In this remarkable volume, Rabbi Dr. Israel Drazin continues his illuminating exploration of the Bible’s most perplexing questions – this time turning to the Book of Exodus. Using more than 400 examples, Drazin reveals the surprising ambiguities, overlooked details, and interpretive challenges that shape how we understand both God and human behavior in the biblical narrative.
Rather than offering conventional commentary, Drazin invites readers to think critically and independently. He highlights passages that appear contradictory, ethically complex, or open to multiple interpretations, and shows how these moments encourage deeper reflection. Drawing on philosophy, traditional Jewish sources, and thoughtful textual analysis, he demonstrates how the Bible often prompts readers to ask questions rather than accept simple answers.
This accessible and intellectually stimulating book encourages readers to reconsider familiar stories – Moses’ leadership, Israel’s struggles, God’s commands, and the moral dilemmas embedded throughout Exodus – through a fresh and thought provoking lens. It is an ideal work for anyone eager to engage with the Bible and the exodus of the Israelites in a more reflective, questioning, and nuanced way.
Specifications
- Format: Hardcover
- Publisher: Gefen Publishing House
- Author: Israel Drazin
- Series: What We Don’t Know About God and People in the Bible
- Volume: Exodus
- Subject: Biblical Studies / Jewish Thought
- Genre: Non-fiction
- Binding: Hardback
- Language: English
About the Author
Rabbi Dr. Israel Drazin is one of today’s most respected voices in rationalist Jewish scholarship. His career blends rigorous academic study, military leadership, and decades of public service, giving him a uniquely grounded perspective on ethics, faith, and human responsibility.
He served for thirty-one years as a chaplain in the United States Army, ultimately achieving the rank of brigadier general—placing him among the highest-ranking rabbis in U.S. military history. His service in leadership roles shaped his appreciation for disciplined thought, moral clarity, and the practical application of Jewish values.
Rabbi Dr. Drazin holds a PhD in Judaic studies and master’s degrees in psychology and Hebrew literature, as well as rabbinic ordination. He is also an attorney, bringing a legal mind to the study of Tanach, Talmud, and medieval philosophy. His work is deeply influenced by the rationalist tradition of Maimonides, whose emphasis on intellect, logic, and ethical development is woven throughout Drazin’s scholarship.
The author of sixty-two books—with more forthcoming—Rabbi Dr. Drazin has contributed extensively to Jewish thought, exploring themes of faith, history, interpretation, and the evolution of religious ideas. His writing emphasizes that Judaism encourages questioning, critical examination, and the pursuit of truth. He continues to publish essays and commentary on his website, Booksnthoughts.com, helping readers engage thoughtfully with Jewish tradition and modern life.
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What We Don’t Know About God and People in the Bible: Exodus — Israel Drazin
Gefen Publishing House is located in Jerusalem. It was founded in 1981 by Murray and Hana Greenfield. The Greenfields wanted to establish a printing house that would allow them the opportunity to tell the stories so important to the Jewish people and the land of Israel.
The enterprise is a family-run business, with their son Ilan as the current CEO. The publishing house prints approximately 40 titles a year specializing in English language books of Jewish and Israeli interest. Their books cover a wide variety of topics from Torah-related texts, Jewish history, fiction, children’s books, and more.