Judaism: A Very Short Introduction(Very Short Introductions)

Normon Solomon's succinct book is an ideal introduction to Judaism as a religion and way of life. Demonstrating the diverse nature and ethnic origin of those with the Jewish faith, Solomon explores how the Jewish religion has developed in the 2,000 years since the days of the Bible. This Very Short Introduction starts by outlining the basics of practical Judaism - its festivals, prayers, customs, and various sects - and goes on to consider how Judaism has responded to, and dealt with, a number of key issues and debates, including the impact of the Holocaust and the establishment of the State of Israel. In this new edition, Solomon considers issues of contemporary Judaism in the twenty first century. ABOUT THE SERIES: The Very Short Introductions series from Oxford University Press contains hundreds of titles in almost every subject area. These pocket-sized books are the perfect way to get ahead in a new subject quickly. Our expert authors combine facts, analysis, perspective, new ideas, and enthusiasm to make interesting and challenging topics highly readable.

Table of Contents:
Introduction 1: Who are the Jews 2: How did Judaism and Christianity split up? 3: How did Judaism develop? 4: The calendar and festivals 5: The spiritual life - prayer, meditation, Torah 6: Making a Jewish home 7: Out of the ghetto, into the whirlwind 8: Judaism Today 9: 'Eternal law', changing times Further reading Index

About the Author :
Norman Solomon is now retired, but was a Fellow in Modern Jewish Thought at the Oxford Centre for Hebrew and Jewish Studies, and is affiliated to the Faculty of Oriental Studies at Oxford University. He is the author of Historical Dictionary of Judaism, 2nd edition (Scarecrow Press Inc, 2006).

Review :
`Throughout Solomon's Judaism there is a freshness of approach which will make it interesting to those who already know something about Judaism. The conversational style will also make it valuable for beginners.' Marcus Braybrooke, Church Times `Just as its name implies, this series features concise works that aim to give a crisp insight into otherwise complicated topics ... complicated subjects are condensed and made simple, to whet the appetite or provide just enough material for those with a casual interest.' Bournemouth Evening Echo `Norman Solomon has achieved the near impossible with his enlightened Very Short Introduction to Judaism. He manages to keep the reader engaged, never patronizes, assumes little knowledge but a keen mind, and takes us through Jewish life and history with such gusto that one feels enlived, rather than exhausted, at the end.' Rabbi Julia Neuberger `A magnificent achievement. Dr Solomon's treatment, fresh, very readable, witty and stimulating, will delight everyone interested in religion in the modern world.' Louis Jacobs, University of Lancaster `This book will serve a very useful purpose indeed. I'll use it myself to discuss, to teach, agree with, and disagree with, in the Jewish manner!' Rabbi Lionel Blue