The Man Caring for Israel’s Red Heifers: Why Ancient Shiloh Matters More Than Ever
“Ideas are meeting reality.” Those were the words Larry Borntrager repeated throughout our conversation, and they perfectly capture what is happening today in the hills of Ancient Shiloh.
For many people, the Red Heifer is little more than an obscure biblical commandment tucked away in Numbers 19. For others, it has become the subject of endless speculation and sensational headlines. But for Larry Borntrager, the Red Heifer isn’t a theory—it is part of his daily life.
Larry is the full-time caretaker of the Red Heifers living at Ancient Shiloh, the place where the Tabernacle stood for nearly 370 years after Israel entered the Promised Land. Every morning he feeds them, watches over their health, and quietly participates in what may become one of the most significant developments in modern Jewish history. Yet what makes Larry’s story so compelling isn’t simply that he cares for these extraordinary animals. It’s the remarkable journey that brought him there.
From Amish Farm to Ancient Shiloh
Larry was raised on an Amish farm in the United States. He often laughs that he still sees the world through the eyes of a “farm kid.” While others approach the Red Heifer through complicated prophetic systems, Larry approaches it through practical observation. That perspective eventually became one of his greatest strengths. After leaving his Amish background, Larry continued searching for truth. His spiritual journey eventually led him to embrace the Noahide Covenant and dedicate his life to serving the God of Israel alongside the Jewish people.Today he lives much of the year in Israel, where his experience with livestock uniquely prepared him for an assignment very few people on earth could fulfill.
When Ideas Become Reality
One statement Larry made has remained with me ever since our interview:
“Ideas, teachings, traditions, especially prophetic teachings, are meeting reality at Shiloh because of the Red Heifers.“
For centuries, the Red Heifer remained largely theoretical. Jewish scholars discussed it. Students studied Numbers 19. Teachers explained its significance. Today, however, actual Red Heifers stand in Ancient Shiloh. The conversation has changed. The biblical commandment is no longer merely historical—it has become tangible. Larry believes that this transition from idea to reality forces everyone, regardless of their background, to reconsider long-held assumptions.
October 7 Changed Everything
Larry also reflected on how the events following October 7 exposed something much deeper than military conflict. He believes that while antisemitism has always existed, recent events have revealed it openly across universities, governments, media, and societies around the world. Whether or not one agrees with every aspect of Larry’s perspective, his central observation is difficult to ignore: Hidden attitudes have become visible. In his words, God is revealing what has long been concealed before bringing greater redemption. Rather than focusing on fear, Larry encourages people to recognize this as a moment of moral decision. Every person must choose whether to stand with righteousness or with hatred.
A Noahide Serving Israel
Perhaps the most inspiring part of Larry’s story is what it teaches Noahides. Larry never sought fame. He never tried to become something he wasn’t. Instead, he simply offered the gifts God had already given him. His knowledge of cattle. His willingness to work. His availability. He reminded our audience that God rarely calls the most impressive person. He calls those who are willing. Each Noahide has unique gifts that can contribute to God’s purposes—whether through teaching, music, craftsmanship, hospitality, encouragement, business, or simply faithful service. The Kingdom advances through ordinary people who make themselves available.
Ancient Shiloh: Where History Meets the Future
Larry’s love for Ancient Shiloh extends beyond the Red Heifers. For decades he has participated in archaeological excavations around Qumran and believes that significant discoveries may still lie ahead. He spoke about ongoing research connected to the Copper Scroll, discoveries that remain under careful archaeological investigation, and the importance of approaching sacred history with both humility and patience. While many people become fascinated with predictions about the future, Larry repeatedly emphasized a different lesson: Don’t become so focused on tomorrow that you miss what God is doing today.
The Simplicity of Faithfulness
One of Larry’s greatest strengths is his humility. Throughout our conversation he repeatedly referred to himself simply as “a farm kid.” Yet perhaps that is precisely why his testimony resonates so deeply. He reminds us that redemption is not built only through scholars, leaders, or public figures. It is also built by faithful people who quietly fulfill the work placed before them.
Feeding cattle.
Cleaning stalls.
Removing stones from hay.
Serving without recognition.
In God’s economy, even the smallest act performed with faithfulness participates in something far greater.
A Lesson for Every Noahide
As our interview concluded, one truth stood above everything else. The coming redemption is not merely about extraordinary prophetic events. It is about ordinary people responding faithfully to God’s calling. Larry’s life demonstrates what happens when someone simply says, “Here I am.” As Noahides, we may never care for Red Heifers or live in Ancient Shiloh. But every one of us has been entrusted with gifts that can help prepare the world for redemption. The question is not whether our assignment is spectacular. The question is whether we are willing.
As Larry reminded us:
“Don’t worry about being perfect. Be available. If you’re available, God will shape you into what He wants you to become.“
Perhaps that is the greatest lesson of all.
Watch the full interview on the Netiv YouTube Channel and discover the remarkable story of Larry Borntrager, the caretaker of Israel’s Red Heifers, whose journey from an Amish farm to Ancient Shiloh offers a powerful example of faithful service, humility, and hope for the nations.
