Meaning: The quote "We Jews have a special attachment to the Book. The study of page after page in tomes yellowing with age was obligatory" by Theodore Bikel, an actor and folk singer of Jewish descent, reflects the deep reverence and connection that Jewish people have with the written word, particularly the Torah and other sacred texts. This quote encapsulates the profound significance of learning and studying religious texts within Jewish tradition.

Judaism places a strong emphasis on the study of sacred texts, which are collectively known as "the Book." The primary text revered by Jews is the Torah, which consists of the first five books of the Hebrew Bible. In addition to the Torah, there are other significant texts such as the Talmud, Midrash, and various commentaries that are studied and revered within the Jewish tradition. The act of studying these texts is considered a sacred duty and a means of connecting with God and the rich heritage of the Jewish people.

The reference to "tomes yellowing with age" in Bikel's quote alludes to the enduring nature of the Jewish scriptures. These texts have been preserved and studied for centuries, passing down wisdom, laws, and narratives from generation to generation. The physical and metaphorical aging of these tomes symbolizes the timeless and unchanging nature of the teachings contained within them.

The obligation to study these ancient texts is deeply ingrained in Jewish culture and religious practice. From a young age, Jewish children are encouraged to engage in the study of Torah and other sacred writings, often attending religious schools known as yeshivas or participating in regular Torah study sessions. This commitment to learning and understanding the scriptures is seen as a way to deepen one's faith, strengthen the community, and uphold the traditions of Judaism.

The study of the Book also plays a central role in Jewish worship and religious observance. Synagogues, the places of Jewish communal prayer, often serve as centers for Torah study and discussion. The weekly Torah portion, known as the Parsha, is read and studied in synagogues around the world, providing an opportunity for congregants to engage with the teachings and lessons contained within the sacred text.

Furthermore, the obligation to study the Book extends beyond religious practice and into the realms of education, ethics, and intellectual pursuit. Jewish scholars, known as rabbis, devote their lives to the study and interpretation of the Torah, providing guidance and insight into the meaning of the scriptures for contemporary audiences. The study of the Book is not merely an academic exercise but a spiritual and moral imperative that shapes the ethical framework and worldview of Jewish individuals and communities.

In conclusion, Theodore Bikel's quote captures the profound significance of the study of sacred texts within Jewish tradition. The obligation to engage with the ancient writings, to delve into the yellowing tomes, reflects the enduring commitment of the Jewish people to their religious heritage and the timeless wisdom contained within the pages of the Torah and other sacred texts. This dedication to the study of the Book serves as a cornerstone of Jewish identity and spirituality, fostering a deep and abiding connection to the teachings and traditions that have sustained the Jewish people for millennia.