Product Review

Sol Scharfstein's new translation of the Torah is truly a first in the field of Jewish education and publishing. Written with a sense of piety and awe for the majesty and sanctity of the biblical text, it conveys the content of the Five Book of Moses in language that is easy to read and understand. The message of the Bible is ageless, but for full comprehension, it must be presented in language suited to the time and place of the reader. Scharfstein's fluent, idiomatic translation does exactly this"replacing the ancient robes of 4000 years ago in which the Torah was given on Sinai with up-to-date garments of the 21st century that preserve its inner essence but make it familiar and "user-friendly." The English translation is presented side by side with the original text, making this volume an excellent tool for those who are learning biblical Hebrew. The weekly readings and their divisions are all clearly designated, and each book of the Torah is preceded by a brief introduction that explains its most important aspects.
All in all, this new translation will prove to be an invaluable tool in Jewish education and an essential addition to the home library of every Jewish family.
Sol Scharfstein is the author of numerous children's books and Jewish educational texts, including . . . , as well as a very popular new translation of the Passover Haggadah with full instructions and a traditional commentary.