Finding Our Way

by Holtz, Barry W.

• ISBN13: 9780827608184
• ISBN10: 0827608187
• Format: Paperback
• Copyright: 2005-03-15
• Publisher: Jewish Pubn Society

Summary

The ancient rabbis believed that the world rests on three pillars: study, worship, and good deeds. It is said that the greatest of these is study, for it leads to the other two. But exactly how does the modern Jewish reader go about studying the Mishnah, Talmud, and Midrash?the great ancient and often hard-to-comprehend texts of our tradition? And how do we glean the great insights and wisdom from these sacred texts that inspired our ancestors and apply them to our modern lives? With guidance from renowned author and adult educator Barry Holtz, these ancient texts take on new meaning for us. He provides a framework for exploring our thinking about God, prayer, and ritual, as well as social issues, such as charity, friendship, and justice. His new study guide helps readers and study groups launch their exploration of the ancient texts, posing probing questions to help them stay engaged as they pursue their quest for a deeper understanding of their faith.

Author Biography

Barry W. Holtz is the Theodore and Florence Baumritter Professor of Jewish Education at The Jewish Theological Seminary.

Table of Contents

Preface to the New Edition	vii
Preface and Acknowledgments	ix
Note to the Reader	xiii
Introduction From Life to Text, from Text to Life	3	(12)
Tradition	15	(24)
Holy Living	39	(25)
Being Serious: First Thoughts About God	64	(19)
God	83	(27)
The Heart's Work	110	(26)
The Circle of Community	136	(24)
A World of Justice	160	(27)
Holy Land	187	(24)
Growing	211	(20)
Glossary	231	(4)
Notes	235	(12)
Index	247	(12)
Study Guide	259