The Paradox of Anti-Semitism

By Dan Cohn-Sherbok

Book Overview

Arguably as anti-Semitism has diminished, the Jewish community has lost its way in the unceasing quest for social and political acceptance. The surprising thesis of this book (especially from the pen of a Rabbi) is that in the past anti-Semitism has in fact been a positive force in Jewish life. As a pariah people, divided from the gentile world through prejudice and misunderstanding, Jewry has seen itself as a separate and alien community. Paradoxically it is anti-Semitism, which has ensured its survival rather than threatening its existence. The book begins with a study of the impact of the Enlightenment on modern Jewish life. Now as a result of social acceptance, the Jewish community throughout the English-speaking world is undergoing a transformation. Jews have ceased to be dedicated to the Jewish heritage and the Jewish community is in chaos. No longer is Judaism a unified tradition, providing a solid foundation for the Jewish people. The book points to a series of historical examples illustrating the author's thesis- ways in which antipathy to Jews and Judaism stimulated Jewish life and growth.

• Format: Hardcover
• Language: English
• ISBN: 082648896X
• ISBN13: 9780826488961
• Release Date: May 2006
• Publisher: Continuum
• Length: 242 Pages
• Weight: 0.85 lbs.
• Dimensions: 1.0" x 5.4" x 7.8"