BOOKSHELF
Bookshelf-resources for Truth seekers-
We do not necessarily support everything within these books
The books listed below represent only a fraction of what I could recommend. There are many
more wonderful sources which delve into deeper aspects of Torah definition and practice. For instance, the Talmud, Shulchun Aruch, Yalkut Yosef, Mishneh Torah, Targum Onkelos, many midrashim (expansion and explanation of various Biblical issues), etc. There are also many other outstanding works from various sages like the Vilna of Gaon, Rabbi Nachman of Breslov, etc. If I were to list them all, this page would itself become a book.
Basically, if you obtain any of the books shown, go ahead and take the leap into acquiring other books you may feel could be useful in your search for Torah Truth.
Feldheim Publishers - a particularly trusted source for useful publications
Any of the "Torah Classics" books from Feldheim Publishers are extremely valuable in providing an understanding of God's truth, and the others are also good.
Feldheim Publishers insures that you get among the most accurately translated material. Some of the books from that site are listed below. I think all or most of the books on the Feldheim site can also be obtained from Amazon.com. Basically any book listed can probably be obtained from there.
The Doctrine of the Trinity – Christianity’s Self-Inflicted Wound, by Sir Anthony Buzzard and Charles Hunting. This book totally demolishes the unscriptural Doctrine of the Trinity. Buzzard and Hunting leave no stone unturned and present an absolutely irrefutable case proving beyond doubt that Jesus (Yeshua) is not God. If you are one of the very tiny minority of Christians and Messianics that are actually seeking God and Truth you should definitely read this book. This book is SO devastating to the Trinity, that its availability is hidden from Christians. Trinitarians do NOT want this book’s existence to become common knowledge, and most Traditional Christians and Christianized Messianics refuse to even read it, thus proving their insincerity.
When Jesus Became God, The Epic Fight over Christ’s Divinity in the Last Days of Rome, by Richard Rubenstein – This is another book that exposes the censored truth of the first 4 centuries regarding the issue of the deity of Yeshua. Although it is written as a novel, it is based on historic fact. Therefore, though it reads like a fictional book of political intrigue, it is actually non-fiction. His choice of writing style was chosen to make the material more enjoyable and entertaining to those who consider the study of history or the Bible boring.
What the Rabbis Know About the Messiah, by Rachmiel Frydland. This book is useful when combating counter missionaries and others who hate Yeshua the Messiah and the ONLY true Scriptural faith – Yeshua Judaism..
The Way of God
– by Rabbi Moshe Chaim Luzzatto and translated by Rabbi Aryeh Kaplan. (Feldheim Publishers)
A “must read” for those wishing to understand the inner essence of Torah.The Way of God is not a modern book, but one that has become something of a classic in systematic expositions of Judaic/Hebraic thought.
Written by Rabbi Luzzatto, a Master of Torah’s inner essence, The Way of God
has become available in English thanks to Rabbi Aryeh Kaplan. This book, when studied, is for someone who wishes to understand the context of Judaic/Hebraic thought and what its fundamental beliefs are. It is concise, to the point, and will leave you with an in-depth insight.
The rabbis of Judaism would not like to hear this and may differ, but I have found that this book as well as the following other “Jewish” books helps tremendously in understanding what the New Testament is really teaching and how a follower of “Christ” (Yeshua the Messiah) should truly practice their faith. Remember, the NT was written by Jews with Paul (as well as Yeshua, of course), expertly versed in all aspects of Torah, as a primary contributor.
You want to truly understand Paul from his Judaic/Hebraic perspective instead of traditional Christianity’s antisemitic, anti-Torah Greek/Roman perspective? Then get this book. It and the others also go into depth on many issues for which all (including Christians) desperately want answers that the New Testament either does not mention or only touches upon.
Knowing God's Plan – by Rabbi Moshe Chaim Luzzatto (Ramchal) and translated and annotated byRabbi Mordechai Rose, edited by Rabbi Yaakov Wincelberg. (Feldheim Publishers)
A Torah Classic of Profound Meaning, Power, and NEED, especially for our Generation! This ranks as one of the most insightful books I have ever read, and that is saying a lot since I've read numerous insightful books. I strongly advise obtaining this book.
In an orderly manner the Ramchal discusses the precise system through which God directs every aspect of existence - addressing the oneness of God, God's concealment, the body-soul relationship, the way God directs the world of good and evil, prophecy, the world's ultimate perfection, and much more. It is a classic of fundamental hashkafa and emunah (faith).
With a superlative new translation, complete with extensive commentary and convenient summary sections, this beautiful, bi-lingual edition is a must-read sefer for those who wish to fortify their emunah and successfully face the challenging times in which we live.
Ways of the Tzaddikim
– by Gavriel Zaloshinsky (Editor) and Shraga Silverstein (Translator) – A treasured classic on character refinement. This is a newly researched, corrected, and annotated and vowelized Hebrew edition with a contemporary English translation. It discusses refining character traits and maintaining a balance in all matters. The depth, purity and profound insight of the teachings leaves one in awe of the just how much there is to learn regarding Divine service. Anyone who would view this book negatively must be wicked since only a wicked person would ever miss the holy nature of the material. There is so much that can be said about this book but few words that can be found to properly explain its worth. As with others listed here, only by reading it can anyone possibly grasp its value.
The Path of the Just
– by Rabbi Moshe Chaim Luzzatto, translated by Yosef Liebler. Another classic work by Luzzatto that takes one through the steps to become a deeply righteous servant of God. This book is not for the slothful servant of God. It discusses the means – the very difficult means – for one to become a “tzaddik”, which is roughly translated a “righteous one” but actually infers a much deeper level of righteousness and devotion to God than most people would imagine. It is a level few achieve; nevertheless, if you truly wish to devote yourself completely to God and think you are up to the task then this book is a must-have. If you get this book you should also obtain the 3 volume Tanya series listed a few selections down the list.New Paragraph
Duties of the Heart
- (2-Volume Set) – by R. Bachya ben Joseph ibn Paquda (Author). A new English translation of the 11th-century ethical classic which explores faith, service to God, understanding God’s ways, and profound insights into human nature. Vowelized Hebrew text with facing English translation for ease-of-use. This is one of the great ethical classics. Its aim is to teach how to serve God devotedly in all that we do. Though it was written in the eleven century it is still today a powerful guide in how we can live meaningful lives by service of God. On reading it I think the most critical skeptic will realize the writer was a deeply holy soul very in touch with God. One can only be impressed by the incredible simplicity and sensibility of this work. It smacks of truth and after reading this classic gem one comes to realize being religious is much more than the actions we do, and it highlights actions done without true motives are hypocritical and distasteful. Just as others listed here, you can buy this book and keep on reading it the rest of your days – Wonderful a must read for any person interested in finding a true path and appreciation for our existence in this temporary and corrupt world starving for The Eternal’s presence once again.
1) Opening the Tanya, 2) Learning from the Tanya, 3) Understanding the Tanya
- by Rabbi Adin Steinsaltz - (THREE VOLUME SERIES) Written by the great Hasidic master Rabbi Schneur Zalman of Liadi in the late eighteenth century, the Tanya is considered to be one of the most extraordinary books of moral teachings ever written. A seminal document in the study of the inner essence of Torah, the Tanya explores and solves the dilemmas of the human soul by arriving at the root causes of its struggles. Though it is a classic Jewish spiritual text, the Tanya and its present commentary take a broad and comprehensive approach that is not specific to Judaism nor tied to a particular personality type or time or point of view. It discusses the "benoni" or "in between" person - not a tzaddik (righteous one) and not a "rasha" (evil person). A benoni is a more common character type among those of us who wish to serve God - a person whose character rests between the tzaddik and rasha but, hopefully, closer to a tzaddik. It does not reduce the need to seek to become a tzaddik, but defines one who struggles daily to overcome sin and to be pleasing to The Most High God. The benoni discussion gives hope and peace to those of us who, despite our efforts, just can't seem to live up to the very high standards of a tzaddik as we wage war continuously against our own evil inclination.
The Guide to Serving God, by ben HaRambam (Author), Rabbeinu Avraham (son of Maimonides) Author. Translated into English from Judaeo-Arabic. A jewel in the crown of the Feldheim Torah Classics Library! This awe-inspiring work written in Judaeo-Arabic and completed around the year 1230 by the illustrious son of Maimonides, Rabbeinu Avraham, is now available for the first time in English translation with a facing Hebrew version of the original text. Famed for his appointment as Rais al-Yahud, leader of the Jews, at the age of eighteen, Rabbeinu Avraham was the undisputed leader of the Jewish people of his time. In this masterpiece, he directs the reader in how to attain the level of chasid, a person who strives to go beyond the minimal requirements of the law to experience a strong sense of closeness and intimacy with God. Crafting this clear and brilliant English translation was a formidable challenge, and one that the translator devoted many years to undertake successfully. This treasure has remained hidden until now, but we are privileged to receive it in our own times glittering with wisdom and purity, authored by a saintly scholar whose powerful words can help us change and refine the course of our own lives. With a fascinating biography of Rabbeinu Avraham, extensive footnotes, a citation index of the text, as well as an index of references the author makes to the works of his father, the Rambam.New Paragraph
Palm Tree of Devorah, by Moshe Cordevero (Author) and translated by Moshe Miller – The rather short discussion in this book is absolutely priceless. It is an excellent book for anyone wanting to understand the 13 attributes of God and how to emulate them so as to become “like” God. For a Christian it would be a teaching of how to become “Christlike” since Messiah, himself, obtained this level of perfection and thereby became “one” with his and our God. In the spiritual realms “nearness” is defined by “likeness.” From this book as well as others I list on this site that “nearness” becomes more and more achievable.
In the Shadow of the Ladder: Introductions to Kabbalah, by Rabbi Yehudah Lev Ashlag, translated by Mark Cohen PhD and Yedidah Cohen. This authentic translation into English of two texts regarding Torah’s inner essence. Do not be put-off by the “Kabbalah” word. Christianity GROSSLY misrepresents Kabbalah. Kabbalah IS Torah at its deepest level – literally the “inner essence” – the Chokma HaEmet (The True Wisdom) – of Torah. It’s that simple! Christianity despises anything “Torah” based, which is why for centuries Kabbalah and other Torah based teachings have been deceitfully slandered and falsely represented by the antisemitic, anti-Torah mindset that has defined Christianity since the fourth century. It is translated into English from Hebrew and asks deeply personal questions about the essence of an individual and the existence of a soul. Discussing the experience of an individual and the role of humans in creation, it offers an understanding of the places of evil, suffering, compassion, and joy in the full experience of divine love.The Kabbalah is presented here not as an esoteric study limited to the divinely inspired, but as a universal pathway of the spirit. Coming from the West rather than the East, this book fills a long-awaited gap as it teaches an essential spirituality within the conceptual framework of the Judeo-Christian tradition.
A Tapestry for the Soul: The Introduction to the Zohar, by Rabbi Yehudah Lev Ashlag, translated and compiled by Yedidah Cohen. A Tapestry for the Soul is an expanded study guide for the previous book and takes that book, In the Shadow of the Ladder
as its main thread, from its beginning to its end. Excerpts from Rabbi Ashlag’s other writings are skillfully placed throughout, in order to explain that book in depth. This is a totally innovative way of teaching. The benefits thus obtained include the fact that the reader can follow Rabbi Ashlag’s thought directly, without the need for an intermediary to explain his ideas, thus enabling direct contact between the Master Rabbi and the reader. Now, even the beginner is able to learn from authentic texts which discuss Torah’s inner essence.
Everyday Holiness: The Jewish Spiritual Path of Mussar, by Alan Morinis. Mussar and other forms of aggadah are what constitutes much of the “New Testament”. Mussar is an illuminating, approachable, and highly practical set of teachings for cultivating personal growth and spiritual realization in the midst of day-to-day life. Here is an accessible and inspiring introduction to this spiritual path. The core teaching of Mussar is that our deepest essence is inherently pure and holy, but this inner radiance is obscured by extremes of emotion, desire, and bad habits. Our work in life is to uncover the brilliant light of the soul. The Mussar masters developed transformative teachings and practices—some of which are contemplative, some of which focus on how we relate to others in daily life—to help us to heal and refine ourselves.
The Guide Of The Perplexed, (2 Volume Set) – by Moses Maimonides (RAMBAM) with lengthy introductory essays by Leo Strauss, translated by Shlomo Pines. Publisher: University Of Chicago Press. Be sure to get the specific publication mentioned and not another. There are multiple translations of this outstanding work, but this may be the best. The first volume is currently available for the Kindle reader. Having said that, a full Kindle version is available from a separate publisher; therefore, you will do well to get which ever version you prefer just so long as it is the full translation of the entire work.
This monument of exegesis written at the end of the twelfth century has exerted an immense and continuing influence upon truthful Biblical thought. The depth, spirituality, and wisdom in this book are beyond words. Within this writing numerous important terms are clarified. For example, terms which indicate that God possesses corporeality (human or physical characteristics) are explained as they are meant, which is figurative. Many equivocal words (words with multiple meanings) are also explained with explanation as to where each of the words many uses is applied.
Basically, this writing is an essential guide to proper reading of Scripture. It is a superb and MUCH needed instruction book regarding Biblical interpretation methods. This is a “must have” writing for anyone seriously interested in escaping from the infestation of interpretation errors common to the inept and anti-Torah fundamental mindset of Christianity.
It is not a book for one simply wanting a comfortable read. Instead, as with the other fundamental books I recommend, it is only for people who are serious about their faith and search for truth. It was specifically written by Maimonides to only serious students of Scripture and was not expected to be read by the masses who are generally not interested in devoting themselves to the extent necessary for grasping the truths of God’s ways. The majority population of “ignoramuses”, as Maimonides accurately puts it, will have no desire for this book due to their unwillingness to truly devote themselves in their search for truth. Its aim is to liberate people from the tormenting perplexities arising from their understanding of the Bible due to their inability or lack of desire to understand beyond the Bible’s simple, literal meaning.
Note that almost 1/2 of the first volume is discussion by Leo Strauss and an introduction by Shlomo Pines with the actual “Guide” beginning after their remarks.
Anguish of the Jews, by Father Flannery – This may be THE classic book describing the horrible treatment the Jews have suffered at the hands of those that claim to follow Christ.
