Jewish Mourner's Book of Why - Softcover

Alfred J. Kolatch

3.8

5 ratings by Goodreads

9780824603823: Jewish Mourner's Book of Why

Softcover

ISBN 10: 0824603826 ISBN 13: 9780824603823

Publisher: Jonathan David Publishers, 1993

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Using the question-and-answer format he employed in his popular The Jewish Book of Why, The Second Jewish Book of Why, and The Jewish Book of Why: The Torah, Rabbi Alfred J. Kolatch explains and analyzes the reasons behind the multitude of Jewish laws, observances, customs, ceremonies, and traditions relating to death and mourning.

Among the questions addressed are:
*Why was the practice of tearing a garment (Keria) instituted?
*Why are coffins commonly fashioned from raw pine wood?
*Why does Jewish law require speedy burial?
*Why do mourners sit on low stools during the seven-day Shiva period?

The answers that Rabbi Kolatch offers to the hundreds of questions presented in this volume are concise, straightforward, and unbiased, reflecting the attitudes, customs, and practices of Jews of all denominations.

The Jewish Mourner s Book of Why features a selection of readings that will bring comfort to the bereaved. The useful appendices include an unveiling service that can be conducted by a family member; the various forms of the Kaddish prayer in Hebrew, in transliteration, and in English translation; as well as a Yizkor service for those who are homebound. Includes detailed notes, bibliography, and index.

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About the Author:

Alfred J. Kolatch, a graduate of the Teachers Institute of Yeshiva University and its College of Liberal Arts, was ordained by the Jewish Theological Seminary of America, which subsequently awarded him the Doctor of Divinity degree, honoris causa. From 1941 to 1948 he served as rabbi of congregations in Columbia, South Carolina, and Kew Gardens, New York, and as a chaplain in the United States Army.

Rabbi Kolatch authored more than fifty books, the most popular of which are The Jewish Book of Why, The Second Jewish Book of Why, The Jewish Book of Why: The Torah, Inside Judaism, A Handbook for the Jewish Home, The New Name Dictionary, and The Comprehensive Dictionary of English and Hebrew First Names.

Review:

Highly recommended for all libraries. --Library Journal

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