Covenant & Conversation: Genesis: The Book of Beginnings

Rabbi Jonathon Sacks is always eloquent and easy to read. I value his clear Jewish perspective, history, knowledge of Mishnah and Talmud, of Torah and the Scriptures. He speaks to a Jewish audience and explains for a Christian one, easing communication between the two believers. This book on Genesis is inciteful as always. It's important to know what is assumed in Jewish history/study, what has been passed down for 1000s of years deliberately and delicately intact, not at all ever like a telephone game. Knowing these things brings Scripture to life and connects the stories into one cohesive plan of G-d to restore Creation --- ALL of it!

The writing style is easy for the lay person to comprehend. He gives gems of wisdom to ponder and questions that make me think long after I’ve put the book down. I thoroughly enjoy learning about the history of the Jewish people, their land and their faith. I’ve been shown that there is so much I don’t know about my own faith roots and will be forever grateful to Rabbi Sacks for enlightening the path. While I am a Christian, learning/reading from a Jewish perspective has given me new insight into my faith as well as Judaism. This book is interesting and will hold the reader’s attention without a problem. The chapters are 4-6 pages in length and not written for an academician (thank goodness!), so I was able to grasp concepts without a problem. Rabbi Jonathan Sacks has written a wonderful book for Jews as well as non-Jews who want to learn more about the beginning of creation along with relevant, applicable truths for life today. I am not Jewish, but I am interested in learning about the roots of my Christian faith, which are founded and grounded in Judaism. Rabbi Sacks writes in a way that is engaging, understandable and current. He espouses many life truths that apply to everyone, as well as some for Jews alone. I have the entire Covenant & Conversation series and am currently reading the second book in the series, Exodus. I’m learning a lot from the rich truths of this learned man to whom God has gifted such a talent for writing.

Each section of the book, covering the weekly reading of the Jewish Bible, consists of 4 short essays, some focusing more on literary analysis, some on major psychological, historical points etc. The strength of this book is its accessibility to those who have great knowledge of the text and those who don't. His essays often bring together the bigger picture in a way that reading the actual text can not always do. I am currently studying in a Orthodox Yeshiva (Jewish Academy) and weekly one of our head Rabbis give a lecture on the weekly reading and it's clear that Rabbi Sacks is brining unique views supported by many commentaries and can bring something new even to those learning these texts for a living, like me. An important note is that the book will give the most benefit to those who have a familiarity with the details of the stories, as well as some familiarity with the text itself, but a quick read online of most translations or even a wikipedia summary would help and enhance the read of the book. Another small criticism I have is that at time Rabbi Sacks deals closely with the text but at times he makes very broad claims based on major scientific and psychological finds and only ties them together, sometimes loosely, at the end of the mini essay, and then later he refers to his claim as though it were the most obvious thing in the world. However, the ultimate point he is trying to make is often refreshing, beautiful, and rarely ever more overreaching than the claims of many classical Jewish commentators. A worthwhile read I recommend to Jew and non-Jew alike.

great book

My rabbi tells me that Exodus is the book that begins the story of the Jewish people. So why did the authorities place Genesis first in the Tanach? I found the answer in this book. According to Rabbi Sacks: "By placing the stories of Genesis before the book of Exodus, with its story for the birth of the Israelites as a nation, the Torah is implicitly telling us of the primacy of the personal over the political." Exodus is the one big story of the birth of a people, but Genesis full of little stories of one person after another. Adam, Abraham, Jonah, Jacob, Joseph—they all take their moment in the spotlight then move offstage to make room for the next person to tell his story. This extremely readable book takes each parasha in turn and looks at its relevance to our lives today. I look forward to its companion essays on Leviticus.

I highly recommend this book. It's a good addition to reading this parsha/weekly portion of the torah. This book covers the weekly torah readings for Genesis. Rabbi Sacks finds four different short essays (about 3-5 pages per essay). They are interesting analysis of the week's parsha and examine the stories from a new perspective, one you may have not thought of. Because they are essays, it allows you to spend enough time to develop a thought. I suggest you purchase this in conjunction with the weekly torah portion (he has a book for each book of the torah). While Rabbi Sacks is an Orthodox rabbi, I would suggest that his words would resonsnate with conservative and reform Jews. Rabbi Sacks is definitely one of the most profound Jewish thinkers in our lifetime. This is a book you should read. The book is also made of good paper stock, has a nicely designed cover and looks nice in a library.

This is one of the most exciting books I have ever read, I love the questions raised by the author and the unique advantage point he brings to the discussion. Everything by Jonathan Sacks is outstanding and intriguing. I hope he finishes the 5 books of the Pentatuch. I read Exodus and it was good but I really loved the Genesis discussion. I finally had to buy it -- I had borrowed it from the Holocaust Library in St. Louis and also asked a local library to purchase it and read it then, but now I live in Virginia and there was no way to borrow it again! Christians will love it -- I sat with my Bible and pen and made notes in it. Best of all it sparks a new way to look at material we have all read 100 times before! Thank you, Jonathan Sacks -- live long and prosper!

Great read! Rabbi Sacks is an excellent writer making complex ideas clear and easy to digest. "Genesis" is about the first book of the Torah (and Bible), which is the building block for all the other books. I should say that this is the first book in a series of five books on the old testament. Sacks is writing these books as a base for conversation. That is to say, you read a little and then discuss the information with others reading the book. I am reading this with two other people and love how Sacks brings out the connection between Genesis and the family of man. We are after all one global community. I am learning about Judaism in the process, really lovely, engaging and clearly presented. If you are interested in learning about Judaism or exploring the book of Genesis, Sacks writing is modern and enlightening.

Everything Rabbi Sacks z”l wrote is golden. Always offers a new insight to the Parsha. Well worthwhile reading!

Sometimes you seek, but for whatever reason, no matter how hard you look, you just don't find what it is that you want or need to fill that hole in your life. Today that hunger has been satiated, so many answers, so much widom is held in one place. Rabbi Sacks has a depth in his explanations, as he guides you through the books of Genesis. Emparting knowledge in such a way that wraps you in a cacoon of emotions and joy, for me, the joy of dicovery. Jew or not if you want to understand and feel the "Old Testament" ss it was meant this is the book that belongs in your library.

Rabbi Jonathon Sacks is always eloquent and easy to read. I value his clear Jewish perspective, history, knowledge of Mishnah and Talmud, of Torah and the Scriptures. He speaks to a Jewish audience and explains for a Christian one, easing communication between the two believers. This book on Genesis is inciteful as always. It's important to know what is assumed in Jewish history/study, what has been passed down for 1000s of years deliberately and delicately intact, not at all ever like a telephone game. Knowing these things brings Scripture to life and connects the stories into one cohesive plan of G-d to restore Creation --- ALL of it!

The writing style is easy for the lay person to comprehend. He gives gems of wisdom to ponder and questions that make me think long after I’ve put the book down. I thoroughly enjoy learning about the history of the Jewish people, their land and their faith. I’ve been shown that there is so much I don’t know about my own faith roots and will be forever grateful to Rabbi Sacks for enlightening the path. While I am a Christian, learning/reading from a Jewish perspective has given me new insight into my faith as well as Judaism. This book is interesting and will hold the reader’s attention without a problem. The chapters are 4-6 pages in length and not written for an academician (thank goodness!), so I was able to grasp concepts without a problem. Rabbi Jonathan Sacks has written a wonderful book for Jews as well as non-Jews who want to learn more about the beginning of creation along with relevant, applicable truths for life today. I am not Jewish, but I am interested in learning about the roots of my Christian faith, which are founded and grounded in Judaism. Rabbi Sacks writes in a way that is engaging, understandable and current. He espouses many life truths that apply to everyone, as well as some for Jews alone. I have the entire Covenant & Conversation series and am currently reading the second book in the series, Exodus. I’m learning a lot from the rich truths of this learned man to whom God has gifted such a talent for writing.

Each section of the book, covering the weekly reading of the Jewish Bible, consists of 4 short essays, some focusing more on literary analysis, some on major psychological, historical points etc. The strength of this book is its accessibility to those who have great knowledge of the text and those who don't. His essays often bring together the bigger picture in a way that reading the actual text can not always do. I am currently studying in a Orthodox Yeshiva (Jewish Academy) and weekly one of our head Rabbis give a lecture on the weekly reading and it's clear that Rabbi Sacks is brining unique views supported by many commentaries and can bring something new even to those learning these texts for a living, like me. An important note is that the book will give the most benefit to those who have a familiarity with the details of the stories, as well as some familiarity with the text itself, but a quick read online of most translations or even a wikipedia summary would help and enhance the read of the book. Another small criticism I have is that at time Rabbi Sacks deals closely with the text but at times he makes very broad claims based on major scientific and psychological finds and only ties them together, sometimes loosely, at the end of the mini essay, and then later he refers to his claim as though it were the most obvious thing in the world. However, the ultimate point he is trying to make is often refreshing, beautiful, and rarely ever more overreaching than the claims of many classical Jewish commentators. A worthwhile read I recommend to Jew and non-Jew alike.

great book

My rabbi tells me that Exodus is the book that begins the story of the Jewish people. So why did the authorities place Genesis first in the Tanach? I found the answer in this book. According to Rabbi Sacks: "By placing the stories of Genesis before the book of Exodus, with its story for the birth of the Israelites as a nation, the Torah is implicitly telling us of the primacy of the personal over the political." Exodus is the one big story of the birth of a people, but Genesis full of little stories of one person after another. Adam, Abraham, Jonah, Jacob, Joseph—they all take their moment in the spotlight then move offstage to make room for the next person to tell his story. This extremely readable book takes each parasha in turn and looks at its relevance to our lives today. I look forward to its companion essays on Leviticus.

I highly recommend this book. It's a good addition to reading this parsha/weekly portion of the torah. This book covers the weekly torah readings for Genesis. Rabbi Sacks finds four different short essays (about 3-5 pages per essay). They are interesting analysis of the week's parsha and examine the stories from a new perspective, one you may have not thought of. Because they are essays, it allows you to spend enough time to develop a thought. I suggest you purchase this in conjunction with the weekly torah portion (he has a book for each book of the torah). While Rabbi Sacks is an Orthodox rabbi, I would suggest that his words would resonsnate with conservative and reform Jews. Rabbi Sacks is definitely one of the most profound Jewish thinkers in our lifetime. This is a book you should read. The book is also made of good paper stock, has a nicely designed cover and looks nice in a library.

This is one of the most exciting books I have ever read, I love the questions raised by the author and the unique advantage point he brings to the discussion. Everything by Jonathan Sacks is outstanding and intriguing. I hope he finishes the 5 books of the Pentatuch. I read Exodus and it was good but I really loved the Genesis discussion. I finally had to buy it -- I had borrowed it from the Holocaust Library in St. Louis and also asked a local library to purchase it and read it then, but now I live in Virginia and there was no way to borrow it again! Christians will love it -- I sat with my Bible and pen and made notes in it. Best of all it sparks a new way to look at material we have all read 100 times before! Thank you, Jonathan Sacks -- live long and prosper!

Great read! Rabbi Sacks is an excellent writer making complex ideas clear and easy to digest. "Genesis" is about the first book of the Torah (and Bible), which is the building block for all the other books. I should say that this is the first book in a series of five books on the old testament. Sacks is writing these books as a base for conversation. That is to say, you read a little and then discuss the information with others reading the book. I am reading this with two other people and love how Sacks brings out the connection between Genesis and the family of man. We are after all one global community. I am learning about Judaism in the process, really lovely, engaging and clearly presented. If you are interested in learning about Judaism or exploring the book of Genesis, Sacks writing is modern and enlightening.

Everything Rabbi Sacks z”l wrote is golden. Always offers a new insight to the Parsha. Well worthwhile reading!

Sometimes you seek, but for whatever reason, no matter how hard you look, you just don't find what it is that you want or need to fill that hole in your life. Today that hunger has been satiated, so many answers, so much widom is held in one place. Rabbi Sacks has a depth in his explanations, as he guides you through the books of Genesis. Emparting knowledge in such a way that wraps you in a cacoon of emotions and joy, for me, the joy of dicovery. Jew or not if you want to understand and feel the "Old Testament" ss it was meant this is the book that belongs in your library.

Well written. I enjoyed every sentence. It really gave me a new perspective of genesis and the Hebrew bible. Thanks.

As a Christian, I find is safe and enjoyable to learn Torah at the feet of Rabbi Sacks. He NEVER insults my faith, and he opens scripture to me in ways I have never heard in church. He also opens the Jewish heart to me, which is beautiful. I have all of Rabbi Sack's books, I have read about 1/2 of them, all are clearly focused, extremely well written and respectful of other faiths while not watering down his Jewish message to the world. I read all of scripture differently now, including the New Testament. It just explodes with meaning after learning from this wonderful Rabbi. Glorious.

I am a Christian on a quest to learn more about the Judaic faith on which Christianity stands. Rabbi Sacks' Covenant and Conversation series has been incredibly enlightening for me. I can only imagine the depths of inspiration it holds for those of the Jewish faith. Rabbi Sacks develops each devotion deftly, incisively yet at a level where the common man (and woman) can follow along. This the first in the series, brings forth the stories of Genesis with which I believe most people have the greatest familiarity. Tremendous!

I'm a Christian eager to illuminate the Hebrew sacred scriptures with authoritative insights. Rabbi Sacks pulls from Mishnaic, Talmudic, and other sources--not all Jewish--to access the treasures in Genesis through a series of short essays. I use this text along with Robert Alter's translation and commentary on Genesis, and the New Jerome Biblical Commentary to inform my own studies of this seminal germ of faith literature. Highly recommended. Genesis, through Sack's voice, remains true to its origins and simultaneously immediately relevant to you and me.

This book was enlightening, thought provoking, and challenging the understanding of my current view of biblical history. It raises questions I never thought about that challenges my current understanding and provides a new perspective to consider. I love these books be Rabbi Sacks! Absolutely life changing!

Everything written by Rabbi Sacks lifts my spirits, educates me, deepens my love of Torah and Judaism. I own and have read several of his books. They are all thoughtful, intelligent, and accessible for those of us who desire to reach into Torah and dig deeper into the spiritual level messages. This book is no exception. Understanding Rabbi Sacks' commentary occurs in layers - the more you read it, the more layers you uncover - just like the Torah. Thank you Rabbi Sacks!

Rabbi Sacks writes in an accessible style, and brings a mind formed in the traditions that first created the book of Genesis out of older documents. He emphasises the idea that the two "creation" stories in Genesis 1-3 are about the nature of God. The two stories, however, are very different. The first is a sophisticated poem about the remote God who creates by Word. The second is folksy story about the intimate God who walks with people in the cool of the garden. This refreshing approach leads to some quite liberating insights - all Christians can benefit from the Jewish insights that lie at the base of our faith. Very much a Jewish book, but one for all people of faith.

Rabbi Sir Jonathan Sacks is not just a good and brilliant man, he has the gift to be able to communicate the true Jewish tradition of Torah study to anyone of any faith or lack thereof. The loving care and depth of understanding found in our tradition of Torah study, from the biblical period to the present, is alive and well in 'Covenant & Conversation'. The insights into each parsha (weekly reading) starting with Adam, through Noah and on to Abraham, Sarah, Isaac, Rebecca, Jacob, Rachel, Leah, Joseph and his brothers, clarifies the conflicts, resolutions and partial resolutions that all of us find in our life today. It is Rabbi Sacks gift to make these ancient personalities very much alive and right next to us as we eat breakfast, drive or walk to work and on through the day. Start reading and you may find yourself, right there on the page.

As a Jewish believer in Jesus, I found this book very valuable for teaching Genesis. Christians need to understand the Jewish, that is to say, the original meanings in Genesis to truly understand how Jesus is the Word, starting with Genesis, become flesh or a Man. The morality in Genesis is often lost in just the telling of what happened when reading Genesis. Rabbi Sacks reveals how it has impact on our character before God today. On the other hand, there are places where the author would have had a deeper insight into God's intention in giving us Genesis if he knew Jesus (Yeshua). A valuable read for either Jews or Christians.

It helps greatly if the reader is well familiar with the text of genesis. This is not an easy introduction; it is a commentary for those who have already thought about Genesis on their own. This is not for the simple fundamentalist -- to such it will be too difficult. It is also not for the atheist unfamiliar with the writing -- to such it will be too difficult. This is just right to the inquisitive intellect well familiar with the text, who has a penchant for asking difficult questions and is willing to look for meanings beyond the word-for-word interpretation. Many such questions are well discussed and answered in these commentaries. Enjoy if you dare!

Rabbi Sacks has given us a real gift with this series. Thoughtful and sensitive, yet direct, his essays bring light and understanding to the scriptures. I have repeatedly stopped, and reread his words to fully understand his meaning and have been rewarded for it.

Excellent book. I’ve learned a lot about the philosophy of Judaism and it’s interpretation of Genesis. This is the second on of Rabbi Sacks’ books and plan to read the rest of the ones on Torah.

Excellently written, the essays are are engaging and though provoking. It brings the weekly biblical portion (Parsha) to life. It makes you be connected to Judaism and to live life authentically. At the same it asks tough questions that may come up when reading the Parsha.

There are four essays for each parsha, and each section begins with an overview of the four essays. The essays are wonderful--thought provoking--and they provide a view that is different from the ones I've heard repeated over and over again through the years. I love that Rabbi Sacks includes diverse references from classical literature and from other areas of scholarship. He seems to be a Renaissance man, acquainted with all branches of knowledge, and unafraid to use all knowledge to better explicate Torah. I hope that books for the last three Chumashim will be out before we finish Sefer Shmos.

Rabbi Sacks offers an illuminating collection of essays on the major sections of Genesis. Written, of course, from a Jewish perspective, these essays offer reflections of great value to those of us who are Christian as well.

Been in church life for over 20 years and including in that time I earned a Bible College Degree. Have recently become very interested in Judaic world view and perspective. This commentary is brilliant to have to read alongside the weekly portions (parashah). Some of things Jonathan Sacks writes are simple but so profound that I have to read the chapters over again just to try a digest it as I have seen some of the principles in the passages before.

This is a wonderful book. Being Jewish myself, I enjoy reading Rabbi Sacks' commentary of each weekly Torah portion. He has exceptional insight and offers practical application for life today. His use of the English language is superb. I consider him a modern day sage and highly recommend all his books.

It deals with important, fundamental, questions of ethics which have hounded me for decades. It shows, although it doesn’t say, that the only answer to such a question is another question.

Brilliant, short analyses of the weekly portions. Sacks' perspective is comparative across several "parshiyot" -- showing connections between different parts of the Bible. Great for the traditional Orthodox AND also for those less so.

It is an easy read book with lots of info explaining the book of Genesis with hidden meanings explained from the rabbis.

I have just bought the book and got through up until Abraham. Now, taking a break, I want to take a second to vouch for this excellent and insightful commentary. Rabbi Sacks writes eloquently and succinctly, not to mention the commentary, which is terrific! I, as a Christian who is half-Jewish by birth, am very grateful I have found this. Truly a gem!

A work of monumental creativity, brimming with spirituality, thoughtfulness, and hope. A true pleasure to read, alone or in tandem with the weekly parsha.

Very interesting look at the Torah. I like how the philosophy of Judaism is compared to more modern thoughts of Kant and others. Very helpful in understanding the new outlook on life brought forth by monotheism. Thanks for a great read.

This is an excellent book in explaining Genesis. Really wonderful and will recommend it

Grand insights into ancient stories of timeless wisdom. Must reading for those who search for meaning. Leaves you yearning for more from this master.

An excellent read. The viewpoint of the author allows one to gain a new and worthwhile perspective.

This book met all of my expectations and so much more! Well written, clear and insightful! I look forward to the other books in the sequence! Excellent Torah reference!

Gave as a gift to a new Priest. He loves it

Rabbi Sacks is incredibly original in his interpretations of the well known book of Beres*** (Genesis). Combined with his erudite way of bringing in his considerable secular knowledge, he makes Torah come to life. I found his insight into the saga of Joseph and his brothers especially moving and inspirational.

Wonderfully and Beautifully made

I have purchased the set as I think Rabbi Sacks has timeless applications to the Biblical story.

Brilliant! Wise. This book truly helps me reflect deeper on the Book of Genesis and what it means for me in everyday life. Thank you Rabbi Sir Jonathan Sacks.

Rabbi Jonathan Sacks has written one of the most accessible and readable books on Genesis that has been published in sometime. Highly recommend it.

This is my first book by Rabbi Sacks. His command of English is extraordinary (that's good). His logic is clear (that's good). His view is precise (that's good). I guess that all I can say is, 'Bring on the other books.'

Rabbi Sacks provides his timeless insights into the weekly Torah portion, exploring each of Genesis' characters in a uniquely human light, framing the Genesis narrative as a historical drama with relevant ramifications for our modern, 21st century socio-political issues.

This book opened my eyes to many different meanings and interpretations of Genesis. Rabbi Sacks' prose speaks to me like no other.

Reads like a novel. Easy for any layman to understand and learn life lessons. One does not have to be a scholar to fully understand. I found myself looking forward to reading and rereading it.

I am using this book in my Torah study class. It is full of provocative and illuminating ideas. Highly recommenced.

Intelligent comments, a great opportunity to understand our roots, our origins, and to reflect about our psique.

This is a beautifully written and brilliantly argued book. It is an excellent introduction to the profound spiritual truths of Judaism. It arrived propmptly and in excellent condition.

Have reviewed earlier book in this series. Rabbi Lords Jonathan Sacks is one of the most distinguished and insightful writers in this area. See his Exodus book

Excellent insight into the word of God. Motivates to constantly study the Torah and the New Testament.

Excellent! Informatively documented and thought-provoking insights provide the bases for reflection and development of one's ideas on the subject.

I highly recommend anything Rabbi Sacks has written. His Torah commentary is excellent

Outstanding book...you will learn a lot

Rabbi Sacks is a perceptive, brilliant conceptual reader of text.

Love learning Rabbi sacks each week. Our group has some wonderful discussions. He is a wonderful and insightful author who is in touch with the modern world.

Rabbi Sacks is a profound and accessible thinker. His teachings help one to explore more deeply the meaning of this ancient text.

Rabbi Sachs is a genius, blessed with the gift of explaining the deep insights sometimes hidden in the plain sight of the Torah.

Still reading it but it is a good book.

he is a great writer and thinker but his anti reform movement is his downfall

see my description on the book of Leviticus

I have not ffinished the book, but so far I have found it to be an exciting introduction to Genesis through Jewish eyes.

Great work as always.

We ordered this for our kids cause we loved it.

On time. As advertised.

Clearly written with refreshing insights.

Very thought provoking.

Brilliant!

A useful resource. It's useful to have Jewish reflections on the Old Testament-- in particular, Genesis. If you want something thicker but indispensable and incredible, check out Kass' commentary on Genesis!

What is so special about this book? For me it is its lucidity. With seemingly great ease the rabbi discusses often abstract thoughts. For instance when he explains what kind of book Genesis is: It is philosophy (ontology, epistemology, ethics) written in a deliberately non-philosophical way. Where philosophy is truth as system, Genesis is truth as story. It’s not cosmology/ myth/ science (how did it happen?), it’s not history (what happened?). If we seek to understand the Torah, we must read it as Torah – as law, teaching, guidance. Torah is an answer to the question: how shall we live? By telling the story of a family it answers questions about who man is (free, fickle, seeking teshuvah), what truth is (hidden in layers of ambiguity and depth) who God is (someone who prefers the personal). For me the rabbi is at his best when he delves the waters of that ambiguity and depth in human interaction. His understanding of the Hebrew text helps him understand the nuances that stay hidden in translations. In that way we get an in depth view of not only what happens between characters but also what has caused this action and how the action influences the future. A beautiful example is the unravelling of the question why Judah and not Josef is the brother who is the forefather of king David. Judah is the man who repents. The story of Judah is the basis for the practice of teshuvah (repentance). Judah the son of the rejected wife Leah starts his life by choosing badly: he wants to kill Joseph, he sleeps with his daughter in law Tamar. But change sets in gradually when he admits that she is more righteous than he is. This path to redemption ends when he trades his life for that of his brother Benjamin. It is that act that changes history. He wanted evil for Joseph, he wanted him dead. That didn’t happen, his brother saved his family. By wanting to kill him he inadvertently saves his family. But can he credit himself with that. No, he can’t, because his intent was to kill his brother. Now he repents. His deed stays the same, but his intent changes. Now the good that came from the deed can be attributed to Judah. So in this view we are not slaves of our fate nor of our freedom (we don’t know the outcome of our deeds). By repenting we can change history. ‘In a lovely phrase, he (Harold Fisch) speaks of the Jewish imagination as shaped by ‘the unappeased memory of a future still to be fulfilled.’ (p. 353)

Sir Jonathan Sacks is the Chief Rabbi of the United Hebrew Congregations of the British Commonwealth and one of the world's leading Jewish intellectuals. He is the author of about two dozen books. This is the first of his so far two volumes, with three more to come, with commentaries on the weekly synagogue Torah readings. He discusses the first of the five books of Moses, Genesis, in this volume. He offers four or five incisive, relevant, and rational essays on each of Genesis' ten portions. He introduces his commentary by describing the value of reading and understanding the weekly Torah portion: The weekly reading creates an encounter between the now of today and the then of the Bible, the moment and the eternity. It gives a "sense of living out a narrative, the biblical story, to which we ourselves are writing the latest chapter." He writes that many Bible commentaries examine the Torah through a microscope, looking at details, fragments in isolation, while he "looks at it through a telescope: the larger picture and its place in the constellation of concepts that make Judaism so compelling." Rabbi Sacks' writing is clear and his explanations are delightfully rational. He tells us that the book Genesis "is not theology. Genesis is less about God than about human beings," about how to live. He is unafraid, as some rabbis appear to be, of citing non-Jewish sources, for as Moses Maimonides (1138-1204) said: the truth is the truth no matter what its source. And he cites medieval and Bible commentators. Unlike many others, he is careful to state when a tradition is not in the Torah itself, but is a Midrash (parables written by rabbis to teach moral lessons); such as the Torah does not identify the servant Abraham sent to secure a wife for his son Isaac, while some Midrashim (plural of Midrash) identify the servant as Eliezer. All of the rabbi's commentaries are interesting and informative and many are superbly so. He tells us, for example, that the "name of (Abraham's son) Ishmael's second wife (in a Midrash), Fatimah, is highly significant. In the Koran, Fatimah is the daughter of Mohammad. Pirkei deRabbi Eliezer (the Midrash where this story appears) is an eighth-century work, and it is here making an explicit, and positive, reference to Islam." He goes on to explain that both Jews and Muslims identify Ishmael with Muslims and the fact that the Bible itself reports "that both sons (the brothers Isaac the Jew and Ishmael the Arab) stood together at their father's funeral tells us that (although Ishmael was sent away from Abraham's home) they too (like Abraham and Ishmael in a Midrash) were reunited." The rabbi includes some very interesting literary analyses of biblical stories. He devotes eight pages to The Tragedy of Reuben the patriarch Jacob's oldest son. What did Reuben do wrong that his father told him on his death bed "unstable as water, you will not be pre-eminent"? What was the flaw in Reuben's character? Rabbi Sacks analyses every reference in the Bible to Reuben and discloses a fascinating in-depth study of the man. We learn, among other things, that a person can mean well and even act well, but unwisely, and destroy himself and his family. We are also reminded that despite the desire of many Bible readers, there is no biblical figure that did not make a mistake. Similarly, he compares the biblical accounts of Tamar, the daughter-in-law of Jacob's son Judah, whose story is told in Genesis 38, and Ruth, the ancestress of King David, and the comparisons add a new dimension to both tales. In summary, Rabbi Sacks has given us a fresh air, sensible, meaningful, and relevant interpretation of the Bible, without an overreliance on Midrash. He tells us what the Torah itself says, and he does so very well, clearly and interestingly.

This book is beautifully written, and reading it made Shabbat very special for me. It is divided nicely into short, deeply thought-provoking sections, upon which one can reflect throughout the day

This is a beautiful commentary on the Torah: fresh, insightful, easy to read and utterly engaging. I'd highly recommend this book to anyone who wants to find new insights in the Hebrew Bible, whether they are beginners or more advanced. A truly wonderful, wonderful book that is destined to become a classic.

Reading this book is akin to having Rabbi Sacks sitting in the room with you and having a conversation about Genesis. His interpretation can be agreed to by Reform, Conservative, Orthodox Reconstruction,Chasidic and secular Jews. Furthermore the other religions can identify with Rabbi Sack's writing. It is a gem and I am awaiting impatiently for his other Conversations of the Old Testament. Arthur

Granted me a better, deeper understanding of why such a small scattered group of society for thousands of years, who have been borrowed from, stolen from, even hated enough to try and annihilate, having this type of leadership (such as this author) endure because of their hope.

I loved this book. Whether you read it as a devotional (it's broken up into easy bite sized pieces) as a commentary or as a book of inspiration, it's brilliant. Sacks took Bible passages that I had read a million times and brought out fresh revelation and insights into the character of God. I highly recommend it.

I found this book hard to follow as someone completely new to biblical Judaism but it had good metaphors and examples

Highly recommended. Rabbi Sacks really helped me understand and get to grips with Genesis. What a wonderful start, looking forward to the next installment

This book can change your whole concept of life,it is a privilege to have lived and learned from the wisdom of Rabbi Sachs.This book is good for anybody who cares about the journey of life to achieve more understanding about our contemporaries in life.May he's dear soul rest in peace.