Introducing Judaism

by Eliezer Segal

Introducing Judaism is the ideal starting point for students beginning their studies of this fascinating religion. Eliezer Segal takes a historical approach, focusing on religious aspects of Judaism, and introducing themes as they emerge from authentic Jewish documents. Students will gain an understanding of how Judaism is lived by its adherents and the historical and geographical diversity of Jewish beliefs and practices.

The book has a clear and accessible structure. Part One presents the historical context of Judaism, from the Biblical era, through the Medieval period and on to modern Judaism. Part Two surveys the distinctive values and beliefs of Judaism, including attitudes to God, Covenant, Israel, exile and homeland, the Torah, and its commandments, while Part Three presents Jewish Practices and Institutions, engaging with topics such as daily life, worship, temple and synagogue, law, ethics and education, the afterlife, and resurrection.

Throughout the book, Eliezer Segal stresses the diversity of interpretations that have been generated by historical circumstances, differing theological and ideological outlooks, and the spiritual creativity of the religious community. Attention is paid to various models of piety, mysticism, scholasticism and folk religion, including the impact of Judaism on the daily life of believers and the experiences of Jewish women.

Illustrated throughout, Introducing Judaism includes text boxes, a glossary, and a list of further reading to aid students understanding and revision, providing a thorough overview of one of the first recorded monotheistic faiths and one of the oldest religions still practiced today.

The accompanying website for this book can be found at www.routledge.com/textbooks/978041544.... "

Genres: Religion, History, School, Nonfiction

360 pages, Paperback

First published December 1, 2008

Reviews

[Shayna · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book works pretty well for my intro to Judaism course. I like that in the intro Segal addresses the Christian-centric focus of the study of Judaism, which allows me to discuss it with my students and refer back to it throughout the course. There are three main sections in the book which coincide with about 2/3 of my course; the rest I spend on contemporary questions and issues. It is more ashkenormative than it needs to be, and it is in general European/North American/Israel-centric.

[Davis · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book is divided up into three sections: The Historical Framework, detailing the history of Judaism from Biblical times into the Modern era; Jewish Beliefs and Values, giving an overview of the core Jewish beliefs; and Jewish Observances and Institutions, giving an overview of how Judaism expresses the values, whether through daily life, the calendar, or life-cycle observances.

All together this is a really informative book on Judaism, and will teach the reader a lot about the religion. While it obviously can't go into much detail, being nothing more than an introduction, I found that most of the question I had were answered, and I was left with a good overview of Jewish belief and practice. Included at the end of each chapter is a bibliography consisting of books on each major topic covered if the reader wishes to pursue something deeper. Overall, like the rest of the Routledge Word Religions series I've read, I highly recommend this book as a starter for learning about Judaism, with the ones listed at the end of the chapters for more information.

[Jordan · Rating 4 out of 5]

Super informative, perhaps too much when it comes to all the ancient texts. But otherwise, I feel well informed on the history of and current trends of Judaism.

[Jessica · Rating 5 out of 5]

A good introduction to Judaism. I enjoy how it includes a history of the religion and not just the practises.