When I began searching for a Torah, I quickly realized there was an overwhelming number of options. So I did what I have learned to do—I went to my Father in prayer. B’H.

It did not take long before I was led to The Stone Edition Chumash. I’ve lovingly referred to it during Bible Study as “The Blue Stone Torah”—you know… because of that beautiful, deep stone-blue cover.

I have been using this Chumash for about five years, and I truly love it. The photographs in the back, the charts, the maps, the graphs—oooo, my. They add depth and richness to study and make the text come alive.

I especially appreciate the commentary from so many of the great Sages of blessed memory. Their insights have assisted me greatly in both my personal learning and my teaching. I also love how easy this Chumash makes it to look up quoted verses, references, and source material. It is incredibly user-friendly without sacrificing depth.

I often recommend this Chumash for those who have set daily times for Torah study. In my experience, it is also perfect for Shabbat afternoons, naturally flowing into evening study sessions.

Why?

Because, in my personal experience, what begins as a “quick” 10- or 15-minute study often turns into… oh—it’s dinner time already.
#ThankYouHaShem

As I continued to grow in both my observance and my level of learning, I felt called to engage with a more elevated Chumash. Once again, I turned to the Holy Blessed One in prayer and guidance, and I was led to Pituchei Chotam on the Full Chumash.

I deeply enjoy the spiritual explanations offered in this work. It has expanded my understanding of the text in ways that have strengthened not only my relationship with HaShem, but also my understanding of myself—and of others. The insights gained here have been both grounding and transformative.

I recommend Pituchei Chotam for those who are at an intermediate to advanced level of Torah study, or for learners who feel ready to engage the text on a deeper, more inward spiritual level.

Beginner-Friendly to Advance and Authentic Jewish Texts

In my opinion, two excellent beginner-friendly and authentic Jewish texts are the JPS Tanakh and The Living Torah by Rabbi Aryeh Kaplan.

Both of these serve as a gentle and effective transition for those who are returning to Judaism after time spent in man-made religious systems or belief structures that did not originate with a true Torah foundation.

The JPS Tanakh is especially approachable. It is easy to read, uses clear English, and does not overwhelm the reader with advanced Jewish terminology. This makes it ideal for those who may be unfamiliar with Hebrew, Jewish concepts, or traditional modes of Torah study.

The Living Torah, on the other hand, provides readable text alongside insightful commentary. Rabbi Aryeh Kaplan’s explanations help bridge the gap between the written Torah and Jewish thought, making it an excellent starting point for those learning how to study Torah more deeply or preparing to engage with a more advanced Chumash.

I strongly recommend reading the introductions and “how to use this book” sections at the beginning of both the JPS Tanakh and The Living Torah. These sections are invaluable for new readers and greatly assist in understanding structure, translation choices, and interpretive methods.

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What I Use Daily to Grow in Torah

To deepen my own Torah learning, I enjoy reading and studying from multiple editions of the Tanakh.

Like many others, I began with the Stone Edition Tanach (Student Size – Black). Any time I can find a pocket-sized or student edition, I consider that a win—it makes daily study far more accessible.

More recently, I have come to truly enjoy the Metsudah Chumash (Metsudah Publications, 2009). At the moment, I am primarily using the e-book version available through Sefaria.org, which I find incredibly convenient for daily reference and comparison.

That said, I do hope to add a hardcover edition of the Metsudah Chumash to my personal home library in the near future.

Travel, Day to Day, and

Shabbat Study

Being that I travel often and am frequently on the move for daily tasks and events—as I’m sure most of us are—it can be difficult to carry large books just to squeeze in a few minutes of reading. Whether it’s waiting in lines, sitting in holding spaces, or let’s be honest… gently avoiding unpleasant conversations or people.

A while ago, I made a conscious decision: instead of mindlessly scrolling on my phone, engaging with negativity, or listening to lashon hara, I would carry a book with me or keep earbuds handy to listen to an educational or faith-based podcast.

For me, carrying a small-format book in my bag or headphones in my belt pack is far more practical when life is in motion. These small choices have made a big difference in how I use otherwise wasted moments throughout the day.

That being said, I deeply enjoy reading commentary and translations, especially on Shabbat. I make a personal effort—whether with family or friends—to read at least one chapter from any book of the Tanakh every Shabbat. Of course, more often than not, one chapter turns into many… and sometimes into an entire book. Baruch HaShem, those are the nights that stretch late into the quiet hours.

How Do I Do This?

I’m glad you asked.

I prepare ahead of time. Before Shabbat begins, I make sure the books I intend to read are already placed on my study table, next to my reading chair—ready and waiting. I think of it as preparing my own peaceful, far-away land… at least in my mind.

For me, Shabbat is the most precious time for deep, uninterrupted study. While I do learn during the week, Shabbat study feels free from the usual restraints of time and urgency. I’ve personally noticed that I receive greater clarity and divine insight during Shabbat learning.

Perhaps that is why Shabbat study is so highly praised among the sages.

I encourage others—especially those who observe Shabbat—to set an intention each Shabbat for what they wish to study, while remaining open to where the Holy Blessed One may lead them. Sometimes being guided to a text we hadn’t planned to open leads to unexpected understanding, spiritual depth, or answers to questions we didn’t even realize we were carrying.

AHHHHHHH…
(said while sipping coffee or tea) ☕📖

What I like e-reading:

Sefaria.org

https://hebrewbooks.org/ShulchanAruch

Daily Zohar

Jewish Software

What I like Watching and listening:

I do my best to avoid watching secular television or shows. Beyond simply wanting to be more mindful, I have found that guarding my eyes and ears brings a noticeable increase in peace, clarity, and ease.

By intentionally stepping away from content that feels unclean, chaotic, or impure, I have been blessed to discover sources that nourish the soul rather than distract it. In making space, I believe HaShem has gently guided me toward rich, meaningful Jewish learning and viewing resources that uplift rather than pull downward.

I am sharing these sources here for others who may also be searching for holy, thoughtful, and authentically Jewish content online—whether for learning, inspiration, or quiet reflection.

My prayer is that those who explore these offerings find them enriching, grounding, and supportive on their own spiritual path.

Please feel free to explore, and may they be a blessing to you as they have been to me.

Beyond Orthodox Conversion to Judaism

Torah For Women

Rivka Malka Perlman

frum it up

Sonya’s Prep

@RabbanitRachelBazak

TanachTV

Aleph Beta

Jewish History Podcast

Henry Abramson

Torah Anytime

Jewish Learning Institute

Rabbi Laredo

Efraim Palvanov

TeNaK Talk (TaNaCh)

What I Love for Jewish Children: Listening & Learning

I love, love, love the resources listed below—not only because they offer clean, wholesome content for children, but because they are also incredibly useful for homeschooling, family learning, or quiet educational moments while on a drive, in a waiting room, or during downtime.

These sources make Jewish learning accessible, engaging, and joyful, and I appreciate that they allow children (and adults!) to absorb Torah values, stories, and Hebrew concepts in a way that feels natural rather than forced.

I truly hope others enjoy and explore the list below as much as I have.

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📌 Disclaimer (Children’s Learning Resources)

The resources shared on this page are provided for educational and faith-based purposes only. They reflect personal recommendations based on my own experience and are not sponsored, endorsed, or financially compensated unless explicitly stated.

Parents and guardians are encouraged to:

• Review all content in advance
• Use discretion based on their child’s age, maturity, and learning needs
• Engage alongside their children whenever possible

These materials are meant to support learning, not replace parental guidance, formal education, or professional instruction.

Legends of the Jews (FULL Audiobook) 

Jewish Fairy Tales and Legends Audiobook

JEWISH FAIRY TALES AND FABLES by Gertrude Landa ~ Full Audiobook ~

Ashkenazi Historian

The Biblical Antiquities of Philo 🎧 By Montague Rhodes James. FULL Audiobook

(1/5) THE ANTIQUITIES OF THE JEWS By Flavius Josephus. Audiobook – full length, free

Jewish Mysticism 💛 By J. Abelson. FULL Audiobook

The Kybalion (1908) by Three Initiates (William Walker Atkinson)

Shazak

Torah Live

Torah Time

Shaboom!

BimBam

Afternoon with Mimi

Jewish Bedtime Stories

Rabbi B

Prayer as Relationship: A Biblical Understanding

The concept of prayer rests on a foundational conviction of the Hebrew Bible: that G-d exists, hears, and responds. Scripture affirms a living, personal G-d who is attentive to human voice and need (Psalm 65:3; cf. Psalm 115:3–7). Prayer is therefore not abstract ritual, but a relational act—rooted in the biblical assertion that the human being was created “in the image of G-d” (Genesis 1:26–27). Embedded within that claim is the possibility of fellowship: an I–Thou relationship between Creator and creation.

Although prayer possesses an intellectual framework—belief, theology, intention—it is fundamentally emotional in character. Prayer expresses humanity’s longing for the Divine and the deep impulse to unburden the soul before G-d. As the psalmist cries, “As a deer longs for streams of water, so my soul longs for You, O G-d” (Psalm 42:2–3), and again, “Pour out your heart before Him” (Psalm 62:9).

Because prayer arises from the human heart, it manifests in many forms: petition, protest, confession, meditation, remembrance (anamnesis), thanksgiving, praise, adoration, and intercession. For purposes of classification, scholars often distinguish “praise” from “prayer” in the narrower, supplicatory sense, and spontaneous or “ejaculatory” prayer from structured, liturgical prayer. Yet these categories are analytical tools, not lived realities.

In practice, prayer resists compartmentalization. Its source is singular. In moments of genuine outpouring, the heart merges all categories into an indivisible relational act. Praise and prayer intertwine, as seen in Hannah’s song (I Samuel 2:1–10). Supplication flows naturally into thanksgiving, as in Psalm 13, which moves from lament to trust and gratitude within a single breath.

Scripture contains numerous passages that might be described as para-prayers—texts hovering between discourse and entreaty. Moses’ encounter at the burning bush (Exodus 3:1–12) stands between dialogue and petition. Jeremiah’s confessions (Jeremiah 20:7ff.) blur the line between meditation and protest. The book of Job is filled with expostulation that is inseparable from appeal.

Attempts to quantify prayer in the Bible depend heavily on definition. Koehler-Baumgartner estimate approximately eighty-five prayers within the biblical corpus, in addition to sixty complete psalms and fourteen partial psalms that function as prayers. Five psalms are explicitly designated as prayers: Psalms 17, 86, 90, 102, and 142. Yet such statistics, while useful, ultimately underscore the same truth: prayer permeates Scripture because relationship permeates Scripture.

Prayer is not an interruption of biblical narrative—it is its pulse.

What Calendar Candle Lighting and Holidays Sources I like:

Jewish Holidays Hebcal

MyZmanim

My Jewish Learning .com

Sefaria.org

Learn Hebrew in 6 weeks

📘 Learn Hebrew in 6 Weeks — A Resource I Truly Love

I personally use Learn Hebrew in 6 Weeks, and I cannot say enough good things about this program. I love it so much. It has helped me tremendously, and I’ve seen it support others in student learning groups as well.

I recently purchased all of the readers—yes, all of them—because the system is that effective and enjoyable. One of the best parts is that the instructional videos are available on YouTube, which makes learning accessible, flexible, and easy to revisit as needed.

Another highlight for me has been the personal accessibility of the creator. I’ve messaged her directly, and @MiikoShaffier has been incredibly kind, approachable, and encouraging. That human connection makes such a difference when learning a new language.

I honestly can’t get enough of this program.

Because I travel often, I even bought a Kindle specifically so I could continue practicing Hebrew while on the move. Being able to study anywhere—between appointments, while traveling, or during quiet moments—has made consistency much easier.

This program is especially helpful for:

• Adult learners
• Beginners who want structure without overwhelm
• Students who benefit from visual + auditory learning
• Those balancing study with a busy schedule

🔤 Learn Hebrew in 6 Weeks (Official Site):
https://learnhebrewin6weeks.com

📺 YouTube Support Videos:
https://www.youtube.com/results?search_query=learn+hebrew+in+6+weeks

📱 Instagram (Creator):
https://www.instagram.com/miikoshaffier/

If you’re looking for a clear, approachable, and encouraging way to learn Hebrew, this has been one of the most supportive tools in my own journey.

Hebrew by Inbal

🎶 Learning Hebrew with Music — Hebrew by Inbal

I absolutely love learning Hebrew with Hebrew by Inbal. I follow her both on Instagram and YouTube, and her content has been such a joyful and effective part of my Hebrew-learning journey.

I’ve long believed that learning a new language through music helps the brain retain vocabulary, pronunciation, and rhythm more naturally—and it makes the entire process far more enjoyable. And guess what you’ll find on the Hebrew by Inbal YouTube channel?
Yes—music videos with Hebrew lyrics transliterated into English. 🙌

Color me happy and learning Hebrew through song.

This resource is especially helpful for:

• Beginners learning Hebrew sounds and cadence
• Children and homeschoolers
• Visual and auditory learners
• Anyone who feels intimidated by Hebrew but wants a gentle, joyful entry point

📺 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@HebrewByInbal
📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hebrewbyinbal/

📖 Transliterated Books and Siddurim

For those who are still learning Hebrew—or who want to deepen their prayer practice while building confidence—transliterated books and siddurim can be incredibly supportive tools. They allow readers to participate fully in reading and prayer without feeling excluded or overwhelmed, especially during the early stages of learning.

Headcoverings-by-devorahheadcoverings-by-devorah.com › HebEngTaNaKhIndex.html

Orach Chayim – Way of Life – Torah Studies & Resources – A Comprehensive Compilation of Study Aids

The transliterated biblical text, complete with translation and some commentaries is particularly wonderful. Do you have any plans to complete the remaining Chumash? Also, if you were able to add the pointed Hebrew text alongside the transliteration and translation, it might aid people who are trying to transition from transliteration to reading Hebrew.

Sefariasefaria.org › topics › transliteration

Transliteration | Texts & Source Sheets from Torah, Talmud and Sefaria’s library of Jewish sources.

Jewish texts and source sheets about Transliteration from Torah, Talmud and other sources in Sefaria’s library.

Headcoverings-by-devorahheadcoverings-by-devorah.com › HebEngTaNaKh1.html

Sefer Bereishit – Book of Genesis | Parashat Bereishit

Linear translation – Every Hebrew & Hebrew Tranliterated line has a precise, idiomatically correct, English translation beside it.

ArtScrollartscroll.com › Categories › LTR.html

ArtScroll Prayer Books – Hebrew Transliterated With English

Where I get Jewish books for children:

My go to site to find used books is Thriftbooks.com . 📖

ThriftBooks

My go-to site for finding affordable, used books is ThriftBooks.com. When searching for Jewish books, I simply type phrases like “Jewish books for children,” “Jewish holidays for children,” “Jewish living,” or “Jewish history,” and—just like that—a wonderful variety of titles appears.

I load up my cart and eagerly await that joyful delivery of books that almost always leads to meaningful family moments—learning, reading, and growing together in Judaism with our children.
#ThankYouHaShem 📚✨

I’ve been using ThriftBooks for years and have saved significantly over time. If others choose to use the link provided, it helps support our ability to purchase more books to study, review, and share with the community. ThriftBooks also offers additional discounts for teachers and homeschoolers, so it’s definitely worth checking out.

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📚 ArtScroll

And then there is ArtScroll—a site I truly love.

I honestly cannot express how much I appreciate this resource. I’m subscribed to their email list and happily receive weekly updates on new titles, releases, and special offers. I enjoy exploring their extensive catalog, researching books, and occasionally purchasing courses or study materials.

I fully admit—discovering ArtScroll has required me to practice a bit of self-control. If I had my way, the entire ArtScroll library would live with me in a peaceful Spanish-style castle, nestled beside a beautiful river, surrounded by rich green land like a quiet meadow—close enough to a city to visit family, friends, and shops, yet far enough away to enjoy uninterrupted hours of reading and study. 📖🌿

PJ Library About: 📚 PJ Library

About:
PJ Library provides free Jewish children’s books to families around the world each month, fostering meaningful moments of connection through shared reading. There is something truly special that happens when parents and children sit together with a book—stories become bridges to identity, values, and memory.

Why I Love It:
I love PJ Library for its sweet, gentle, and accessible reading for children. Families can select book preferences, read community reviews, and even submit their own reflections after reading. It creates a joyful, interactive learning experience that extends beyond the page and into family conversation and connection.

It’s learning, bonding, and discovery—all wrapped into storytime.