The proper meaning of symbols is critical to rightly dividing the truth so that we will not be led down false paths of uninspired interpretations of scripture. A good case in point has to do with the terms “Carmel”, “Bashan”, and “Gilead” that are mentioned in Micah 7:14. Especially since the “knock out blow” emerged in the spring of 1959, do we see many winds of doctrine as to the meaning of these symbols in Davidian circles far and wide. Closely connected with this verse is Amos 1:2 which says that “the top of Carmel shall wither” which many interpret to be the sell off of old Mt. Carmel Center, Waco, Texas from 1955 to 1957. This is a prominent feature of the theology coming from the Bashan group of Davidians who believe that “Carmel” has withered today (ever since 1959) and as a result we are now in the “Bashan” pasture of truth. However, this belief contradicts the plain teachings from the original Rod message and leads to confusion as to what the symbols “Carmel” and “Bashan” actually mean. Thus, it is the purpose of the attached study to address this often perplexing issue from a doctrinal and historical perspective in order to set the facts straight and let each present truth believer study and reason for themselves as to what the Rod teaches on these important topics. The emphasis will be to distinguish between the meaning of the symbol “Carmel” contrasted to the literal physical location of “Mt. Carmel Center” Waco, Texas (1935-55). Confusion abounds as many people do not realize that these are two different things, thus, the situation needs to be clarified.
Carmel, Bashan, Gilead: Which Pasture Today?
Mt. Carmel Center vs Carmel Pasture
thank you for giving me such a great answer
Bro. Sangalp:
Praise God from whom all blessings flow and who alone knows the end from the beginning. Yes this topic has been one of much confusion, but thanks be to God that the inspired message found in the original writings of the Shepherd’s Rod published by the prophet from 1930 to 1954 has all the answers.
Yours to stand strong for the truth, come what may. –The Editors
as one who was in gilead, it was sure filled with blood!
Dear Sis. Lynn:
Praise God from whom all blessings flow! The Truth will prevail, we are thankful to God that you are set free and still desiring to follow the original Rod without addition or subtraction.
May God’s peace and blessings be with you always,
In that blessed hope, The Publishers
I’m glad that your site is up! Blessings
Dear Sis.
We thank God for your comment and encouragement. If there is any topic you would like to address, please feel free to contact us anytime.
May we all press towards the mark, the high calling in Christ Jesus with meekness and fear.
In that blessed hope–The Publishers.