Pretty standard for the Torah is the
JPS version. Getting the Hebrew/English side by side is my fav, because the footnotes often show parallels between words and usage throughout. I also like the
this Chumash. Just reading the English, though, you miss so much - it's almost not worth it. It's much more worth the struggling through the Hebrew (and it's a struggle), because it's so much more illuminating. The English really only touches on the plot.
Also, each Hebrew word has a root, which tells you about the connotation and denotation and relationship of the word to other words. Without basic knowledge of Hebrew and its roots, it's difficult to really "understand" more than what we call in Hebrew the
p'shat - that first, most superficial layer of meaning.
So, I guess this is a long, drawn out - LEARN BIBLICAL HEBREW or at least study with someone who knows it. Otherwise, you probably won't get much more than you already know. Also, if you're interested in the Torah in isolation (without any other influences), study with a rabbi or Jewish scholar. You'll most likely get bogged down in Midrash (which you will with any Jewish commentary), but it will be as isolate as possible. The Torah looks VERY different to a Jew than it does to a Christian or Muslim. Just keep that in mind and be conscious of that, whatever you choose to do.
I love the Gospel of Luke (Mark is the shortest), the Psalms are lovely (poetry), and the Song of Solomon (Song of Songs) is love poetry. I'd check those out first.
