222.11

NEW MEDIA BIBLE: GENESIS  (1980)

New

These videos present the Book of Genesis, dramatized with professional actors, filmed on location and narrated according to the American Revised Standard Bible translation. Study guide available. Note: Previewing is necessary.

4 cassettes. 1 hr. 9 min. ea.  AGE: 12 to Adult

THE BEGINNING - Part I.

The Creation, Chps. 1-2:4;  Adam and Eve, Chps. 2:4-3; Cain and Abel, Chps. 4:1-6; Noah and the Flood, Chps. 6:5-9:17.

ABRAHAM - Part 2.

The Journey, Chps. 12-13; The Promise, Chps. 14-17; Sodom and Gemorrah, Chps. 18-19; The Binding of Isaac, Chps. 20-22.

ISAAC, ESAU AND JACOB - Part 3.

Rebekkah, Chps. 23-25:18; Esau and Jacob, Chps. 25:19-28:9; Rachel and Leah, Chps. 28:10-30:43; Israel, Chps. 31-32; The Covenant Continues, Chps. 33-36.

JOSEPH - Part 4.

The Dreamer, Chps. 37-38; Vizier of Egypt, Chps. 39-41:46; Joseph's Brothers, Chps. 41:46-44:2; Reconciliation, Chps. 44:3-47:26; Israel in Egypt, Chps. 47:27-50:26.

221.95

NOAH'S ARK  (1989)

Noa

Animated adaptation of Peter Spier's acclaimed children's book narrated by James Earl Jones. Note: One criticism of the film is the scene showing the animals and people who were left behind as the flood waters rise.

27 min.  AGE: 4 to 10

JHVC

221.4

Nova: Secrets of the Dead Sea Scrolls  (1991)

Nov

In 1946, three Bedouin shepherds in the Judean desert stumbled across one of the greatest archeological discoveries of the century; in caves near Kumran, 40 miles from Jerusalem, 800 manuscripts were found. They contained the oldest biblical texts extant, as well as unknown material that could shed light on the origins of Christianity and the variety and richness of Jewish life prior to rabbinic Judaism. Who wrote the scrolls and why? Secrets of the Dead Sea Scrolls traces the political and academic controversy that has surrounded them—culminating in the crumbling of a monopoly of scholars who controlled publication and interpretation for decades. The search for the scrolls' true meaning is a fascinating historical detective story.

1 hr.  AGE: 12 to Adult

221.92

THE OLD TESTAMENT COLLECTION  (A&E Biography Series)  (1996)

Bio

This collection comes from one of the Arts & Entertainment Channel’s most popular series, “Biography.” Each video provides an in-depth look at important figures from the Old Testament. The videos include masterwork paintings, artifacts, location footage and commentary from a variety of religious and Biblical scholars from many backgrounds. Jewish commentators include Rabbi David Wolpe and Burton Visotzky from JTS, Rabbi Aron Tendler from Yeshiva University, Rabbi Stephen Fuchs, and Tamara Eskenazi of HUC.

6 cassettes. Approx. 50 min. ea.  AGE: Adult

Adam and Eve  (Lost Innocence)  (Note: Includes partial nudity)

King David

Moses

Noah  (Noah and the Ark: Voyage to a New Beginning)

Samson and Delilah  (Love & Betrayal)

Solomon and Sheba

JHVC

221.95

One-Minute Bible Stories (Old Testament)  (1994)

One

Jews are called the People of the Book for a good reason. The early history and religious base of the Jews can be found in the Torah, and knowing the stories and teachings of the Torah gives children an introduction to Judaism and Jewish history. The timeless Biblical tales of ancient leaders, heroes, and struggles become fresh with each new generation. Shari Lewis and Lamb Chop tell these ancient tales in One Minute Bible Stories (Old Testament). The stories are just that—short and fast paced. Using numerous illustrations, Lewis zips through familiar tales, beginning with Adam and Eve and moving on to Noah, the Tower of Babel, the Patriarchs, Moses and the Exodus, Joshua, David, Ruth and Naomi, Gideon, Solomon, Jonah, and Job. The ever-expressive Lamb Chop remains fresh and hilarious. A wonderful guide to the tales of the Torah.

30 min.  AGE: 3 to 6

Israeli children’s video which takes kids on a musical journey through the Six Days of Creation as described in the book of Genesis. Israeli children’s television host, Dalik Vilinitz, along with his oversized puppet friend, Stam, take a group of children on a tiyul (trip) to learn about the creation of the world. The children learn about each separate day of creation and sing songs that teach about basic Jewish concepts and values. The songs are chosen from the 12 passages from Bible, Talmud and the Sages that the Lubavitcher Rebbe deemed as important for all children to learn. The children are appealing, the songs and choreography are lively, and the presentation is upbeat. Note: If the English version of this DVD is selected, viewers will hear an English narration with Hebrew subtitles for songs. Viewers may also opt for the all-in-Hebrew tract. Teachers may wish to show the DVD in segments, highlighting one day of creation at a time. Music teachers may wish to focus on the songs alone. The film does not have an overly didactic quality, and young children should find it enjoyable viewing.

50 min.  AGE:  5 to 9

909.04

A PEOPLE IS BORN (13th Century BCE to 6th Century BCE)  (Heritage: Civilization

Her

and the Jews, Chapter I)  (1984)

Part of the “Heritage” series which chronicles over 3,000 years of Jewish history, thought, and culture. This chapter examines the birth of a new people—with their patriarchs, prophets and kings—amid the ancient civilizations of Egypt and Mesopotamia. Topics covered include “The Flood Story,” “Leadership: Judges to Kings” and “Prophecy.” Study guide available.

1 hr.  AGE: 12 to Adult

221.95

THE PRINCE OF EGYPT  (1998)

Pri

Animated musical feature film about the life of Moses, with special focus on the Exodus from Egypt and the Jews wandering in the desert. In this retelling, the creators of the film chose to portray Moses and Rameses raised as brothers and best friends—which is probably the most striking change from the Biblical story. The film begins with baby Moses being placed in a basket in the river by his mother after Pharaoh decreed that all Hebrew firstborn males be killed. Pharaoh’s wife finds Moses, rather than his daughter, and there is no mention of the midwives. Other deviations from the Traditional Biblical story include: Moses has no speech impediment, so Aaron doesn’t speak for him; Moses’ sons are not mentioned; Moses kills the Egyptian guard, but does not confront the fighting Hebrews or help the strangers at the well in Midian; Miriam and Tzipporah are more prominent in the movie than in the text; the Hebrew slaves talk about rebelling in the movie before Moses comes along; and there is no mention in the movie of eating unleavened bread or of a future commemoration of the Exodus from Egypt. Note: There is an excellent study guide available, written by Rabbi Elliot Dorff, Vicky Kelman and Dr. Ron Wolfson. The study guide lists the similarities and differences between this movie version and the text, comparing this film to a modern midrash—a distinct interpretation or retelling of a Bible story. Then it proceeds to list open-ended questions for discussion as well as major themes for discussion and study, including Jewish responses to these themes. Teachers must preview this film and use their own discretion as to whether or not the film is valuable for classroom use.

1 hr. 39 min. Rated PG.  AGE: 4 to Adult

The aim of this documentary is to discover what happened to the Lost Tribes of Israel – a question that has plagued biblical scholars throughout history. The tribes in question are the ten Jewish tribes that disappeared when the Assyrians conquered the Israelites approximately 2,700 years ago. Some Orthodox Jews believe that reappearance of these tribes could signify the coming of the Messiah. Some Christians believe that finding the tribes could usher in the second coming of Jesus. The film explores the validity of the existence of these lost tribes and looks at the B’nai Yisrael group of 5,000 in Israel.

1 hr. 40 min.  AGE:  13 to Adult

921

RASHI: A LIGHT AFTER THE DARK AGES  (1999)

Ras

Animated drama about the life of Rashi, one of the strongest forces and role models in Jewish history. Rashi (Rabbi Shlomo Yitzhaki), a medieval French scholar, is best known for the clarity and timelessness of his commentaries on the Bible and the Talmud. He was and still is the most widely studied commentator on the Bible. Originally a wine maker by trade, Rashi taught his daughters to read and write, debated theology and politics with his Christian neighbors, and defended the right of Jews to spiritual choice when the Crusades began. This video illuminates Rashi’s life and work for young people and adults alike. Produced by Rabbi Berel Wein. Study guide available.

56 min.  AGE: 11 to Adult

221.9

RUTH  (Testament: The Bible in Animation)  (1996)

Rut

Using amazing model animation, this retelling of the Biblical story of Ruth is beautiful to view. It relates how Ruth, after her husband’s death, remains with her mother-in-law, Naomi, and promises to stay with her and become one of Naomi’s people. Ruth proves to be a faithful and loving daughter-in-law, and eventually marries Boaz, Naomi’s kinsman. Produced for BBC Television. Study guide available (written by the BJE of Greater New York). Note: This video is part of a series which was not produced specifically for a Jewish audience. The “Ruth” segment, however, is suitable for Jewish classroom use—and may be used in conjunction with the holiday of Shavuot.

26 min.  AGE: 8 to 12

221.92

SAMSON AND DELILAH  (1949)

Sam

Produced and directed by Cecil B. DeMille, this Academy Award-winning epic dramatizes the biblical story of Samson—his battle with the lion, his assault on the Philistines, his struggle with a giant, how he pulls down a pagan temple with his strength, and his relationship with the beautiful Delilah (deliciously played by Hedy Lamarr). Also starring Victor Mature, George Sanders and Angela Landsbury.

2 hrs. 8 min.  AGE: 12 to Adult

222.11

613 TORAH AVENUE: SONGS FOR CHUMASH B’REISHIS  (1994)

Six

Computer-animated video of the original 613 Torah Avenue audio cassette with lively songs. Join Chaim and his animated friends who teach him new songs about each Parsha in Chumash B’reishis. Note: Ashkenazic pronunciation is used and animation is amateurish.

37 min.  AGE: 3 to 7

222.12

613 TORAH AVENUE - Vol. 2: SONGS FOR CHUMASH SHEMOS  (1995)

Six

Computer-animated Chaim finds himself in an amusement park where familiar objects spring to life. Contains lively songs for each Parsha in Chumash Shemot which teach the lessons and ideas of the Chumash. Based on the popular 613 Torah Avenue audio cassettes. Note: Ashkenazic pronunciation is used, and animation is amateurish. Also, a silly clown is depicted who always gives wrong answers. Teachers should make sure that children know that this is a humorous device, and that the answers the clown provides are not correct.

34 min.  AGE: 3 to 7

JHVC

296.123

The Talmud and the Scholar  (1989)

Tal

A strong legal system helped Jews maintain a cohesive social structure for centuries. Ancient study houses worked with an oral tradition until the second century C.E., when the process of writing down the Talmud began. However, spoken discussion of the Talmud remains a vibrant aspect of Jewish study, as students follow the many threads of commentary and argument. The text becomes a "script" to be actively "performed," rather than passively read. One of the greatest contemporary scholars of the Talmud is Rabbi Adin Steinsaltz. The Talmud and the Scholar examines Steinsaltz's thinking and teachings; it also discusses the Talmud's history and shows methods of studying its endless pathways. Besides being a tireless instructor comfortable with both advanced and beginning students, Steinsaltz is publishing a multi-volume edition of the Talmud in English, bringing the tradition to a new generation. The Talmud and the Scholar also shows the rabbi's personal side, following Steinsaltz to a wedding and the Biblical Zoo in Jerusalem.

58 min.  AGE: 12 to Adult

956.94

THE TEMPLE AT JERUSALEM  (1988)

Tem

Ecumenical documentary, produced by Chosen People Ministries, about the First and Second Temples in Jerusalem. Harold A. Sevener, President of Chosen People Ministries, takes viewers through the history of the building of the First Temple to its destruction by King Nebuchadnezzer. He then describes how King Herod built the Second Temple, which was destroyed by the Romans. Viewers journey to the sites of the Temples and visit models of the Tabernacle and sites of ancient places of worship (pre-King David). Then the film examines the model of the Temple at Jerusalem and the Wailing Wall—the one remaining wall of the ancient Temple. Note: Approximately 17 minutes into the film, it begins to refer to Jesus entering the Holy City. Teachers of Jewish classrooms may wish to use the first part of the video and stop it before this point. In addition, some of the interpretations given at the end of the film will vary with Jewish belief regarding the rebuilding of the Temple. Teachers may choose to stop this video early as the interpretations cited are problematic.

30 min.  AGE: 11 to Adult

222.12

THE TEN COMMANDMENTS  (1956)

Ten

Cecil B. DeMille’s epic picture tells the story of the life of Moses—his life in Egypt, the plagues, leading the Israelites out of Egypt, and receiving the Ten Commandments. One of the most spectacular films of its time, starring Charlton Heston as Moses and Yul Brynner as Pharaoh.

03 hrs. 39 min.  AGE: 12 to Adult

956.94

WAKE THE DAWN: THE STORY OF JERUSALEM’S HOLY TEMPLE  (1989)

Wak

Filmed in Israel, this video presents the history, meaning and purpose of the Beit Hamikdash—Jerusalem’s Holy Temple. The film utilizes animation, documentary footage and a tour of the Temple model at the Holyland Hotel in Israel. The Temple’s history is shown as having its roots in the Mishkan, the Tabernacle the Jews built in their 40 years in the desert after their exodus from Egypt. The histories of both the first and second Temples, and their destruction, are presented as well. Note: The film concludes with description of Ezekial’s prophecy of the Third Temple being rebuilt by Mashiach (the Messiah) and waters coming forth which lead to redemption. This conclusion covers the final 4 minutes of the film, and teachers should be prepared for discussion.

32 min.  AGE: 10 to Adult

296

A WHALE OF A NEW YEAR  (Alef...Bet...Blast-Off!  Episode 6)  (1995)

Ale

Part of a children’s video series in which puppets and real people illustrate how traditional Jewish values apply to modern life. In this episode David loses his sister’s goldfish and lies about it. Mitzvah Mouse takes him back to Biblical times for a visit with Jonah (played by Avery Schreiber). Both David and Jonah learn that it’s important to admit when you’re wrong and take responsibility for your actions. David also learns that an apology is not always enough—a person should try to rectify the mistake. The song presented is Modeh Ani, and the Hebrew letter s (Dalet) is introduced.

Approx. 30 min.  AGE: 4 to 8

Documentary about the biblical figure of Moses, exploring how recent archaeological research supports or refutes the Bible’s accounts of Moses and the Book of Exodus. The stated purpose of this video is to provide evidence that Moses was an actual person and that the events recorded in the book of Exodus are historical – not “mythological.” Archaeologists and historians present evidence from scientific studies, biblical research and Egyptian records. Included is footage of the discovery of the City of Ramses, as well as other scientific discoveries that add credence to the stories of the Ten Plagues and the parting of the Red Sea. Note: Tape is missing the last minute.

55 min.  AGE:  12 to Adult