Gateway to Judaism: The What, How, And Why of Jewish Life

by Mordechai Becher

Gateway to Judaism delivers an engaging insider look at the mindset, values, and practices of contemporary traditional Judaism. Rabbi Becher demonstrates that Judaism today is anything but anachronistic rites and disjointed rituals. Rather, his book opens a portal to a vibrant lifestyle that brings joy and meaning to Jewish living. Based on years of answering thousands of challenging inquiries, Becher's work blends elements of Jewish philosophy and law with an intensely practical explanation of how Jews actually live.

Genres: Judaism, Jewish, Religion, Nonfiction

518 pages, Hardcover

First published November 7, 2005

Reviews

[Brett C · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a very informative introduction to Judaism. It could be used as a topic-driven reference tool on various Jewish topics (social, familial, worship, Kosher Dietary laws, and Torah—even Talmudic and Mishnah interpretations—adherences).

But I felt the overall theme was targeted to people who maybe are completely new to understanding Judaism. The book opened with Two Become One in marriage, childbirth, circumcision, Bar and Bat Mitzvah, and death, mourning, and the afterlife. The next section dove into feasts and observances (holidays, the calendar) and their history, importance, and relevance to the Jewish faith.

The next sections dealt with Israel (historical, spiritual, and legal significance), the Torah history and purpose, and the purpose and appreance of the synagogue. The next section Looking Jewish addressed clothing, modesty, the yarmulka, Kosher clothing, tattoos, and facial hair. After that the book addressed Kosher dietary laws, hygiene and cleanliness, and physical symbols of being Jewish (mezuzah, tefillin, tzitzit, and tallit). Person to Person addressed outward behavior, love, money, honesty, and ethics. The last sections addressed the Thirteen Attributes of Faith unique to Judaism, the miztvot (Commandments), Torah study, and prayer (blessings, supplications).

The appendices discussed who and where the Jews come from, a basic outline of key words in Jewish tradition, and further recommended reading. All chapters had a bibliography at the end to reference both Biblical and Talmudic citation for all the given information.

Overall this was a very informative and thorough explanation on almost everything Jewish. I would highly recommend this to anyone interested in Jewish studies or comparative religion. Thanks!

[Igor Raikhelgauz · Rating 5 out of 5]

A great introduction to Judaism. Enjoyable to read.

[Laurie · Rating 5 out of 5]

This comprehensive book includes not only all of the Jewish holidays, customs and beliefs but it gives historical and spiritual context to help understand the what, how and why of jewish life. I highly recommend this book to anyone who truly wants to gain a deeper understanding of judaism and the jewish people.

[Chaya · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was written for beginners to Judaism, and I don't fall into that category. But I absolutely love it. It explains all the basics (I should already know) about Shabbos, holidays, day-to-day life as a Jew. Sometimes you know so much, you forget the basics. It helped me for teaching, also.

[Ella · Rating 5 out of 5]

Learned this book with my TorahMate last year! Was so clear, and so fascinating. Would definitely recommend if you're looking for a solid background in all things Judaism.