In a groundbreaking step to combat rising antisemitism and further the education of Judaism’s universal values, German publisher Gütersloher Verlagshaus, a subsidiary of Penguin Random House, is translating The Book of Jewish Knowledge by the Rohr Jewish Learning Institute (JLI) into German, with an expected release in bookstores by June 2026.
This encyclopedic resource spans nearly 500 pages and covers 4,000 years of Jewish history, answering 1,200 questions on Judaism—from fundamental inquiries like “What is Judaism?” to practical matters of daily Jewish life. It delves into archaeological insights, Midrashic parables, Kabbalistic diagrams, and practical holiday guides, making complex material accessible to general readers, students, and scholars alike.
The translation project has received the full endorsement of Dr. Felix Klein, Germany’s Federal Commissioner for Jewish Life and the Fight Against Antisemitism.
“I am deeply concerned by the recent surge in antisemitism across Germany, Europe, and the US, a trend alarmingly exacerbated since October 7th,” Klein stated in his endorsement. “This rise in hatred, fueled by misinformation and ignorance, underscores the urgent need for comprehensive action and education to combat these prejudices effectively.”
Klein noted that: “The most effective means of combating antisemitism is through education of Jewish history and its profound universal values. It is through understanding and respect that we can build a foundation for lasting harmony and tolerance.”
Produced by JLI and edited by Rabbi Yanki Tauber, The Book of Jewish Knowledge has already proven its reach, with over 16,000 copies sold and distribution to students in schools worldwide. The book has been presented to prominent political figures, including Prime Ministers, US congressional members, and United Nations ambassadors.
An instrumental consultant on the project is Rabbi Chaim Rittri, founder of Books ‘N Bagels, a German-language publishing house dedicated to translating and distributing Chassidic literature. His past projects include German translations of Tanya, Hayom Yom, and numerous other Chassidic works. Rabbi Rittri has played a key role in advising the translation team, ensuring the translation stays faithful to the original while making it accessible to German-speaking audiences.
Diedrich Steen, Editorial Director at the Gütersloher Verlagshaus, emphasized the educational mission behind the project: “Hate is a consequence of ignorance and a lack of what in German we call ‘Herzensbildung’ (training one’s heart to see the humanity of another). The Book of Jewish Knowledge helps to develop both.”
