Star Of Jacob is a Messianic reading applied by Jewish Zealots and early Christians to Numbers 24:17.
Scientists predict that a nova in the star system T Coronae Borealis (T CrB) will become visible on Earth next month, temporarily becoming extremely bright. T CrB, a binary system, experiences periodic eruptions every 80 years, and this upcoming nova could be a once-in-a-lifetime event, visible with the naked eye.
The potential nova is linked to the ancient prophecy of the "Star of Jacob" (Numbers 24:17) as foretold by Balaam, believed by some to herald the coming of the Messiah. This prophecy has been interpreted in Jewish and Christian traditions, and it was associated with past figures like Simon bar Kosiba (Bar Kochba).
Jewish mysticism, particularly the Zohar, describes a star appearing as a sign of the end times, which aligns with the timing of the T CrB nova and current global turmoil (wars, crises). Efraim Palvanov, a scholar, draws parallels between this prophecy and modern conflicts, suggesting the nova could symbolize the messianic era.
Bible narrative
I shall see him, but not now: I shall behold him, but not nigh: there shall come a Star out of Jacob, and a Sceptre shall rise out of Israel, and shall smite the corners of Moab, and destroy all the children of Sheth.
The Star of Bethlehem
The Star of Bethlehem, or Christmas Star, appears in the nativity story of the Gospel of Matthew chapter 2 where "wise men from the East" (Magi) are inspired by the star to travel to Jerusalem. There, they meet King Herod of Judea, and ask him: Adoration of the Magi by Florentine painter Giotto di Bondone (1267–1337).
The Star of Bethlehem, also called the Christmas Star, is a star in the Bible and Christian tradition that let the Magi know that Jesus was born, and later helped them go to Bethlehem. According to the Gospel of Matthew, the star made the magi travel to Jerusalem.
Later, God chose Jacob over Esau, even though Esau was the firstborn and seemed to be his father's favorite. Isaac and Jacob were foreordained to their responsibilities. Through their personal worthiness, however, they justified their callings in the covenant line.
Jacob in the Bible is a significant figure in both Judaism and Christianity. In both Judaism and Christianity, Jacob is renowned for being one of the founders of Israel. The nation was named after him, and the twelve tribes that make up Israel were named after Jacob's sons.
Jacob is a biblical hero who depicts the power and grace of God to change and renew. He is most commonly known in the Bible for his cunning and deceitful ways, especially towards his twin brother Esau. However, after losing to God in a wrestling match, Jacob received God's blessings and a new name – Israel.
Matthew 24:1-2 (NLT)
As Jesus was leaving the Temple grounds, his disciples pointed out the various Temple buildings. Jesus responded, predicting the destruction of the Temple: "I tell you the truth, they will be completely demolished. Not one stone will be left on top of another." This was fulfilled in A.D. 70 by General Titus of Rome.
Matthew 24:3 (NLT)
Later, Jesus sat on the Mount of Olives, and his disciples privately asked about the timing of the Temple's destruction, the sign of His return, and the end of the world. This question applies to the Jews, asking for a sign of Jesus' return and the end of the world "as we know it."
Matthew 24:4 (NLT)
Jesus warned: "Don't let anyone mislead you." The first sign is deception. False teachings will mislead people.
Matthew 24:11 (NLT)
"Many false prophets will appear and deceive many people." Deception will infiltrate the church, misleading multitudes.
How will this happen?
1 Timothy 4:1 (KJV): In the latter times, some will depart from the faith, following "seducing spirits" (imposters) and "doctrines of devils."
Deuteronomy 32:17 (KJV): Ancient people sacrificed to devils and new gods, not to God. This is angelic worship, as Lucifer desired.
Galatians 1:8 (MSG): Even if an angel preaches a different message than the original, they should be cursed. Today, many preach about Jesus doing things for us, instead of us serving Him.
Matthew 24:30 (NLT)
"The sign of the Son of Man will appear in the heavens, and there will be deep mourning among the peoples. They will see the Son of Man coming in the clouds with power and great glory." This sign refers to the "Star of Jacob."
Prophetic Background
Numbers 24:17: Balaam prophesied the coming of the Messiah, referencing a star from Jacob.
Genesis 1:14 (KJV): God created lights in the heavens for signs (signals) and seasons (appointed times). The "Star of Jacob" at Jesus' birth was the "Star of Bethlehem."
The Star of Jacob's Return
On September 27, 2024, the Star of Jacob reappeared, symbolizing the Messiah's return.
Matthew 24:31 (KJV)
"He will send His angels with the sound of a trumpet, and they will gather His elect from all over heaven and earth." The next event is the sounding of the trumpet.
Matthew 24:33 (NLT)
"When you see these signs, you know His return is very near, right at the door."
Matthew 24:34-35 (KJV)
"This generation will not pass until all these things are fulfilled. Heaven and earth will pass away, but my words will never pass away." We are that generation witnessing the fulfillment of these prophecies.
Matthew 24:36 (KJV)
"But of that day and hour knows no man, not the angels of heaven, but my Father only." This mirrors the Jewish wedding tradition, where only the Father tells the groom when to collect the bride.
Romans 11:25 (NLT)
The hard hearts of Israel will last only until the full number of Gentiles comes to Christ. God has a set number of Gentiles before the rest takes place. Our duty is to meet that quota.
The Hindrance?
Luke 10:2 (NLT): "The harvest is great, but the workers are few." We are called to pray for more workers because the fields are ready for harvest, yet few are working in them.