The Book of Murray: The Life, Teachings, and Kvetching of the Lost Prophet

by David M. Bader

For years scholars have puzzled over the contrasts between modern Judaism and the world of the ancient Israelites. Leviticus explains keeping kosher, but where is the scriptural basis for pocketing a dinner roll from a buffet "for later"?

Finally, in The Book of Murray, we have answers. Here is the source for such timeless teachings as "Love the stranger, but not on the first date" and "Trust not a cardiologist who chain-smokes."

This remarkable biblical text, recently unearthed from a golf course in South Florida, is the surprising, hilarious, and uplifting chronicle of the Old Testament’s most unlikely prophet—Murray, son of Irving of the Tribe of Levi (Relaxed Fit).

Though a poor student and a disappointment to his parents, Murray hears God’s call. Soon he is wandering the land, spreading his unique brand of wisdom, whether from a mountaintop or at a themed bar mitzvah.

He reminds followers of the Ten (or so) Commandments. He boldly predicts the future of the "Thy people will produce philosophers and scientists and novelists and Nobel Prize winners. Yet still thou wilt be unable to find the hood release on thy car." He judges a dispute between two women fighting over a cherished black-and-white cookie—all leading to the spectacular finale.

Filled with divinely inspired yet practical advice ("Thou shalt not freelance"), The Book of Murray is an affectionate and mirthful romp for readers of all faiths. Study its truths, learn the prophet’s stories, and, in the immortal words of Murray (handed down by his dyslexic scribe), "Go froth and multiply."

Genres: Humor, Religion

176 pages, Hardcover

First published August 24, 2010

About the author

Also published as David Bader
Manhattan attorney turned haiku humourist, David Bader is author of several US cult hits Haikus for Jews: For You, a Little Wisdom and Zen Judaism: For You, a Little Enlightenment. He lives and counts syllables in New York City.

Reviews

[Jason Clark · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is terrific. I'm glad it was discovered and don't know why it was not added to the Torah. Brilliant parody! Very clever, and interestingly juxtaposes the style of Jewish manuscripts with the nuisance complaints of people today. I don't know if the stereotypes used would be considered offensive, but I thought they were funny

[Caffers · Rating 5 out of 5]

DeLiGhTfUl!
I smiled, laughed, and nodded in agreement.
My faves were... 'The 10 (or so) Commandments' and 'The Murray Diet'.
A short, fun read.
I'm eager to share with a few of my friends. I think they will enjoy it as much as I did. :D

[Kerry Pickens · Rating 3 out of 5]

This is a humorous take on Jewish teachings, but I found it to be one dimensional. It's like listening to a standup comedian tell the same joke over and over and over.... not that funny.

[Mallory · Rating 5 out of 5]

Hilarious! (I listened to the audiobook; the narrator is excellent!)

[John · Rating 4 out of 5]

A cute play on biblical stories. Doesn't hurt that my last name is Murray. Lol.

[Marc · Rating 4 out of 5]

More than just smiles, snorts, and smirks; this is what Gospel of the Flying Spaghetti Monster could have been

[Debby Hammer · Rating 4 out of 5]

Truly funny, absorbing, gives a kick and lively. Loved it.

[David Finger · Rating 2 out of 5]

Years ago I saw Jerry Seinfeld tell Norm MacDonald “the greatest Jew joke that I’ve ever heard” (according to Jerry). I won’t repeat the joke, it’s worth looking up yourself on YouTube. But like Norm I’m not Jewish and I didn’t get the joke.

This book feels similar. By the end of it I was left puzzled and i didn’t find many of the jokes at all funny. But something tells me that, like Jerry’s joke, it all depends on who is reading it.

[Grant Davis]

Kind of funny. Interesting use of biblical terms and was somewhat witty, but a little too dry to be an actual published work of humor.

[Karen · Rating 3 out of 5]

Some very funny moments.