Judaism

by Norman Solomon

In his accessible, perceptive introduction to the central features and figures in Judaism, Norman Solomon discusses the religion as a living force, in all its contemporary richness and variety. He presents spiritual leaders, poets, philosophers, and even eccentrics—including the mystic who tried to convert the Pope—while also addressing such questions as: How has Judaism changed since biblical days and How does the secular state of Israel resolve the conflicts of “Church” and state?

 

Genres: Religion

208 pages, Hardcover

Published October 6, 2009

About the author

Norman Solomon is a British rabbi, professor, and scholar in the field of Jewish studies and Jewish-Christian relations. He was born in Cardiff, South Wales in 1933 and attended Cardiff High School and St. John’s College, Cambridge. He attained rabbinic ordination at Jews' College (London School of Jewish Studies) in London, England and a Ph.D. at the University of Manchester. He served Orthodox congregations in Manchester, Liverpool, London and Birmingham, England. He was later director of the Centre for the Study of Judaism and Jewish-Christian Relations at the Selly Oak Colleges, Birmingham and a Fellow in Modern Jewish Thought at the Oxford Centre for Hebrew and Jewish Studies. He was also lecturer in Theology at the University of Oxford. He currently holds the position of Professor of Judaica at the Graduate Theological Foundation. A former Vice President of the World Congress of Faiths, a Patron of the International Interfaith Centre and an Adviser to the International Council of Christians and Jews, he has been actively involved in interfaith dialogue with Christians and Muslims. He has written five books and over seventy articles on a wide range of issues in the fields of Jewish studies and Jewish-Christian relations. He has also edited a number of volumes in these fields. His major works include his books Judaism and World Religion, The Analytic Movement: Hayyim Soloveitchik and His School, The Talmud: A Selection and Torah from Heaven.

Reviews

[Pirl · Rating 3 out of 5]

While forming a decent introduction to Judaism without wowing me would usually earn four stars, I've removed a star for him constantly referring to the ancient land of Israel/the Holy Land as Palestine, when that was a name created by the Brits about 100 yrs ago. This is a major pet peeves of mine that will always receive criticism.

[David Mackey · Rating 4 out of 5]

I thoroughly enjoyed this small but information packed book. It covers so many aspects of Judaism within it's pages and has an great number of illustrations, photos, and so on that provide visual insights and understanding.

[James · Rating 4 out of 5]

Good overview.

[Naomi Ruth · Rating 3 out of 5]

Good information, organized well. I like it.