These Are the Words: A Vocabulary of Jewish Spiritual Life

by Arthur Green

The basic vocabulary of Jewish spiritual life, explained with humor, insight and relevance to guide you on a historical and spiritual journey through Judaism. Judaism itself is a language, a group's way of expressing beliefs, longings, aspirations and dreams. The vocabulary of Jewish life is the framework that Jews use to hand their past down to their children. It is also the vocabulary that people of other faiths need to know to understand Judaism and Jewish life. In this revised, expanded, highly readable, enlightening and entertaining new edition of "the ultimate Jewish primer," one of the greatest spiritual teachers of our time takes readers—Jews and non-Jews alike—on a historical and spiritual journey through Judaism. Dr. Arthur Green explains the meaning, history and origin of over 150 core Hebrew words that are shared and understood throughout the Jewish world. With humor, insight and relevance, he lays out the basic vocabulary of Jewish communal and religious identity and shows why it is important for people to know and use these words in Hebrew.

Genres: Judaism, Jewish, Reference, Nonfiction

Hardcover

First published August 1, 1999

Reviews

[C. Varn · Rating 5 out of 5]

If there was a thing as a theological education through a lexicon, Arthur Green's discussion of the development and usage of 149 words and phrases is definitely a way into the discussion. If you are converting, deepening your understanding, or even just studying to understand theological thought in a scholarly way, this book may be helpful to you. The words are defined, put in a religious and historical context, and then sometime a few of Rabbi Green's spiritual explications are given. You can also learn about subtle shifts between biblical and Talmudic hebrew and modern usage in some cases. A very worthwhile book.

[SDAntoNia · Rating 3 out of 5]

Hey -asceticism is not ok, but Minimalism is!! :-) I'm set!

This was an interesting but rather basic work that I started not to look at, but then decided to skim on a borrowed ancient Kindle, so I probably ought to render thanks to the person who put this book on that device, as I found Arthur Green referrring to the Voluntary Simplicity movement at 53%, locations 1200-1204, 2257 (whatever all of that means, as there are unfortunately no actual page numbers on this thing!!)!

[Jordon Gyarmathy · Rating 4 out of 5]

I make no statement in support of the author and his actions but I did appreciate this reference work. The collection of words had a lean and preference towards mysticism and Kabbalah but the basic terms, holidays, and vocabulary is covered well, with the Hebrew as well. This could definitely be helpful for anyone wanting to understand key Jewish terms.

[Eric · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fantastic book. Clear, concise, and highly accessible to everyone.

[Daniel · Rating 4 out of 5]

These is a good standard (and highly readable) reference that should find a welcome in anyone maintaining a home Jewish library. Rabbi Green defines words that are part of the Jewish liturgy and lifecycle and calendar, bringing in not only the expected information but also Hasidic and kabbalistic sources. Useful as an introduction, a refresher, or even as a quiz for informed Jews to see just how much they know.