How I Lost The Bible Contest

A Test of Faith

A SHELF FROM MY HOME, 2023.

All the smart kids at my middle school took a class called “Chidon Ha-Tanach,” which means “Bible Contest.” It was offered to 7^th and 8^th Graders who wanted to compete in the regional stages of an international Tanach competition—a chance for fame and glory, sort of. The finals in Israel would be televised. I wanted in.

Chidon …