This Book Is Making Political Waves

In a letter to over 160 state representatives and state senators, Allison Tant, Fabián Basabe, Michael Gottlieb, and Vicki Lopez emphasized, “In light of the current climate of increasing antisemitism, we should all try to learn more about the fascinating history of the Jewish people, their resilience, and their values.” Included with their letter was a gifted copy of The Book of Jewish Knowledge as part of a global initiative to provide every U.S. elected official with this valuable resource.

Produced by JLI and edited by Rabbi Yanki Tauber, The Book of Jewish Knowledge is a groundbreaking 496-page volume filled with nugget-sized Jewish facts and ideas. The book surveys the full scope of Jewish teaching and life, answering 1,200 questions on Judaism from “What is Judaism?” to “What’s a good gefilte fish recipe?”

The idea of giving this book to every U.S. elected official arose from the growing need for Jewish advocacy in political spheres. Awareness is the antidote to hatred, and this book serves as a valuable resource in educating others about the Jewish people, their customs, heritage, and more.

The book was initially presented to the four representatives by Ezzy Rappaport, council member of Bay Harbor Islands, FL, and Shlomo Danzinger, mayor of Surfside, FL, on behalf of JLI. Inspired by the book’s value, the representatives chose to share it with their colleagues, leading to its distribution to 160 political leaders—made possible by Ezzy Rappaport’s generous sponsorship.

Beyond its political significance, the book serves as a valuable resource for Jews worldwide to deepen their understanding of their heritage. The book aims to be a “Jewish resource for every home,” aligning with the Rebbe’s vision of enriching homes with Jewish wisdom and insights through the presence of meaningful books.

“It covers every possible facet of Yiddishkeit, marinated in Chassidus and the Rebbe’s perspective,” said Rabbi Shmuel Kaplan, who serves on the board of the Rohr Jewish Learning Institute. “This is a book that draws people in—it grabs their attention. It’s a must for every home, every office, and every baal habas.”

The reception of the book has been overwhelmingly positive. Many recipients have expressed appreciation for the book’s comprehensive nature and its ability to provide valuable insights.

“The Book of Jewish Knowledge attempts the impossible, and does it remarkably well,” says Rabbi Brad Hirschfield, president of the National Jewish Center for Learning and Leadership. “While a single volume can’t fully capture or convey the wisdom of the Jewish people’s eternal story, this book is a wonderful way to enter that story with insight, pride, and genuine love of G-d, Torah, and the Jewish people.”

To order your copy of The Book of Jewish Knowledge, please visit bojk.org or contact thebook@myjli.com.