This is the first book to present a systematic and synthetic introduction to Jewish law.

Jewish law has a history stretching from the early period to the modern State of Israel, encompassing the Talmud, Geonic and later codifications, the Spanish Golden Age, medieval and modern response, the Holocaust and modern reforms. Fifteen distinct periods are separately studied in this volume, each one by a leading specialist, and the emphasis throughout is on the development of the institutions and sources of the law, providing teachers with the essential background material from which a variety of sources, from many different perspectives, may be taught. Most chapters are written to a common plan, with treatment of the political background of the period and the nature of Jewish judicial autonomy, the character (literary and legal) of the sources, the legal practice of the period, its principal authorities, and examples of characteristic features of the substantive law (especially in family law).

Discussions of the problems of religion and state reflected in the legal system too often occur against a background of ignorance of the scope and detail of Jewish law. This book is a comprehensive source of information and clarification of the principles and institutions of Jewish law in all its areas. It is a single-volume treatment of a subject that is now recognized as a legitimate discipline in the study of law. Originally included in the Encyclopedia Judaica and previously available in a hardcover edition, this material is now available for the first time in a paperback edition. The intention is to make it easy to use and available for a wider audience.The book begins with a major introduction discussing the development of Jewish law. This introduction is followed by eight sections offering the reader a methodical description of the principles and institutions of Jewish law: The Sources of Law; General; Laws of Property; Laws of Obligation and Torts; Family Law and Inheritance; Criminal Law; Jurisdiction, Procedure, Evidence and Execution; and Public and Administrative Law, and Conflict of Laws. The material is treated in a modern legal manner with extensive detail given to comparative law. Bibliographical information is offered at the end of each section. The comprehensive subject index is an indispensable aid in locating a given theme. All of the contributions to this book have been written by outstanding legal personalities of Israel. Collectively the work "represents an eminent contribution covering all aspects of jurisprudence, except religious ritual, in Judaism. Its broad scope encompasses much that should be of interest to students in history, economics, sociology, and culture." (Solomon Faber).

Expanded from the Chief Rabbi of South Africa's doctoral thesis, Defending the Human Spirit explores the Torah's legal system compared to Western law. Using real court cases to demonstrate the similarities and differences between Judaism's view of defending the vulnerable and Western legal practice, Rabbi Goldstein places halacha as truly ahead of its time. Covering such diverse topics as political tyranny, oppression of women, crime, and poverty, Defending the Human Spirit is fascinating, informative and inspiring reading.

The book delves into the 'deeper structures' of the world's legal systems, where law meets culture, politics and socio-economic factors.

From the Penteteuch and Nevi'im to the Ketuvim and the oral Torah, this straightforward reference walks you through God's instructions to His people and explains how these teachings are incorporated into Jewish life. The Everything Torah Book presents the tenets of the Jewish faith in an easy-to-understand reference. Fascinating insights into the history, stories, parables, and personalities that are featured in this sacred scripture will bring teachings to life. Regardless of your faith, The Everything Torah Book offers a wonderful insight into Jewish culture. Learn about: Jewish history and heritage What constitutes the Torah The importance of the Torah in the Jewish community How to expand your learning Incorporating teachings into your life Written by a rabbi, The Everything Torah Book presents the tenets of Jewish faith, tradition, and culture in one all-inclusive resource.

The Jewish intellectual tradition has a long and complex history that has resulted in significant and influential works of scholarship. In this book, the authors suggest that there is a series of common principles that can be extracted from the Jewish intellectual tradition that have broad, even life-changing, implications for individual and societal achievement. These principles include respect for tradition while encouraging independent, often disruptive thinking; a precise system of logical reasoning in pursuit of the truth; universal education continuing through adulthood; and living a purposeful life. The main objective of this book is to understand the historical development of these principles and to demonstrate how applying them judiciously can lead to greater intellectual productivity, a more fulfilling existence, and a more advanced society.

The classic, essential guide to the beliefs, ideals and practices that form the historic Jewish faith.

Chief Rabbi Emeritus Lord Jonathan Sacks evaluates of the role of the synagogue in Jewish life today. In it he explores the choices faced by religious leadership in the modern world, and the ways in which the synagogue embodies a living community of faith. His book Faith in the Future, described by The Times as 'one of the most significant declarations made by a religious leader in this country for many years', analysed the importance of community, morality and faith in the future of Western societies. Community of Faith applies these themes to the Jewish situation, and suggests ways in which the synagogue can be renewed as a centre of meaning and belonging.