“An excellent resource” exploring the many varieties of Judaism, and what it means to be Jewish in the twenty-first century (Booklist).
In Being Jewish, Ari L. Goldman, author of the New York Times Notable Book The Search for God at Harvard, provides an absorbing exploration of modern Judaism—vividly contrasting the historical meaning of Judaism’s heritage with the astonishing and multiform character of the religion today.
Taking the reader through the process of discovery—or rediscovery—Being Jewish is divided into three sections, each focusing on one of the cycles of human life. Beginning with the traditions associated with the life cycle—birth, marriage, death—Goldman then moves on to describe the rituals that mark the course of the Jewish year, starting with Rosh Hashanah. Finally, he reflects on the character of the Jewish day, exploring the role of prayer, dietary laws, and ethical behavior. All of these moments, from a minute to a lifetime, take on vibrant meaning in his thoughtful picture.
Goldman also offers a fascinating discussion of the extraordinary variations in how Jews live their Judaism today. He finds a wide variety of practices, both between and within Judaism’s branches. For example, a family on Long Island keeps a unique version of kosher: they have three sets of dishes and utensils—one for meat, one for milk, and one for nonkosher Chinese takeout. While traditional Judaism frowns on such quirky modes of observance, Goldman elevates them. Jews today, he concludes, are “reaching for the holy” in unexpected and innovative ways.
Informed by tradition without embracing any one ideology, this award-winning journalist’s probing book weaves an objectively observed, complex, and compelling commentary on Judaism, in an inspiring volume that encourages us to find our own place within the tradition.
“Each chapter includes basic information, biblical and rabbinic sources, historical background, conversations with rabbis of various denominations, personal recollections, anecdotes and a glossary. Goldman explores his subject with sincerity and sensitivity, accomplishing an impressive task without overwhelming the reader.” —Publishers Weekly
“[A] superb and stimulating volume.” —Elie Wiesel
