The JPS Guide to Jewish Traditions
Ronald L. Eisenberg, . . Jewish Publication Society, $40 (806pp) ISBN 978-0-8276-0760-6
A number of different handbooks exist to help Jews observe the many holiday rituals and life cycle events required by Jewish tradition. Eisenberg, who is not a rabbi but rather a radiologist and a lawyer, produces a major volume that attempts to encompass all the rituals in one useful compendium. He begins with the traditions associated with the ages and stages of life from birth to death; moves to a consideration of Sabbath and festivals; and follows with a section on the synagogue and prayer. A segment on the Bible and rabbinic literature interrupts the discussion of rituals but it is then resumed by identifying prescribed daily activities (
Reviewed on: 10/11/2004
Genre: Nonfiction