Author Description
In the Concise Companion to the Jewish Religion, Jacobs brings comprehension and understanding to the many complex and important issues of Judaism. From Maimonides to Methuselah, from Kabbalah to Kibbutz, Jacobs provides an invaluable source of information for anyone wanting to learn more about the rich heritage of the Jewish religion. With all Hebrew terms clearly explained, entries range from personalities in the Bible to today's Jewish thinkers and writers, and the comprehensive coverage includes customs, traditions, and Jewish ideas on subects as diverse as dance, vegetarianism, and eternity. Including a bibliography, the Jewish calendar, and a detailed chronology, this illuminating and authoritative guide contains a wealth of data on every aspect of Jewish belief and practice, both ancient and modern.
Menrva's Summary
THE THESIS
This reference work seeks to provide a comprehensive and accessible overview of the complex theological, historical, and cultural components of the Jewish religion. Louis Jacobs, a renowned scholar and rabbi, utilizes his extensive expertise in Jewish law and philosophy to distill vast amounts of information into a singular, user-friendly volume. The book serves as a foundational resource for readers seeking to understand the breadth of Jewish heritage, from ancient biblical figures to contemporary intellectual developments.
THE SCOPE MAP
What You Will Find
- Alphabetical entries covering personalities, customs, traditions, and philosophical concepts.
- Explanations of Hebrew terminology and linguistic context.
- Supplementary materials including a bibliography, the Jewish calendar, and a detailed chronology.
Scope Limits
- The text does not provide exhaustive academic analysis of every minor historical sect or obscure theological debate.
- It focuses primarily on the mainstream development of Jewish thought and practice rather than peripheral cultural movements.
THE AUTHORITY PERSPECTIVE
Scholars and students frequently cite this work as a reliable and highly accessible entry point for those unfamiliar with the intricacies of Jewish practice. Experts highlight the clarity of the prose and the author's ability to synthesize dense theological topics into concise, informative entries.
Page Count:
336
Publication Date:
1999-09-09
Publisher:
Oxford University Press
ISBN-10:
0192800884
ISBN-13:
9780192800886
History
Religion
Theology
Reference
Judaism
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