Judaism: The Basics

by NEUSNER; JACOB

• ISBN13: 9780415401753
• ISBN10: 0415401755
• Format: Hardcover
• Copyright: 2006-09-19
• Publisher: Routledge

Summary

The oldest of the world's major faiths, Judaism as practiced today represents a tradition that goes back nearly 6,000 years. Accessible and wide-ranging, Judaism: The Basics is a must-have resource covering the stories, beliefs and expressions of that tradition. Key topics covered include: the Torah Israel - the state and its people Passover Reform Judaism, Orthodox Judaism and Zionism the impact of the Holocaust. With a glossary of terms and extensive suggestions for further reading, Judaism: The Basics is an essential guide through the rich intricacies of the Jewish faith and people.

Author Biography

Jacob Neusner is Research Professor of Theology at Bard College and Senior Fellow of the Institute of Advanced Theology at Bard.

Table of Contents

Introduction : defining Judaism	p. 1
Defining Judaism through stories	p. 11
Who and what is Israel?	p. 25
The community of Judaism and passover	p. 38
The Israelite before God and the days of awe	p. 47
The individual Israelite and Israel in history : the Huppah; the Covenant of Abraham; eating lunch	p. 61
The purpose of the law, the ten commandments, the sabbath	p. 77
God is one, merciful and just	p. 92
The formation of normative Judaism	p. 111
The articulation of normative Judaism	p. 129
Reform, orthodox, and conservative Judaisms, Zionism	p. 148
How Judaism speaks today	p. 171
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