by Ram ben Ze'ev
Sefaria, an online platform dedicated to providing access to Jewish texts, has been a valuable resource for scholars, students, and individuals seeking to engage with the Tanakh, the five books of Moshie.
Recently, Sefaria has begun rewriting portions of the Tanakh to reflect changes in the English language. However, it is crucial to consider the historical and cultural significance of the Tanakh, as well as the implications of altering its text.
As a Jew, I am surprised to find myself having to remind other Jews that we are commanded by G-D not to make changes to His word.
Devarim 4:2: "You shall not add anything to what I command you or take anything away from it, but keep the commandments of your God יהוה that I enjoin upon you."
Devarim 13:1 "Be careful to observe only that which I enjoin upon you: neither add to it nor take away from it."
Yehoshua 1:7 "But you must be very strong and resolute to observe faithfully all the Teaching that My servant Moses enjoined upon you. Do not deviate from it to the right or to the left, that you may be successful wherever you go."
The Tanakh is not just a religious text; it holds immense cultural and historical value for the Jewish community and beyond. The Hebrew language used in the Tanakh carries a legacy of thousands of years, representing the cultural identity and spiritual connection of Jewish people, which is gender specific. Rewriting portions of the Tanakh to reflect changes in the English language would undermine this rich heritage and disrupt the continuity of tradition. Preserving the original language ensures that future generations can experience the text as it has been cherished for centuries.
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The Tanakh is a complex and nuanced literary work, and its translation into English already poses challenges. By nature, languages evolve, and words can take on new meanings or fall out of use over time. However, altering the text to match contemporary English might result in inaccuracies and distort the original intent. The Tanakh's poetic language, metaphors, and wordplay might lose their essence, leading to a loss of depth and beauty in the text. Maintaining linguistic accuracy is crucial to ensure that the Tanakh's wisdom and teachings are faithfully transmitted.
If we allow changes to be made to the Tanakh to reflect changes in English, removing references to gender, etc., where do we draw the line? Language evolves rapidly, and what is deemed appropriate or acceptable today may change in the future. Rewriting the Tanakh to accommodate current English standards sets a dangerous precedent. It opens the door to further alterations based on shifting cultural, social, or political contexts, diluting the authenticity of the text. It is essential to preserve the integrity of the Tanakh, regardless of linguistic variations over time.
The Tanakh serves as a primary source for scholars studying ancient Near Eastern civilizations and their cultural, religious, and historical contexts. Rewriting portions of the Tanakh to reflect changes in English would hinder the ability to compare and analyze the text within the broader corpus of ancient literature. Scholars and researchers rely on the accuracy and consistency of the original language to deepen their understanding of the Tanakh's historical and cultural significance.
The preservation of the original language of the Tanakh encourages individuals to engage in the process of learning and understanding. By immersing ourselves in the richness of the Hebrew language, we gain a deeper appreciation for the Tanakh's complexities and the effort required to comprehend its teachings. It also presents an opportunity for language learning and encourages the exploration of Hebrew, enabling individuals to connect with their heritage on a more profound level.
These efforts to rewrite portions of the Tanakh to reflect changes in the English language are antithetical to the Torah and raise important questions about the preservation of cultural heritage, linguistic accuracy, and maintaining the integrity of religious texts. The Tanakh represents an invaluable piece of history, tradition, and spirituality that should not be compromised due to linguistic shifts. By respecting the original language and context, we can preserve the authenticity and depth of the Tanakh for future generations, ensuring that its teachings continue to inspire and guide those who seek wisdom within its pages.
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Bill White (Ram ben Ze'ev) is CEO of WireNews and Executive Director of Hebrew Synagogue