Reader's Guide to Judaism


Book Description

The Reader's Guide to Judaism is a survey of English-language translations of the most important primary texts in the Jewish tradition. The field is assessed in some 470 essays discussing individuals (Martin Buber, Gluckel of Hameln), literature (Genesis, Ladino Literature), thought and beliefs (Holiness, Bioethics), practice (Dietary Laws, Passover), history (Venice, Baghdadi Jews of India), and arts and material culture (Synagogue Architecture, Costume). The emphasis is on Judaism, rather than on Jewish studies more broadly.




A Christian's Guide to Judaism


Book Description

Do you have questions about Judaism? Do you wonder why Jews don't accept Jesus as Messiah? Why Jews are so attached to the State of Israel? Why has there been so much hatred of Jews over the centuries? What you should bring (or more importantly, what not to bring) to the Passover Seder to which you've been invited? How to relate to Jews who are close friends or even new family members of yours? If you do, then this is the book for you. Written in a friendly, informal style, A Christian's Guide to Judaism is an introduction to Jewish religion, history, culture, and holidays written especially for the curious non-Jew. Its goal is to not only answer the questions that you may have about Judaism but also to make you feel more at home when you are invited to Jewish celebrations such as weddings and bar or bat mitzvahs. Have a quick question about what's kosher or why traditional Jewish men keep their head covered? See the subject in the chapter called "Jewish Practice in Lots of Nutshells." The fascination of Christians with Judaism has taken many forms over the years, from virulent anti-Semitism to intense interest regarding the religion of Jesus. This much-needed book provides Christians with a broad overview of the Jewish people and their religion, presents thorough explanations of Jewish laws and traditions, and explains in detail the many similarities--and key differences--between the Christian and Jewish faiths. +




The Cambridge Guide to Jewish History, Religion, and Culture


Book Description

The Cambridge Guide to Jewish History, Religion, and Culture is a comprehensive and engaging overview of Jewish life, from its origins in the ancient Near East to its impact on contemporary popular culture. The twenty-one essays, arranged historically and thematically, and written specially for this volume by leading scholars, examine the development of Judaism and the evolution of Jewish history and culture over many centuries and in a range of locales. They emphasize the ongoing diversity and creativity of the Jewish experience. Unlike previous anthologies, which concentrate on elite groups and expressions of a male-oriented rabbinic culture, this volume also includes the range of experiences of ordinary people and looks at the lives and achievements of women in every place and era. The many illustrations, maps, timeline, and glossary of important terms enhance this book's accessibility to students and general readers.




Judaism in America


Book Description

This book is about the beliefs, doctrines, history, institutions, and leaders of the Jewish religious community. It is based on historical evidence as well as interviews and direct observation of about 100 synagogues in the country and presents a full portrait of a religious tradition that comprises only two percent of America's population but has a large influence on American culture.




Jewish Literacy Revised Ed


Book Description

What does it mean to be a Jew? How does one begin to answer so extensive a question? In this insightful and completely updated tome, esteemed rabbi and bestselling author Joseph Telushkin helps answer the question of what it means to be a Jew, in the largest sense. Widely recognized as one of the most respected and indispensable reference books on Jewish life, culture, tradition, and religion, Jewish Literacy covers every essential aspect of the Jewish people and Judaism. In 352 short and engaging chapters, Rabbi Telushkin discusses everything from the Jewish Bible and Talmud to Jewish notions of ethics to antisemitism and the Holocaust; from the history of Jews around the world to Zionism and the politics of a Jewish state; from the significance of religious traditions and holidays to how they are practiced in daily life. Whether you want to know more about Judaism in general or have specific questions you'd like answered, Jewish Literacy is sure to contain the information you need. Rabbi Telushkin's expert knowledge of Judaism makes the updated and revised edition of Jewish Literacy an invaluable reference. A comprehensive yet thoroughly accessible resource for anyone interested in learning the fundamentals of Judaism, Jewish Literacy is a must for every Jewish home.




The Essential Guide to Jewish Prayer and Practices


Book Description

An insightful and illuminating guide to Judaism's basic tenets and practices. The Essential Guide to Jewish Prayer and Practices offers a more profound understanding of Judaism-for practicing Jews and non-Jews alike-by explaining the key concepts of Jewish thought, including the sanctity of human life, Judaism's concept of God, and the role of the Torah in guiding Jewish spiritual life. Judaic studies scholar Andrea Lieber introduces readers to the form of Jewish prayer-the structure of Jewish worship and the different kinds of prayers that make up Jewish liturgy. • The perfect guide for Jewish spirituality for affiliated and non- practicing Jews as well as people of other faiths • Provides essential knowledge of the meaning of the Torah and the rituals of worship and prayer




Understanding Judaism


Book Description

What does the Torah say that makes it relevant to today? How can we understand the mitzvos? Why should I believe? Why be Jewish? What does a Jew have to do? Is science an enemy of Judaism?JEP has answers. For decades, the Jewish Education Prog




A Guide to Jewish Religious Practice


Book Description

On the Sabbath, calling women to the Torah, and counting them in the minyan.




Judaisms


Book Description

"An introductory textbook that examines how Jews are a culture, ethnicity, nation, nationality, race, and religion. With each chapter revolving around a single theme--Narratives, Sinais, Zions, Messiahs, Laws, Mysticisms, Cultures, Movements, Genocides, Powers, Borders, and Futures--this introductory textbook interrogates readers' understanding of the Jewish community. Written for a new mode of teaching--one that recognizes the core role that identity formation plays in our lives--this book weaves together alternative, marginalized voices to illustrate how Jews have always been in the process of reshaping their customs, practices, and beliefs. Judaisms is the first book to assess and summarize Jewish history from the time of the Hebrew Bible through today using multiple perspectives"--Provided by publisher.