughters of Zion”
Another recurring and crucial theme is the historical and future role of women in Israelite society and their connection to divine knowledge and leadership. Neum mentions Miriam and Zipporah as key figures who received “mitzvot” (instruction) related to learning the letters and reading the night skies. Neum, a female Oracle herself, is not of the lineage of Levi (the priestly tribe), but a daughter of Joseph, yet receiving divine communication.
The daughters of Zion are prophesied to have their priesthood restored in the last days and to lead in worship and the dissemination of true knowledge. The text also references the urim and thummim (ancient divinatory tools) being associated with the mițpaḥath (a type of head covering) of the daughters of Zion, symbolizing their role in divine guidance (Neum 13:28-33). The “keys of the law of Sarah” are mentioned in connection with the restoration of the daughters of Zion’s gifts and priesthood, signifying the preservation of their birthright (Neum 8:36-37).
The Importance of Knowledge and Understanding
Neum emphasizes the necessity of seeking true knowledge and understanding of YHVH and His ways. Wisdom is defined as knowing the Creator, feeling His love (Neum 4:11-12). The inability of Judah to understand the origin of Wisdom and the eternal mysteries is presented as a reason for their current state. The text itself is a collection of prophetic utterances from Neum, highlighting the importance of oracles and prophets in conveying YHVH’s will. Neum identifies herself as the “Oracle, reader of the stars — I am she who pours out the libations for YHVH; I am she who still dances in prophecy” (Neum 2:1-2). The words of previous prophets and prophetesses like Zenock, Miriam, Zipporah, Deborah, and Huldah are referenced, underscoring a continuity of divine communication. Her message seems to be a call for Israel to be or become a prophetic people.
The Divine Feminine
Neum refers to a divine female figure multiple times in the text, which could be interpreted as a Heavenly Mother. In chapter six, Neum exclaims, “O Holy Mother! Never was there a place unknown unto thee!” (Neum 6:1). In verse 11 of the same chapter, she alludes to the idea that the Mother is the very Presence of God, rather than being the Holy Ghost or Holy Spirit (the Breath or Voice of God). Readers will see this type of langue throughout the text. Neum’s writings clearly include the concept of a divine female being referred to as “Holy Mother,” “Queen of the Heavens,” “Bride of the Heavens,” “Divine Mother,” and “Mother of Israel” and “Mother of THE LORD”. This figure is depicted as merciful, protective, a source of solace and healing, and holding a prominent position in the heavens alongside YHVH.
The Concept of Covenant and Torah
The covenant between YHVH and Israel is a foundational element, and the Torah is presented as a guide for righteous living. In the text she mentions different Torahs of sapphire, emerald, and marble, suggesting different levels or aspects of divine law and knowledge (see chapters Fifteen and Sixteen). Neum’s prophecies include strong condemnations of idolatry, social injustice (neglecting the poor, widows, and orphans), and the sins of Judah and Israel. The greed of men and the corruption of religious leaders are highlighted as contributing to the earth’s suffering in the last days. Despite her warnings, she offers a message of hope for eventual redemption and the restoration of Israel and Zion. The coming of a savior figure, Jesus Christ, is prophesied (Neum 21:10-11). The restoration includes a reunification of spiritual and earthly realms, a time of peace, and the reinstatement of the daughters of Zion to their rightful place.
Notable Quotes
Emphasizing the importance of literacy and knowledge for the nation’s strength:
Teach your sons and daughters to read and no army will ever truly conquer Israel!” –Neum 14:18
Alluding to a future resurrection or spiritual awakening:
And when the time does come, the dead shall hear the voice of the Son of Man, and those who hearken unto the Voice shall live.” –Neum 2:24
Highlighting the continuity of prophecy and the need for vigilance:
For even as the Voice has come unto the prophets and prophetesses of your generation, so to have they come through the voice of all generations; therefore, when the days shall come that all that has been shall be gathered into one, stand watch that you will be ready.” –Neum 11:43-44
Offering a specific theological perspective on the divine council, including a divine Mother figure:
Truth may not be changed, and the mercy of YHVH is neither hidden nor locked up behind the waters that we should receive Him not; for YHVH is El Elyon, and His Father and His Mother do sit upon their thrones in the heaven above the heavens, and His Asherah does sit with Him and presides in the council of Ha’Elohim.” –Neum 11:12-14
(Note the translator’s disclaimer regarding the interpretation of Asherah.)
Underscoring the significance of the restoration of women’s spiritual authority:
And in that day shall the gifts of the daughters of Zion be restored with their priesthood; and the keys of the law of Sarah shall be given and understood; for the keys of the law of Sarah are so named that we, the daughters of YHVH, shall not lose our birthright, nor be taken in by the world. And the daughters of Zion shall be given revelation upon revelation until all is restored, even as it was at the first.” –Neum 8:35-37
Conclusion
Neum presents a complex tapestry of prophecy, theological pronouncements, and historical references centered on the relationship between YHVH and the people of Israel and Judah. A significant and recurring theme is the crucial role and future restoration of the daughters of Israel and the daughters of Zion, highlighting a perspective that emphasizes female spiritual authority and leadership. The text blends warnings of judgment with promises of ultimate redemption, urging a return to righteous living and a deeper understanding of divine truths. The explicit mention of Paleo-Hebrew symbols and the reference to ancient figures like Miriam and Zipporah grounds these prophecies within an ancient historical and religious context.
