Features
- Cover Type: Hard Cover with 243 pages
- Published by: Ktav Publishing House July 2000
- Written in: English
- ISBN 10 Number: 0881256897
- ISBN 13 Number: 978-0881256895
-
Book Dimensions:
9 x 6.2 x 1 inches
- Weighs: 1.2 pounds
From Publishers Weekly
In the tradition of 1997's How Wide the Divide? A Mormon & an Evangelical in Conversation, old Dartmouth roommates Johnson, an LDS high priest, and Leffler, a retired Reform rabbi, enter into a dialogue about Mormonism and Judaism. But this t?te-?-t?te never quite matches the level of the historic 1997 book, because the writing is mediocre and because the authors lack the fundamental attitude of interfaith respect that characterized the earlier work. After discussing their traditions' history, theologies and basic practices, the authors focus on areas of common misunderstanding, including Mormons' claim to be descendants of the 12 tribes of Israel (a lineage many Jews dispute or find offensive). Some intriguing issues arise hereAe.g., the controversy over Mormons' former practice of performing proxy baptisms for Holocaust victimsAbut these points of interfaith controversy are underdeveloped. The book may have been aided by a less stilted, impersonal tone; we know from the author biography that Johnson converted to Mormonism thirty years ago, but we never learn why. The authors refer to each other as "Mr. Johnson" and "Rabbi Leffler," rather formal titles for men who have been friends for half a centuryAperpetuating the sense that this is not an interfaith conversation but a standard debate, with a projected winner and loser. (Aug.)
Copyright 2000 Reed Business Information, Inc.
From Library Journal
Who could possibly argue that dialog between people of different religions is a terrible idea? When those engaged in the conversation have been friends for over 50 years (and former Dartmouth College roommates, to boot), the potential for intercultural understanding is enormous. Eight of the nine chapters here were individually written by either Leffler (a retired rabbi) or Johnson (a convert and retired Mormon high priest) on some aspect of their faiths and practices. The concluding chapter is coauthored and points out areas of friction and misunderstanding, as well as some striking similarities. Here, their obvious goodwill is evident. Though clearly of divergent worldviews even on basic questions, the authors manage a civility borne of obvious affection that is a model for such dialogs. Members of both religious groups will broaden their horizons by reading this book. Recommended for public libraries with interested clientele."David Azzolina, Univ. of Pennsylvania Libs., Philadelphia
Copyright 2000 Reed Business Information, Inc.
Reader ReviewsI found this book at the library and went through it in a day. What this book is? Its a tool for the believers of the LDS, Church of Latter Day Saints, MOrmon Church or whatever they are calling themselves today. To even attempt to link Jews to Mormons is proposterous. The Mormon Church believes that one enters heaven and has the power to call his wife and family into heaven. Jews believe in one God, only one God. The author tries to make a case for mormons being one of the lsot tribes of Israel. yet, scientific evidence and DNA testing shows no link between Jesus, his disciples, etc. The author tries to compare the temple of Solomon to the LDS Temple. this is ridiculas attempt by Mormons to make LDS/Mormons a viable religion. Joseph Smith the creator or founder if you will of Mormonism claims to have spoked to God and to angels and was told that he was to lead a new religion and they will be given the priesthood. Mormons believe that Jesus and Satan are brothers nd had a falling out in heaven. Jews do not believe Jesus is the messiah or has any place in heaven. Mormons believe taht God took human form and came to earth and impregnated Mary to create Jesus. You know what Jews think about that. I found this book to be an insult to Judaism and a cheap attempt to give credibility to the lDS/Mormon Church.
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