Kamtza, Bar Kamtza: the dramatic story from Talmud with classic commentaries and insights Chassidut Kabbalah

The dramatic Talmudic story that explains why the Holy Temple was destroyed-brought to life with stunning original artwork, classic commentaries, and profound insights from Chassidut and Kabbalah.A servant's mistake. A banquet gone wrong. A silence that shattered a nation.The story of Kamtza and Bar Kamtza, found in Tractate Gittin (55b-57a), is one of the most powerful narratives in all of rabbinic literature. When a man publicly humiliates his enemy at a feast-and the rabbis present say nothing-the consequences spiral from personal grievance to national catastrophe: the destruction of Jerusalem and the Holy Temple.This beautifully illustrated volume presents the full Talmudic text in Hebrew and English alongside rich commentary drawn from Rashi, Tosafot, the Ben Yehoyada, the Maharal, Steinsaltz, the Arizal, and many more. Original graphic-novel-style artwork brings each scene vividly to life-from the fateful banquet to Nero's arrows, Rabban Yochanan ben Zakkai's daring escape, and the fall of the Temple.Inside you'll find: - The complete Gemara text (Gittin 55b-57a) with facing English translation - Detailed commentary weaving together classic and Chassidic sources - Insights from Kabbalah on the spiritual roots of the destruction - Original full-color illustrations throughout - Boxed essays on topics like the Davidic dynasty, the "Iron Dome of Torah," and divine justiceWhether you're learning this sugya for the first time or returning to it with fresh eyes, this volume transforms a familiar story into a deeply layered exploration of jealousy, pride, moral paralysis, and the terrifying power of unchecked hatred.Writing and art by Rabbi Boruch Merkur. Published by The Tree of Life Books.