From the parallels between the "true tent" and the chronology of the building of both temples, let's examine other symbolic convergences related to the beginning of Jesus' ministry, exploring connections between Jesus' 40-day wilderness fast, the Festival of Booths, and the inauguration of Solomon's temple.
Bridging the gap: We previously placed the beginning of Jesus' public ministry on Heshvan/Bul 18, 29 C.E., 52 days after his baptism on Elul 26, 29 C.E. This 52-day period acts as a bridge between his baptism and the beginning of his ministry. In this period we have his 40-day wilderness fast as well as six days of travel in each direction to and from the wilderness.
The Midpoint Revealed: Calculating the midpoint of this 52-day period brings us to the 22nd and 23rd of Tishri. During these two days, Jesus is closest to the culmination of his preparation and the beginning of his public ministry. These two days are significant for the possible symbolic connections they reveal.
Echoes of the Festival of Booths: It is noteworthy that the the 22nd of Tishri coincides with the Solemn Assembly, which occurs on the following day after the Festival of Booths. This festival commemorates the Israelites' 40-year period of wandering in the wilderness, during which they lived in temporary shelters. The festival is observed with the change of seasons and is also known as the Festival of Ingathering, marking the end of the gathering of the fruits of the land at the conclusion of the agricultural year. Consider how the Israelites would have felt at this time of transition. They would have looked back on the previous year's achievements with joy and gratitude, and looked forward to the year ahead with hope and optimism. It seems appropriate that the end of this festival should mark the midpoint between Jesus' baptism and the beginning of his ministry, since this period marked a momentous transition and significant changes.
Jesus associated himself with the Festival of Booths. His references to drawing water from the Pool of Siloam (John 7:37) and the illumination of Jerusalem by the lamps and torches in the temple area (John 8:12) resonate with the rituals of the festival.
A remarkable alignment: Adding another layer of intrigue, the 22nd of Tishri also marks the completion of Solomon's inauguration of the Temple. This alignment suggests another possible symbolic connection between the physical temple and the "true tent" through Jesus Christ.
The 23rd of Tishri has further significance. It's the day after the Solemn Assembly and the day after the completion of Solomon's temple dedication. On this day, the biblical record recalls the joy and celebration of the people for the goodness shown by Jehovah (2 Chronicles 5:3; 7:8-10).
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