Q. Where can
one buy this Chumash?
A. At Kehot.
Q. Is this a
continuation or competition with the Gutnick, Kol Menachem Chumash?
A. Actually, neither. The Gutnick Chumash is published by Kol Menachem and
is written and produced by an editorial team headed by Rabbi Chaim Miller,
while this Chumash is published by Chabad of California and written by a
committee of several writers.
There is indeed some overlap
in intent and content in the two Chumashim: they are both suitable for
beginners, present a translation of the Chumash faithful to Rashi, and include
the Rebbe’s teachings on peshat and Chassidic insights. However, there
are differences, as well: The Gutnick Chumash very ably showcases and
summarizes many of the pilpulim behind the Rebbe’s conclusions regarding
Rashi or the peshat of the Chumash, and is thus also suitable for those
who wish to spend more time studying in-depth. In contrast, this Chumash avoids
these pilpulim almost entirely, allotting instead more space to the
Chassidic insights. Also, this Chumash attempts to present Rashi’s and the
Rebbe’s understanding of peshat comprehensively, interpolating them in
the Chumash text so the reader can read them in one, uninterrupted flow. In
contrast, the Gutnick Chumash presents Rashi’s basic understanding of the text
in its translation of the Chumash and the Rebbe’s insights as a commentary.
Thus, the two projects are not
“in competition” but complement each other. We therefore encourage everyone to
buy both and learn as much as the Rebbe’s teachings possible!
Q. The
Rebbe’s name is followed on the title page by a list of abbreviations some
people consider inappropriate.
A. The title pages were written and designed by Kehos in
accordance with their policies, and do not reflect the opinions of the
editorial committee on this matter one way or the other.
Q. Shouldn’t
there be a glossary?
A. There is one, but it didn’t make it in time to go to
press. It will be posted here when it’s finished.