This is a comprehensive history of Jewish religion and philosophy, its traditions and practices, magnificently illustrated with over 500 photographs and paintings. It is an in-depth introduction to the religion and its rich cultural and spiritual heritage. It describes the different aspects of Orthodox and Reform, and of mysticism and kabbalah. This book highlights biblical teaching and traces its development across the centuries from earliest and rabbinic times to the present day. It presents all the festivals of the year, such as Yom Kippur, Hanukkah, Purim and Passover. It covers teachings about rites of passage including marriage, bar and bat mitzvahs. Blending authoritative information with superb pictures of Jewish life and culture, this book brings together a vast amount of knowledge for students and general readers. For nearly 4,000 years, Judaism has been a living monotheistic faith. This book offers an account of the faith, its core beliefs and practices, and the way of life of Jewish people today. The book is divided into three sections: Jewish Traditions covers the history of Jews from the biblical period to the present; Jewish Belief introduces the reader to the concept of God and his relationship with Israel as the chosen people; and Jewish Practice embraces all aspects of worship and personal piety. This comprehensive picture of Jewish life, thought and heritage, with its 500 stunning illustrations, is a fascinating reference guide to every aspect of this complex religion.
