Book Description
While admitting that "describing what itís like to be Jewish is like describing snow," author Robert Schoen provides a smart and practical understanding of Judaism for a Christian audience. In What I Wish My Christian Friends Knew about Judaism, he presents readers with thoughtful insight into Judaism. Writing from the perspective of an "average Jewish American," Schoen points out the differences and highlights the similarities between Judaism and Christianity.

Readable chapters promote understanding and tolerance. Schoen discusses the different sects of Judaism and what they mean and believe; describes Jewish ceremonies, holidays, and festivals; and explains religious texts, symbols, religious apparel, and kosher food. Important historical and social issues including anti-Semitism, the Holocaust, Israel, and the ongoing conflict in the Middle East are also addressed. The book includes a glossary of Hebrew and Yiddish words and a pronunciation guide. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (11)

What I Wish My Christian Friends Knew About Judaism
This is a well-written book that gives a wealth of information to help the non-Jewish population understand their Jewish friends, their faith, or lack thereof, and their culture.I am enjoying it immensely.

You don't have to be Christian to love Schoen's book
As a Jew I frequently am asked by non-Jews about such things as Kaballah (which I know nothing about) and if I keep kosher (I don't, but I have a hard time explaining why I don't). When I hear phrases such as "Christian values" I want to say that they originally were Jewish values.When people wish me a happy Easter or merry Christmas, I want to explain to them why I don't celebrate either of those holidays and why Hannukah is not a big holiday for adult Jews without children.

Along came Schoen's book, and suddenly the answers are there, with simple explanations that are non-confrontational.With about 70 short chapters, Schoen has created a reference work that clearly explains how the religion is practiced in the US today, the holidays, the beliefs and the food.

Chapters cover Jewish weddings, bar mitzvahs, circumcisions and funerals.The different branches of Judaism from Orthodox to Reform are covered, as are the different holidays, the symbols, women and Judaism and social issues.

Schoen covers some of Jewish history including the Holocaust, but fortunately avoids partisan lectures about such controversies as supporting Israel and condemning radical Muslims.

This should be required reading for Jewish and non-Jewish schoolchildren alike.It is a reference work that need not be read cover to cover.One can simply go to a particular relevant chapter as needed, such as High Holidays, Intermarriage or Anti-Semitism.The glossary and pronunciation guide will help readers to understand the Yiddish words that are finding their ways into the American lexicon.Schoen has condensed information about nearly everything Jewish into an easy-to-read, 250 page book that could help us all understand one another a little better.

One of the Best...
This is one of the best books about "Judaism for non-Jews" I've ever read.When I was studying for my conversion to Reform Judaism a couple of years ago, I referred to it constantly.It is very readable, and Mr. Schoen shares anecdotes from his own experiences that are pertinent to each topic he covers.Even now, I often go to this book when I have a question that requires an accurate but not highly technical answer.

One of my closest friends is a born-again Christian.When she came for a visit a few months ago, she attended synagogue with us and observed some of the religious rituals we perform at home.She has never had much exposure to Judaism, so she had lots of questions.When her birthday rolled around, I ordered a copy of this book from Amazon to send to her as a gift, thinking it would be just right.Well, I'll let her own words speak for her...this is an excerpt from the e-mail she wrote me when she received the book:"And the book...I've been reading it every time I sit down. It's just perfect. It really is easy to read, and I've already recognized some of the things I learned while I stayed with you guys. Very interesting."

In short, this is an excellent book!

great-full of information!
This book is great-simple to follow & full of information. I think it's a must read for every Catholic.Thanks Robert Schoen.

Good introduction, leaves one interested to learn more
I found myself in the odd position of minoring in Jewish Studies without knowing anything about modern Judaism (all the classes I've taken have been on the ancient period).Reading this book has been my first step toward remedying that.

This was an excellent introduction to modern Judaism.It did leave me with questions--but that's the job of a good introductory work, to show you that there is more out there to learn. The glossary (with pronunciations!) is also a good resource.I highly recommend this book. ... Read more

Book Description
Provides a straightforward introduction to the diversity of Judaism. Explains the wide range of customs and cerermonies. Goes beyond simple descriptions to show the deep connection between Jewish theology and daily living. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (4)

Reader Friendly Guide into Judaism
If you are a Christian or anybody else that wants to know more about Judaism, then this book is for you.The authors lay out the calendar, then an explanation of each feast and how it is celebrated.The information if for celebrating in the home, but it also goes over what you would see at a synagogue celebration and why it is done that way.There is a chapter on how to convert to Judaism, but the book is not designed to convince anyone to join, but simply to state how, just in case that is why you brought the book.The book briefly goes over Judaism's view of God, but has a bibliography so that someone could acquire other books if the desire was to go deeper.The main emphasis of the book is on how to create the Jewish spirit or atmosphere in ones home.Another interesting chapter of the book deals with the diffences and similarities between Orthodox, reform, conservative, and reconstructionist Jews.There is a great glossary of terms at the back of the book, but all terms are defined in the book as you go.The chapters are short and reader friendly.If you are looking for a good brief overview, this will definately serve that purpose.

An Excellent Introduction to Judaism
This book truly is Every Person's Guide to Judaism. It was well thought out, easy to understand and set out nicely too. The text was just the right size and was seperated just well enough to make it easy to read. If you had a particular question in mind, you could easily skip to that section but you can just as easily read it from front to back, which is what I did.

This book is a must for anyone interested in the basics of Judaism from it's major holidays, to what the Torah and Midrash are, to Judaic views on Adoption, Birth Control, Abortion and other ideas. It talks about thye Mezuzah, Jewish Dietary Laws, Traditions, Rituals, Converting, Zionism, The Holocaust and the different Modern movements. (Orthodox, Reform, Conservative and Reconstructionist. With a through glossary and all words that are in the glossary in italics through out the text, this is a worthwhile book to read or even purchase.

Good Reference for a quick answer
This book provides a concise review of the Judaism.The book is well laid out to find answers to questions.Sometimes a little more depth would be nice, but the book would then be too big.I used it for gifts to friends interested in Judaism.

It was very interesting.
I had to do a report about Judaism, and I looked up this book in the library. It gave me a lot of interesting information on this topic. It helped me a lot, thanks! ... Read more

Book Description
Judaism is primarily a religion of actions rather than beliefs. When the Jewish people accepted God's covenant, they committed themselves first to obedience and practice, and then to striving to understand the message implicit in the Torah. In Understanding Judaism: The Basics of Deed and Creed, a perfect textbook for independent and classroom study, Rabbi Benjamin Blech presents a comprehensive explication of the Jewish faith. What does it meant to be a Jew? How does religion affect the ways in which Jewish people think and act? What are the basic concepts of Judaism? This volume answers these vital questions. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (2)

Every non-Jew, as well as every Jew, should read this book.
It's subtitle, "The Basics of Deed and Creed" indicates one ofits purposes; to compare/contrast Judaism, in a non-pejorative way, with Christianity. Judaism is more about what someone DOES rather than about what he believes; not that belief is unimportant. The sense is that belief is important mainly as an impulse to righteous behavior rather than in and of itself.

Understanding Judaism is, along with Rabbi Irving Greenberg's "The Jewish Way," and Moshe Chayim Luzatto's "The Way of God," one the best introductions to Jewish theology available for the general reader.

One of the best ways to illustrate is content is to list some of its provocative chapter titles:If You Had to Choose Only One Mitzvah, There Are No Ten Commandments, Why Were the Ten Given?, Why Did GodGive Us Two Tablets?, Who Comes First, Man or God?, Why is God First on the Tablets?, Enjoy Life on this Earth, Does God Care About Non-Jews?, The Source ofthe Seven Universal Laws, The Thirteen Fundamentals of Belief, Why Do Bad Things Happen to Good People?, Can we"Prove" God's Existence?, Who is Satan?, Do We Really Have Free Will?, Does God Speak to Man?, Are We Close to the Time of the Messianic Era?

With all the existing controversy about posting the Ten Commandments in a public place, few people can even name them. Rabbi Blech not only lucidly explains their meaning and inherant structure, put points out that there are three different versions --Roman Catholic, Protestant and Jewish -- and compares the versions in his chapter, "Why Did God Give Us Two Tablets?" This chapter contains the best suchcomprehensive discussion of the Ten Commandments that I know of.

I am confident that everyone who reads this book will thank me for recommending it.

Every Jew (observant or not) should read this
Starting from the Ten Commandements and the Thirteen Principles of Faith rabbi Blech gives a very clear and inspiring overview of Jewish "theology" and view of life. A must read for people who want to know more about Judaism. Enjoyed every moment of it. ... Read more

Book Description
The Origins of Judaism provides a clear, straightforward account of the development of ancient Judaism in both the Judean homeland and the Diaspora. Beginning with the Bible and ending with the rise of Islam, the text depicts the emergence of a religion that would be recognized today as Judaism out of customs and conceptions that were quite different from any that now exist. Special attention is given to the early rabbis' contribution to this historical process. Together with the main narrative, the book provides substantial quotations from primary texts (biblical, rabbinic and other) along with extended side treatments of important themes, a glossary, short biographies of leading early rabbis, a chronology of important dates and suggestions for further reading. ... Read more

Book Description

In this groundbreaking publication, originally published in 1972, George Nickelsburg places ideas in their historical circumstances as he probes biblical and postbiblical texts and challenges widely accepted scholarship. The continuities in literary forms demonstrate that divine justice was the central issue, but that people differed as to whether that justice was enacted in this life, in the assumption to heaven, in a resurrection, or in the ongoing life as an immortal soul.

The expanded edition includes subsequent studies on the resurrection accounts and theologies of the New Testament, the New Testament passion narratives, and Jewish and Christian theologies about the Son of Man.

This book provides a window into aspects of the ancient apocalyptic worldview whose dynamics and functions are often misunderstood.

Product Description
Here is a collection of substantive articles compiled to focus discussion on some weighty matters facing the Messianic Jewish movement. Reform rabbi, Dr. Dan Cohn-Sherbok, though not a Messianic Jew, is a friend of the movement. He believes that Messianic Judaism may be considered a branch of Judaism in this century. Professor of Judaism at the University of Wales, author of over 30 books, Rabbi Cohn-Sherbok guided the selection of topics addressed in this book. Here are some examples:

* Should Jewish believers in Messiah attend only Messianic Jewish congregations?

* Is intermarriage acceptable for Messianic Jews?

* Should liturgy have an essential role in congregational worship?

* How should outreach be accomplished?

Many of the best minds impacting this movement have contributed their thoughts to this book, creating a lively, informative, discussion. Each author, expressing his or her own view on a topic (often in direct opposition to another author), is a voice that can help this maturing movement confront the critical issues facing it. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (1)

Thoughtful
It is said that where there are two Jews, there are three opinions.

If that is true, then this book illustrates that Messianic Judaism is a true Judaism.Dan Cohn-Sherbok, not a Messianic Jew himself, has edited this anthology that explores issues that face the movement today.These individual essays include topics such as how to view scripture, the impact of intermarriage, gentile involvement in the movement, whether to offer conversion, whether women should receive smichah, and the relationship to Israel.

I'd say it's a must for those inside Messianic Judaism, and could be instructive for those on the outside who have at least visited Messianic congregations. ... Read more

Book Description
Dr. Rosmarins popularly written yet authoritative volume forthrightly analyzes the basic differences between Judaism and Christianity.She maintains that there is an inherent conflict between the basic views of these mother/daughter religions, a conflict that cannot be resolved but that must be understood.Among the subjects addressed are miracles, sin and atonement, faith versus law, Free Will versus Original Sin, asceticism, and the place of Jesus in Jewish thinking. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (10)

The Optimistic Jew
Best would be to cite from the back cover of this book: "...the notion that Judaism and Christianity, to maintain harmonious relations, must level their distinctive characteristics is really a totalitarian aberration...democracy is predicated on the conviction that differences are no justification for inequality and discrimination. The democratic way is that those of different views and beliefs respect the dissimilar views and beliefs of their neighbors." Should be compulsory reading for every young Jew.This was a vital source for my chapter "Living with the Christians" in my book "The Optimistic Jew: a Positive Vision for the Jewish People in the 21st Century"

Definitely worth the time and $
I think that this book presents in a very balanced way the main differences between Judaism and Christianity. It deals more with the theology, doctrine, concepts, etc. of each religion more than the actual practices, and it addresses many of the more subtle differences that many people might not be aware of or might not have thought about, such as the differences between the Jewish and Christian gods. Very interesting.

A good book explaining the Jewish perspective
Written from the Jewish perspective, Ms. Weiss-Rosmarin delineates the differences between Judaism and Christianity. While Christians will not be persuaded by her arguments, certainly they will understand why Jews are not persuaded by Christian viewpoints. She clearly lays out many issues, but I particularly liked how she shows that the Law could never be superseded by any later doctrine. I think this book should be mandatory reading for any fundamentalist Christian who seeks to convert Jews, so that he or she will see why it is a waste of time.

Very incomplete Comparison
I grew in a Christian home but have recently begun the journey to convert to Judaism. I bought this book expecting an objective description of the differences between the two religions. Instead I found a very biased account of the differences in favor of Judaism. Now, this in and of itself, is not a bad thing. It is written from a Jewish authors perspective, but I found that the arguments were not well founded. For example, the author used arguments to try and disprove a point in chistianity that is a point of Judaism, one example is how the author tries to prove how Christians worship people while jewish people only worship God. The author uses the point that although many protestant denominations only worship Jesus they still worship humans, since in Judaism Jesus was not God. I think in order to make a point about Christianity one must come at it from the point of view of a Christian. Try and disprove it that way, and therefore the argument could be much more valid. Also, on a number of occasions the author would point out 'obvious' inconsistencies in biblical reference in the New Testament and even quote the passage, but then neglect to point out why and leave it up to the reader to determine why. This is why I am reading the book, to get the author's perspective of why!

I would encourange a person wanting to discover the true differences between these two religions to look elsewhere.

Very incomplete Comparison
I grew in a Christian home but have recently begun the journey to convert to Judaism. I bought this book expecting an objective description of the differences between the two religions. Instead I found a very biased account of the differences in favor of Judaism. Now, this in and of itself, is not a bad thing. It is written from a Jewish authors perspective, but I found that the arguments were not well founded. For example, the author used arguments to try and disprove a point in chistianity that is a point of Judaism, one example is how the author tries to prove how Christians worship people while jewish people only worship God. The author uses the point that although many protestant denominations only worship Jesus they still worship humans, since in Judaism Jesus was not God. I think in order to make a point about Christianity one must come at it from the point of view of a Christian. Try and disprove it that way, and therefore the argument could be much more valid. Also, on a number of occasions the author would point out 'obvious' inconsistencies in biblical reference in the New Testament and even quote the passage, but then neglect to point out why and leave it up to the reader to determine why. This is why I am reading the book, to get the author's perspective of why!

I would encourange a person wanting to discover the true differences between these two religions to look elsewhere. ... Read more

Book Description
Few spiritual practices are more intriguing or elusive than those of Zen Judaism,” says David M. Bader in the foreword to Zen Judaism. “This growing movement offers a unique way to follow in the footsteps of the Buddha, ideally without gaining quite so much weight.” These nearly 100 sacred teachings are capable “of bringing about an enlightenment experience so pure, so elevating, and so intense, you could plotz.”

For you, some samples:

To know the Buddha is the highest attainment. Second highest is to go to the same doctor as the Buddha.

Be here now. Be someplace else later. Is that so complicated?

There is no escaping Karma. In a previous life, you never called, you never wrote, you never visited. And whose fault was that?

If there is no self, whose arthritis is this?

Be patient and achieve all things. Be impatient and achieve all things faster. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (9)

Oi, such a book!
Oi, such a book!If you like Woody Allen's warped view of Jewish family life, you will relate to the one-liners in this little masterpiece.Mixes the big picture of Buddhism with small snippets of Jewish culture and perspective.Buy several (but never pay retail).

Zen Judaism -- Who knew?
If other goyim like myself don't go right out and buy this book, it would be such a Schande. Funny? Oy! You don't know from humor till you read this. So buy and read already.

Nirvana schmirvana, as long as you're enlightened!

Entertaining
The book succeeds at it's intention - getting a half hour of laughs at innate Judaism within backdrop of Zen Buddhist sayings.

For example:
- "Enlightenment is a sudden wordless understanding.Stop telling everyone already"
- "Seek not the outer enticements.Dwell not in the inner strife.Try to find a nice place in the suburbs with good schools."

Most of the humor appeals directly to members of the tribe.

And please don't confuse this book with one of the same title that is a more serious attempt at linking the Kaballah with Buddha.

You Mean Like These?
You should read this book. Yes, you. You know who I mean. YOU.
;-)

Now I know where the Jewish Zen e-mails come from
Ever get a message called "Jewish Zen" with lines like "If there is no self, whose arthritis is this?" or"Wherever you go, there you are. Your luggage is another story."They're all taken from this book.It's a lovely little item, which I highly recommend. ... Read more

Book Description
One of the chief tasks facing the interpreter in any investigation of Second Temple Judaism involves sorting out the relationship between Judaism and Hellenism. How much influence did Greco-Roman culture exert on Diaspora Judaism? To what extent did Hellenism affect the material culture of Judaism and its social and religious practices? Hebrew University professor Lee Levine looks at literary, epigraphical. and archaeological evidence in an effort to sift through the relevant issues. His assessments argue against oversimplification and instead encourage a more nuanced and balanced view. This volume not only introduces the fundamental issues but supplies an informed reading of the sources as well. Anyone wrestling with the relationship between Judaism and Hellenism will find this essential reading. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (1)

A tentative answer
This book constitutes an excellent review on the interaction between the monotheism in the Hasmonean kingdom and the hellenistic way of life which was the civilised world of that period. It focuses on the interaction between the "Palestinian " Jews and Graeco-Roman world. ... Read more

Book Description
An authoritative look at Judaism's historical sweep and distinctive religious dimensions, showing how it developed out of the Hebrew Bible and has diversified throughout history and throughout the world. ... Read more

Book Description
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. ... Read more

Book Description
The Apostle Paul's letters cannot be understood apart from the greater context of the Greco-Roman world, and in particular, the religious environment of early Judaism. Thus, a discussion of grace and reward in Judaism is essential in order to comprehend the context from which Paul's thinking emerges. Examining the election of Israel, the criteria for eternal life, the letters of Paul, and how justification by faith may be reconciled with judgment according to deeds, VanLandingham addresses the relationship between divine grace and human reward as these two concepts relate to an individual's eternal destiny. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (1)

A thorough discussion
VanLandingham asks us to put aside our confessional spectacles and to take seriously the plain meaning of St Paul's teaching about the final judgment. When we do so, he argues, we will discover that Paul believed, just as his Jewish contemporaries believed, that "an individual's behavior during his or her lifetime provides the criterion for this judgment: good behavior is rewarded with eternal life, bad behavior with damnation." Paul may have differed with his fellow Jews on precisely which deeds where proscribed, permitted, or required; but he remained thoroughly Jewish in his conviction that the final judgment was based on deeds: "For it is not the hearers of the law who are righteous before God, but the doers of the law who will be justified" (Rom 2:13). VanLandingham therefore denies that the justification that occurs at the beginning of Christian existence is properly understood as a proleptic experience of the final judgment--God's eschatological judgment let loose in history, as one of my professors liked to put it. Paul, VanLandingham insists, consistently distinguishes between the two justifications.

I do not think I am exaggerating when I say that if VanLandingham's exegesis of the Apostle Paul stands up against critical scrutiny, it will initiate a revolution in Pauline studies. Given my lack of competence in Greek and New Testament studies, I am unable to offer any judgment on the matters addressed; but I am impressed by VanLandingham's thoroughness. Clearly he knows well the Scriptures and the intertestamental literature, as well as the secondary scholarship.

What are the consequences for the various Christian traditions should VanLandingham's exegesis prove sound? The Catholic and Orthodox traditions will have no problem absorbing his exegesis, since it basically confirms the consensual exegesis of Paul in the first millenium. Arminians, too, should be able to receive his exegesis, given their affirmation of salvation as synergistic process, yet it will still require some significant adjustments on their part. But VanLandingham's book represents a direct attack on the fundamental positions of the Lutheran and Reformed traditions. If he is right, the Lutheran and Reformed confessions are wrong, plain and simple. No longer will Lutherans be able to proclaim that the Scripture teaches that believers experience the eschatological acquittal in the present moment of faith. No longer will Reformeds be able to declare that the Scripture teaches the forensic imputation of Christ's righteousness to the believer.

This book is must reading for all students of the Apostle Paul ... Read more

Book Description
By linking New Testament scholarship to the Shoah, Christian liturgical life, and developments in the church, Seeing Judaism Anew addresses important questions at the heart of Christian identity, such as: Are only Christians saved? Why did Jesus die? Why is Israel so important to Jews, and what should we think about the conflict in the Middle East? How is Christianity complicit in the Holocaust? What is important about Jesus being a Jew? ... Read more

Book Description
The past two decades in the United States have seen an immense liberalization and expansion of women's roles in society. Recently, however, some women have turned away from the myriad, complex choices presented by modern life and chosen instead a Jewish orthodox tradition that sets strict and rigid guidelines for women to follow.
Lynn Davidman followed the conversion to Orthodoxy of a group of young, secular Jewish women to gain insight into their motives. Living first with a Hasidic community in St. Paul, Minnesota, and then joining an Orthodox synagogue on the upper west side of Manhattan, Davidman pieced together a picture of disparate lives and personal dilemmas. As a participant observer in their religious resocialization and in interviews and conversations with over one hundred women, Davidman also sought a new perspective on the religious institutions that reach out to these women and usher them into the community of Orthodox Judaism.
Through vivid and detailed personal portraits, Tradition in a Rootless World explores women's place not only in religious institutions but in contemporary society as a whole. It is a perceptive contribution that unites the study of religion, sociology, and women's studies. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (2)

nicely done and especially good for . . .
people who haven't been exposed to Orthodoxy very much.Just to sum up briefly: the modern Orthodox Manhattanites profiled tend to have busy but slightly empty lives, and are trying to fit their new religious commitment into those lives.Their rabbis tend to focus less on beliefs about Divine existence and desires than on the utilitarian virtues of plugging into the wisdom of a 2000-year-old tradition.The women in the Lubavitch "sleepaway" camp tend to be younger, suffering from very troubled lives, more focused on Divine will, and looking to make a major change in those lives (not surprisingly- since people with satisfactory jobs are usually going to be unable to take a month off). Their rebbes view Chasidism as these women's personal destiny, rather than as a freely chosen alternative. For those of you who are more familiar with Orthodoxy, the charm of this book lies in offhand points that the book makes in passing: for example, its implication that Orthodox triumphalism (that is, the idea that Orthodoxy is the future of Judaism) was far more rare in the 1980s, and that the Lubavitchers were struggling with the Messianic issue (that is, the issue of whether the Rebbe, may his memory be a blessing, was the Messiah) even then.

As the author, I want to correct some misimpressions offered
I want to clarify some aspects of my book, TRADITION IN A ROOTLESS WORLD, that were left unclear by the first reviewer who wrote here.One is that the book does not focus on two synagogues in Manhattan but rather on onemodern Orthodox synagogue community in Manhattan and the other a live-inschool-cum-dormitory that is run by the Lubavitcher Hasidim in St. PaulMinnesota.The book has as its primary questions why contemporary womenare attracted to Orthodox Judaism and how that transformation isaccomplished through the interactions between the newcomers and theOrthodox (or Hasidic) institutions that they attend. I argue that each formof Orthodoxy has a particular approach to modernity that shapes all aspectsof the re-socialization process, which affects the type of woman attractedto each group, the way the group presents its teachings on Orthodoxy, andthe final outcome of the socialization process in each setting.The bookis comparative throughout and seeks to make clear to a lay audience whatthe attraction of traditional religious forms is for contemporary women whohave come of age since feminism. ... Read more

Book Description
While the Hebrew Bible is the cornerstone of Judaism, it isthe Talmud that provides many central values for living. The Talmud setsout specific guidelines and lyrical admonitions regarding many of life'sordinary events, and offers profound words of advice for life's mostintractable dilemmas.

This accessible introduction to the Talmud explores the essence ofJudaism through reflections on the words of the rabbinic sages, from one ofAmerican Judaism's foremost teachers and writers, Rabbi Dov Peretz Elkins.Dr. Elkins provides fresh insight into ancient aphorisms and shows you howthey can be applied to your life today. Topics include:

• Kindness through Giving,
• Welcoming and Sharing
• Human Relationships
• Personal Values
• Family Values
• Teaching and Learning
• Life's Puzzles

Customer Reviews (2)

Belongs of the Jewish "Top Ten"
Most general books on "Jewish wisdom" are superficial, slapped together collections of platitudes, bowdlerized poppycock designed to convince readers that Judaism is really just Thomas Jefferson, but in Hebrew. Elkins' book stands out--and is easily well worth the price. I am buying a carton of them to give as gifts.

THE WISDOM OF JUDAISM: AN INTRODUCTION TO THE VALUES OF THE TALMUD by DovElkins is brilliant. Elkins is easily the leading Jewish anthologist alive and all of his books are worthwhile. This one is no exception. A great introduction. THE WISDOM OF THE TALMUD belongs on the top ten lists of modern Jewish classics.

For rabbis, non-rabbis, and everyone else
I wrote this review for fellow rabbis.But I think it's quite obvious that everything I am saying is applicable to anyone who is interested in being stimulated by the great ethical ideas of Judaism."The Wisdom of Judaism" is a great read - and you might wind up being a better person for having read it!

So here is what I sent to my rabbinic colleagues: If you're like me, you spend a fair amount of time thinking about sermons.There's one -- or, for many of us, two -- that we are required to give week in and week out.In addition, there are, for most of us, the monthly devar Torah for the Board, and periodic divrei Torah for the Sisterhood or for the local meeting of some organization or other.And there is the monthly bulletin article.And we are called upon to teach a 45-minute lesson at a USY meeting or regional convention.And on and on.


Sometimes the well runs dry.I often wish I had a book of Talmudic and midrashic sayings, accompanied by, say, 2-page commentaries that were written in the way that people actually speak.If I were compiling in my mind the ideal kind of such book, the topics would include such important and practical matters as Fairness, Personal growth, Humility, Flexibility, Marriage, Community, Self-improvement, Criticizing others.These are the topics that are the bread and butter (now that Pesach is over) of what we should and do speak about.These are the topics that I would love to have arranged for me in a handy volume, with the sayings all laid out and the commentary already supplied.


Well, this particular dream has now been fulfilled for us.That is exactly what "The Wisdom of Judaism" is all about.Dov has compiled approximately 60 subjects, all of them pertinent to the way that our congregants live their lives, that we can use and adapt for the many occasions that we are called upon to offer some wisdom of Judaism.

To anyone reading this: I support the notion of listening to rabbis.However, if you acquire Rabbi Elkins' "The Wisdom of Judaism," you can have a portable rabbi of your own!


... Read more

Book Description
A comprehension of Paul's understanding of the law and justification has been a perennial problem for historians and theologians. The need for further clarity has given rise to this collection of essays by an international list of esteemed scholars who seek, in the first of two volumes, to illuminate the complexities of the Judaism of Jesus' (and Paul's) day. Was it a legalistic religion that taught one could be justified before God by obeying law? Was it even one religion, or was it a collection of traditions with some similarities and many dissimilarities? A second volume is forthcoming which will further this discussion among scholars through an evaluation of the paradoxes of Paul. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (5)

Rating based upon Carson's summary essay at end...
This review was originally posted as a discussion topic in the section below. I have decided to add it to the reviews section. As you read below you will see that I actually think that this book, so far as the various contributors aside from Carson, is an excellent book. The various contributors provide excellent discussions of the areas of Jewish literature that they cover--especially from the angle/questions of the Law, how the literature reflects Jewish understanding of it, the identity of Israel and the relation of that to the Law, identity of Israel and eschatological hope, the literature's covenantal-conception of Israel's relationship with its God, how the Judaism reflected by each piece of literature understood `grace,' etc. So, as a book discussing Judaism in the ancient world, especially early Judaism when Jesus was around--several of the essays do not touch on Judaisms contemporary with Jesus and/or prior to 70 CE and 135 CE, which makes a massive difference--this book is excellent. The one star rating reflects how I rate the book with respect to how people in general seem to perceive the book and its goal: to refute Sanders' `Covenantal-Nomism.' The one-star rating reflects what I think of Carson's summary-analysis essay at the end that claims and presents the book as a triumph over Sanders and thus the perceived foundation of the New Perspective on Paul. That term (NPP) means something different to different people. It seems that for most people who do not like the NPP, especially the ones who have not read anything by supposed-NPP scholars, it seems to mean some understanding of Paul that does not present Paul as espousing a Lutheran-Reformed theology. This is relevant as I have lost count of how many times I have seen scholars, who are not technically NPP scholars labeled as NPP who simply try to set Paul in a first century context with his letters addressing first century issues. Please read below to see some short comments on why I think that this book utterly fails to refute Sanders' `Covenantal-Nomism' as a helpful way to designate the pattern of religion exemplified by/in the various Early Judaisms.


First off, if you respond (or post a review in response) to this please indicate how much of this book you have actually read. Now, when I read this book a while back I was struck by several things. After having read Sanders, it seemed that this book was the book out there that, basically, vindicated him! Each contributor that touched upon Judaism during Jesus' time essentially said that Sanders' 'covenantal-nomism' worked as an excellent way of describing whatever segment of Early Judaism (during Jesus' time) that they were treating. The basic criticism of Sanders' concept of covenantal-nomism as applied to Judaism contemporary with Jesus was that Sanders was using protestant-roman catholic categories for discussing Judaism; categories that may not be the most helpful. There were other minor nuanced criticisms, but, again, by and large the contributors upheld Sanders. Let me stress that none of the contributors who touched upon Judaism when Jesus was around claimed that the Old-paradigm for understanding Judaism (semi-Pelagian works-righteousness...merit-seeking-... etc) should stand.


From here I should move onto the most interesting part of my experience of reading the book--reading Carson's summary essay. It seemed that the summary / analysis essay misrepresented the conclusions (import/significance of the contributor's essays for assessing Sanders' covenantal-nomism) to an amazing degree; to the extent of, basically, claiming the opposite of what the contributors wrote. I do not know how to explain this. I was astonished. Numerous scholars/reviews concur with this assessment: John M.G. Barclay, Craig Bomberg (sort of), John Byron, James D.G. Dunn, Pamela Eisenbaum, Donald Garlington, J.R.D. Kirk, David Kuck, Ian W. Scott, etc. Other reviewers note that the contributors assess Sanders fairly positively, but with nuanced criticisms--not criticisms to the extent that Sanders is so wrong that, as Carson's summary essay would leave one to believe, a `traditional approach' to Early Judaism as a context for Paul is still an acceptable understanding.

As a side-note, it is interesting that the contributor who treated 4th Ezra, I Richard Baukham, claimed that it too fit the broad outlines of a covenantal-nomistic pattern of religion. For those of you who have read Sanders' `Paul and Palestinian Judaism,' you will know that 4 Ezra is his main example of an Early Jewish writing that did not exemplify a covenantal-nomistic pattern of religion but, rather, works-righteousness religion. So, at least according to one contributor, Sanders did not really go far enough with his covenantal-nomistic concept. This is one humorous example of how the contributors do not support Carson's analysis/conclusions in the essay at the end of the book in which he tries to smuggle an old-perspective understanding of Early Judaism in the back door.

So, in semi-response to `A Reader' who posted a non-review on May 31, 2004, this book does not challenge `the (?) New Perspective. Rather, it stands as an obstacle that challenges to `the NPP'--or at least post-Sanders understandings of Early Judaism--must overcome. Lastly, this volume is one of the main reasons why volume 2 (The Paradoxes of Paul) is, in my view, not very helpful. Since the contributors to volume 2 basically presuppose Carson's account of `the findings' of volume 1, they set out in a wrong/uninformed direction. They also do not touch on the places where the serious debate needs to happen, what is/was Paul's context(s)?

Lastly, I will make some comments about Carson's essay specifically (this section was not in the discussion post). Carson seems to argue against positions that his supposed opponents do not hold. From reading Carson one would get the impression that Sanders and those who follow him think Early Judaism to be one large homogenous unit, with no diversity. They would think that Sanders claims to have presented a systematic-theology of Early Judaism. Carson may acknowledge in some places that Sanders is not trying to present this, I do not remember. Nevertheless, from reading his negative sections; sections where he presents his findings in polemical-genre as though they are set against Sanders, it seems that he is thus presenting Sanders and his followers as thinking they have presented a definitive systematic-theology for Early Judaism. This is blatant misrepresentation of Sanders in the form of arguing against an opponent who does not exist/implicitly and (sometimes explicitly) attributing to Sanders and his followers positions that they do not hold. This is similar to Carson's claim that Sanders' Paul is a Paul whose Christianity is a from of covenantal-nomism followed by Carson's comments against that--in Carson's lectures against the NPP at RTS Charlotte (see p511-15 for Sanders' claim that Paul's pattern of religion is not covenantal nomism). This is all absurd. Sanders explicitly acknowledges the diversity of Early Judaism. In fact, the whole point of his calling covenantal-nomism a `pattern of religion' is that he cannot present a systematic theology of Early Judaism because it is so diverse. In fact, Sanders does not even claim to survey all relevant Jewish data. Note that his title has reference to Palestinian Judaism--lest someone, such as Carson, want to jump in and claim that thus Sanders sets up a false barrier between Palestinian Judaism and Hellenistic Judaism, etc, Sanders also notes that one cannot do this, but nevertheless he will restrict himself to Palestinian Judaism-literature for `practical' (pg2) reasons. One can find all of this in Sanders' short (32 page) introduction section to `Paul and Palestinian Judaism.' Lest one want to criticize Sanders for addressing those issues in the introduction and ignoring them throughout the rest of the book, he or she should read the rest of the book and see how conscious Sanders remains of all the introductory issues throughout the book. In fact, I recommend reading the introductory section that one can see what Sanders' goals were, who he is arguing against, etc--basically to help set Sanders' book in context and thus understand it better.


I hope that this pseudo-review has been helpful. I know that it is not really a review as it does not do the things that a typical review does. Nevertheless, I think it should be helpful as it addresses the concerns and questions that most of the people who are interested in `Justification and Variegated Nomism, volume 1' have. It does not refute Sanders. It does not challenge the (?) NPPs at all as it does not challenge the (?) new (for Protestants) view of Judaism that Sanders set Protestant scholarship on the trajectory to realizing. For people who think that Carson is just `the best evangelical scholar' and `an authority in this area,' please think again. Though he may be a great scholar, my interaction with his work, limited to this two-volume series and his lectures on the NPP at RTS-Charlotte to which I listened online--and some other things--showed me `a Carson' who misrepresents his opponents. He most basically does this by arguing against positions that they do not hold in a way that makes it seem as though they hold them. He also obscures data and issues, twists the work/words of other scholars around greatly, and at the end of all this really succeeds in not actually addressing the issues that need to be addressed. Or, to put it another way, Carson throws up a smoke-screen of jargon, twisting, and misrepresentation. He does this especially with respect to this book--such that the questions that Sanders raised about understanding Early Judaism, other scholars' tweaking and development of Sanders (especially in terms of learning to analyze Judaism in less `protestant' categories and learning to ask better questions of the Jewish literature), etc are not touched in his summary-analysis essay. Instead, if one reads only his introductory essay and summary-analysis essay--as Carson recommends in his RTS-Charlotte NPP lectures--one comes away without any real substantive interaction with the issues and discussion of the contributors to the volume (perhaps Seifrid's essay excepted). More than that, one comes away with a total misunderstanding of Sanders, his followers in understanding Early Judaism from his `covenantal-nomism' trajectory-perspective, and the impression that, basically, all the contributors would be happy with an old-perspective understanding of Early Judaism. This is the `function' of Carson saying that Sanders is not right everywhere. If you disagree, go read volume 2 in which the contributors `assume' Carson's findings in volume one and proceed to read Paul against the background of a--basically--`old- perspective' view of Early Judaism.

This is where I remain baffled by the American Evangelical-Reformed `responses' to Sanders and `the NPP.' How does affirming the complexity and diversity of early Judaism obviate the necessity of still setting Paul in some sort of 1st century context in which the issues that were in the air for Early Jews--across the spectrum--inform and direct our readings of Paul? Doing this requires the serious study of Early Judaism. This in turn brings about the realization that the traditional Protestant understandings of Early Judaism--the `old perspective'--are woefully inadequate. Such understandings front issues that were not really issues in the 1st century--such as the traditional Protestant conception of `works-righteousness'--and generally produce a Paul that fits in more with Reformation and post-Reformation debates with Rome than a Paul who fits plausibly in the ancient Mediterranean world. I submit that Carson and his followers' continued ringing of the `complexity of Early Judaism' bell functions as `feel-safe' language. All the non-specialists, Evangelical and Reformed pastors and students can `feel safe' in their traditional readings of Paul because Sanders' view of Judaism covers just one of the many perspectives within Early Judaism. Since it is so complex, clearly you do not need to worry about studying it--`we' can nullify anything anyone says about Early Judaism that might unsettle our traditional readings of Paul by throwing the `complexity' card at them; we can burry them in jargon and ignore issues, etc. Carson thus gives the impression that attempts to sketch any context for Paul from Early Judaism--that differs from the broad ones upon which traditional readings depend--is pointless because describing Judaism is just a crapshoot; it is so complex that any articulations of it meant to be used as context for Paul cannot be more than `speculation' that have not reckoned with the complexity. I ask again--from a different angle--in what context do traditional readings of Paul situate him? What context informs and directs the traditional readings' understanding of Paul, the assumed issues and ways of thinking that make up his horizon, etc? If Judaism is just `so complex,' how does the traditional old-perspective view come up with an old-perspective view of Judaism as a relevant context for understanding Paul? After all, Judaism is just `so complex.' My point in all this is that every reading of anything presupposes a context within which one has set it--consciously or unconsciously. Somehow readings of Paul must reckon with Early Judaism as a major component of Paul's horizon--the question is just how and what does it look like? More traditional, anti-NPP readings of Paul depend upon such an assumed Early Jewish context as much as NPP readings, readings of Paul from others in the Salvation-history approach to Paul, and readings of Paul from the so called `Apocalyptic' school (Martyn, Beker, Marcus, Campbell, etc)--and the variations combining the various approaches. If the traditional and `old-perspective' wants to continue to articulate a reading of Paul, it must positively argue for its version of Paul's context rather than simply trying to make it seem like the study of Early Judaism is too complex to be really useful to this discussion of Paul. Again, the traditional reading depends upon some sort of supposed Jewish context--it just leaves this unsaid while fighting Sanders and the NPP as it attempts to make American Evangelical-Reformed pastors and students `feel safe.' I should conclude this lengthy paragraph--which I see as relevant for discussing Carson's essay--by mentioning that I agree with Carson and most scholars that Early Judaism was very diverse. In fact, I do not think one can posit any form of Early Judaism as `mainstream' Judaism. But, I know that the serious study of and immersion within Early Jewish literature, history, etc helps one understand the broad horizons/context out of which Paul came. This helps us see how all the diverse forms of early Judaism did wrestle with some common issues and shared a similar broad horizon within which they understood the world--even among their disagreements. In order to get more detailed--and to sketch context relevant for understanding Paul--you have to study further. The complexity of Early Judaism does not nullify attempts to study it and understand what was `in the air' in different places for different peoples in the world of Paul.

So, please read this book. It is an excellent discussion of Judaism(s) in the ancient world with a specific set of questions in mind. The contributors themselves (besides Carson) do substantively interact with Sanders as well. But, if you are looking for a book to be able to hurl at supposed followers of `the NPP'--the reason many look to it--do not bother. In fact, if you are using it that way, simply mentioning the name as though it stands as the great critique of Sanders, you really should stop doing that. Lastly, as I mentioned above, it is because of this book that I find volume 2 to be, largely, a failure. Some of the essays within it are very helpful--see Westerholm's essay summarizing `the NPP' over the last 25 years, Silva's essay (even though I tend to lean in the direction against which he is arguing) on the subjective vs. objective genetive reading of pistis christou in the context of faith vs. works of the law in Galatians that takes the `objective position' and supplements its previous arguments with the findings of an article published by another scholar, and Hengel's essay (which was previously published in the Tubingen symposium volume `Paul and the Mosaic Law'...Hengel is an excellent scholar). Even so, however, since the main exegetical contributions and related essays presuppose Carson's understanding of volume 1, this volume thus does not really touch some of the most important `Paul in context' issues that need to be touched in the discussion that volume 2 seeks to advance (critique it seeks to bring).

This `edition' of this review from May 2006 has not really changed any of the content. It does include a new paragraph discussing the complexity of Early Judaism and the function of Carson always mentioning that.

Thank you for your time.

GreatResponse to New Challenges of Justification By Faith
Volume 1 addresses the various (variegated) views held by the Jews during the second temple period about the relationship of the Law (nomism) to salvation (justifcation). It focuses on the era before and right after the time of Jesus. Understanding the views of this era help us with understanding the background of the New Testament.

D.A. Carson, one of today's greatest evangelical scholars, has elicited the help of many scholars, some evangelical, others not; he is the editor of the two-part series, but most of the material is provided by the illustrious contributors. The overall purpose of this two volume set is to refute the "Covenantal Nomism" (the view that "you get into the covenant by grace, but you stay in it by keeping the Law") of E.P. Sanders. It also seeks to refute the "New Perspective" as to what Paul the Apostle really meant when he spoke of salvation "apart from the Law." Volume one shows that Sanders erred: there is no one view that dominated all Jewish thought before the time of Christ (or shortly thereafter). Volume 2 then completes the project by demonstrating that the "New Perspective" may be "new," but it is not correct. The Reformers really did know what they were talking about.

But whether you are debating the "New Perspective" or not, you will find Volume I rich! You will sharpen your understanding of the thinking of the Jewish world from about 200 B.C. to about 100 A.D. You will delve into the Apocrypha, the Pseudepigrapha, the Talmud, etc.; those who want to better understand the Jewish Roots of the Christian Faith will also appreciate this volume.

Volume I is not intended for the average layman, but a trained pastor can understand this work Although a few parts are dry, other portions are absolutely fascinating.

Does Volume I accomplish its goal? Absolutely.

Volume II, "The Paradoxes of Paul" address the issue, "Did Paul really believe that one entered the covenant by grace (accepting Christ as opposed to Jewish birth) but then maintained his status in the covenant by keeping the Law?" The clear answer of this volume is "no." We enter by grace and we are kept in the covenant by grace.

A team of mostly evangelical scholars proves that "the works of the Law" refer not merely to the boundary markers of Judaism (circumcision, etc.), but even to keeping the 10 Commandments. When Paul talks about salvation "apart from the works of the Law," he is saying more than, "apart from becoming a Jew." He is saying that the Law is good, but when used in an attempt to be justified, the Law cannot deliver. We are saved by grace through faith; God justifies the "ungodly," not the law keeper.

The authors, all respected scholars, take us back to the clear teaching of Scripture. If we look at Paul without a pre-existing template, they argue, we find that law keeping has no (positive) bearing on salvation because no one can keep the law. Paul concludes us all "under sin." Although obeying God evidences our forensic justification, it does not accomplish it.

As Moises Silva points out, "Indeed, faith is by definition the abandonment of our works and efforts so that we might rely solely on divine grace..."

The various essays take us through the theological portion of Romans and Galatians with a few stops in Philippians 3.

Besides addressing the issue of salvation by grace through faith in contrast to salvation by grace and works, the authors also address the nature of the atonement, the very real wrath of God that is directed toward mankind, and both the continuity and discontinuity in Paul (before and after his conversion). They also address whether he really was converted or just received a specialized calling.

With great scholars, like Mark Seifrid, Douglas Moo, Peter O'Brien, and D.A. Carson (among others), these essays are well done and devastating, I would suppose, to Covenantal Nomists.

On the negative side, because each chapter is an individual essay, there is quite a bit of repetition within this work.

Also worth mentioning is that this work is not intended for the layman. One could probably get by without Greek, but the reader needs at least a modest theological background, I would think, to follow these arguments.

Examines Ancient Jewish Beliefs About Justification--Excels!
Volume 1 addresses the various (variegated) views held by the Jews during the second temple period about the relationship of the Law (nomism) to salvation (justifcation). It focuses on the era before and right after the time of Jesus. Understanding the views of this era help us with understanding the background of the New Testament.

D.A. Carson, one of today's greatest evangelical scholars, has elicited the help of many scholars, some evangelical, others not; he is the editor of the two-part series, but most of the material is provided by the illustrious contributors.The overall purpose of this two volume set is to refute the "Covenantal Nomism" (the view that "you get into the covenant by grace, but you stay in it by keeping the Law") of E.P. Sanders. It also seeks to refute the "New Perspective" as to what Paul the Apostle really meant when he spoke of salvation "apart from the Law."Volume one shows that Sanders erred: there is no one view that dominated all Jewish thought before the time of Christ (or shortly thereafter). Volume 2 (I am still reading it) then completes the project by demonstrating that the "New Perspective" may be "new," but it is not correct.The Reformers really did know what they were talking about.

But whether you are debating the "New Perspective" or not, you will find this volume rich!You will sharpen your understanding of the thinking of the Jewish world from about 200 B.C. to about 100 A.D.You will delve into the Apocrypha, the Pseudepigrapha, the Talmud, etc.; those who want to better understand the Jewish Roots of the Christian Faith will also appreciate this volume.

This book is not intended for the average layman, but a trained pastor can understand this work (which is all I am; I am no scholar). Although a few parts are dry, other portions are absolutely fascinating.

Does the book accomplish its goal?Absolutely.

Excellent
This book is a true find!I must say it is not easy reading however.It includes 15 essays (usually 20-60 pages each), each surveying the concept of righteousness in a particular group of Jewish writings.This volume is intended to be the basis for volume 2 in which Pauline theology will be analyzed.The set overall is an examination of the "New perspective" theology which claims that Christians have mislabelled Judaism as a "works for salvation" or merit-based religion.

An interesting undertaking
With all fairness, this is a preview, not a review; if I may cheat for just this once.But I believe it important to note this upcoming books' importance to modern theology. I believe if there are any serious attempts to refute the New Perspective, this one will be the most decisive one.Might I note that I am not placing blind faith in this book, but rather in the crucial task that D. A. Carson and likeminded contributers have undertaken in defending the reformed faith. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (2)

an excellent place to start the journey...
Written in simple, easy-to-read language, the book gives an authentic, comprehensive and accurate overview of the premises and practices which direct Orthodox Jewish lifestyle. And although there are a several places where words or phrases used may be unfamiliar - these can productively serve as guided springboards for further study.

Understanding Judaism
This is supposed to be a Judaism 101 for the basically ignorent Jew.It needs a glossary to translate all of the Hebrew used throughout the book.The authors should not assume that the readers went to Hebrew school.Otherwise it's a great easy to read book. ... Read more

Book Description
An ancient religion practiced through most of recorded history and having profound influence on both Christianity and Islam, Judaism is also a modern religion that still transforms the lives of many people. Neusner surveys how Judaism took shape as people responded to political and religious crises and describes how Judaism is practiced in American today. ... Read more

Customer Reviews (1)

Not a Good Textbook
I have been teaching for over 5 years at a major university, and I have been fortunate during that short time to use a number of textbooks. Jacob Neusner's AN INTRODUCTION TO JUDAISM: A TEXTBOOK AND READER, lacks several elements that are prerequisite of a quality textbook. Some of these elements are: quality of writing, organization, undue repetition of subject matter, and failure to explain specialized terminology.

I have never, in 17 years of collegiate work, encountered a book so poorly written. The style of writing shifts significantly throughout the volume. At times the level of writing and the command of rhetoric is sophomoric and other times it is what one might expect of a Rabbi/scholar.

The structure or organization of the book is its weakest point. While the general outline of the book is intriguing and helpful, within that structure the reader is lost time and time again as to what the main topic is. I have never had to re-read sections of a book as much as I have had to in the reading of this one. (My Ph.D. work is in continental philosophy, so I have read my share of difficult texts. This text is difficult for the wrong reasons.)

There is far too much repetition in the book to excuse it on grounds of effective educational practice. This failure is to be credited to Westminster John Knox for doing the worst job of copy editing I have ever encountered. I am sure it was no easy task to begin with, to edit what was most certainly a first draft, but a scan through the text would signal to the copy editor these repetitions.

Finally, Rabbi Neusner neglects his readers, who believe they are reading an introduction to Judaism, when he assumes that they will arrive with Rabbinic rhetoric pre-installed into their hermeneutic drives. The difficulty of understanding the history of Rabbinic literature is hard enough, but in Neusner's rendering it is at times nearly impossible.

I will admit that there are paragraphs which possess clarity and insight, even some that are well-written, but they are few and far between. The book does possess a wealth of information that will prove beneficial to the student, but the student is hindered greatly from getting to it. I do not mind a difficult book, as a matter of fact I prefer it, but to have to edit a volume into legibility first is anathema to both academics and to literature itself. Westminster John Knox needs to repent for having published this volume.

I only recommend this book as a research tool and not as a textbook. In its reader section there are essays that are quite valuable and do read more easily, but they were certainly edited before W/JK received them. The book looks like a nice textbook, if one only looks at its layout. It has a glossary, and the sections "A Word to the Student" and "A Word to the Teacher," make it appear to be a very conscientious work. But the failure at its "ground" level overwhelms the student. I would not have used this book for a textbook, if I had not inherited it with the course, and I will not use it again. ... Read more