Parashat
What is a parashat?
A parashat (or parashah) is a weekly Torah portion. The Torah is divided into 54 parashot, each containing a section of text studied and read throughout the year.
The division of the Torah into parashah portions began in ancient times to enable public reading and study. During the Babylonian Exile, when worship shifted from sacrifices to scripture, this practice took root. Ezra the priest and scribe later formalized it after the Jews’ return to Jerusalem, publicly reading and explaining the Torah to restore faith and identity. Over time, the text was divided into 54 weekly portions, forming what was likely the first Bible reading plan in history.
Each Torah portion got an additional passage from the prophets (Haftarah) that thematically connects to its corresponding parashat, reinforcing its message. Centuries later, Messianic communities introduced readings from the New Testament (Brit Chadasha), highlighting the fulfillment of Torah and prophecy in Yeshua (Jesus).
Together, these three readings—Torah, Haftarah, and Brit Chadasha—create a unified cycle that reflects the continuity of God’s revelation and redemptive plan.
The parashah readings were deeply ingrained in Jewish culture, shaping the worldview and cosmology of the Ancient Near East. The disciples of Jesus naturally grew up with this rhythm of study, and the New Testament shows that Jesus Himself was very familiar with it:
“And as was His custom, He went to the synagogue on the Sabbath day, and He stood up to read.” – Luke 4:16 ESV
The Parashah Bible Reading Plan is therefore a powerful way to build a strong spiritual foundation and to grow in biblical wisdom, understanding, and connection to the roots of faith in Jesus Christ.