As we read through the book of Acts, we see great miracles done by The Most High through the apostles of our beloved Messiah. People being healed by Peter’s shadow, demons cast out by a simple command, the dead raised back to life, the crippled healed, the blind receiving sight and much more. Among these miracles was the gift of tongues. As many come back to the Truth of faith and obedience in these last days, this topic naturally has reemerged, and it’s time we took a deep dive into this subject; sharing the truth, and bringing to light false doctrines.
We first hear about the apostles receiving tongues during Shavuot (Pentecost) after our Messiah’s ascension into heaven, so let’s begin here:
“And there appeared unto them cloven tongues, like fire, and it sat upon each of them. And they were all filled with the Ruach Ha’Qodesh (Holy Spirit), and began to speak with other tongues, as the Spirit gave them utterance.”
Acts 2:3-4
After all, the giving of these gifts were promised by our Messiah, right before his departure.
“And these signs shall follow them that believe, In my Name they shall cast out devils, and shall speak with new tongues, And shall take away serpents, and if they shall drink any deadly thing, it shall not hurt them: they shall lay their hands on the sick, and they shall recover.”
Mark 16:17-18
So, where does that leave us today?
We believe that these gifts can be given today to anyone whom he chooses at any time. Today, we will be focusing on speaking, and praying in tongues.
WHAT IS ‘SPEAKING IN TONGUES’?
Let’s go back to the day of Pentecost again, and begin there.
“And there appeared unto them cloven tongues, like fire, and it sat upon each of them. And they were all filled with the Ruach Ha’Qodesh (Holy Spirit), and began to speak with other tongues, as the Spirit gave them utterance.”
Acts 2:3-4
Next, we see what ‘tongues’ are:
“And there were dwelling at Jerusalem Jews, men that feared Elohim, of every nation under heaven. Now when this was noised, the multitude came together and were astonished, because that every man heard them speak his own language. And they wondered all, and marveled, saying among themselves, Behold, are not all these which speak, of Galilee? How then hear we every man our own language, wherein we were born? Parthians, and Medes, and Elamites, and the inhabitants of Mesopotamia, and of Judea, and of Cappadocia, of Pontus, and Asia,And of Phrygia, and Pamphylia, of Egypt, and of the parts of Libya, which is beside Cyrene, and strangers of Rome, and Jews, and Proselytes,Cretes, and Arabians: we heard them speak in our own tongues the wonderful works of Elohim. They were all then amazed, and doubted, saying one to another, What may this be?”
Acts 2:5-12
What an amazing day this must have been! The apostles were given a supernatural ability to speak in foreign languages without learning or practice. It was given by the Ruach Ha’Qodesh (Holy Spirit) at once. This served as a witness to the people all around and was a heavenly sign to those that heard.
“Now when they heard it, they were pricked in their hearts, and said unto Peter and the other Apostles, Men and brethren, what shall we do? Then Peter said unto them, Amend your lives, and be baptized every one of you in the Name of Yahusha Ha’Mashiach for the remission of sins: and you shall receive the gift of the Ruach Ha’Qodesh (Holy Spirit). For the promise is made unto you, and to your children, and to all that are afar off, even as many as the Yahuah our Elohim shall call. And with many other words he besought and exhorted them, saying, Save yourselves from this froward generation. Then they that gladly received his word, were baptized, and the same day there were added to the Assembly about three thousand souls.”
Acts 2:37-41
HalleluYah! What a miracle. This is the first mention of speaking in tongues, and it should be our foundation for interpreting the rest of scripture speaking about it. Scriptural tongues is the speaking of a known foreign language. Let’s look at the Greek word Glossa, used for ‘tongues’.
The apostles were given the gift of tongues to bring the good news of Messiah to the Jews first, then to all nations, tribes and languages (tongues). We will address ‘praying in tongues’ shortly.
Tongues: A Sign
“While Peter yet spake these words, the Ruach Ha’Qodesh fell on all them which heard the word. And they of the circumcision which believed were astonished, as many as came with Peter, because that on the Gentiles also was poured out the gift of the Ruach Ha’Qodesh. For they heard them speak with tongues, and magnify Elohim. Then answered Peter, Can any man forbid water, that these should not be baptized, which have received the Ruach Ha’Qodesh as well as we?”
Acts 10:44-47
Even though they were already instructed to take the gospel to all the world and preach to the Gentiles, they were still unbelieving that they (the Gentiles) would receive the same spiritual gifts. Remember, in Acts 2, tongues were for a sign for the unbelieving Jews dwelling in Jerusalem.
“And there were dwelling at Jerusalem Jews, devout men, out of every nation under heaven. Now when this was noised abroad, the multitude came together, and were confounded, because that every man heard them speak in his own language. And they were all amazed and marveled, saying one to another, Behold, are not all these which speak Galilaeans? And how hear we every man in our own tongue, wherein we were born? Parthians, and Medes, and Elamites, and the dwellers in Mesopotamia, and in Judaea, and Cappadocia, in Pontus, and Asia, Phrygia, and Pamphylia, in Egypt, and in the parts of Libya about Cyrene, and strangers of Rome, Jews and proselytes, Cretes and Arabians, we do hear them speak in our tongues the wonderful works of Elohim. And they were all amazed, and were in doubt, saying one to another, What does this mean? Then they that gladly received his word were baptized: and the same day there were added unto them about three thousand souls.”
Acts 2:5-12, 41
A sign.
“Wherefore tongues are for a sign, not to them that believe, but to them that believe not: but prophesying serves not for them that believe not, but for them which believe.”
1 Corinthians 14:22
EVIDENCE OF THE RUACH HA’QODESH
“And these signs shall follow them that believe, In my Name they shall cast out devils, and shall speak with new tongues, And shall take away serpents, and if they shall drink any deadly thing, it shall not hurt them: they shall lay their hands on the sick, and they shall recover.”
Mark 16:17-18
This passage is often cited to encourage one to seek out tongues (and other gifts). Sometimes, it is even used as a peer-pressure tactic; alluding to, that one who does not speak in tongues, is not carrying the Ruach within. What our amazing Messiah just said in Mark 16 was absolutely true, however, does that mean every one of us carries that specific gift?
“Now there are varieties of gifts, but the same Spirit. And there are varieties of ministries, and the same Master. There are varieties of effects, but the same Elohim who works all things in all persons. But to each one is given the manifestation of the Spirit for the common good. For to one is given the word of wisdom through the Spirit, and to another the word of knowledge according to the same Spirit; to another faith by the same Spirit, and to another gifts of healing by the one Spirit, and to another the effecting of miracles, and to another prophecy, and to another the distinguishing of spirits, to another various kinds of tongues, and to another the interpretation of tongues. But one and the same Spirit works all these things, distributing to each one individually just as He wills.”
1 Corinthians 12:4-11
Paul clearly stated we do not all possess every gift, but according to what our Heavenly Father gives, at his discretion. These gifts are not something we choose. We can pray for them, but cannot force it.
“And when Paul had gathered a number of sticks, and laid them on the fire, there came a viper out of the heat, and leaped on his hand. Now when the Barbarians saw the worm hang on his hand, they said among themselves, This man surely is a murderer, whom, though he hath escaped the sea, yet Vengeance hath not suffered to live.But he shook off the worm into the fire, and felt no harm.Howbeit they waited when he should have swollen, or fallen down dead suddenly: but after they had looked a great while, and saw no inconvenience come to him, they changed their minds, and said, That he was an El.”
Acts 28:3-6
“And shall take away serpents, and if they shall drink any deadly thing, it shall not hurt them”
Since this happened to Paul, does that mean we will also be given the same gift, or power? Perhaps, but should we test Elohim on this? Should we force this gift at our own will? Perhaps there may be some dire consequences for doing so.
The answer to this question may seem silly, but the same logic that applies to purposefully drinking something poisonous, or allowing a snake to bite us, just to show his gift is upon us (or evidence we have the spirit) should be taken with the same measure of carefulness with tongues or any gift for that matter. The devil played this type of pressure, or tempting game with Messiah.
“And said unto him, If you be the Son of Elohim, cast yourself down, for it is written, that he will give his Angels charge over you, and with their hands they shall lift you up, lest at any time you should dash your foot against a stone. Yahusha said unto him, It is written again, you shall not tempt Yahuah your Elohim.”
Matthew 4:6-7
The same type of forced behavior that Satan employed can be attributed to one who would say speaking in tongues, or healing the sick, or casting out devils is necessary to prove we have the Holy Spirit. Why would we ever think to force speaking in tongues? Keep in mind, Messiah’s words in Mark 16 absolutely came true, every bit of it during the book of Acts. And it is very possible he can give any one of us these gifts, but they have to be from him; in his timing.
“How shall we escape, if we neglect so great salvation; which at the first began to be spoken by our Adonai, and was confirmed unto us by them that heard him; Elohim also bearing them witness, both with signs and wonders, and with divers miracles, and gifts of the Ruach Ha’Qodesh, according to his own will?”
Hebrews 2:3-4
Gifts are given to us according to his will, not our own desires.
Other Evidence of the Ruach Ha’Qodesh
“Howbeit when he, the Spirit of truth, is come, he will guide you into all truth: for he shall not speak of himself; but whatsoever he shall hear, that shall he speak: and he will shew you things to come. He shall glorify me: for he shall receive of mine, and shall shew it unto you.”
John 16:13-14
Evidence that the Ruach is with us, is being guided to the Truth.
“Your righteousness is an everlasting righteousness, and your Torah is The Truth.”
Psalm 119:142
After all, this was the root of all reasons the Ruach was given.
“And I will put my Ruach within you, and cause you to walk in my statutes, and you shall keep my judgments, and do them.”
Ezekiel 36:27
and:
“Nevertheless I tell you the truth; It is expedient for you that I go away: for if I go not away, the Comforter will not come unto you; but if I depart, I will send him unto you. And when he is come, he will reprove the world of sin, and of righteousness, and of judgment: Howbeit when he, the Spirit of truth, is come, he will guide you into all truth: for he shall not speak of himself; but whatsoever he shall hear, that shall he speak: and he will shew you things to come.”
John 16:7,8,13
This is the true justification for the giving of the Ruach Ha’Qodesh. Many of the ‘spiritual gifts’ are for the edification and instruction for believers to get to this point of faith and obedience (wisdom, knowledge, prophecy, teaching etc..). Think about it, they were able to go into any country and preach the good news without any language barriers. Remember the snake biting Paul’s arm? That served as a witness and miracle to the unbelievers, and was not for Paul to be ‘built up’.
“So then, tongues are for a sign, not to those who believe but to unbelievers; but prophecy is not for unbelievers, but for those who believe.”
1 Corinthians 14:22
A Greater New Tongue
Therefore wait upon me, says Yahuah, until the day when I rise up for a witness: for my determination is to gather the nations, that I may assemble the kingdoms, to pour upon them mine indignation, even all my fierce anger: for all the earth shall be devoured with the fire of my jealousy. For then will I turn to the people a pure language, that they may all call upon the name of Yahuah,to serve him with one consent. The remnant of Israel shall not do iniquity, nor speak lies; neither shall a deceitful tongue be found in their mouth: for they shall feed and lie down, and none shall make them afraid.“
Zephaniah 3:8,9,13
Last confirmation that we all do not speak in tongues:
“I wish that all of you could speak in tongues, but rather that you prophesied: for greater is he that prophesies than he that speaks with tongues, except he interpret, that the church may receive edifying.”
1 Corinthians 14:5
By this, we know that all did not speak in tongues in Corinth.
NON-HUMAN LANGUAGE TONGUES
There was a small faction known as the ‘Shakers‘ during the 17th & 18th centuries who began to bring forth doctrines that taught tongues were something other than human languages. However, the Pentecostal (charismatic) movement starting in 1901, fully shifted much of the modern day understanding of tongues and has permeated many sects of belief, including Torah Observant believers in Messiah. In this study, we would like to test this theory.
Although proponents trace their origin back to the primitive church, the American Pentecostal movement in its contemporary form began on January 1, 1901 when Agnes Ozman, a student of C. P. Parham, reportedly spoke in the Chinese language. It is significant that the first Pentecostals believed their tongues-speech was authentic foreign human language (Gerhard Hasel, Speaking in Tongues
[Berrien Springs, Mich.: Adventist Theological Society, 1991] 11-12).
This is an example of modern day ‘tongues’:
Here’s ‘praying in the spirit’ — skip to 5:31
Starts at 1:53
“And when you are praying, do not use thoughtless repetition as the Gentiles do, for they think that they will be heard because of their many words. So do not be like them; for your Father knows what you need before you ask Him”
Even though our foundation of tongues shown in Acts 2 shows known human languages, how have some arrived at a belief that tongues can be anything other than that? Did you know that there were many historical accounts written about the early church; compiled into a volume of books known as the ‘Ante Nicean Fathers’? It covers the church records from approximately 100ad – 325ad.
“The Writings of the Fathers Down to A.D. 325” – about 11.000 pages. The collection of books consists of 10 volumes (last volume is the index) containing English translations of the majority of Early Christian writings. The period covers the beginning of Christianity until before the promulgation of the Nicene Creed at the First Council of Nicaea.”
Here’s something I find fascinating. Researching through these books and finding every instance of ‘tongues’, there is not even a whisper of tongues being anything other than what Acts 2 clearly portrays, known languages. You would think that there would be some discussions, or differing opinions. Not one exists. Read them here for free.
1st Corinthians
Before we begin digging into these verses used, we need to remember this passage from Peter:
“Therefore, beloved, since you are waiting for these, be diligent to be found by him without spot or blemish, and at peace. And count the patience of our Master as salvation, just as our beloved brother Paul also wrote to you according to the wisdom given him, as he does in all his letters when he speaks in them of these matters. There are some things in them that are hard to understand, which the ignorant and unstable twist to their own destruction, as they do the other Scriptures. You therefore, beloved, knowing this beforehand, take care that you are not carried away with the error of lawless people and lose your own stability.”
2 Peter 3:14-17
Peter warns that Paul writes about certain things that may be hard to understand, and that some may use them improperly. We cannot find any other warnings about other writings anywhere in scripture. So, we need to truly dissect verses that are used to push this doctrine.
Tongues of Angels For Us?
“Though I speak with the tongues of men and of angels, and have not charity, I am become as sounding brass, or a tinkling cymbal.”
1 Corinthians 13:1
Is Paul saying he is able to speak in tongues of angels, and therefore we are too? Let’s keep reading to see what’s going on here.
“Though I speak with the tongues of men and of angels, and have not charity, I am become as sounding brass, or a tinkling cymbal. And though I have the gift of prophecy, and understand all mysteries, and all knowledge; and though I have all faith, so that I could remove mountains, and have not charity, I am nothing.”
1 Corinthians 13:1-2
Is it possible to understand all mysteries? Is Paul saying he has all knowledge? Of course not. In fact, he says so a few verses later:
“For we know in part, and we prophesy in part. For now we see through a glass, darkly; but then face to face: now I know in part; but then shall I know even as also I am known.”
1 Corinthians 13:9,12
Paul is using hyperbole;
- A figure of speech in which exaggeration is used for emphasis or effect, as in I could sleep for a year or This book weighs a ton.
- In rhetoric, an obvious exaggeration; an extravagant statement or assertion not intended to be understood literally.
In other words, 1 Corinthians 13:1 is better translated as:
Even if I could speak in all the tongues of men and angels, and have not charity, I am become as sounding brass, or a tinkling cymbal.
1 Corinthians 14
“For he that speaks in a tongue speaks not unto men, but unto Elohim: for no man understands him; howbeit in the spirit he speaks mysteries.”
1 Corinthians 14:2
It is said that this verse is meant to portray someone speaking an unknown human language. However, it takes personal bias to interpret it this way. The fact that no one understands him can be shown like this.
Let’s say we are in an assembly together to worship and praise YHWH, and out of nowhere, Josh in the back row starts to speak prophecy (mysteries) in the Chinese tongue (language). If there is no interpreter of Chinese, he wouldn’t be speaking to men, but Elohim only, as no one understands him. If Josh were to speak in Chinese without knowing, it would surely make him feel good about his faith, knowing he has a supernatural gift from above. As we read the following verses in 1 Corinthians 14, it will make more sense.
“Now I want you all to speak in tongues, but even more to prophesy. The one who prophesies is greater than the one who speaks in tongues, unless someone interprets, so that the church may be built up. Now, brothers, if I come to you speaking in tongues, how will I benefit you unless I bring you some revelation or knowledge or prophecy or teaching? If even lifeless instruments, such as the flute or the harp, do not give distinct notes, how will anyone know what is played? And if the bugle gives an indistinct sound, who will get ready for battle? So with yourselves, if with your tongue you utter speech that is not intelligible, how will anyone know what is said? For you will be speaking into the air. There are doubtless many different languages in the world, and none is without meaning, but if I do not know the meaning of the language, I will be a foreigner to the speaker and the speaker a foreigner to me. So with yourselves, since you are eager for manifestations of the Spirit, strive to excel in building up the assembly.”
1 Corinthians 14:5-12
Paul makes it very clear that this is about foreign languages, not an unintelligible one. He explains that if there’s no interpreter, or if it cannot be understood, you’ll be speaking unto the air (and not Elohim), who wants to do that? If we want tongues for any other reason, we may need to check our hearts. Tongues was the first sign given to the apostles of Messiah and it was clear that the Corinthians desired it. The general theme of 1st Corinthians is Paul regulating, and expounding it’s true purpose.
Here is the Greek word for interpret:
It’s also important to note, that in the KJV and other translations the word unknown is added to the text.
“For he that speaks in an unknown tongue speaks not unto men, but unto Elohim: for no man understands him; howbeit in the spirit he speaks mysteries”
1 Corinthians 14:2
Here is the Greek interlinear for 1 Cor 14:2, you’ll notice ‘unknown’ is not there.
PERSONAL PRAYER LANGUAGE?
“Therefore, one who speaks in a tongue should pray that he may interpret. For if I pray in a tongue, my spirit prays but my mind is unfruitful. What am I to do? I will pray with my spirit, but I will pray with my mind also; I will sing praise with my spirit, but I will sing with my mind also. Otherwise, if you give thanks with your spirit, how can anyone in the position of an outsider say “Amen” to your thanksgiving when he does not know what you are saying? For you may be giving thanks well enough, but the other person is not being built up.”
1 Corinthians 14:13-17
In this passage, we see that even praying in tongues is not for personal use, but for the edification of the assembly; hence Paul states, “For you may be giving thanks well enough, but the other person is not being built up.” Tongues was not given to build ourselves up, but for the edification and belief of others. Here is an excerpt from Chrysostom, an early church commenter.
Ask accordingly not to have the gift of tongues only, but also of interpretation, that thou mayest become useful unto all, and not shut up thy gift in thyself alone. “For if I pray in a tongue,” saith he, “my spirit prayeth, but my understanding is unfruitful.” Seest thou how by degrees bringing his argument to a point, he signifies that not to others only is such an one useless, but also to himself; if at least “his understanding is unfruitful?” For if a man should speak only in the Persian, or any other foreign tongue, and not understand what he saith, then of course to himself also will he be thenceforth a barbarian, not to another only, from not knowing the meaning of the sound. For there were of old many who had also a gift of prayer, together with a tongue; and they prayed, and the tongue spake, praying either in the Persian or Latin language, but their understanding knew not what was spoken. Wherefore also he said, “I’ll pray in a tongue, my spirit prayeth,” i.e., the gift which is given me and which moves my tongue, “but my understanding is unfruitful.” What then may that be which is best in itself, and doth good? And how ought one to act, or what request of God? To pray, “both with the spirit,” i.e., the gift, and “with the understanding.” Wherefore also he said, “I will pray with the spirit, and I will pray with the understanding also: I will sing with the spirit, and I will sing with the understanding also.” He signifieth the same thing here also, that both the tongue may speak, and the understanding may not be ignorant of the things spoken.
Chrysostom, Homilies on First Corinthians 35.5-6, cited from Schaff, NPNF, First Series 12:211 in reference to 1 Cor 14:13-15. (4th Century)
“I thank Elohim that I speak in tongues more than all of you. Nevertheless, in the assembly I would rather speak five words with my mind in order to instruct others, than ten thousand words in a tongue. Brothers, do not be children in your thinking. Be infants in evil, but in your thinking be mature. In the Law it is written, “By people of strange tongues and by the lips of foreigners will I speak to this people, and even then they will not listen to me, says Yahuah.” Thus tongues are a sign not for believers but for unbelievers, while prophecy is a sign not for unbelievers but for believers.”
1 Corinthians 14:18-22
Paul was quoting Isaiah 28:11 — “For by people of strange lips and with a foreign tongue Yahuah will speak to this people.” Think about it. If Yahuah created tongues for the unbeliever, why could we ever imagine it would be anything other than a translatable language? The truth is, Isaiah 28:11 was fulfilled via the instances we saw in Acts 2, Acts 10 and Acts 19.
“If, therefore, the whole assembly comes together and all speak in tongues, and outsiders or unbelievers enter, will they not say that you are out of your minds? But if all prophesy, and an unbeliever or outsider enters, he is convicted by all, he is called to account by all, the secrets of his heart are disclosed, and so, falling on his face, he will worship Elohim and declare that Elohim is really among you.”
1 Corinthians 14:23-25
Romans 8
“Likewise the Spirit also helps our infirmities: for we know not what we should pray for as we ought: but the Spirit itself makes intercession for us with groanings which cannot be uttered.”
Romans 8:26
This passage is also used to justify tongues being non-human languages. Let’s break it down, and take a look at the Greek word for ‘groanings’, which is typically interpreted as sounds that are not human languages.
Groanings is better translated as sighing. Let’s take a look at some of the uses of this same word in the Greek Septuagint.
You see, ‘groanings’ has nothing to do with a non-human or angelic language. This has everything to do with sighing, anguish or being wearied. Now, let’s take a look at the final part of this verse, ‘which cannot be uttered‘ — sometimes interpreted as unintelligible tongues.
Stenagmos Alaletos (with groanings which cannot be uttered), is better translated as: sighing that cannot be expressed by words. Have you ever been in sorrow and just let it all out before him in prayer? Let’s take a look at how the NASB translated it.
“Now in the same way the Spirit also helps our weakness; for we do not know what to pray for as we should, but the Spirit Himself intercedes for us with groanings too deep for words;”
Romans 8:26 NASB
Furthermore, we have a prime example from our Messiah’s own voice as to exactly how the spirit intercedes with ‘words’.
“But beware of men: for they will deliver you up to the councils, and they will scourge you in their synagogues; And you shall be brought before governors and kings for my sake, for a testimony against them and the Gentiles. But when they deliver you up, take no thought how or what you shall speak: for it shall be given you in that same hour what you shall speak. For it is not you that speaks, but the Spirit of your Father which speaks in you.”
Matthew 10:17-20
This, is how the spirit speaks through us, not to build ourselves up in a private prayer language, but for doctrine, correction, teaching and reproof. If praying in the spirit for self edification meant praying in non-human languages, why didn’t Messiah teach us this? Why not Peter, or James, or John, or Jude, or anyone else for that matter? Out of the 260 chapters in the New Testament, only 6 mention tongues, and 3 of them (1 Corinthians 12-14) was Paul regulating it. In fact, our Messiah told us exactly how to pray. As we mentioned earlier, Peter warned us that Paul wrote about things that are hard to understand; therefore we must be Bereans with doctrines like these.
“And when you pray, you must not be like the hypocrites. For they love to stand and pray in the synagogues and at the street corners, that they may be seen by others. Truly, I say to you, they have received their reward. But when you pray, go into your room and shut the door and pray to your Father who is in secret. And your Father who sees in secret will reward you.“And when you pray, do not heap up meaningless repetitions as the Gentiles do, for they think that they will be heard for their many words. Do not be like them, for your Father knows what you need before you ask him.”
Matthew 6:5-9
If our Messiah wanted us praying in an angelic, or non-human language, why didn’t he teach us this way? Did you know that the New Age Movement does the exact same thing (angelic / non-human language prayer)? We will get to that in a moment. But it cannot be overlooked that Messiah told us ahead of time not to pray with ‘meaningless repetitions’. Anyone who has heard these ‘non-human language’ type of tongues, knows it is extremely repetitive, and if we don’t understand what we are saying, isn’t it meaningless? We could say Elohim understands; but didn’t He create the languages of the earth? Don’t you think He would want us to use what He created?
“Pray then like this: “Our Father in heaven, hallowed be your name.Your kingdom come, your will be done,on earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread,and forgive us our debts,as we also have forgiven our debtors. And lead us not into temptation, but deliver us from evil.”
Matthew 6:9-13
Our amazing teacher taught us exactly how to pray.
Not only that, we see in Romans 1, Paul operating in the Ruach and knowing exactly what he is praying for.
“For Elohim is my witness, whom I serve with my Ruach in the gospel of his Son, that without ceasing I mention you always in my prayers, asking that somehow by Elohim’s will I may now at last succeed in coming to you.”
Romans 1:8-9
How would Paul know that he makes mention of certain people in his prayers if he speaks in a non-human language that cannot be understood?
“And do not get drunk with wine, for that is debauchery; but be filled with the Spirit, addressing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody to Yahuah with all your heart, always and for everything giving thanks in the name of our Master Yahusha Ha’Mashiach to Elohim the Father.”
Ephesians 5:18-20
Jude 1:20
“But you, beloved, building up yourselves on your most holy faith, praying in the Ruach Ha’Qodesh”
Jude 1:20
As we mentioned earlier, tongues was meant for others, not ourselves. Jude continues to show that praying in the Ruach Ha’Qodesh is for one another.
“Keep yourselves in the love of Elohim, looking for the mercy of our Master Yahusha Ha’Mashiach unto eternal life. And of some have compassion, making a difference: And others save with fear, pulling them out of the fire; hating even the garment spotted by the flesh.”
Jude 1:21-23
It takes a personal bias and private interpretation (2 Peter 1:20) to portray building up yourselves on your most holy faith, praying in the Ruach Ha’Qodesh, to mean anything other than praying for one another with the guidance of the Ruach, which we will also cover in Ephesians 6. Building up yourselves isn’t meant for personal benefit, but for others.
Ephesians 6
“Praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, and watching thereunto with all perseverance and supplication for all saints;”
Ephesians 6:18
Once again, we see that our prayers need to be guided by the Ruach; the same Ruach he gives us, that guides us unto all truth.
“Howbeit when he, the Ruach of Truth, is come, he will guide you into all Truth: for he shall not speak of himself; but whatsoever he shall hear, that shall he speak: and he will shew you things to come.”
John 16:13
We know that the foundation of keeping Yahuah’s commandments is loving Him and others. The Ruach should be guiding us to pray fervently for one another. This, I believe is the true context of Ephesians 6:18, especially considering the verses prior were all about spiritual warfare.
“Praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, and watching thereunto with all perseverance and supplication for all saints”
“And for me, that utterance may be given unto me, that I may open my mouth boldly, to make known the mystery of the gospel,”
Ephesians 6:19
Remember, the Father gave gifts through the Ruach to be for signs that others may believe. If Paul were to be given utterances to make known the mystery of the gospel, how could these matters be discerned by a language that is not translatable? Furthermore, if we are praying for someone in the spirit realm and we have no idea what we are saying, wouldn’t we find that a bit dangerous and counterproductive? The truth is, sometimes we may not have the right words to say in prayer for ourselves or one another, but the Ruach of our Father helps to guide us.
“Yahuah, You have searched me and known me.You know when I sit down and when I get up; You understand my thought from far away.You scrutinize my path and my lying down, And are acquainted with all my ways. Even before there is a word on my tongue, Behold, Yahuah, You know it all.”
Psalm 138:1-4
“And when you pray, do not babble on like pagans, for they think that by their many words they will be heard,So do not be like them; for your Father knows what you need before you ask Him.”
Matthew 6:7-8
Matthew 6:7 in the NASB
And when you are praying, do not use thoughtless repetition as the Gentiles do
During my research, and listening to many of the non-human language teachers of tongues out there; typically it is taught to let loose your tongue and empty your mind and thoughts and let ‘the spirit’ take over. This, is contrary to our direct teaching from Messiah.
“He will set his heart to rise early to seek Yahuah who made him, and will make supplication before the Most High; he will open his mouth in prayer and make supplication for his sins. If the great Yahuah is willing, he will be filled with the spirit of understanding; he will pour forth words of wisdom and give thanks to Yahuah in prayer.”
Ecclesiasticus 39:5-6 1611 KJV
Let us not forget that several men had the Ruach Ha’Qodesh in the Tanakh and uttered prayers before Yahuah. Think Moshe, Aharon, David, Solomon, Daniel and many more. Their Ruach filled prayers were inspired and delivered in a discernible human tongue, and Yahuah heard them. Why would we tempt him with praying to him in a language that he didn’t create?
“And besides all this pray to the Most High that he may direct your way in Truth. Reason is the beginning of every work, and counsel precedes every undertaking.”
Ecclesiasticus 37:15-16 1611 KJV
Brothers and sisters, there is no reasoning with speech or prayer that we don’t understand.
“Before you pray, prepare yourself; and be not as one that tempts Yahuah.”
Ecclesiasticus 18:23 1611 KJV
“Do not prattle in the assembly of the elders, nor repeat yourself in your prayer”
Ecclesiasticus 7:14
NEW AGE LIGHT LANGUAGE
“It is accessed with an open heart and allowed to flow based on our intent and under the guidance of the Higher Self. It is a form of channeling in which you’re allowing Spirit to speak to and through you.”
Sound familiar? Did you know that the New Age Movement is involved with ‘tongues’ (non human language)? They even speak like this for healing, and for casting out of ‘bad’ spirits, and it works.
“There shall not be found among you any one that makes his son or his daughter to pass through the fire, or that uses divination, or an observer of times, or an enchanter, or a witch, Or a charmer, or a consulter with familiar spirits, or a wizard, or a necromancer. For all that do these things are an abomination unto Yahuah”
Deuteronomy 18:10-12
He didn’t command the people to stay away from these dark arts because there was nothing to them, on the contrary, the devils on occasion do work signs and wonders through these wicked means. Do you really think the prophets of Baal would take Elijah up on his challenge if their incantations never worked?
– Pray before watching any of these; know that it is not necessary to do so, however I wanted to provide evidence that the New Age does the exact same thing, speaking in non-human repetitive, or even angelic/spiritual speech. Who knows what they are saying/channeling (which is what concerns me about believers speaking words we don’t know).
(Start at 3:15)
“The Language of Light is a heart-based, conceptual form of communication from God/Source.
It bypasses the logic centers of the brain that we’re accustomed to using and speaks directly to your being and the body at the subatomic/DNA level. This means that it is able to effect profound change in your life experience, particularly when combined with a healing intention.”
“Another way to think of it is language from God that the heart and spirit understand innately, even though the mind does not. Part of us is always connected to God/Source. We access it when we pray/meditate or when we take loving actions, for example. This is the part of us that understands the Language of Light. I often use the term Light Language to refer to vocalized forms, but it also takes other forms such as writing, movement, and gestures.”
What’s the common thread with modern day interpretation of non-human tongues and new age light language? It’s self-centered — focused on building ourselves up. As we mentioned earlier, biblical tongues are for the edification of others, not self. While this language may be from angels, I’m afraid it may be coming from the wrong ones, the fallen.
Surely the serpent will bite without enchantment; and a babbler is no better.
Ecclesiastes 10:11
New Age light language teachers will tell you to loose the control of your tongue and lips and let the ‘spirit take over’, sound familiar?
“He that can rule his tongue shall live without strife; and he that hates babbling shall have less evil.”
Ecclesiasticus 19:6
In the words of Severian of Gabala (4th Century)
The person who speaks in the Holy Spirit speaks when he chooses to do so and then can be silent, like the prophets. But those who are possessed by an unclean spirit speak even when they do not want to. They say things that they do not understand.”
Severian of Gabala, Pauline Commentary from the Greek Church, cited from 1–2 Corinthians, ACCS 144 in reference to 1 Cor 14:28.
Light language originated when God said, “Let there be Light,” and the Child(ren) of God was/were created. So the best way to communicate with God is by channeling our Christ Light (Language). As we descended into matter, our method of communication also descended from angelic language to galactic languages and then from the language of the etheric realm to the ancient sacred languages of earth (e.g. Arabic, Sanskrit, Hebrew, Aramaic). Then eventually, we learned to communicate with our dense languages of today–which are made up of memorized words instead of authentic feelings/experiences. So most human beings have forgotten our original language of Light. With Light Language, we can ask a tree or an animal its name, which then comes straight from the light in that being and is then received and spoken as a sacred syllable or vowel. The more we tap into Light Language, the more magical and miraculous our lives become, and the more we are spreading Light on Earth.
Brothers and sisters, modern day speaking in tongues (angelic or non-human language) is the exact same doctrine the New Age teachers are spreading. How can this be? I find this extremely alarming, and this study was composed as a warning. I believe unclean spirits are at work here. If you have been convinced of speaking in non-human, or ‘angelic’ language tongues, please fast, pray and take it to Yahuah, as I believe this is very dangerous; even doctrine of demons, as we will see in a moment.
THE KUNDALINI SPIRIT
“The coming of the lawless one is by the activity of Satan with all power and false signs and wonders, and with all wicked deception for those who are perishing, because they refused to love the Truth and so be saved. Therefore Elohim sends them a strong delusion, so that they may believe what is false, in order that all may be condemned who did not believe the Truth but had pleasure in unrighteousness.”
2 Thessalonians 2:9-12
We know that this lawless one is the Anti-Mashiach (antichrist). John speaks about it in further detail.
“Little children, it is the last time: and as ye have heard that antichrist shall come, even now are there many antichrists; whereby we know that it is the last time.”
1 John 2:18
“and this is that spirit of antichrist, whereof ye have heard that it should come; and even now already is it in the world.”
1 John 4:3
Brothers and sisters, if you have not heard about the Kundalini spirit, it is a false Ruach Ha’Qodesh that performs lying signs and wonders. Here is a 50-page dissertation of the Kundalini spirit, if you feel led to research it further.
“The word “Kundalini” means “the one that is curled up”. It is also called “serpent power”. In eastern religions, such as Hinduism, it is believed that the Kundalini (spirit) lies curled up at the base of the human spine and lies there latent until it is activated. This eastern religious belief system is however wrong about the true nature of Kundalini. We, as Christians, know that Kundalini is a demon or an unclean spirit. This demon does not lay latent at every person’s spine but has to be given specific access to a person’s soul and body through various entry points. It can also be transferred on to people through “impartation” (laying on of hands or being under the teaching of someone who is contaminated with Kundalini)”
The Kundalini spirit:
- Enables people to ‘see’ into the spiritual realm (so-called 3rd eye is open)
- It enables people to “astral travel, or projection”, also called traveling in the spirit, which is at our own will, and not as the Father’s will (as we see many times in scripture; Ezekiel, Phillip, Paul etc..)
- False signs and wonders; false healing, false tongues, false prophecy and other miracles
- Seeing into the spirit realm (3rd eye open) allowing one to see angels or demons
- Blocks and tries to pollute the gifts of the Ruach Ha’Qodesh (especially the gift of discernment and prophecy)
- Much more…. Read here for further information
“Take heed that no man deceive you. For many shall come in my name, saying, I am Messiah; and shall deceive many. For there shall arise false Messiah’s, and false prophets, and shall shew great signs and wonders; insomuch that, if it were possible, they shall deceive the very elect.”
Matthew 24:5,5,24
Remember, the Ruach Ha’Qodesh was represented as tongues of fire, descending on the disciples.
“And he does great wonders, so that he makes fire come down from heaven on the earth in the sight of men, And deceives them that dwell on the earth by the means of those miracles which he had power to do in the sight of the beast”
Revelation 13:13-14
Be careful out there brothers and sisters, don’t forget, Jannes and Jambres, Pharaoh’s magicians were able to replicate some of Yahuah’s miracles through Moshe.
PERSONAL EXPERIENCES
One might say, “well I speak in (angelic/non-human) tongues and it builds me up, edifies me and strengthens my prayer time/language”. “I feel good when I do it”, and “It really helps me”. Keep in mind, people feel peace about walking away from Messiah, or even from the whole Word. People feel good about walking in Buddhism, Hinduism, Taoism etc… People feel built up by Yoga and other things. All the nations of the world feel good about bowing down and serving statues.
“The heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately wicked: who can know it”
Jeremiah 17:9
We cannot trust or follow our heart, or feelings, we can only trust His Word. I understand this study may upset some people out there, and this is certainly not my goal or intentions. My mission is to spread the truth and expose falsehoods. If I have offended you, please forgive me, I share these matters in love and for the edification of Messiahs’ assembly.
“The tongue of the wise uses knowledge aright: but the mouth of fools pours out foolishness.”
Proverbs 15:2
“I LIFTED up my hands in righteousness, and blessed the Holy, and the Great One. I spoke with the breath of my mouth, and with a tongue of flesh, which Elohiym has formed for all the sons of mortal men, that with it they may speak; giving them breath, a mouth, and a tongue to converse with.”
1 Enoch 84:1
Enoch went into heaven and learned everything. Let’s see what he has to say about it.
“THIS is the book of the words of righteousness, and of the reproof of the Watchers, who are from eternity, according to that which he, who is holy and great, commanded in the vision. I perceived in my dream, that I was now speaking with a tongue of flesh, and with my breath, which El Elohiym has put into the mouth of men, that they might converse with it. And understand with the heart. As he has created and given to men the power of comprehending the word of understanding, so has he created and given to me the power of reproving the Watchers, the offspring of heaven. I have written your petition; and in my vision it has been shown me, that what you request will not be granted you as long as the world endures.”
1 Enoch 14:1-2
“The mouth of the righteous speaks wisdom, and his tongue talks of judgment.”
Psalm 37:30
“Righteous lips are the delight of kings; and they love him that speaks right.”
Proverbs 16:13
“Yahuah Elohim has given me the tongue of the learned, that I should know how to speak a word in season to him that is weary: he awakes morning by morning, he awakes mine ear to hear as the learned.”
Isaiah 50:4
“But I say unto you, That every idle word that men shall speak, they shall give account thereof in the day of judgment. For by your words thou shalt be justified, and by your words thou shalt be condemned.”
Matthew 12:36-37
“Death and life are in the power of the tongue: and they that love it shall eat the fruit thereof.”
Proverbs 18:21
Keep in mind, we were made in the image of Elohim, who, when he spoke, did so that man could understand him. Why would we be any different? Brothers and sisters, the enemy is very crafty; putting forth doctrines that make us ‘feel good’ about something. If death and life are in the power of our tongue, and we will be judged by every word we speak, we should take heed and be circumspect of every thing that comes forth out of our mouths, especially words we don’t understand, and even more so, doing the same repetitive prayers the unbelievers do. I hope you take these things to prayer and fasting if needed.
Yahuah bless you and keep you,
Yahuah make his face shine upon you and be gracious to you,
Yahuah lift up his countenance upon you and give you Shalom (peace).
