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David Plotz, an editor at Slate, has a new book out about the Bible. Watch the video above and let me know what you think in the comments section.

March 4, 2009 9:35 AM Filed under Misc.

2 Comments

Wouldnt it be nice to have those illustrations in our Artscroll Tanach’s?

He has an interesting take....
As Plotz describes it...taking out the “moral stories”...However, it doesnt mean anything if you dont pay attention to the moral stories.

Eventhough, I am sure I disagree with his outlook I would have given the book a chance.....however, when he describes Jacob as a “con-man”, Plotz completely loses me.

It reminds me when I was in college....
I attended USC....and the Hebrew classes were given at HUC. No problem...Until I got to my fourth semester and it was a bible criticism class. Not really my cup if tea...but I wanted to be open minded about it. The problem was that my classmates thought the Torah was a big joke...Not even a modicum of respect. So I went to my advisor, a religious Catholic with medals from the Pope, and he told me he would back me if I got flak about dropping the class.

My point being...that I dont have to agree with the person....but if it is clear to me, and with comments like calling Jacob a “con-man”, that he must approach the Torah as some bizarre book...I dont see much I can gain...except to have Plotz think Im an idiot for taking seriously the “moral messages”

BTW...Benyamin...your book was fantastic and was a G-D Send for me. Have a great Purim!!!

Your problem is that you never studied chazal with any sincerity. I am sorry that your life was so tragic. Your father is portayed as a shallow fool.
And, your mmother was a heroic victim. Maybe, your wife should beat you for your cowardice and blasphemy. However empty your life, and your waste of time in the upper west side of Manhattan,which is truly very depressing, your book is a real chilul hashem. If you think that you will make money from this disgraceful adventure, who knows.
The neshama, however, that your body is connected to is going through great pain. Show this to your wife. We are all sinners. But, you didn’t have the decency of keeping your nevelus to yourself.

A rabbis son from Brooklyn,

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