Judaism ─ History, Belief and Practice

This newly revised all-encompassing textbook is a guide to the history, beliefs and practice of Judaism. Beginning with the ancient Near Eastern background, it covers early Israelite history, the emergence of classical rabbinic literature and the rise of medieval Judaism in Islamic and Christian lands. It also includes the early modern period and the development of Jewry in the nineteenth and twentieth centuries. Extracts from primary sources are used throughout to enliven the narrative and provide concrete examples of the rich variety of Jewish civilization.

Specially designed to assist learning, Judaism:

• Introduces texts and commentaries, including the Hebrew Bible, rabbinic texts, mystical literature, Jewish philosophy and Jewish theology

• Provides the skills necessary to understand these step-by-step with the help of a companion website

• Explains how to interpret the major events in nearly four thousand years of Jewish history

• Supports study with discussion questions on the central historical and religious issues, and includes key reading for each chapter, an extensive glossary and index

• Illustrates the development of Judaism, its concepts and observances, with maps, photos, paintings and engravings

• Links each chapter to a free companion website which provides things to think about, things to do and tips for teachers as well as other online resources.

Dan Cohn-Sherbok is an American-born rabbi and Professor Emeritus of Judaism at the University of Wales, Honorary Professor at Aberystwth University, and Visiting Professor at St Mary's University, London and York St John's University.