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

"Legends of Old Testament Characters" by S. (Sabine) Baring-Gould, is a compilation of Jewish stories from sources like the Talmud, offering an expanded view of famous people in the Old Testament. Written in the late 1800s, the book shares the legendary backgrounds and tales linked to these important figures while giving attention to their original cultures. Instead of a complete collection, the book focuses on the most interesting stories, beginning with the story of fallen angels and Sammael's rebellion that introduces ideas about free will. Beginning with the divine creation of humanity, this is weaved into the text. The stories lead to the creation of Adam, showing how power, obedience, and sin shaped the world as described in the Bible.