‘Don’t Forget the Ayin’ is the new release from brothers Michael and Anthony, who go by the name Hazakim (Hebrew for “strong ones”). This educational and to some, controversial track also features UK singer J.Williams. Hazakim are well known for blending hip-hop and apologetics (an explanation or defense of the Biblical faith) as they present what they call “Hip-Hologetics”. Due to an upbringing in the Messianic Jewish movement, as well as multicultural roots which include Jewish ancestry, their sound possesses a trademark Hebrew influence which sets them apart from other hip-hop artists. Using the medium of hip-hop culture and through the scriptures, the Lamp Mode Recording artists strive to live out the charge of Rav Sha’ul (Paul) in II Timothy 4:2, “preach the Word, be urgent in season and out of season; convince, rebuke, and exhort – be unfailing in patience and in teaching”. With the video filmed in Tel Aviv and deemed controversial with many Israelites, Hazakim asks, “What if we told you that the most popular Jew that ever lived, through whom countless gentiles have come to the knowledge of the God of Israel, is not recognized in His own country?

What if we told you that His Name, Yeshua , which means “salvation”, has been replaced by “Yeshu” – a fateful drop of the Hebrew letter “Ayin” at the end of His Name?

Though most Israelis don’t know its origin, this name given by His detractors, is an acronym meaning “may his name and memory be blotted out”. Hazakim is here to remove the stigma surrounding Him and to declare Yeshua’s glorious place in Israel’s history. He is the most influential, Torah observant Jew, that has ever lived. And even more profound than this: Yeshua is the Messiah that was foretold by the Jewish prophets! He is the pride and joy of Israel! He is a Light to the gentiles and the True Hope for peace in the Middle East. Until the day that was foretold by our Messiah comes, and Jerusalem corporately declares “blessed is He who comes in the Name of the Lord”, let us declare the Name of Yeshua of Nazareth boldly and without shame. Pray for the peace of Jerusalem! This track was submitted to the February listing of the UK Christian Chart which continues to highlight and showcase creative collaborations from across the UK and beyond. Are you new, upcoming or maybe even already established? Submit your music now and join Hazakim, J. Williams and many other talented artists. O’Neil Dennis