Primary Constellation #11

Naveh (Cancer)...

Thank you for your patience with me in my necessary (due to moving) blogging silence! I am able to blog again, at least some of the time. This is because I can use my cellphone as a hotspot to get online long enough to do a blog post or two. This means I probably won't be blogging every day, but I will do my best. Also, I want to try to catch up a bit with some of the constellation information which I missed during my absence in November...

So, for the month of November, I will showcase the eleventh star family. The primary constellation of the eleventh star-family is Naveh, which is now called Cancer.

Naveh (Cancer) is the dimmest of the primary constellations. Naveh’s most famous Messier object is M44, also known as the Beehive Cluster, or by its ancient name of Praesepe. M44 

contains about 50 stars and its original name (Praesepe) means “innumerable seed”. Praesepe’s area of 1.5 square degrees is 3x larger than the full moon.

Today, this constellation is portrayed as a crab. But this is an incorrect representation of this sky-picture, according to the ancient records. Naveh, is a sheepfold, or a cattle enclosure. As

E.W. Bullinger noted in his book, The Witness of the Stars, the ancient names for this constellation indicate a sheep or cattle fold:

The Denderah name (for Naveh) is Klaria, or “the cattle-folds”... The Arabic name is Al Sartan, which means “who holds”...The Syriac, Sartano, means the same. The Greek name is Karkinos, which means “holding or encircling”, as does the Latin, Cancer... In the word Khan, we have the “traveller’s rest”... while Ker or Cer is the Arabic for “encircling”. (Witness of the Stars, p 148)

The fact that Naveh was anciently known to be a sheep or cattle fold is also verified in the star names, as is shown in the following illustration, from my God's Amazing Star Secret book, page 161:

"And Sharon shall be a fold (Naveh) of flocks, and the valley of Achor a place for the herds to lie down in, for My people that have sought Me.” Isaiah 65:10 (KJV)

“And thou shalt know that thy tabernacle shall be in peace; and thou shalt visit thy habitation (Naveh), and shalt not sin.” Job 5:24 (KJV)

“I will feed them in a good pasture, and upon the high mountains of Israel shall their fold (Naveh) be: there shall they lie in a good fold, and in a fat pasture shall they feed upon the mountains of Israel. I will feed My flock, and I will cause them to lie down, saith the Yahweh God.” Ezekiel 34:14-15 (KJV)

The constellation of Naveh is connected with the tribe of Issachar (see God's Amazing Star Secret pages 187-188). In Jacob’s prophetic blessing, Issachar was likened to a donkey at rest in a pleasant and beautiful fold.

“Issachar is a strong ass couching down... And he saw that rest was good, and the land that it was pleasant...” Genesis 49:14-15 (KJV)

The sheepfold is a symbol of safety and rest. This is the message of this sky-picture. God’s people (the sheep) are portrayed here as dwelling in safety, having entered their Promised Rest.

Are you loving God's Star Messages? Now you can go deeper with God's Amazing Star Secrets!

Get Shauna Manfredine's book! 

For more information about the Mazzaroth (God's constellation tapestry) and His Messages in the 48 original constellations, request your own copy of Shauna Manfredine's book, God's Amazing Star Secret (book trailer).

TTurn your Church or Venue into a Planetarium for a Night (or Weekend)! Now you can share God's Amazing Star Secrets with your whole family, church, or gathering! Request Shauna Manfredine to give her inspiring and well-researched, planetarium-style God's Amazing Star Secrets presentation. 

In her presentation(s), Shauna shows the meaning of Psalm 19:1-4 and the original names of the stars based upon earth's first recorded language(s). She shows archaeological evidence of the original constellations and the amazing connection between the 12 tribes of Israel and the 12 primary constellations. And she explains the Plan of Redemption in the original star and constellation names. More information...

Primary Constellation #10

Ta'am (Gemini)...

For the month of October, I will showcase the tenth star family. The primary constellation of the tenth star-family is Ta'am, which is now called Gemini.

Ta’am (Gemini) is located in the northern hemisphere of the sky. Gemini means “the twins” in Latin. Ta’am is the 30th largest constellation in the sky. Ta’am has seven stars which are known to have planets. There are two meteor showers associated with the constellation; the Geminids and the Rho Geminids. The 

Geminids are usually bright and peak around December 13-14.

Ta'am - image created by Shauna Manfredine in her book God's Amazing Star Secret. Image is copyrighted.

This star-picture came to be viewed as “the twins” because these two do look alike. But the resemblance isn’t because they are twins. The ancients depicted this constellation as a man and woman—a bride and groom. 

This constellation is portraying Christ, our Heavenly Bridegroom, with His Bride, who are united at the Marriage Supper of the Lamb (Revelation 19:9). The Bride looks like the Groom because, by His Grace, she now fully reflects His lovely Character (Ezekiel 16:14). 

Ta’am, the original Hebrew name for this constellation is found in the Bible in 
Exodus 26:24. Here it is used to describe the perfect fitting of the Sanctuary boards, which were coupled together. 

Exodus 26:24 “And they shall be coupled together (Ta’am) beneath, and they shall be coupled together above the head of it unto one ring: thus shall it be for them both; they shall be for the two corners.”

The items which the Couple hold are all 
significant. The harp is a symbol of victory and praise. The Heavenly Bridegroom is not playing the harp, rather He is holding it, which shows that the victory has been gained through His Power and it is He Who is worthy to receive the praise. The Groom also holds a bow. This connects the Bridegroom with Qesheth. 

The Arrows shot from this Bow represent His Gospel Message which was “sharp in the heart of the King’s enemy” (Psalm 45:5). But the arrow is long gone, for the work of sharing the Gospel is finished. 

Finally, the spear in the Bride’s hand portrays having passed through persecution. But the spear is at rest, for her time of suffering is forever finished. This is the time of joy!

Revelation 19:7-9 “Let us be glad and rejoice, and give honour to Him: for the Marriage of the Lamb is come, and His wife hath made herself ready... Blessed are they which are called unto the Marriage Supper of the Lamb...These are the true sayings of God.” 

Are you loving God's Star Messages? Now you can go deeper with God's Amazing Star Secrets!

Get Shauna Manfredine's book! 

For more information about the Mazzaroth (God's constellation tapestry) and His Messages in the 48 original constellations, request your own copy of Shauna Manfredine's book, God's Amazing Star Secret (book trailer).

TTurn your Church or Venue into a Planetarium for a Night (or Weekend)! Now you can share God's Amazing Star Secrets with your whole family, church, or gathering! Request Shauna Manfredine to give her inspiring and well-researched, planetarium-style God's Amazing Star Secrets presentation. 

In her presentation(s), Shauna shows the meaning of Psalm 19:1-4 and the original names of the stars based upon earth's first recorded language(s). She shows archaeological evidence of the original constellations and the amazing connection between the 12 tribes of Israel and the 12 primary constellations. And she explains the Plan of Redemption in the original star and constellation names. More information...

Primary Constellation #7

Deli (Aquarius)...

For the month of July, I will showcase the seventh star family. The primary constellation of the seventh star-family is Dagim, which is now called Pisces.

Deli (Aquarius) is the 10th largest constellation in the sky; it is spread out over 980 square degrees. The brightest star in the Deli constellation is a rare, yellow supergiant known as Sa’ad Al Sund. It is 600 light-years away and has a magnitude of 2.9. Sa’ad Al 

The seventh of the cardinal constellations is two fish, both of which are tied by the tail with a band. As Ethelbert Bullinger explained in his book, The Witness of the Stars:

The Hebrew name of this constellation (which is now called Pisces) is Dagim, the Fishes, which is closely connected with multitudes, as in (Genesis 48:16), where Jacob blesses Joseph’s sons, and says, “Let them grow into a multitude in the midst of the earth.” The margin says, “Let them grow as fishes do increase.” It refers to the fulfillment of (Genesis 1:28), “Be fruitful and multiply.” The multitude of Abraham’s seed is...compared... to the stars of the sky... “A very great multitude of fish,” as in (Ezekiel 47:9). The Witness of the Stars, p 94.

As I have already explained in my God's Amazing Star Secret book and in this blog, fish represent baptized Christians (spiritually born of water). There are two groups of believers (Israel) being represented in this constellation by the two fishes. As is shown in the next star-family, the band which binds both fish by the tail is connected to Cetus, the sea-monster. Through this connection, we may Biblically identify the two fish (explained later).

As we will see, these fish are the two groups known in Revelation 2 and 3 as Smyrna
and Philadelphia. Philadelphia are the saved who are translated without death, shown in the fish that is rising upwards.  Smyrna are the saints who die and are resurrected, shown in the fish lying down in the sky.

Every saved person is part of Abraham’s Seed (Galatians 3:16, 29), which later came to be called “Israel” (Israel is Abraham’s Seed because Abraham was the father of Isaac, who fathered Jacob, whose name was changed to Israel). These fishes represent two companies of Israel (I will explain more later this month). A “sea-monster”—which is the constellation that is now called Cetus—holds these fish by the tail (Cetus is a decan in the 8th star-family and will be discussed in detail in next month's blog). 

Cetus has both dragon and fish characteristics.The dragon is 
Satan (Revelation 12:9) and fish are baptized “believers”. The fish and dragon are joined in Cetus to portray a group who claim to belong to God, but actually belong to Satan. This group persecutes true Israel and is Biblically called the Synagogue of Satan (Revelation 2:9; 3:9).

The band which ties the two fishes by the tail represents persecution, as will be explained further. The band is actually a decan of Dagim, but is usually portrayed as part of Dagim.

The name and message of this ancient constellation is found in the Bible in the following places:

Genesis 48:16 “And Israel stretched out his right hand, and laid it upon Ephraim’s head... and his left hand upon Manasseh’s... And said... Bless the lads; and let my name (Israel) be named on them... And let them grow into a multitude in the midst of the earth (Let them grow as fishes (Dagim).”  

Ecclesiastes 9:12 “For man also knoweth not his time: as the fishes that are taken in an evil net, and as the birds that are caught in the snare; so are the sons of men snared in an evil time, when it falleth suddenly upon them.”  

Are you loving God's Star Messages? Now you can go deeper with God's Amazing Star Secrets!

Get Shauna Manfredine's book! 

For more information about the Mazzaroth (God's constellation tapestry) and His Messages in the 48 original constellations, request your own copy of Shauna Manfredine's book, God's Amazing Star Secret (book trailer).

TTurn your Church or Venue into a Planetarium for a Night (or Weekend)! Now you can share God's Amazing Star Secrets with your whole family, church, or gathering! Request Shauna Manfredine to give her inspiring and well-researched, planetarium-style God's Amazing Star Secrets presentation. 

In her presentation(s), Shauna shows the meaning of Psalm 19:1-4 and the original names of the stars based upon earth's first recorded language(s). She shows archaeological evidence of the original constellations and the amazing connection between the 12 tribes of Israel and the 12 primary constellations. And she explains the Plan of Redemption in the original star and constellation names. More information...

Primary Constellation #5

Gedi (Capricornus)...

For the month of May, I will showcase the fifth star family. The primary constellation of the fifth star-family is Gedi, which is now called Capricornus. At first, this constellation appears to be a very strange sky-picture. It is a goat with a fish tail, but there is no such creature as a sea-goat. In Bible prophecy, as well as the sky-picture, symbols are used to convey God’s Messages. And in this constellation, our Heavenly Father has a beautiful promise and message for His people.

Image by Shauna Manfredine, from the book God's Amazing Star Secret

Gedi (Capricornus) constellation is located in the southern sky. Capricornus means “the goat” in Latin. This constellation is the second faintest in the sky. But it was well-known. This constellation was known to the ancient Egyptians, the Babylonians and the Sumerians. All of the ancient civilizations rendered Gedi as a goat with a fish tail. The Babylonian star catalogs dating back to 1000 BC mention the constellation as MUL SUHUR MAŠ, meaning “goat fish”. Sight it at latitudes between +60° and -90°.

The ancients portrayed the goat as dying. It represents the goat which was sacrificed for Atonement. Of course, the Sacrifice which has atoned for our sins is Christ’s Death on the Cross. This is the message of the dying goat. In contrast, the dying goat has a living fish tail. In the Scriptures, fish represent those who are saved. When we are baptized, the Bible says we are “born of water” (John 3:5). Also, “catching” the lost for the Kingdom of God is likened to catching “fish”, so Christians are called “fishers of men” (Matthew 4:19).

As we personally claim Christ’s Atonement, we become living “fish” who are reconciled with God and called to be fishers of men.

Romans 5:10-11 “...When we were enemies, we were reconciled to God by the death of His Son...And not only so, but we also joy in God through our Sovereign Yahshua Christ, by whom we have now received the Atonement.” 

Are you loving God's Star Messages? Now you can go deeper with God's Amazing Star Secrets!

Get Shauna Manfredine's book! 

For more information about the Mazzaroth (God's constellation tapestry) and His Messages in the 48 original constellations, request your own copy of Shauna Manfredine's book, God's Amazing Star Secret (book trailer).

TTurn your Church or Venue into a Planetarium for a Night (or Weekend)! Now you can share God's Amazing Star Secrets with your whole family, church, or gathering! Request Shauna Manfredine to give her inspiring and well-researched, planetarium-style God's Amazing Star Secrets presentation. 

In her presentation(s), Shauna shows the meaning of Psalm 19:1-4 and the original names of the stars based upon earth's first recorded language(s). She shows archaeological evidence of the original constellations and the amazing connection between the 12 tribes of Israel and the 12 primary constellations. And she explains the Plan of Redemption in the original star and constellation names. More information...

Primary Constellation #3

Aqrab (Scorpio)...

Image from page 109 of God's Amazing Star Secret, c 2018

In both the Bible and the sky-picture, Death is represented as having a “sting”—which is Eternal Death, the consequence for sin (Romans 6:23). 

1 Corinthians 15:55-57 “O Death, where is thy sting? O grave, where is thy victory? The sting of Death is Sin... But thanks be to God, which giveth us the victory through our Master Yahshua Christ.”  

In this third star-family, we see the epic battle that is being fought over every soul. Soberingly, we also see that the outcome of this war determines our eternal destiny. 

The momentous battle over each soul is even revealed in the Hebrew name, Aqrab, which means “the conflict” or “war”. The Coptic name of this constellation is Isidis, meaning “the attack of the enemy”, or “oppression”.

Thankfully, mankind is not left to face such a huge threat unprotected! As we saw in the previous star-family, God has provided a way of Salvation for us, through His Son, Yahshua Christ. But Messiah doesn’t just save us in our sins, He saves us from them, empowering us to live as “new creatures” in Him (2 Corinthians 5:17). Living in victory over the Tempter (1 Corinthians 15:57), through Messiah, we find deliverance, healing, and victory. In Christ, we are victorious—even over the “sting” of sin and Death.

page 109 from God's Amazing Star Secret, c 2018

Aqrab is one of the brightest constellations in the sky. It’s Latin name, Scorpius, literally means “scorpion” and “creature with the burning sting”.  In the Northern Hemisphere, Aqrab lies close to the southern horizon; in the Southern Hemisphere, it lies high in the sky near the center of the Milky Way. Aqrab has many bright stars, including Antares, which is a red, supergiant and is the 16th brightest star in the sky.

The name of this constellation is mentioned in the following passage:

Psalm 144:1 “Blessed be Yahweh my strength, which teacheth my hands to War (Aqrab), and my fingers to fight.”

Thus, we see that the theme of this third star-family is spiritual warfare!

Are you loving God's Star Messages? Now you can go deeper with God's Amazing Star Secrets!

Get Shauna Manfredine's book! 

For more information about the Mazzaroth (God's constellation tapestry) and His Messages in the 48 original constellations, request your own copy of Shauna Manfredine's book, God's Amazing Star Secret (book trailer).

Turn your Church or Venue into a Planetarium for a Night (or Weekend)! Now you can share God's Amazing Star Secrets with your whole family, church, or gathering! Request Shauna Manfredine to give her inspiring and well-researched, planetarium-style God's Amazing Star Secrets presentation. 

In her presentation(s), Shauna shows the meaning of Psalm 19:1-4 and the original names of the stars based upon earth's first recorded language(s). She shows archaeological evidence of the original constellations and the amazing connection between the 12 tribes of Israel and the 12 primary constellations. And she explains the Plan of Redemption in the original star and constellation names. More information...

Primary Constellation #2

Mozanaim (Libra)...

Image by Shauna Manfredine, from God's Amazing Star Secret book

The second primary constellation is Mozanaim, “the scales” (now called Libra). In Bethulah and its decans, we saw an overview of the promise and Roles of Messiah. He was the promised “Seed” of the woman (Genesis 3:15), who would defeat Satan and save mankind.

Through the constellation and star names of Mozanaim and its three decans, we find the details about the way Messiah would die and what His death would accomplish for fallen mankind. In this star-family we see the amazing depths of God’s Love in this beautiful picture of the Price which was paid for our Redemption.

In Bible times, scales were used in the marketplace. When a customer wished to make a purchase, the vendor would weigh out the merchandise by balancing it with the customer’s payment. Scales came to represent justice because everyone in the transaction received their just dues, weighed out fairly in the balances.

In this sky-picture, the scales show that we are all “weighed in the balances” (Daniel 5:27; Job 6:2) and found to be “wanting”. Thus, we cannot merit Salvation, for we have all sinned—Romans 3:23. But the Saviour paid the Price to balance the Scales of Judgment for us, weighed out in His own Blood. 

1 Corinthians 6:19-20 (AMP) “Do you not know that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit who is within you... and that you are not your own [property]? You were bought with a Price [you were actually purchased with the precious Blood of (Yahshua) and made His own]. So then, honor and glorify God...”  

To see the individual star-names (and their meanings) in this constellation, view the image below, from page 103 of my book God's Amazing Star Secret:

Mozanaim is the Hebrew name for the constellation which is now called Libra. Libra is Latin for “weighing scales”. At only 538 square degrees, Mozanaim is the 29th largest constellation. It is also somewhat faint because it doesn’t have any first magnitude stars. But it is still possible to view it with the naked eye. The brightest star in this constellation is Zuben al Shemali (aka Beta Librae). This star is 160 light-years from us and appears green to the naked eye.

Are you loving God's Star Messages? Now you can go deeper with God's Amazing Star Secrets!

Get Shauna Manfredine's book! 

For more information about the Mazzaroth (God's constellation tapestry) and His Messages in the 48 original constellations, request your own copy of Shauna Manfredine's book, God's Amazing Star Secret (book trailer).

Turn your Church or Venue into a Planetarium for a Night (or Weekend)! Now you can share God's Amazing Star Secrets with your whole family, church, or gathering! Request Shauna Manfredine to give her inspiring and well-researched, planetarium-style God's Amazing Star Secrets presentation. 

In her presentation(s), Shauna shows the meaning of Psalm 19:1-4 and the original names of the stars based upon earth's first recorded language(s). She shows archaeological evidence of the original constellations and the amazing connection between the 12 tribes of Israel and the 12 primary constellations. And she explains the Plan of Redemption in the original star and constellation names. More information...

Primary Constellation #1

Bethulah (Virgo)...

In the Mazzaroth, the first constellation is Bethulah. The Gospel begins with Messiah coming to the world through a virgin. For this reason, it is fitting that Bethulah was regarded as the first of the constellations, by the oldest civilizations. Ancient star records even mark Bethulah as the starting point of the story. One example of this is the stone “Dendera Zodiac” (as it has been paganly named) found on a temple ceiling in Esna, Egypt. Bethulah is marked at Dendera by a sphynx, which is an added image that was not part of the original forty-eight constellations.

The above image is from page 97 of the book
God's Amazing Star Secret,
This is a copyrighted image - all rights reserved

Bethulah is the second largest constellation. It covers a whopping 1,294 square degrees! It contains a total of 110 stars. Spica is the brightest star in this constellation and is twice as large as our sun. Spica is also 2300 times brighter than our sun. Bethulah appears to stargazers in the Northern Hemisphere during the spring and summer months and to those in the Southern Hemisphere in autumn and winter. 

Bethulah, which means “the virgin”,  is the original Hebrew name for the constellation that is now called Virgo. The original name of this constellation is found in Scripture in Jeremiah 31:13 and in Lamentations 2:13, as shown: 

Jeremiah 31:11-13  "For Yahweh hath redeemed Jacob, and ransomed him from the hand of him that was stronger than he. Therefore they shall come and sing in the height of Zion, and shall flow together to the goodness of Yahweh, for wheat, and for wine, and for oil, and for the young of the flock and of the herd: and their soul shall be as a watered garden; and they shall not sorrow any more at all. Then shall the virgin (Bethulah) rejoice in the dance, both young men and old together: for I will turn their mourning into joy, and will comfort them, and make them rejoice from their sorrow." 

Lamentations 2:13 “...O daughter of Jerusalem? What shall I equal to thee, that I may comfort thee, O virgin (Bethulah) daughter of Zion? For thy breach is great like the sea: who can heal thee?”  

This constellation has both a literal and a figurative meaning. Literally, Messiah was born to a virgin, as the Bible tells us in Matthew 1:23. Figuratively, the virgin represents the Bride of Christ (Revelation 21:9), which is the saved people of God. 

But this virgin is not saved on her own merits. In both the sky and the Scriptures, the Bride is shown as starting out with a spiritual "Breach". In the Bible, the Breach is the spiritual chasm of disconnect between fallen mankind and a holy God (Isaiah 30:13; Isaiah 30:26).  No one on earth is unaffected by this terrible Breach (Romans 3:23).

But in this star family, we also find Hope. The Promise is given that the "Seed of the woman" (Genesis 3:15) will defeat the devil and will repair the Breach between fallen man and a holy God. It is through Him that the Bride is made clean and holy.

Isaiah 58:12 “...Thou shalt be called, The Repairer of the Breach, The Restorer of Paths to dwell in.” 

Jeremiah 23:5-6 “Behold, the days come, saith Yahweh, that I will raise unto David a righteous Branch, and a King shall reign and prosper, and shall execute judgment and justice in the earth. In His Days Judah shall be saved, and Israel shall dwell safely: and this is His Name whereby He shall be called, YAHWEH OUR RIGHTEOUSNESS.”  

The process of repairing the Breach is one that we all experience, personally. In Genesis 3:15, God promised to put “enmity” between the serpent (the devil) and the “woman” (His people). The woman was foretold to produce His Seed (Christ). It was through Christ, the Seed of the woman, that the serpent (Satan) would ultimately be vanquished. 

Are you loving God's Star Messages? Now you can go deeper with God's Amazing Star Secrets!

Get Shauna Manfredine's book! 

For more information about the Mazzaroth (God's constellation tapestry) and His Messages in the 48 original constellations, request your own copy of Shauna Manfredine's book, God's Amazing Star Secret (book trailer).

Turn your Church or Venue into a Planetarium for a Night (or Weekend)! Now you can share God's Amazing Star Secrets with your whole family, church, or gathering! Request Shauna Manfredine to give her inspiring and well-researched, planetarium-style God's Amazing Star Secrets presentation. 

In her presentation(s), Shauna shows the meaning of Psalm 19:1-4 and the original names of the stars based upon earth's first recorded language(s). She shows archaeological evidence of the original constellations and the amazing connection between the 12 tribes of Israel and the 12 primary constellations. And she explains the Plan of Redemption in the original star and constellation names. More information...

What is the Significance of the 12 Primary Constellations

The 12 Primary Constellations are connected with the 12 tribes of Israel, as is shown in their tribal ensigns...

In Scripture, the number 12 is a symbol of faith, the church and the Kingdom of God. It is one of the most spiritually significant of all the numbers found in the Bible. The Old Testament Book of Genesis states there were 12 sons of Jacob and those 12 sons formed the 12 tribes of Israel (Genesis 49:28). The New Testament tells us that Messiah had 12 apostles. There are also twelve gates and twelve foundation stones in the New Jerusalem (Revelation 21:12-14). 

The twelve sons of Jacob became the twelve tribes of Israel, which were represented by twelve tribal ensigns (depicted on the tribal flag—Numbers 2:2) and twelve precious stones (one gemstone for each tribe was placed upon the high priest’s breastplate—Exodus 28:21). 

Each of the twelve primary constellations represents a tribe of Israel, totaling twelve tribes altogether. The tribal ensigns for each of the twelve tribes (which appeared on their tribal flag) were taken from Jacob’s prophecy to his sons. (Note regarding the tribe of Dan. Dan fell into idolatry in Judges 17 and 18, and was thus removed from the tribes. This is why the tribe of Dan is replaced with Manasseh—a son of Joseph—in the list of Revelation 7.)

To clarify the connection between each tribe, its ensign (taken from Jacob’s prophecy in Genesis 49), and the 12 star-families, we will go tribe-by-tribe examining the prophecy, tribal symbols, and the constellations. As was mentioned previously, the tribal symbols included an ensign which appeared on the tribal flag, and a gemstone which represented it on the high priest’s breastplate. These same stones also represent the 12 tribes in the New Jerusalem, where they appear as the glorious foundation stones. 

Note: In the following explanation, the gemstones are also included. It should be noted that proving the appearance of each gemstone and connecting it with its appropriate tribe is a work which would require a book-length treatise. Thankfully, such a book has already been written. Leslie Hardinge, a thorough researcher and compelling Bible scholar, did extensive research into the ancient names of gemstones and detailed which gemstone represented each tribe in his book Stones of Fire. Thus, rather than “re-inventing the wheel” (so-to-speak), I will be using the gemstones which are listed in Leslie Hardinge’s well-researched book. 

It should also be noted that the gemstones are not always as they seem. In Old English (which is the language of the King James Version of the Bible) the term Jasper is given for one of the stones. Jasper, in modern English, is a rock with many colors throughout it. It is not transparent. However, as Dr. Hardinge explains in his book, the Old English reference to Jasper is not the stone which we now call by this name. For the purposes of this book, rather than expounding further on his research, I will merely sum up Hardinge’s conclusion. 

After tracing all the names of the gemstones in Hebrew, Greek and Old English (from the King James Version), Hardinge concluded that all of the tribal gemstones were clear, like colored glass. Perhaps it is because the Light of God’s Presence shines through the transparent golden streets (Revelation 21:21), penetrating through the clear, multi-colored foundation stones, that the New Jerusalem is described as appearing to sit upon a rainbow.

Tribe Name: Reuben - 
Ensign: Water—a Water Carrier (Genesis 49:4)
Constellation of this Tribe: Deli (Aquarius)

Reuben—Water/Man: Reuben is likened to water in Genesis 49:4. But the symbol of this tribe is both water and a man. This is such a clear connection to the constellation Deli (which is a man bearing water) that no further explanation is required.

Reuben’s Ensign: Man 

Reuben’s Symbol: Water 

Reuben’s Gemstone: Ruby 

Reuben’s Constellation: Deli

(drawing by Shauna Manfredine - copyrighted image, from God's Amazing Star Secret)

Tribe Name: Simeon
Ensign: Sword—Persecution (Genesis 49:5-7)
Constellation of this Tribe: Dagim (Pisces)

Simeon—Sword/Persecution: Simeon and Levi are lumped together in Genesis 49:5-7. Jacob’s prophecy mentions “instruments of cruelty” being “in their habitation”. Yet Simeon and Levi had different tribal ensigns. Simeon’s tribal ensign was the sword, which was a symbol of persecution and great trial in Scripture. To demonstrate this, consider the following examples. First, when Messiah was 8 days old, and his parents took Him to the temple, Mary, was told that a “sword” would pierce her own soul (Luke 2:35). 

This was not a literal sword, rather it was a reference to her personal suffering that she would experience in witnessing Christ’s Crucifixion. Here are a few other references where the sword is representing persecution, in the Bible: Psalm 37:14 and 144:10; and Jeremiah 27:13. 

Simeon and Levi are joined together in Genesis 49:5-7 because both face the “sword” of persecution. Simeon’s constellation is Dagim which shows the two fishes bound by the tails with the band of persecution.

Simeon’s Ensign: Sword 

Simeon’s Symbol: Sword of Persecution 

Simeon’s Gemstone: Sapphire 

Simeon’s Constellation: Dagim

(drawing by Shauna Manfredine - copyrighted image, from God's Amazing Star Secret)

Tribe Name: Levi
Ensign: Priesthood—Judgment (Genesis 49:5-7)
Constellation of this Tribe: Mozanaim (Libra)

Levi—Priesthood: Levi was the tribe which was set-apart for the holy priesthood. This was because the tribe of Levi did not participate in worshiping the golden calf. Levi’s ensign was the high priest’s breastplate containing the twelve stones for each of the tribes. Levi’s constellation, portraying the intercessory ministry of the priests was Mozanaim, the scales and promise of Redemption in the Blood of Christ. 

It was the priests who were called to participate directly in helping the sinner to find forgiveness and cleansing from sin. The priests sacrificed the lambs and animals brought to the sanctuary for forgiveness. Thus the connection between the message of the Mozanaim star-family and the priestly tribe of Levi is deep and clearly portrayed.

Levi’s Ensign: High Priest’s Breastplate 

Levi’s Symbol: Scales Balanced in Christ’s Blood 

Levi’s Gemstone: Sapphire (joined with Simeon) 

Levi’s Constellation: Mozanaim

(drawing by Shauna Manfredine - copyrighted image, from God's Amazing Star Secret)

Tribe Name: Judah
Ensign: Lion—King of kings (Genesis 49:8-9)
Constellation of this Tribe: Aryeh (Leo)

Judah—Lion: In Genesis 49:8-9, Judah is given the symbol of the lion. From there, the term the “lion of the tribe of Judah” came to be well-known. Of course, the Lion 
represents Christ Himself. He is the Lion of the tribe of Judah. The connection between Judah and the constellation of Aryeh—the Lion—requires no further explanation.

Judah’s Ensign: Lion 

Judah’s Symbol: Lion of the Tribe of Judah 

Judah’s Gemstone: Sardius 

Judah’s Constellation: Aryeh

(drawing by Shauna Manfredine - copyrighted image, from God's Amazing Star Secret)

Tribe Name: Dan/Manasseh
Ensign: Serpent—Scorpion (Genesis 49:17)
Constellation of this Tribe: Aqrab (Scorpio)

Dan/Manasseh—Serpent/Scorpion: In Genesis 49:17, Dan is likened to a venomous serpent that bites the heel. Receiving a 
poisonous bite, in the Bible, is called a “sting”. Death, represented in the stars as the scorpion, possesses a “sting” (1 Corinthians 15:55-56). Dan’s constellation is Aqrab, the scorpion. Clearly connecting the serpent with the scorpion, this star-family also contains the constellation of the Strong Man battling the serpent. 

Dan’s (Replaced with Manasseh) Ensign: Serpent 

Dan/Manasseh’s Symbol: Defeated Serpent 

Dan/Manasseh’s Gemstone: Chrysolite 

Dan/Manasseh’s Constellation: Aqrab

(drawing by Shauna Manfredine - copyrighted image, from God's Amazing Star Secret)

Tribe Name: Naphtali
Ensign: Hind of good Words (Genesis 49:21)
Constellation of this Tribe: Gedi (Capricornus)

Naphtali—Hind of Goodly Words/Goat of Atonement: In Genesis 49:21, Naphtali is likened to a hind (doe) who gives the life-giving Message (“goodly words”), which is the Gospel. In Scripture, the deer is a symbol of swiftness. Naphtali’s constellation is Gedi, the goat-fish. This star-family portrays the work of God’s people who give the Gospel Message, helping others to find personal Atonement in Christ. Those who are saved by the “goodly words” of the Gospel become the living “fish” (born of water through baptism) portrayed in Gedi.

Naphtali’s Ensign: Hind (Deer) 

Naphtali’s Symbol: Deer Swiftly Carrying Good News 

Naphtali’s Gemstone: Jasper 

Naphtali’s Constellation: Gedi

(drawing by Shauna Manfredine - copyrighted image, from God's Amazing Star Secret)

Tribe Name: Gad
Ensign: Troop—Overcoming (Genesis 49:19)
Constellation of this Tribe: Taleh (Aries)

Gad—A Troop/Overcoming: In Genesis 49:19, Gad has been overcome by a troop (a military might), but he is foretold to overcome at last. This prophecy foreshadows the Day when God will deliver His people from the enemy. The Persecution of God’s people, also foretold in the prophecies of Simeon, will come to a halt, in the moment that every knee must bow at the Saviour’s Name (Isaiah 45:23; Philippians 2:10). Christ will deliver His Bride (His Church) and she (His people) will share in His glory (Romans 8:17). 

This moment of victory and deliverance is found in the Taleh star family. Here we find the Worthy Lamb that was slain. And the woman (God’s people) who was portrayed in chains (persecution) in the previous star-family, is now enthroned, sharing His glory.

Gad’s Ensign: Warrior 

Gad’s Symbol: A Victorious Troop 

Gad’s Gemstone: Sardonyx 

Gad’s Constellation: Taleh

(drawing by Shauna Manfredine - copyrighted image, from God's Amazing Star Secret)

Tribe Name: Asher
Ensign: Bread—Carries Gospel (Genesis 49:20)
Constellation of this Tribe: Qesheth (Sagittarius)

Asher—Bread/Carrying the Gospel: In Genesis 49:20, Asher is symbolized as having bread to share with the world. Bread is a symbol of the Word of God (Deuteronomy 8:3), being our spiritual food. On the Table of Shewbread, in the Sanctuary, 12 loaves of unleavened bread were placed—one for each of the 12 tribes of Israel. This was to show that the people of God (Israel) possess and are sustained by the Living Bread of God’s Word. 

But Asher isn’t just about possessing the Bread of the Truth. Asher is sharing it with others. The constellation of Qesheth is Asher’s constellation. In it, the white horse and Rider carry the Crown of Life to the world. This is the Gospel Message. Those who receive and partake of it will also enjoy the Crown of Life.

Asher’s Ensign: Bread 

Asher’s Symbol: The Bread of the Word 

Asher’s Gemstone: Onyx 

Asher’s Constellation: Qesheth

(drawing by Shauna Manfredine - copyrighted image, from God's Amazing Star Secret)

Tribe Name: Issachar
Ensign: Donkey in a fold (Genesis 49:14)
Constellation of this Tribe: Naveh (Cancer)

Issachar—Donkey/Resting in the Fold: In Genesis 49:14, Issachar is symbolized as a donkey. Donkey’s are not a positive symbol in Western society. In fact, being compared to a donkey is now an insult. But, in Scripture, the donkey was given the honor of carrying the King of kings (Zechariah 9:9-10). 

In Genesis 49:14, it says that the donkey 
(representing Issachar) is “couching down” between “two burdens”. The English translation of this Scripture makes it appear that the poor donkey is weighed down with too much to carry. But actually, this is a poor translation. “Couching down” is translated from the Hebrew word rabats, which means “resting” (Strong’s Concordance #H7257). 

Far from being over-burdened, Issachar is “resting”. Also, the Genesis 49:14 reference to “two burdens” is poorly translated. “Two burdens” comes from the original Hebrew word misphath, which is a “stall for cattle” or a “sheepfold”. According to the original meaning, Jacob’s prophecy shows that Issachar is resting in the fold. This is a picture of God’s people, joyfully resting, having attained their Eternal Inheritance. Issachar’s constellation is Naveh, wrongly portrayed as a crab. Naveh is the sheepfold symbolizing the Eternal Rest and Safety we may look forward to in God’s Eternal Kingdom.

Issachar’s Ensign: Donkey 

Issachar’s Symbol: The Donkey in the Fold of Eternal Rest 

Issachar’s Gemstone: Topaz 

Issachar’s Constellation: Naveh

(drawing by Shauna Manfredine - copyrighted image, from God's Amazing Star Secret)

Tribe Name: Zebulun
Ensign: Ship—Church (woman) (Genesis 49:13)
Constellation of this Tribe: Bethulah (Virgo)

Zebulun—Ship/Woman (Bride of Christ): In Genesis 49:13, Zebulun is foretold to be a safe-haven for ships. Ships in this symbol are people. The harbor into which they come to find safety is the true Church, the Bride of Christ. This Church has been in existence since the Garden of Eden. Every saved man, woman and child is a part of it. Sometimes a ship is used to represent the whole Church as well. This is the proverbial “Ship that is going through”, carrying the people of God to their Eternal Harbor. Another representation of God’s Church is His Bride, the pure woman shown in Revelation Chapter Twelve. 

Zebulun’s constellation is Bethulah, the Bride of Christ. Bethulah is the true Church, which is the only safe harbor for human ships.

Zebulun’s Ensign: The Ship 

Zebulun’s Symbol: The Bride of Christ 

Zebulun’s Gemstone: Emerald 

Zebulun’s Constellation: Bethulah

(drawing by Shauna Manfredine - copyrighted image, from God's Amazing Star Secret)

Tribe Name: Joseph/Ephraim
Ensign: Fruited Wall—Bull (Genesis 49:22)
Constellation of this Tribe: Re’eym (Taurus)

Joseph/Ephraim—Fruitful Wall/Bull of Justice: Unlike Dan, which was replaced with Manasseh (Joseph’s oldest son) due to unworthiness, the tribe of Joseph was expanded to include Ephraim (Joseph’s younger, but spiritually dominant son). This tribe came to be referred to as Ephraim, but includes the tribe of Joseph. 

In Genesis 49:22, Joseph/Ephraim is depicted as a fruit-covered wall. The wall, in Scripture, represents protection and military might. This is because a city’s defense was its wall. The wall also symbolizes the Law of God (Proverbs 25:28), which is the “rule” that protects and keeps the soul from ruin. Fruit symbolizes the Work of the Holy Spirit in one’s life (Galatians 5:22-23). 

The wall of Joseph/Ephraim is beautiful, being covered in fruit-filled vines. But it is still a powerful wall of great strength. Proverbially, at the wall, “the buck stops here”. The wall is a point of division. What is within is protected. What is without it is stopped, prevented from entering so long as the wall stands. Thus, the wall is a symbol of Judgment.

Joseph/Ephraim’s constellation is Re’eym, the mighty Bull of Justice. This star-family portrays the Saviour’s Return. It is the moment when the “sheep” (the saved) are divided from the “goats” (the lost) (Matthew 25:31-46). In this constellation, Justice and Judgment are coming like an unstoppable freight train. 

The rushing bull brings Pleiades, representing the Seven Last Plagues. In the end, all will be judged as either worthy to be protected within the wall or unworthy and kept without it based upon their fruit (hence the symbol of the fruit-covered wall) (Luke 6:43-45). 

Joseph/Ephraim’s Ensign: Fruit On a Wall

Joseph/Ephraim’s Symbol: The Bull

Joseph/Ephraim’s Gemstone: Jacinth

Joseph/Ephraim’s Constellation: Re’eym

(drawing by Shauna Manfredine - copyrighted image, from God's Amazing Star Secret)

Tribe Name: Benjamin
Ensign: Wolf—two names (Genesis 49:27)
Constellation of this Tribe: Ta’am (Gemini)

Benjamin—Wolf/The Two Who Are United: In Genesis 49:27, Benjamin is foretold to “ravin” like a wolf. Ravining is a graphic picture of the way a wolf tears apart and devours its helpless prey. In Scripture, wolves represent workers of evil—especially those who persecute the people of God. Those who side with evil and infiltrate the Body of Christ are likened to “wolves in sheep’s clothing” (Matthew 7:15). 

But Benjamin is an interesting tribe in that it actually had two names. Rachel died in childbirth, bringing Benjamin into the world. As she was dying, she named her newborn son “Benoni”, which means “son of my sorrow”. But after Rachel’s death, not wishing for this negative name to remain, Jacob named the child Benjamin, which means “son of my right hand” (Genesis 35:18).

Thus, from the start, this is a tribe with two aspects, both of which play out in the constellation of Ta’am—the two who are united (the Marriage of the Lamb). The sorrow, which God’s people experience is symbolically linked to the ravening wolf through persecution. 

Notably the apostle Paul was of the tribe of Benjamin, and aptly illustrates Benjamin’s relationship with the ravening wolf. At the start, Paul (then called Saul) was a persecutor of the saints. He hunted them down and many were martyred because of him. But after his conversion, Saul became Paul. Now he shared in the sufferings of God’s true people and was faithful even unto death. Thus we see that the Benjaminites are those who have once been enemies of God, but are converted and changed.

Next, let’s revisit the dual names of Benjamin. The two names of Benjamin also show the two experiences of God’s people—and of Christ Himself. Messiah was the Son of Sorrow, Who endured affliction (Isaiah 53:3)—even to the point of the Cross. The followers of Christ must also endure affliction (2 Timothy 3:12; Luke 9:23), sharing in His suffering (Romans 8:17; 1 Peter 4:13). But suffering is not the end of the story. 

Our Saviour was victorious. He was raised from the dead and is set down at the Right Hand of the Father, fulfilling the prophecy of Benjamin as the “Son of my Right Hand”. The term “Right Hand” is a Hebrew expression, which isn’t a literal place as much as a reference to victory, power and strength. Also, those who are saved, are promised to sit on the “right hand” (a symbol of victory and strength) in Glory (Matthew 20:23; Matthew 25:33-35).

In the constellation of Ta’am, we see Christ and His Bride united at the Marriage Supper of the Lamb. What has united them? They have both experienced the dual aspects of Benjamin. He has passed through Sorrow and is enthroned on the Right Hand. And, by His Grace, so has she.

Benjamin’s Ensign: The Wolf

Benjamin’s Symbol: The Two Who are United

Benjamin’s Gemstone: Amethyst

Benjamin’s Constellation: Ta’am

(drawing by Shauna Manfredine - copyrighted image, from God's Amazing Star Secret)

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