The Seven Questions You're Asked in Heaven: Reviewing and Renewing Your Life on Earth

Despite the title of this guide, it is essentially a handbook as to how Jews and others ought to act during their lifetimes. Although Judaism has little to say about what happens after we die, educator Wolfson (God's To-Do List ) asserts that on arrival in the next world, we are judged by a “Heavenly Court,” which reviews our behavior on Earth by our answers to seven questions. Three rabbis from the fourth, 18th and 19th centuries are the source of these questions: were you honest? did you leave a legacy? did you devote time to study? did you have hope in your heart? did you get your priorities straight? did you enjoy your life on earth? were you the best you could be? Using anecdotes and citing contemporary authorities, the author asserts that positive answers to these questions will prepare us for getting to heaven. This ingenious approach to proper conduct will appeal to those who believe in an afterlife, and possibly even a few who don't. (Sept.)