<< 1 >>
Rating: 
Summary: Adults Only
Review: Although presented as a guide for the newly observant Jew, this is the one book that I recommend to non-Jews who ask for a book about Judaism. Rabbi Steinsaltz' very insightful and yet succinct work on authentic Judaism is written for adults who expect their theology and religious practices to be on a level commensurate with their secular education.
Rating:
Summary: Adults Only
Review: Although presented as a guide for the newly observant Jew, this is the one book that I recommend to non-Jews who ask for a book about Judaism. Rabbi Steinsaltz' very insightful and yet succinct work on authentic Judaism is written for adults who expect their theology and religious practices to be on a level commensurate with their secular education.
Rating:
Summary: A practical guide to changing your life.
Review: As a former Jew, I didn't think this book would have much to offer me, but I read it anyway. I'm glad I did. Much of the advice in this book can be applied to any religion or to any self-improvement goal. Its focus is, of course, on Judaism; and even here, I was surprised by what I learned. For example, newly observant Jews and former Jews actually have a lot in common. Both sought to experience religion more intensely. Former Jews did this by leaving a religion that is ridiculously burdensome and superstitious. Newly observant Jews did this by commiting themselves to a very exacting and demanding way of life. I must state that, in princlple, the cons of Judaism far outway the pros. Sabbath peace and festival joy do not compensate for the many demands or the unreasonable burdens and superstitions placed on the observer. Moreover, one can experience peace and joy without observing the thousands of picayune details of these "holy" days. Yet Steinsaltz showed me that Judaism can be fulfilling for some people.
Rating:
Summary: Principles of Judaism clearly explained
Review: Rabbi Steinsaltz is one of the great Jewish teachers of this generation. His translation first to Hebrew and now in English of the Talmud have given many access to the Jewish traditional sources that they otherwise would not have had. In this book he essentially outlines the principles of the Jewish faith. The word 'Teshuvah' means ' to return ' and this process in Judaism is taken to be a lifelong and continual one. The Jewish person no matter how advanced in learning , or not is continually required to be striving to come closer to G-d. Rabbi Steinsaltz outlines here in a clear and effective way some of the ways by which this can be done. This book can be a great help to anyone who wishes to deepen in their practice of Judaism.
Rating: 
Summary: Intriguing
Review: Some very contradictions indeed. Judiasm does welcome those who want to be more observant. However the laws of the sabbath, dress, social relations, and keeping kosher are very strict.The All or Nothing and Where To Start Chapters are very helpful. Rabbi Steinsaltz has a patient tone that one should not make the jump too vigorously to become observant. Start with lighting sabbath candles and maybe wearing tefilin is a good suggestion. This book contains some very good information on some of the laws and their meanings. The kashering process is especially captivating. Some of the contradicitions are a bit confusing for those whom are not too informed. However, many can strike up interesting discussions. The glossary is quite helpful. A nice book for those who are considering taking the step to becomming more observant jews.
Rating:
Summary: Intriguing
Review: Some very contradictions indeed. Judiasm does welcome those who want to be more observant. However the laws of the sabbath, dress, social relations, and keeping kosher are very strict. The All or Nothing and Where To Start Chapters are very helpful. Rabbi Steinsaltz has a patient tone that one should not make the jump too vigorously to become observant. Start with lighting sabbath candles and maybe wearing tefilin is a good suggestion. This book contains some very good information on some of the laws and their meanings. The kashering process is especially captivating. Some of the contradicitions are a bit confusing for those whom are not too informed. However, many can strike up interesting discussions. The glossary is quite helpful. A nice book for those who are considering taking the step to becomming more observant jews.
Rating:
Summary: Excellent book!!!
Review: This book is an excellent book. It is well-written and flows smoothly. Like the title says, it is a guide for the newly observant jew. This book really bridges the gap from non-practicing to practicing. It explains why and how in an easy to read and understand format...I really enjoyed this book and have put it in my permanent library.
Rating:
Summary: Excellent book!!!
Review: This book is an excellent book. It is well-written and flows smoothly. Like the title says, it is a guide for the newly observant jew. This book really bridges the gap from non-practicing to practicing. It explains why and how in an easy to read and understand format...I really enjoyed this book and have put it in my permanent library.
<< 1 >>
| 
