What's the difference between Reform and Orthodox Judaism? What does it mean to keep kosher? And what are mizvot? Compact and comprehensive, 101 Things Everyone Should Know about Judaism touches on all these basics and more. You'll learn all you need to know about this ancient religion and culture - from the significance of the Torah and Talmud, to the importance of holidays and the meaning of religious objects and symbols. You'll also find out about: Major Biblical events that have shaped Jewish history and tradition Judaism's concept of God, the soul, and the afterlife The structure of Jewish liturgy and prayer services The Ten Statements, and other Jewish laws Practices associated with life milestones Language, literature, food, and other cultural elements Thoughtful and engaging, this portable volume packs in a wealth of fascinating, detailed information that is sure to leave you with a deepened appreciation for this rich tradition.

The mysteries behind the world's most enigmatic faith—revealed! What is catechism? Why do Catholics turn to the saints for inspiration? What is purgatory? 101 Things Everyone Should Know About Catholicism crystallizes these and other key components of this influential, enduring faith. Whether you're curious about the symbolic meanings of Mass or intrigued by the deeper significance of the seven Sacraments, this book answers all your questions. Inside this compact yet comprehensive volume, you'll also learn about: Major events that have shaped Church history The Catholic understanding of Heaven and Hell The structure of Church hierarchy The Catholic interpretation of scripture The significance of major Catholic holidays Modern-day challenges and reform movements Encompassing everything from the birth of Jesus to Vatican II and beyond, this thoughtful, engaging guide provides a wealth of indispensable information.

In Dark Diversions, acclaimed author John Ralston Saul stages a black comedy of international proportions that takes the reader from New York to Paris to Morocco to Haiti. When he's not encountering dictators in Third World hot spots, Saul's unnamed journalist narrator moves in privileged circles on both sides of the Atlantic, insinuating himself into the lives of well-to-do aristocrats. Through his exploits we experience a fascinating world of secret lovers, exiled princesses, death by veganism, and religious heresies. The emotional fireworks of these inhabitants of the First World are sharply juxtaposed with the political infighting of the dictators and the corruption, double-dealing, and fawning that attend them. But as he becomes further enmeshed in these worlds, the outsider status of the narrator grows more ambiguous: Is he a documentarian of privileged foibles and fundamental inequity, or an embodiment of the very "dark diversions" he chronicles?

Your plain-English guide to Judaism Whether you're interested in the religion or the spirituality, the culture or the ethnic traditions, Judaism For Dummies explores the full spectrum of Judaism, dipping into the mystical, meditative, and spiritual depth of the faith and the practice. In this warm and welcoming book, you'll find coverage of: Orthodox Jews and breakaway denominations; Judaism as a daily practice; the food and fabric of Judaism; Jewish wedding ceremonies; celebrations and holy days; 4,000 years of pain, sadness, triumph, and joy; great Jewish thinkers and historical celebrities; and much more. Updates to the "recent history" section with discussions of what has happened in the first decade of the twenty-first century including: the expansion of orthodox political power in Israel; expansion of interfaith work; unfortunate recent anti-Semitic events; and other news Expanded coverage of Jewish mysticism and meditation, which has become increasingly popular in recent years New coverage on Jewish views of morality, including birth control, homosexuality, and environmental concerns Revised recipes for traditional Jewish cooking, updated key vocabulary, and Yiddish phrases everyone should know Jews have long spread out to the corners of the world, so there are significant Jewish communities on many continents. Judaism For Dummies offers a glimpse into the rituals, ideas, and terms that are woven into the history and everyday lives of Jewish people as near as our own neighborhoods and as far-reaching as across the world. P.S. If you think this book seems familiar, youre probably right. The Dummies team updated the cover and design to give the book a fresh feel, but the content is the same as the previous release of Judaism For Dummies (9781118407516). The book you see here shouldnt be considered a new or updated product. But if youre in the mood to learn something new, check out some of our other books. Were always writing about new topics!

If you have ever wondered what being born Jewish should mean to you; if you want to find out more about the nature of Judaism, or explain it to a friend; if you are thinking about how Judaism can connect with the rest of your life -- this is the first book you should own. It poses, and thoughtfully addresses, questions like these: Can one doubt God's existence and still be a good Jew? Why do we need organized religion? Why shouldn't I intermarry? What is the reason for dietary laws? How do I start practicing Judaism? The Nine Questions People Ask About Judaism was written for the educated, skeptical, searching Jew, and for the non-Jew who wants to understand the meaning of Judaism. It has become a classic and very widely read introduction to the oldest living religion. Concisely and engagingly, authors Dennis Prager and Joseph Telushkin present Judaism as the rational, moral alternative for contemporary man.

Jews for Salaam: a book of hope, a blueprint for world peace. Christians, Jews, and Muslims have common roots. This book focuses on the unique position the Jewish people are in to move the world toward peace. Abdullah bin Salaam, a little known Jewish leader in Arabia at the time of the Prophet Islam is the centerfold of this writing. Model Jews of Arabia embraced Messenger Muhammad, the last Prophet. The author presents this vital history with Bible, Talmud, Quran, and Hadith to make the case for the Jews for Salaam. The challenge to embrace this truth is welcoming.

Primitive Judaism is the earliest system of thought that sought to explain the concepts of divinity, humanity, and life on the planet. Whats more, it is Moses who deserves the credit for the systematization of basic, primitive Tanakian Judaism. In King Davids Naked Dance, author Allan Russell Juriansz defines the primitive theology of Tanakian Judaism that obeys the Tanak as the sole canon of the Hebrew people. A sequel to Juriansz first bookThe Fair Dinkum Jew, which calls for a reformation in Israel and worldwide JewryKing Davids Naked Dance sends a message to the Hebrew people to relearn Tanakian Judaism and live by it. Using the writing of several Talmudic rabbis and Jewish reformers, Juriansz presents a discussion of the Tanak as the only sacred canon and shows its messages of the work of God to create, redeem, and glorify His world and His people. King Davids Naked Dance calls for the worlds Jewry and Israel to unite in the primitive Judaism, a splendid redemptive religion that needs to be embraced, defended, and propagated.

Imam Umar, Ranking Chaplin for New York’s prison system for 25 years, founded the National Association of Muslim Chaplains. In 1975 became one of the first two Muslims hired as full-time Imams in prisons in America. He helped build New York’s Imam’s council. Umar advocated the hiring and assignment of Muslim religious workers throughout the U.S. He traveled to Mecca, Egypt, South Africa, Senegal, Turkey, Cyprus, and Europe in his sojourn to study history, investigate world events first hand, and spread the teaching of Islam. He worked with rabbis, priests, ministers, and imams to improve the life of our time.

Celebrate Jewish culture with this fun collection of facts and stories! Jewish traditions aren't just something they sing about in Fiddler on the Roof. Explore them all with this delightful book of essential Jewish foods, philosophers, pop culture, and more. It's sure to be way more satisfying than the typical encyclopedia—but probably not as exciting as finding the perfect bagel. Discover cultural touchstones—From babka to Mel Brooks, learn fascinating facts about the writers, entertainers, delis, and Yiddish phrases that shine a light on Jewish culture through the ages. Find what fascinates you—Paging through this book is a pleasure, whether you choose to read it cover to cover or use it as a quick reference guide. Give the perfect present—This encyclopedia's lighthearted tone and charming illustrations make it a great gift for Chanukah, housewarmings, and more. Show a little chutzpah and pick up a copy of this amusing and informative Jewish encyclopedia today!

This book is a collection of letters from a religious Jew in Israel to a Christian friend in Barcelona on life as an Orthodox Jew. Equal parts lighthearted and insightful, it's a thorough and entertaining introduction to the basic concepts of Judaism.