The Enchantments of Judaism. Rites of Transformation From Birth Trough Death

Explores the basic rites of Judaism that define the landmarks of individual and communal life and discusses how the importance of these rites has been influenced by the tragic political experience of 20th century Jewry

Neusner (Death and Birth of Judaism, etc.), professor of Judaic studies at Brown University, here demonstrates how Judaism enchants personal, everyday experiences through prayer and rite. The Grace After Meals transforms hunger and satisfaction into a metaphor for Israel's suffering and ultimate redemption; in the rite of circumcision, a minor surgery becomes the mark of the renewal of God's covenant with Israel; under the marriage canopy, bride and groom become the archetypal Adam and Eve. Neusner is less successful when he attempts to explain why many Western Jews keep the above rites because they speak to the individual and family, yet ignore community rites like the Sabbath or synagogue worship. He calls for esthetic improvements in communal life: "In synagogue prayer today, drama, dance, music, display of evocative symbol, the opportunity for renewal and regeneration of the holy community . . . are buried under an avalanche of words." His repetitious, florid prose obscures when it should enlighten; what might have made a thoughtful magazine essay founders in book form.
Copyright 1987 Reed Business Information, Inc.

An excellent explanation of the whys and wherefores of the basic rites and practices of Judaism, including circumcision, marriage, the Passover seder, grace after meals, mourning and burial, the sabbath, and the synagogue. This is not a "how-to" book but an in-depth philosophical argument showing why some of these rites exert such a powerful influence on contemporary believing Jews while others do not. Beautifully written, this moving work is reminiscent of the thinking of the great theologian A. J. Heschel of whom Neusner is a disciple. Recommended for most Judaica collections. Robert A. Silver, Shaker Heights P.L., Ohio
Copyright 1987 Reed Business Information, Inc.