The Jewish Way: Living the Holidays

by Irving Greenberg

Called “enriching” and “profoundly moving” by Elie Wiesel, The Jewish Way is a comprehensive and inspiring presentation of Judaism as revealed through its holy days.

In thoughtful and engaging prose, Rabbi Irving Greenberg explains and interprets the origin, background, interconnections, ceremonial rituals, and religious significance of all the Jewish holidays, including Passover, Yom Kippur, Purim, Hanukkah, Holocaust Remembrance Day, and Israeli Independence Day. Giving detailed instructions for observance—the rituals, prayers, foods, and songs—he shows how celebrating the holy days of the Jewish calendar not only relives Jewish history but puts one in touch with the basic ideals of Judaism and the fundamental experience of life.

Insightful, original, and engrossing, The Jewish Way is an essential volume that should be in every Jewish home, library, and synagogue.

Genres: Judaism, Jewish, Religion, Nonfiction

464 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 1988

Reviews

[Melanie]

This is a wonderful introduction to all the key Jewish holidays. It not only explores the history of the days and the ways they are celebrated, but also digs into the philosophy behind them in a way that makes them all the more meaningful. Per the suggestion of the Cantor I've been learning under, I read each chapter in conjunction with the holiday happening at the time. It was a great way to get more familiar with them and to understand and appreciate their significance.

I detracted one star for the occasional section that was more dry and hard to wade through.

I highly recommend for anyone who is exploring Judaism, anyone who is wanting to learn more about it out of general interest, and anyone who is already familiar with the holidays but wanting to understand them better.

[Melissa Penn]

This is a terrific book to help a Jewish family celebrate the holidays. It makes an "old" tradition come alive, and instills vitality back into Jewish life.

[Yechezkel]

Rabbi Greenberg gives an in-depth look at Judaism's Yom Tov (Holidays). Fantastic resource for information on the holidays, why they're celebrated, how to celebrate them, and where to find more information.

[Michael]

(current rating 5 though not finished yet.) Every time I take up this book, I am amazed at how thoroughly articulate and modern this guy is. He talks about real life while keeping his eyes on (and drawing your attention to) the essential things and their roots in tradition.

I would recommend the book even to non-Jews interested in understanding the meaning of the Jewish holidays, and some of the crazy stuff we do during them.

[Kelly]

Very informative read about the Jewish Holidays. I continue to reference this book.

[Craig Bolton]

The Jewish Way: Living the Holidays by Irving Greenberg (1993)

[Lesli]

I'm enjoying this book as a way to learn about Jewish holidays, traditions, and history.