Judaism in the Beginning of Christianity

by Jacob Neusner

In this clearly written book, Jacob Neusner answers the central questions about the world of Judaism in which Christianity was born. He gives an overview of the history and religion of Israel and an analysis of the Judaic legacy as it endured among those who did not become Christians. He also discusses the troubling issue of the Pharisees and investigates the identity of the "historical Hillel." This accessible book aims to speak directly to every student who is concerned with both the early and contemporary meanings of the Jewish and Christian faiths.

Genres: Judaism, Religion, Christianity, History, Academic

112 pages, Paperback

First published September 5, 1984

About the author

Born in Hartford, Connecticut, Neusner was educated at Harvard University, the Jewish Theological Seminary of America (where he received rabbinic ordination), the University of Oxford, and Columbia University.

Neusner is often celebrated as one of the most published authors in history (he has written or edited more than 950 books.)Since 1994, he taught at Bard College. He also taught at Columbia University, University of Wisconsin–Milwaukee, Brandeis University, Dartmouth College, Brown University, and the University of South Florida.

Neusner was a member of the Institute for Advanced Study in Princeton, and a life member of Clare Hall, Cambridge University. He is the only scholar to have served on both the National Endowment for the Humanities and the National Endowment for the Arts. He also received scores of academic awards, honorific and otherwise.

Reviews

[Benjamin · Rating 5 out of 5]

An excellent brief introduction to Judaism as it made its transition from the sacrificial worship of the Second Temple period into the development of rabbinic Judaism. Recommended.

[Jesse Engel · Rating 4 out of 5]

Book intended for a classroom setting. If you are up to an in-depth study, this is the book you would want to read.

[Seosamh Radigan · Rating 4 out of 5]

A bit difficult to follow at some parts, but overall a great introduction to this era of history and a great call for unity between Jews and Christians.

[Robert Murphy · Rating 3 out of 5]

Very helpful on early Judaism. The man is pretty uninformed about early Christianity. Still, very useful and quotable.

[Zack · Rating 3 out of 5]

A nice, brief introduction.