Judaism As a Civilization: Toward a Reconstruction of American-Jewish Life

by Mordecai Menahem Kaplan

In a book originally published in 1934, the author introduces a different way of looking at Judaism--as a changing religious civilization that requires new ideas in liturgy and ritual, the elimination of obsolete customs and an adjustment based on social, political and cultural conditions. Reprint.

Genres: Judaism, Jewish, Religion, Nonfiction, Judaica, Philosophy, Theology

Paperback

First published December 1, 1934

Reviews

[Nia · Rating 3 out of 5]

While this book is very dated, it is still very also very much worth reading for the action items, the program that he list, and also for the structure and which he lays out his vision of civilizations in general, and Judaism in particular as a civilization.
His call for Judaism to become even more social justice oriented is extremely crucial in these days.

[Morey Lipsett · Rating 4 out of 5]

Brilliant ideas. The writing isn't the most elegant but this isn't the type of book you read for the writing. For anyone (jewish or not) trying to reconcile religion with the modern world this book is essential reading.

[Nia · Rating 3 out of 5]

I just finished reading it again, perhaps more closely this time, intrigued still by his action items, and saddened to see that the individualism he mentions has gotten worse, with apparently, no efforts to put into practice his recommendations for communal institutions to help both the Jewish community within, and the building up of justice and peace for all of humanity.
I was also not able to find the paraphrase I once saw of the preamble to the US Constitution, but from a Jewish American point of view. Perhaps it was in a different edition?

[Charles · Rating 4 out of 5]

My rating is based on what Kaplan says rather than how he says it. Knowing next to nothing about Reconstructionist Judaism when I started this book, I was blown away when I discovered that Kaplan argues the very notions that I have concluded for myself, whether about the "universalism" of Reform Judaism or that Judaism can means a connection (not necessarily religious) to Jewish "civilization." Like all arguments, this book is filled with examples and points that are often repetitious and redundant, such that it becomes tedious reading at times, though it's neither difficult or inaccessible (but does expect a certain familiarity with Jewish history and theology). After reading this book, I now consider myself sympathetic to Reconstructionism, if not a Reconstructionist at heart. My limited observation of Reconstructionist Judaism, however, shows me that they are more concerned with the inclusiveness espoused by Kaplan, rather than Jewish civilization (past and present) as a whole - being more concerned with the individual trees rather than the forest, so to speak - so I would be hesitant to align myself fully with them. Still, I am excited to find such a complete and well-thought articulation of the ideas that I have been developing for myself over the past several years, ideas that rest on identity and history and community rather than piety.

[Donald · Rating 5 out of 5]

I read the first four chapters for a seminar about Judaism and modernity. It's amazing he wrote this in 1934.

[Cardemonde · Rating 4 out of 5]

Ironically, despite the professed members of the reconstructionist movement numbering in the not very much, nearly (not quite) everything posited by Rabbi Kaplan in this book has been proven
1) Based on unfounded assumptions regarding future historical events, an easy mistake to make in 1933, or
2) In fact adopted by nearly every sect of American Jewry to the left of Hasidism.
All very very amusing. Worth reading for that alone.

[Alan Londy]

Kaplan is a genius. He singlehandly rethought modern Judaism. This book is quite dense and some parts are nolonger relevant. But, it is worth digging into it. The good news is that Kaplan wrote many books after this. He repeats himself over the years. But, his major ideas are worth understanding.

[Joshua]

I'm choosing not to rate this, mostly because I have realized that I care more about the historicity of this book and less about its contents.

[Benjamin Hays · Rating 5 out of 5]

Masterpiece in Jewish philosophy, history, and leadership; should be required reading for all rabbinical candidates in the United States

[Jean Kelly · Rating 4 out of 5]

Classic book that is the foundation of Reconstructionist Judaism. It is fascinating to consider when this was written and how much of his thoughts are now accepted by so many. I had heard the writing described as 'wooden' but I found it clear and interesting.