Arguing about Judaism : a rabbi, a philosopher and a revealing debate / Peter Cave, Dan Cohn-Sherbok.

Format:

Book

Author/Creator:

Cave, Peter, author.

Cohn-Sherbok, Dan, author.

Language:

English

Subjects (All):

Judaism--Philosophy.

Judaism.

Atheism.

Reform Judaism.

Physical Description:

1 volume ; 24 cm

Edition:

1.

Place of Publication:

New York : Routledge, 2020.

Summary:

"Arguing About Judaism differs from other introductions to Judaism. It is unique, not solely in its engaging dialogues between a Reform rabbi and a humanist and atheist philosopher, but also in its presentation of and challenges to the fundamental religious beliefs of the Jewish heritage and their relevance to today's Jewish community. The dialogues contain both Jewish narratives and philosophical responses, with topics ranging from the nature of God to controversies over sexual relations, animal welfare and the environment - from antisemitism to the State of Israel and Zionism. Although the rabbi and philosopher argue strongly, clearly enjoying the cut and thrust of debate, they do so with sensitivity, charm and respect, revealing the rich intricacies of the Jewish religion and contemporary Jewish life. While essential reading for those studying Judaism and Jewish history, the book aims to stimulate debate more generally amongst Jews and non-Jews, the religious and the atheist - all those with a general interest in religion and philosophy"-- Provided by publisher.

Contents:

Part I Jewish beliefs p. 9

1 God p. 11

2 Creation p. 18

3 Providence p. 26

4 Divine goodness p. 34

5 Revelation p. 41

6 Free will and sin p. 49

7 The chosen people p. 57

8 Messiah and afterlife p. 64

Part II Jewish practice p. 73

9 Jewish ethics p. 75

10 Worship and prayer p. 83

11 Holidays and festivals p. 91

12 Men and women p. 99

13 Sex and marriage p. 105

14 Contraception, assisted conception and abortion p. 113

15 Euthanasia and suicide p. 121

16 Dietary laws and animal welfare p. 129

Part III Jews and others - and the world p. 137

17 Israel: the Promised Land p. 139

18 Israel within: Jews and Gentiles p. 148

19 The diaspora: Jews as citizens outside Israel p. 154

20 Antisemitism p. 162

21 Anti-Zionism p. 171

22 Poverty and inequality p. 180

23 The environment: Jews as 'green' p. 188

24 Jews and the future p. 196.

Notes:

Includes bibliographical references and index.

Other Format:

ebook version :

ISBN:

9780367334062

9780367334178

0367334178

0367334062

OCLC:

1128196985

Publisher Number:

99984760142