Half the Kingdom: Seven Jewish Feminists - Softcover

Zuckerman, Francine

Softcover

ISBN 10: 1550650033 ISBN 13: 9781550650037

Publisher: Véhicule Press, 1992

Synopsis

What does it mean to be a Jewish woman in the 1990s? The response to this question is a provocative exchange of ideas from Shulamit Aloni, Esther Broner, Elsye Goldstein, Naomi Goldenberg, Norma Baumel Joseph, Michele Landsberg, and Alice Shalvi.

About this title

Review

Judaism--the beginning, the foundation, the model of patriarchy. In a religion where a woman is traditionally not even counted as a member of the congregation, where and how can a modern woman find her place? Seven prominent Jewish women--two writers, three professors and (yes) a rabbi--step up to answer this question and claim a rightful place in the Hebrew tradition. Based on a film of the same name, the book incorporates monologues and discussions that reverberate with a palpable intensity. Through a process of "evolution not revolution," these women not only refuse to be denied the beauty and depth of their religious heritage but breathe new life into it through their passionate efforts.

From the Back Cover

What does it mean to be a Jewish woman in the last decade of the twentieth century? The response of seven Jewish feminists from Israel, the United States, and Canada, results in a provocative exchange of ideas, attitudes, and opinions. "We have several options when we are faced with the patriarchal nature of Judaism. We can give it up and say, 'You know, the religion is simply too patriarchal. I can't deal with it, I'm leaving.' And some women have taken that option. It is a sad option because it makes our community lose some of its best talents and its strength. The alternative is to say, 'Isn't there already something already within our tradition that I can rediscover, that I can pick up and make my own? I think that is what I do as a Jewish feminist." (Elyse Goldstein)

About this edition

• Publisher: Véhicule Press
• Publication date: 1992
• ISBN 10: 1550650033
• ISBN 13: 9781550650037
• Binding: Paperback
• Edition number: 2
• Number of pages: 160