The popular Bible review website and Youtube channel “Bible Buying Guide” (BBG) recently reviewed “The Israel Bible” and, according to Randy Brown of BBG, “I recommend “The Israel Bible to any student of Hebrew anyone that wants to learn more about Israel in the Bible.”
The Israel Bible: A Unique Jewish Study Bible
The Israel Bible, edited by Rabbi Tully Weisz, offers a distinctive approach to biblical study from a Jewish perspective. This hardcover edition, printed and bound in Italy, presents the Hebrew scriptures alongside English translations, making it an invaluable resource for those interested in Jewish interpretations of the Bible and its connections to the land of Israel.
Design and Layout
The Israel Bible is designed in the traditional Jewish style, opening from right to left. Its hardcover design is both aesthetically pleasing and durable. The Bible features:
- A sewn binding for longevity
- A single ribbon marker
- Thick, high-quality paper
- 9-point font with generous spacing
- Parallel text layout with English on the left and Hebrew on the right
Content and Features
This study Bible includes several unique elements:
- Jewish Order of Books: The text follows the traditional Jewish arrangement of the Tanakh (Hebrew Bible).
- English Translation: It uses a modified version of the New Jewish Publication Society translation, with some names replaced by traditional Hebrew alternatives.
- Commentary: The Bible features four types of commentary:
- Israel lessons
- Jewish lessons
- Hebrew lessons
- General comments
- Transliteration: Key Hebrew phrases are transliterated, aiding in pronunciation and language learning.
- Study Aids: The Bible includes maps, charts, and a Hebrew alphabet guide with pronunciation.
- Book Introductions: Each book begins with an introduction featuring key points and teachings from prominent rabbis.
- Visual Elements: Throughout the text, readers will find photos of people, places, and artifacts related to Israel and Jewish history.
Focus on Israel
The primary emphasis of this Bible is on how the text applies to Israel. The commentary, sourced from various rabbis and Jewish teachers both historical and contemporary, provides insights into Jewish interpretations and the significance of passages for the land and people of Israel.
Additional Resources
The Israel Bible comes with several supplementary materials:
- Biographies of scholars
- Bibliography
- List of transliterated words
- Index
- Chart of Hebrew months and holidays
- Map of modern-day Israel
- List of Israeli prime ministers
- Prayers for the state of Israel and its soldiers
Readers can access additional content, including more commentary, interactive maps, educational videos, and photographs, at israelbible.com.
Considerations for Readers
While this Bible offers valuable insights from a Jewish perspective, it’s important to note that interpretations may differ from other religious traditions. For instance, Christians may find different interpretations for passages they traditionally view as messianic prophecies.
Conclusion
The Israel Bible is an excellent resource for those interested in Jewish biblical interpretation, Hebrew language study, or the connection between the Bible and the land of Israel. Its unique layout, comprehensive commentary, and focus on Israel make it a valuable addition to any biblical studies library. However, readers should approach it as one perspective among many in the rich tradition of biblical interpretation.
Click here to read Randy Brown’s full review of “The Israel Bible” on Bible Buying Guide.
