A Tree of Life: Diversity, Flexibility and Creativity in Jewish Law » (REV)

Now revised and expanded, Louis Jacobs's fascinating study shows how halakhic rulings through the ages have been influenced by social, economic, theological, and even political factors as well as by consideration of the wider ideals and demands of Judaism. Halakhic responses to changed social considerations, particularly regarding women and questions of personal status, new techologies and discoveries, and attitudes to non-Jews are all considered in depth.

Booknews

The founding rabbi of the new London Synagogue further defends his thesis concluding the 1984 edition that social, economic, political, and theological factors have always shaped (Jewish law). Indexed by biblical, Mishnaic, and Talmudic reference as well as general subject. Distributed in the US by ISBS. Annotation c. Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)