Judaism - An Introduction: Teach Yourself

Summary:
This book is a concise guide to the history, beliefs and practices of this major world faith. Covering all the key aspects of Judaism, including the impact of the Holocaust and the significance of Israel on Jewish self-understanding, gain real insight into what it means to be Jewish today.

NOT GOT MUCH TIME?
One, five and ten-minute introductions to key principles to get you started.

AUTHOR INSIGHTS
Lots of instant help with common problems and quick tips for success, based on the author's many years of experience.

TEST YOURSELF
Tests in the book and online to keep track of your progress.

EXTEND YOUR KNOWLEDGE
Extra online articles at www.teachyourself.com to give you a richer understanding of psychology.

FIVE THINGS TO REMEMBER
Quick refreshers to help you remember the key facts.

TRY THIS
Innovative exercises illustrate what you've learnt and how to use it.

• This book covers all the essential elements of the faith in depth and from a range of perspectives.
• Assuming no direct experience or prior knowledge of Judaism, this book is suitable for the general reader as well as for students.
• Includes discussion of the increasingly high-profile Kabbalah.
• Considers everything from the beginnings of the faith to modern events such as the horrors of the Holocaust and the founding of the state of Israel.

Table of Contents:
1. Approaching Judaism
2. The roots of belief and practice - the Bible
3. The chain of tradition - the Talmud
4. Orthodox Judaism
5. Non-Orthodox Judaism
6. Food laws
7. Life and death matters
8. Jewish education
9. Marriage
10. Prayer
11. The Synagogue
12. The Sabbath
13. The rhythm of the year - festivals and fasts
14. The pilgrim festivals
15. The New Year and the Day of Atonement
16. The Holocaust
17. Israel
Taking it further

About the Author(s):
C.M. HOFFMAN is a lecturer in religious studies and the author of several books on Judaism.


JONATHAN GORSKY is the consultant for this book. He is an Orthodox Jew and the educational advisor for the Council of Christians and Jews.

Readership:
Anyone wishing to learn more about the Jewish faith. Students on courses where this subject is relevant.