The JPS Guide to Jewish Traditions: A JPS Desk Reference » (New Edition)

How much do you really know about Judaism? After reading The JPS Guide to Jewish Traditions, you may be in for a surprise! Did you know that: Dividing the Bible into chapters and verses was a Christian innovation? Although a recital of the Ten Commandments was once part of the daily service at the Temple in Jerusalem, Jews elsewhere were forbidden to recite them? The Kaddish, which now closes every Jewish service, as well as sections within the service, was originally not even part of the synagogue ritual?

Ronald Eisenberg has distilled an immense amount of material from classic and contemporary sources into a single volume, which provides thousands of insights into the origins, history, and current interpretations of a wealth of Jewish traditions and customs. Eisenberg writes for a wide, diversified audience, and is respectful of the range of practices and beliefs within today's American Jewish community—from Orthodox to liberal. The JPS Guide to Jewish Traditions is certain to be a meaningful addition to institutional and personal libraries. It is also an excellent gift for b'nai mitzvah, and other lifecycle events and holidays.

Publishers Weekly

A number of different handbooks exist to help Jews observe the many holiday rituals and life cycle events required by Jewish tradition. Eisenberg, who is not a rabbi but rather a radiologist and a lawyer, produces a major volume that attempts to encompass all the rituals in one useful compendium. He begins with the traditions associated with the ages and stages of life from birth to death; moves to a consideration of Sabbath and festivals; and follows with a section on the synagogue and prayer. A segment on the Bible and rabbinic literature interrupts the discussion of rituals but it is then resumed by identifying prescribed daily activities (mitzvot). Before getting to the dietary laws and the role of food in Jewish tradition, Eisenberg deals with miscellaneous topics such as symbols, superstition and conversion. One appendix lists the Torah portions for weekly readings, holidays and special Sabbaths; a second sets forth the tractates of the Talmud and their topics. The presentation shows a great deal of research, and Eisenberg's behavioral prescriptions sensitively take into account differences among the various Jewish denominations. Like an encyclopedia, this is not a book to read from cover to cover. Instead, it is a handy and readable reference, based on the Jewish contention that creed follows deed and that behavior precedes belief. (Nov. 15) Copyright 2004 Reed Business Information.