Jewish sages from the Second Temple period understood that they bore the full responsibility to pass on all ancient written and oral scripture to future generations. Israelite culture and religion had been crushed by the destruction of Jerusalem and Solomon’s Temple and the Babylonian exile lasted more than a generation.

Light is good for the eyes as it helps us to see what we are doing – especially important when we are giving out money. We learn from Jesus that if our eyes are good, then our bodies will be full of light (Mt 6:22; Lk 11:34). These words have inspired countless sermons, devotionals, and commentaries, but what do they really mean, and how did Jesus’ first century Jewish followers understand them?

Ancient Jewish sages believed that the future Messiah of Israel should display certain Moses-like characteristics—powerful spiritual leadership and astute Torah teaching. It is no secret that Moses and Jesus have much in common, sharing similar life experiences.