An Intellectually Rich and Challenging
Exploration of Modern Jewish Theology
“How we deal with revelation
determines how we handle the issue of authority in belief and
practice. How we understand authority determines how we deal
with the claims of the tradition on us; how we deal with those
claims determines how we shape our own Judaism. That conclusion
opens the gate to a reconsideration of all of Judaism’s
theology, in particular how we understand God, for God is at
the heart of Torah.”
—from the
Introduction
With clarity and passion, award-winning
teacher, author and theologian Neil Gillman captures the power
of Jewish theological claims and reveals extraordinary insights
into Jewish identity, the purpose of religion, and our
relationship with God.
Drawing from Judaism’s sacred texts
as well as great thinkers such as Mordecai Kaplan, Abraham
Joshua Heschel, and Paul Tillich, Gillman traces his
theological journey over four decades of study, beginning with
his own understanding of revelation. He explores the role of
symbol and myth in our understanding of the nature of God and
covenant. He examines the importance of community in both
determining authority and sanctifying sacred space.
By charting the development of his own
personal theology, Gillman explores the evolution of Jewish
thought and its implications for modern Jewish religious
identity today and in the future.
“One of the most enlightening studies of a complex subject.”
—American Library Association’s Booklist
“Wonderful.... Give[s] the serious reader food for thought.”
—Association of Jewish Libraries Newsletter