Biblical Literacy, by Joseph Telushkin

Biblical Literacy
The Most Important People, Events, and Ideas of the Hebrew Bible
By Rabbi Joseph Telushkin
William Morrow, (1997)
ISBN: 978-0688142971

Also available in a Kindle edition.

Reviewed by Boris Segel - July 11, 2011

Do you want to learn about the Bible (a.k.a. the Tanach, Hebrew Bible, or the Old Testament)? Are you already familiar with the Bible, but need some inspiration for a speech or talk that you are giving? Are you just interested in learning some interesting facts about the Bible and early Jewish history? If so, you will find all you need, and more, in Rabbi Joseph Telushkin's book, Biblical Literacy. While this book will not make you a card-carrying biblical scholar, it will introduce you to the key people, events, and locations documented in the Bible. It will also make you literate and conversant on biblical topics, and it will familiarize you with one of the most important books in western literature. In addition, it will help you to understand how the Hebrew Bible influenced other religions that developed after the advent of Judaism, and how these other religions interpret the events in the 'Old Testament' differently than do Jewish readers. Rabbi Telushkin also offers insights into how the Bible has, and still does, influences Jewish religious practices.

While Biblical Literacy can be used as a reference book, it was written more as a study guide, designed to help interested individuals study and explore the grandeur of the Bible. It is suitable for both Jewish and gentile readers, and for readers of all ages. Biblical Literacy also offers readers insights into the weekly readings, as well as providing commentary on some key components of the Bible, such as the 613 mitzvot and the Ten Commandments, which are delineated within its pages. In short, Biblical Literacy provides readers with a road-map that will help them to explore and understand the Hebrew Bible.

Other books by Rabbi Joseph Telushkin:

Related Reviews:

Jewish Literacy, Revised Edition, by Rabbi Joseph Telushkin.
The Most Important Things to Know About the Jewish Religion, Its People, and Its History. A comprehensive reference book on the essentials and essence of Judaism and Jewish history and culture.
The Complete Idiot's Guide to Understanding Judaism, 2nd Edition, by Rabbi Benjamin Blech.
A Guided Tour Through the Beliefs, Laws, and Traditions of Judaism.

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