Over the past two centuries, archaeology has transformed the study of the ancient world. Periodically, a dramatic announcement appears in the news: an inscription, a seal, or a structure that allegedly sheds new light on the biblical period. The reactions tend to be immediate and predictable.

The election season is filled with slogans, sound bites, campaign posturing. Candidates employ experts who can best market them. The candidates are instructed on what to say and what not to say; the tone of voice they should use; the type of clothes and makeup they should wear. The goal is to create an electable image. News items are subject to p.r. spins; polls are used as signs of gained or lost momentum and are interpreted by candidates in a way that most favors themselves.

Hayyei Sarah: Abraham’s Servant and the Art of Biblical Retelling  

Due to the complexity of human nature, great individuals also struggle with character weaknesses. Straying from the facts robs Tanakh of some of its most powerful messages and leaves readers without authentic role models.

Wondrous and heretofore unimaginable developments have impacted the way that we view, study and teach Tanakh in at least three distinct yet interrelated areas. One of the delightful ironies which these intersections share is their respective roles, in earlier times, in effecting the opposite.

We are thrilled to report that Rabbi Hayyim Angel has published the third volume of his new commentary on Tanakh: The Heart of Judges. Along with The Heart of the Five Megillot and The Heart of Joshua, it is available at amazon.com in paperback and Kindle formats. This part of a project that ultimately will cover the entire Tanakh. Upcoming volumes currently in preparation are: