The Forgotten Rabbi Who Brought the Torah to English-Speaking Jews

Anyone who grew up attending an Orthodox or Conservative synagogue in the U.S. or England in the latter part of the 20th century is likely familiar with the Hertz Humash, a Hebrew-English Pentateuch with English commentary. But little is remembered today about its author, Joseph H. Hertz, who was born in Hungary, educated in New York City, and served as a rabbi in Syracuse, NY and South Africa before becoming chief rabbi of the British empire. Ben Elton delves into Rabbi Hertz’s life, career, and major work—and its legacy—in conversation with J.J. Kimche. (Audio, 62 minutes.)