An Introduction to Judaism

By Nicholas de Lange

Book Overview

In this book contemporary Judaism is presented in all its rich diversity, including both traditional and modern theologies as well as secular forms of Jewish identity. While the focus of the book is on developments that have taken place in the past two hundred years, they are set against a historical background, going back to the Bible. Beginning with a description of the Jewish people as it exists in today's world, it studies the unique concept of Jewish peoplehood and its survival over the centuries in the face of many challenges. An account of the key texts is followed by studies of the different interpretations of the religion, and the ways that life is lived out both in the home and in the community. Jewish theology is described both historically and in terms of contemporary issues. An important and distinctive section considers the goals of Jewish life and faith.

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 0521735041
• ISBN13: 9780521735049
• Release Date: January 2010
• Publisher: Cambridge University Press
• Length: 272 Pages
• Weight: 1.00 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.6" x 5.9" x 8.9"

Customer Reviews

A COMPELLING CHRONICLE

In his book, "An Introduction to Judaism", Dr. Nicholas de Lange provided a quick insight into the religion and its followers. I observed that he designed this book for people who have little or no time to invest on voluminous texts. The numerous illustrations he used to demystify ancient concepts like Zionism and Diaspora are of great value; although that anybody who is familiar with his earlier works, like the "Atlas of the Jewish World and Jews", would not be too amazed.This is one book that will enlighten anyone who has interest in Jewish history and demography. It is a well-researched piece. Beautifully summarized! Another compelling chronicle.

Interesting, Readable, and Encompassing

This book addresses almost the entire gamut of Jewish history, ideas, thoughts, issues, and concepts and does it in a most engaging manner. By necessity individual concepts are allowed no more than a few paragraphs. This makes for a quick read. The book seems to be written as a college text. However, even the most knowledgable will feel they have learned something new. The author approaches topics that have been the subject of controversy in an uncritical and even handed manner so that all but the most rigid will be able to at least identify with both sides of an issue. Fot the most part the author does not interject his own opinion. Where he does do this is often in a place where he finds opportunity to bring in fresh thoughts.