Essays on Ethics: A Weekly Reading of the Jewish Bible Hardcover – September 15, 2016

Rabbi Sacks presents fascinating essays on the stories of the Pentateuch from a philosophical Jewish angle. It's a must-have for anyone interested in both philosophy and the Bible. I had to read the section on Exodus for a class, but I went back and read the stories from Genesis in preparation for a Bible study. The study group is mostly intellectual women, and even one who is not a believer enjoyed hearing the excerpts I shared from Sacks. These essays can spark discussion and help one to understand the people of the Old Testament.

What a privilege it is to be in the company of a humble, kind, generous truthful man of God . He , as God’s servant breaks the bread of truth and pours out living water to nourish, refresh and revive us again. For what purpose does he labor for our sakes? He tenderly leads us as God’s under shepherd to love and serve our God with gladness of heart.

I have always enjoyed listening to Rabbi Jonathan Sacks on youtube.com or reading articles by him. Now I have this book that really adds to my understanding of the Torah portions. Each essay is only a few pages long, so it doesn't take up a lot of my time, since I also read the Torah portion and watch different videos from other rabbis (including him!). I recommend this book.

This man, his wisdom, perspective and writings are a gift from a higher power. Truly a must read to all who who seek first to understand then to be understood.

This is a very mature, but up to date interpretation/study of the major stories of the Old Testament. Rabbi Sacks includes old references and modern research to look at the human struggle of Ethics and Morales. This is from the Jewish Tradition, as Rabbi Sacks is an Orthodox Rabbi, but myself I was raised traditional Christian and struggled with how violent and sometimes flawed or unforgiving the Old Testament seemed. Rabbi Sacks tells this almost as a love story of God to his people, helping them learn and grow.

Terrific book. I had just finished reading "Not in God's Name" when I decided to follow up with the next Jonathan Sacks book "Essays on Ethics:...".I have enjoyed many of the author's books. This one is unique in that the chapters are very short, sweet, and to the point. Rabbi Sacks takes one aspect of each parsha and spends a few pages discussing his take. I've heard many sermons on many Shabbat mornings breaking down the week's Torah portion - I learned a few new things in this book. Enjoyed!

I am so impressed with this book. If this was my text book in Hebrew School, I would have paid more attention.

I am a big fan of reading Jewish Theology and Philosophy even though I am a Christian. I have found some profound insights into life and the Bible through exploring those outside of my own tradition. I recommend this book to anyone who wants to understand the "why" of some passages in the Torah. Rabbi Sachs writes in a way that is accessible to the layman, but deep enough to inform even those familiar with the Torah and Biblical ethics.

One of the best books that I've ever read. An essential read in these deeply troubling times. Sacks is a wonderful writer and does an incredible job in breaking down the beauty and wonder of the Torah.

Jonathan Sacks never lets one down-probably the sharpest mind accompanied by gracious tone to be found on theolog shelves

Deep, involving, mind opening and a needed compass in a (western) world that seems to have lost its own.

Excellent service, couldn't be bettered.

Rather dry. Ok for theology students.