Redeeming Relevance in the Book of Genesis: Explorations in Text and Meaning

Examining the book of Genesis, the foundational text in the Hebrew Bible, this study seeks to mine the stories of some of the greatest figures in Judaism for their relevance to modern life. Rabbi Francis Nataf focuses on Abraham, the Matriarchs, Ishmael and Israel, Isaac, Jacob and Esau, and Judah, examining the stories in light of the protagonists’ humanity. In doing so, Nataf reveals how much more these figures have to offer a contemporary readership than when placed within a hagiographic framework. This work encourages readers to engage with—and even risk misinterpreting—the Torah in order to make it more alive and relevant.

Rabbi Francis Nataf is Jerusalem-based thinker, writer, and educator. He is the author of the Redeeming Relevance in Torah series and of many articles on comparative religious thought, biblical studies, and education.