Legends of Old Testament characters, from the Talmud and other sources

The book gathers a lively assortment of legends that have grown up around the figures of the Old Testament. Drawing from the Talmud, medieval Arabic chronicles, Persian folklore and Kabbalistic speculation, it shows how the ancient heroes were reimagined by later storytellers. Listeners will hear familiar names such as David, Abraham and Moses spoken of in surprising ways—unicorns, demons, and moral parables that were never part of the canonical text. The collection reveals how each tradition tried to fill gaps in the biblical narrative, offering a richer, if sometimes fanciful, portrait of the past.

These tales are organized by source, letting readers compare rabbinic explanations with the extravagant Muslim and Persian embellishments. Some stories, like the account of Lamech’s wives or the retelling of Isaac’s near‑sacrifice, echo the biblical core while adding detail. Others, such as the literal interpretation of David’s “horns of the unicorn,” showcase the creative leaps made by commentators. For anyone who enjoys exploring how myths evolve, this anthology offers a window into the imaginations that have kept these ancient characters alive.