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Description:
The book of Genesis introduces the Patriarch Abraham who is chosen to be the progenitor of the Jewish people. But there is nothing prior to his selection which indicates why he is qualified for such a lofty status.

This book identifies – based on the text of Genesis – what Abraham’s three principle qualifications were. It goes on to demonstrate that thesis by illustrating how God tested those attributes in an exquisitely detailed and organized fashion – the “ten tests of Abraham”. This leads to an understanding of the ladder of blessings: that God blesses Abraham so many distinct times – each with a different blessing.

Understanding these three qualifications is key to unlock many secrets of the Biblical text. It explains the reason for the narrative and set of vignettes provided in Genesis. It explains Isaac’s love for his evil son Esau, including his apparent desire to provide extraordinary blessings to him – even domination over his scholarly son Jacob. It also explains why Jacob’s children – no matter how sinful – are included in the Chosen People, although Isaac’s sinful son Esau is not included.
Abraham is chosen to lead a Chosen People at a particular time and place. Why did God decide to have a Chosen People? Why was its progenitor selected at the particular time that he was? All that, and more, is discussed in this book.


Jeffrey Jaffe’s fascinating exploration of the patriarchs is simultaneously deeply rooted in Jewish tradition and contemporary thought. While paying careful attention to the text of the Torah, he weaves it with classic Rabbinic teaching, traditional Torah commentary, and enough creativity to generate insights intended to speak to contemporary Jews. Jaffe asks hard questions and mines the sources to present what he understands as the core values which impelled the choice of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob to be the patriarchs of the Chosen Nation.
Rabbi Dr. Zvi Grumet
Yeshivat Eretz Hatzvi, the Pardes Institute, and Hebrew College in Boston

I thoroughly enjoyed reading – rather learning – Why Abraham? The book and its thesis artfully and skillfully present and make relevant the three pillars upon which Jewish faith stands. I especially appreciate the breadth of the research as well as the fidelity to traditional sources to build and buttress the thesis. Jaffe’s intellectual brilliance, skillful analysis, and clarity of outlook really shine through. In my opinion, it should be required study for every maturing student of Torah to help them understand the essence of their mission as the Chosen People. Not only will it enhance their understanding of the book of Genesis, it will solidify their role as part of the chain of Jewish continuity, as this book artfully describes.
Rabbi Aaron Fink
Dean of Ateres Bais Yaakov in Monsey

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