OWN CORRESPONDENT
That has changed in Johannesburg with the recent launch of the first-ever English translation and commentary of the Maharal’s classic Tiferet Yisrael. This translation with a commentary, was written to address key questions in Jewish thought relating to the purpose of Torah and mitzvot.
The Maharal asks powerful, bluntly relevant questions and then constructs a framework on which he builds relevant, profound answers. One of his opening questions in the book is one which is often raised: how is it that one finds ostensibly observant Jews who are unfortunately unethical and immoral?
He also addresses the purpose of the entire structure of mitzvot, especially if a person observing mitzvot is ignorant of the purpose of the particular mitzvot she or he is observing.
The English translation with commentary, was written by Rabbi Ramon Widmonte over a period of eight years and published by Urim worldwide.
Copies of the book can be obtained from the offices of the Academy of Jewish Thought and Learning, 010-140-2099 and info@theacademy.org.za.
