Short description
Originally published in 1992 and now available in a revised paperback edition, an introduction to Judaism which contains a new essay on the problems of religion in Israel today.
Review
An orthodox Jew of today examines his faith, explores the history and the sources of his religion and his people. That this Jew should be Herman Wouk, successful novelist and playwright, insures his book a reception- if not an acceptance- far beyond the barriers of the religious book field. Thoughtful non-Jews, who have felt the need and the want of a clarification of Judaism, will find here their answer in terms that many of their Jewish friends will violently reject. For the opposition camp will be the Jewish camp. Non-practising Jews will feel resentful at the clear call to acceptance and understanding of their faith; Conservative and Reform Jews will resent the rejection of any path other than orthodoxy; assimilationists will resent the presumption that they are betraying themselves in attempting to wipe out their heritage. But a great many Jews who feel defrauded over their ignorance about their background, will learn here - in as much or little degree as they wish- the facts of Jewish faith, of the law, of the history of development, of the holidays and holy days, their history, significance and observance, of the difficulties- and the possibility- of following the path of the law in today's society. The liturgy too is discussed, more in spirit than in detail. And throughout the book, the ideals, the aspirations, the fibre of Judaism is contagiously reflected-providing together the answer to the miracle of Jewish survival for 3000 years and the miracle today of Israel. (Kirkus Reviews)