Maurice Henry Harris's superb translation and commentary on the sacred texts of Judaism are authentic, well-researched and impeccably presented. Together they form a superb introduction to Judaism and the Hebraic traditions.
In this book, Harris undertakes a thorough study of the ancient Jewish texts, hoping to present them to Jewish and non-Jewish readers alike in a manner both accessible and comprehensible to English speakers. The result is this translated compendium of three of the most fundamental sacred texts of Judaism:
Firstly, Harris translates the collection of ancient Babylonian writings known as the Talmud, which broadly expounds on the Biblical canon.
Next, there is the Rabbinic literature and commentaries collectively known as the Midrash, many of which seek to interpret difficult passages of the Bible.
Lastly, Harris tackles documents of the esoteric and mystical school of Jewish thought named Kabbalah.
Together, the texts which comprise these three broad compendiums constitute (alongside the Torah and Hebrew Bible) the core principles of the Jewish faith. As such they hold immense historical, philosophical and religious insights into the Jewish beliefs, and how the ancient Rabbis sought to interpret the word of God as presented in the Bible.
Maurice Harris confidently and ably translates these texts while providing his own explanations and commentary. Making pains to demystify elements of the texts which are particularly profound or deep, Harris manages to respectfully present the core tenets of the Jewish faith. While portions of his translations are difficult owing to the subject matter, this manual is on the whole a comprehensive introduction to Judaism's most ancient beliefs.
In addition to the three principle texts, Harris explains the major Jewish fasts, festivals and customs, and introduces a variety of common proverbs and sayings popular among adherents of Judaism. Source references are present throughout the text, making Hebraic Literature a comprehensive and impressive work.
