Settings of Silver: An Introduction to Judaism

Features

• Cover Type: Paperback with 480 pages
• Published by: Paulist Press July 2000
• Written in: English
• ISBN 10 Number: 080913960X
• ISBN 13 Number: 978-0809139606
• Book Dimensions: 9 x 5.8 x 1.4 inches
• Weighs: 1.4 pounds

Product Review
His analysis helps the reader to understand Judaism in relation to Christianity. -- Ben Hollander

Stephen Wylen's Settings of Silver is an excellent, concise, easy, and informed introduction to the religion of the Jews. -- Lawrence Kushner, Rabbi-in-Residence at the Hebrew Union College-Jewish Institute of Religion in New York and author of Invisible Lines of Connection; Eyes Remade for Wonder, and other books.

Product Description
Originally published in 1989, this comprehensive survey of Judaism has become a popular text in universities, religious colleges and seminaries, and adult education classes. Now, its author, Stephen Wylen, performs a genuine service by updating his critically acclaimed text for the 21st century. Settings of Silver, Second Edition, reflects the changes in the political structure of Eastern Europe and other recent events, while retaining its accessibility, easy-to-understand language, and compactness.

In four sections, the author covers the history of Judaism. Section One includes basic beliefs, what it means to be a Jew, the role of Torah, and the Jewish view of God. Section Two covers faith, practices and customs, including holydays, marriage and family law and ritual, dietary laws, and beliefs surrounding death and the afterlife. Section Three is a history of Judaism, from its foundations to the early part of the 20th century, with a look to mysticism, literature, philosophy and daily life in the Jewish community. In Section Four the author continues the history of Judaism up to the present day, including the Holocaust, the State of Israel, the effects of modernism on Judaism, and the future of Judaism.

Engaging, timely, and appropriate for persons of all religious backgrounds, this enduring work belongs in the library of anyone (Jews included) who wants to understand Judaism and the Jewish people.

Reader Reviews
If you are interested in converting or would like to know more about the jewish way of life, then this is the book to read. Rabbi Wylen explains it all in a very understanding way. I loved it.