Etz Hayim: Study Companion

Etz Hayim, the landmark Torah commentary publication of the Conservative movement, contains 41 challenging essays that examine various issues relating to the understanding and interpretation of the Bible. Prepared by eminent rabbis and scholars, these essays explore diverse, sometimes controversial, topics relating to Bible study, such as biblical archeology, marriage and family, revelation, and justice.

The Etz Hayim Study Companion has been prepared specifically to help readers understand and appreciate these exceptional essays.

Each original Etz Hayim essay appears in its entirety in the study companion, accompanied by an insightful summary and thought-provoking questions designed for individual or group study. The study material not only leads to a deeper understanding of the biblical text itself, but also presents discussion topics to enhance the learning experience. Included in the volume is a foreword by David Wolpe and a helpful guide to making the best use of the book by Jacob Blumenthal.

The essays have been organized into meaningful topic groups that probe the following subjects:

Is the Torah Really God's Word?

Understanding the Bible in Its Historical Context

Biblical Models of Character and Leadership

Making the Bible Meaningful and Relevant in Every Age

Prayer and Ritual Mitzvot

This study companion will help foster a clearer understanding of the Etz Hayim essays for those who may have already read them, and will encourage others to tackle material that they might otherwise have found daunting.

Jacob Blumenthal was ordained by the Jewish Theological Seminary and serves as the founding rabbi of Shaare Torah synagogue in Gaithersburg, Maryland.

Janet L. Liss is Production Editor at The Jewish Publication Society.

David Wolpe, the author of six books, is the rabbi of Sinai Temple in Los Angeles. He has taught at the Jewish Theological Seminary of America, the University of Judaism, and Hunter College, and he lectures widely at universities, synagogues, and institutes throughout the country.