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The Torah of Moses translated from the Plates of Brass presents itself as a religious or scriptural work, drawing heavily from Hebrew tradition and terminology, while incorporating unique theological concepts. It focuses on the relationship between humanity and the divine, emphasizing obedience, covenants, and the nature of God. It also details specific laws, blessings, curses, and narratives that shape a particular worldview.
The books stress the importance of God, often referred to as YHVH (Yahweh, Jehovah, or Lord). It also introduces the term “Elohim,” which is described as both masculine and feminine, possibly indicating a collective or multifaceted nature of the divine (“El,” Hebrew for “god” is masculine, while “Eloh” is Hebrew for goddess, and “im” is masculine.”). The term “YHVH Elohim” is used frequently, and is described as “the LORD God,” denoting that YHVH is part of the Elohim collective as “One God.” Other names include Shaddai (“God Almighty”), and El Elyon (“The Most High God”). The text also references the concept of “Awmen/Ahman” as a name for God the Father.
The concept of a covenant between YHVH and his people (primarily Israel) is central to the text. This covenant involves specific laws, blessings for obedience, and curses for disobedience. The text emphasizes that YHVH establishes an “everlasting covenant.” The importance of keeping one’s oaths and vows to both YHVH and mankind is also emphasized. There is a strong emphasis on the fact that YHVH will hold those who violate their oaths and covenants to account.
The books detail numerous laws, referred to as “mitzvot” (commandments) and the “Torah” (law or teachings). These include specific religious and ethical obligations. The Decalogue is presented, with unique interpretations and expansions of the traditional Ten Commandments, such as: A prohibition against taking the Lord’s name in vain, specifically connected with mocking the Covenant.
The texts frequently juxtaposes blessings for obedience to YHVH with curses for disobedience. Blessings include prosperity, victory over enemies, and divine favor. Curses include disease, oppression, and exile. There is an emphasis on the consequences of sin not just for the individual but also for the nation as a whole.
The Torah establishes Israel as YHVH’s chosen people, set apart from other nations. They are charged with keeping His commandments and sharing His message. YHVH states, “I have sanctified unto myself a peculiar people above all peoples, and they that keep my everlasting covenant shall join in and keep my Sabbath together and be my Israel.” This chosen status also comes with responsibilities and expectations. The text suggests that all the lands belong to YHVH and are provided to Israel as an inheritance.
The books strongly condemns the worship of any other gods (“elohim”) besides YHVH. It prohibits making or bowing down to images or idols. The text warns against following the customs and practices of the nations surrounding Israel, which are described as “abominations”. This is repeatedly expressed as YHVH’s jealousy and demand for exclusive devotion. The text emphasizes the importance of recognizing only YHVH as the one true God.
The Sabbath is presented as a divinely appointed day of rest and holiness, to be observed by all of Israel. The text teaches that the Sabbath was made holy on the seventh day of creation, which is when the Elohim rested. It states that “Whoever does any work there-on shall be marked as one that hath fallen off the path, and that they who defiles it shall not be found in Israel.”
This collection of texts presents unique interpretations of well-known biblical narratives and laws, such as the creation account, the story of Noah and his sons, and the Ten Commandments. It also introduces specific concepts (e.g., the nature of Elohim) not found in traditional biblical texts. Specificity: The text often uses highly specific language related to laws, oaths, and religious observances, suggesting a strong focus on ritual purity and adherence to precise rules.
The excerpts from “Plates of Brass – Torah of Moses” offer a complex religious system centered around a personal and demanding God, YHVH. It stresses the importance of adhering to laws, keeping covenants, avoiding idolatry, and behaving righteously. The text, while drawing from Hebraic tradition, presents a unique interpretation of these ideas, which is likely to hold theological significance for its adherents. The emphasis on specific rules and a strong dichotomy between blessing and curse suggest a highly structured and demanding spiritual path.
