Judaism: A Very Short Introduction

Judaism: A Very Short Introduction
by Norman Solomon
Oxford University Press
148 pages
ISBN 0 19 285390 2

Norman Solomon's useful book entitled JUDAISM: A VERY SHORT INTRODUCTION, is just that. In 134 pages it covers the major aspects of Jewish thought and practice and does so from a Jewish perspective, not a Christian-looking-at-Judaism perspective. This means that Judaism is not shown merely as a biblical or modern. The emphasis is decidedly post-biblical, rabbinic Judaism. So, for example, there are succinct and helpful sections about the Talmud, influential Jews throughout Jewish history, the prayer book (which conveys a very different central and nurturing image of God than the biblical view), who is considered a Jew, ethical issues, and lifestyle practices.

I particularly appreciated the chapter on "The Spiritual Life -- Prayer, Meditation and Torah" which begins and ends with moving stories illustrating the love for and vital importance of Talmud in the life of an observant Jew. It reminds us that Judaism is a living religion that has grown richly in many ways since biblical times.

And yet, there are some aspects of Judaism which, although mentioned, seem to be downplayed. These include the differences -- both in practice and in history and treatment -- between Ashkenazi and Sephardic Jews, the role of Theodore Herzl, the idea of covenant, and the connection to biblical themes. Although I'm delighted the book does not limit itself to these ideas, I'm surprised they're not there.

All in all however, this is an excellent introduction to Judaism and can be used well with high school, college or adult groups.

Jane S. Rechtman
The Masters School

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