The ancient rabbis believed that the world rests on three pillars: study, worship, and good deeds. It is said that the greatest of these is study, for it leads to the other two. But exactly how does the modern Jewish reader go about studying the Mishnah, Talmud, and Midrash—the great ancient and often hard-to-comprehend texts of our tradition? And how do we glean the great insights and wisdom from these sacred texts, which inspired our ancestors, and apply them to our modern lives?
With guidance from renowned author and educator Barry Holtz, these ancient texts take on new meaning for us. He provides a framework for exploring our thinking about God, prayer, and ritual, as well as social issues, such as charity, friendship, and justice. His new study guide helps readers and study groups launch their exploration of the ancient texts, posing probing questions to help them stay engaged as they pursue their quest for a deeper understanding of their faith. This spiritual and spirited book is a must-read for adult Jewish learners and educators alike.
Logos Bible Software offers the most advanced format in which to read and study God’s Word. Set up a reading plan to keep on top of your Bible reading. Logos gives you the most advanced tools available anywhere for reading and studying Jewish texts, including dictionaries, encyclopedias, and a wealth of other resources!
“Midrash is the classic Jewish literature that seeks to interpret Scripture” (Page 10)
“Learning and reflection, in other words, must point in two directions—toward the past, toward the values at the source of what one is as part of a people, but also toward the here and now, toward the ‘design’ of our lives today.” (Page 13)
“What matters is mitzvah, not in our watered-down sense of ‘a good deed,’ but in its essential linguistic meaning, ‘that which is commanded.’” (Page 18)
“the question is not how many times one has been through the Talmud, but how much of the Talmud has been through you!” (Page 3)
“meaning that is beyond the self, something, I would argue, that even the most secular person needs” (Page 46)
Especially recommended for adult Jewish learners, educators, and any individual questioning the intersection of holy writings, traditional practice, and the demands of daily life.
—Wisconsin Bookwatch