New English Translation of Genesis With Commentaries by Kehot

(lubavitch.com) Kehot Publication Society, the Chabad-Lubavitch publishing house and Chabad of California have released a new translation of the Book of Genesis. The translation reflects classic and contemporary scholarship and research in a single, reader-friendly text.
The innovative volume is part of Kehot’s edition of the Torah’s Five Books of Moses that brings the eternal wisdom of Scripture into clear focus for modern readers. The volume features authoritative text in both English and Hebrew, helpful commentary by Biblical scholars, and inspiring insights from the Lubavitcher Rebbe, Rabbi Menachem M. Schneerson, of blessed memory. 
“It’s especially appropriate that this volume is released now, as our world faces turbulent times and people everywhere are seeking a deeper purpose and meaning in their lives,” said Rabbi Boruch Shlomo Cunin, director of Chabad of California. He hopes that the volume will “reach as many readers as possible and make their experience more meaningful.”
“The Rebbe constantly encouraged us to increase our Torah studies and apply the lessons to our own lives,” added Rabbi Cunin. “This new volume offers a perfect resource for people of all backgrounds–scholar or novice–to explore this key Biblical text.”
The volume’s commentary is presented in a manner that makes Genesis understandable and accessible for everyone–including those approaching Torah study for the first time.  Commentaries—primarily those by Rashi, the 11th century master commentator and the Lubavitcher Rebbe’s treatment of Rashi’s text, are interpolated in the translation, creating a seamless flow from translation to commentary, facilitating an enhanced Torah study experience for both new and skilled students.
A synopsis at the start of each weekly segment explores the theme of the particular sidra and its place in the overall scheme of the Torah as illuminated by Chabad Chasidic discipline.
Set beneath the text and running commentary are “Chasidic Insights” reflecting the lessons illuminated by the Rebbe (and occasionally his predecessors dating back to the founder of the Chasidic movement, Rabbi Israel Baal Shem Tov). For readers already familiar with the basics of Jewish mysticism, some of the more esoteric points are separated into a third commentary called “Inner Dimensions.”
Complementing the texts are new maps–more than 30 in all–created using recent archeological and geographic research in the Holy Land. The volume also includes chronological charts, tables, and illustrations. Jerusalem Rabbi Moshe Wisnefsky, headed the team of editors and translators.
The edition also includes the full Hebrew text of the Torah, the ancient Aramaic translation of Onkelos, and Rashi’s original commentary (vocalized for easy reading).
“The study of Torah and the application of its values are at the center of humanity’s purpose,” said Rabbi Yosef B. Friedman of the Kehot Publication Society.  “The Book of Genesis is the perfect, user friendly starting point for anyone who wants to explore the timeless message of the Bible.”
Kehot released the Book of Numbers (Bemidbar) in 2004 and the Book of Exodus (Shemot) in 2006–but in many ways, the Book of Genesis is the most exciting development in this project.  To see sample pages, or to purchase the book, visit Kehot Publication Society’s website at www.kehot.com.