Header

Heroics Aside, the Story of Purim Is the Bible’s Greatest Farce

The Book of Esther doesn’t mention God. Robert Alter’s new translation shows that’s just one way the biblical text is unique.

By Vox Tablet · March 4, 2015

Header

American Jews Speak English, but Our Sacred Texts Are in Hebrew

What happens when the most authoritative guardians of the tradition are sometimes baffled by the tradition themselves?

By Adam Kirsch · August 5, 2014

Header

Robert Alter Wants Us To Think More Seriously About the Bible as Literature

The scholar, critic, and masterful translator remains dedicated to uncovering the full subtlety and intelligence of the stories in sacred texts

By Adam Kirsch · June 12, 2013

Header

Sing a New Song

Robert Alter’s version of Psalms strives to recapture their Hebrew beauty.

By Vox Tablet · September 10, 2007