Liberal and Reform Judaism Books

Book SynopsisTrade ReviewCohen's work offers a nuanced view of cantorial students and faculty as individuals, and a sympathetic commentary on the School as an institution in the context of Reform Judaism. It is also a valuable account of structure and agency in the formation of musical authority, and an examination of the mediating roles of an insider scholarly institution.May 5, 2010 -- Jonathan Dueck * Duke University *[This book] will be of interest not only to cantors and their teachers but also to rabbis, congregations and everyone concerned about the future of the Jewish community.4/7/10 -- Morton Teicher * Florida Jewish Journal *[The author] has produced a vibrant, descriptive analysis of cantorial education from the time of admission to...to graduation.... 5/19/10 * NATIONAL JEWISH POST & OPINION *Cohen successfully navigates a complex waterway, melding history, ethnography and Jewish professional studies with a musicological account of cantorial education in the 21st century. Cohen's perspective is at once narrow and layered. . . . In realizing his goal, Cohen has provided us with a rich and unique work that will no doubt hold the interest of Jewish historians, musicians, and of course cantors, themselves.March 20, 2010 * Musica Judaica Online Reviews *Opening a window on the practical, social, and cultural aspects of aspiring to musical authority, this book provides unusual insights into issues of musical tradition, identity, gender, community, and high and low musical culture. May 6, 2010 * menorahreview.org *Cohen brought to the task he set for himself—understanding the education of cantors—special knowledge about music and about being a participant-observer. The result is a sterling presentation that will be of interest not only to cantors and their teachers but also to rabbis, congregations and everyone concerned about the future of the Jewish community.April 16, 2010 * Buffalo Jewish Review *[Cohen] is not merely tapping the knowledge base of musical authorities as a means to gather data; his goal is to understand the creation of musical authority itself, specifically that of the Reform cantor in the 21st Century. ...Cohen has provided us with a rich and unique work that will no doubt hold the interest of Jewish historians, musicians, and of course cantors, themselves.3/20/2010 -- Scott M. Sokol * Hebrew College, Newton Centre, Massachusetts *[The author's] research impressively combines ethnographic and historical approaches to the question of how sound enriches modern Jewish life and culture.August 3, 2009 * MyJewishLearning.com *[T]his volume is a useful addition to the scholarly bookshelf. . . . The accessible and readable style of Cohen's account coupled with relevant CD illustrations will make this a useful case study for a course on music in contemporary religious practice, while his theoretical observations will provide a springboard for much wider discussion of musical texts and processes. * Music and Letters *Table of ContentsAcknowledgments and AttributionsNote on TransliterationIntroduction: A Moment of Transformation1. To Fashion a Cantor2. Seeking the Tradition3. Constructing a Tradition4. Through the Prism of the Practicum5. A Prism of Cantorial Sound6. A Prism of Cantorial IdentityConclusion: Cantors in Israel and the Structure of Musical AuthorityAppendix A: Ashkenazic and Sephardic Pronunciation TableAppendix B: URJ Transliteration Guidelines and Master Word ListBibliographyIndexList of Selections on Compact Disc

Read more less

Book SynopsisOffers a portrait of Jewish life. The authors argue that there is a new generation of Jews. In this book, the authors take us around the world and find Jewish communities where Jewish identity is increasingly flexible and inclusive, not something to be hidden but a part of one's identity to be proud of. They focus on new elements of Jewish life.Trade Review"New Jews makes the provocative argument that the Israel-Diaspora dichotomy no longer exists. In a series of engaging ethnographies of Jewish communities in America, Russia and Israel, Aviv and Shneer reveal a new generation of Jews embarked on a renaissance liberated from old ideologies and committed to creating homes where they live. A celebration of pluralism, this sure-to-be controversial book finds Jewish unity not in slogans but in the common search for new identities." -- David Biale,author of Cultures of the Jews: A New History"Offers a new way to look at contemporary Jewry, not just its present complicated realities, but the history behind the recent departures. Well researched, deeply contextualized, and written in a sprightly manner, New Jews demonstrates that Jews at the beginning of the twenty-first century have created new spaces, new places, and new faces in which to live and by which to present themselves." -- Hasia R. Diner,author of The Jews of the United States, 1654-2000"New Jews is a thoughtful, persuasive case for why the Diaspora matters." * Secular Culture *"Examining locations as diverse as New York, San Francisco and Moscow, Aviv and probe what makes Jews feel at home." * Lilith *"This is a wide-ranging work . . . there is a definite shift afoot in thinking about matters of Jewish identity, and this is a worthwhile and useful effort toward articulating new directions." * Central Conference of American Rabbis Newsletter *Table of ContentsAcknowledgmentsPrefaceIntroduction: From Diaspora Jews to New Jews1 Let My People Stay: Moscow's Jews after the Exodus 2 Encounters with Ghosts: Youth Tourism and the Diaspora Business 3 Temples of American Identity: Jewish Museums in Los Angeles 4 Castro, Chelsea, and Tel Aviv: Queer Jews at Home 5 Our Kind of Town: New York is a Center of the Jewish Universe Epilogue: The End of the Jews Notes Index About the Authors

Read more less

Book Synopsis This fiftieth anniversary edition of W. Gunther Plaut's classic volume on the beginnings of the Jewish Reform Movement is updated with a new introduction by Howard A. Berman. The Rise of Reform Judaism covers the first one hundred years of the movement, from the time of the eighteenth-century Jewish Enlightenment leader Moses Mendelssohn to the conclusion of the Augsburg synod in 1871. In these pages the founders who established liberal Judaism speak for themselves through their journals and pamphlets, books and sermons, petitions and resolutions, and public arguments and disputations. Each selection includes Plaut's brief introduction and sketch of the reformer. Important topics within Judaism are addressed in these writings: philosophy and theology, religious practice, synagogue services, and personal life, as well as controversies on the permissibility of organ music, the introduction of the sermon, the nature of circumcision, the observance of the Sabbath, the Trade Review“The characteristic diversity within Reform Judaism is underscored on virtually every page of Plaut’s volumes.”—Rabbi Howard A. Berman, executive director of the Society for Classical Reform Judaism “The work of Rabbi Plaut is not only crucial for an understanding of Reform Judaism; it is also indispensable for grasping the development and history of Judaism in the modern world.”—Rabbi David Ellenson, chancellor and past president of Hebrew Union College–Jewish Institute of Religion“This valuable collection of source materials is designed to acquaint the reader with the primary forces in the development of Reform Judaism in Europe. From a wide range of essays, articles, speeches, and other writings, Dr. Plaut judiciously selects those that best represent the thinking of the leaders as well as of the lesser, more obscure figures of the Reform movement.”—Commentary magazineTable of Contents Introduction to the 50th Anniversary Edition by Howard A. Berman Foreword by Solomon B. Freehof Introduction CHAPTER I: TRAIL BLAZERS 1. The First Generation 2. The Journals CHAPTER II: NEW TEMPLES, NEW PRAYER BOOKS 1. Seesen, 1810 2. Hamburg, 1817 3. Vienna, 1826 4. Metz,1841 5. London, 1842 6. Frankfort, 18427. Berlin, 18448. Worms, 18489. Pesth, 1848CHAPTER III: THE GREAT CONTROVERSY--TIKTIN VS. GEIGERCHAPTER IV: CONFERENCES AND SYNODS1. The French Sanhedrin2. The Rabbinic Conferences3. The SynodsCHAPTER V: NEW PATTERNS OF THOUGHT1. General Considerations2. The “Science of Judaism”3. The Bible and Its Text4. The Authority of TraditionCHAPTER VI: A PEOPLE AND ITS FAITH1. Revelation2. The Jewish People--Dispersion and Restoration3. The Mission of Israel4. The Messiah5. Judaism and ChristianityCHAPTER VII: WORSHIP REFORM1. Changing the Prayer Book2. The Sermon3. Vernacular and Hebrew in the Service4. Synagogue Music5. Bar Mitzvah and Confirmation6. Covering the Head7. Torah Reading and PiyutimCHAPTER VIII: SABBATH AND HOLIDAY OBSERVANCEl. The Sabbath2. The HolidaysCHAPTER IX: THE PERSONAL LIFEl. Circumcision2. Dietary Laws3. Marriage4. Mourning Practices5. Home ObservanceCHAPTER X: THE COMMUNITY1. The Rabbinic Office2. The Public Oath3. Apostates4. Jewish Education5. The Status of Women6. For the Sake of Heaven7. A Guide for Reform JudaismBibliographical NotesIndex

Read more less

Book Synopsis This fiftieth anniversary edition of W. Gunther Plaut's classic second volume on the history of the Jewish Reform Movement is a sourcebook of the original writings that shaped the second century of organized liberal Judaism. The Growth of Reform Judaism features a new introduction, a new epilogue, and important additional primary sources documenting the profound changes of the last fifty years. Although the emphasis in this volume is chiefly on the American scene, where the movement had its most notable advances, selections of representative liberal Jewish thought in Europe and to a lesser degree in Israel are included as well. These selections help us to understand the emergence and character, problems and tensions of Reform Judaism as it developed and grew in modern times. In addition to the primary texts new to this edition, David Ellenson's epilogue considers the developments of the last fifty years that have continued to shape the course of Reform Judaism.Trade Review“The characteristic diversity within Reform Judaism is underscored on virtually every page of Plaut’s volumes.”—Rabbi Howard A. Berman, executive director of the Society for Classical Reform Judaism “The work of Rabbi Plaut is not only crucial for an understanding of Reform Judaism; it is also indispensable for grasping the development and history of Judaism in the modern world.”—Rabbi David Ellenson, chancellor and past president of Hebrew Union College-Jewish Institute of ReligionTable of ContentsIntroduction to the 50th Anniversary Edition by Howard A. BermanForeword by Jacob K. ShankmanPrefaceIntroductionPART 1--REFORM IN TWO WORLDSCHAPTER 1: AMERICAN BEGINNINGS1. Five Cities2. Two Journals: The Israelite--Sinai (I. M. Wise, D. Einhorn)3. Two Rabbis in the Civil War (D. Einhorn, J. K. Gutheim)CHAPTER II: CONGREGATIONAL UNION IN AMERICA1. Call for an American Synod (I. M. Wise)2. Cleveland: Invitation--Articles of Union--To Unite the Most Divergent (M. Lilienthal)--Conservative Evaluation (I. Leeser)--A Reformer Protests (D. Einhorn)3. The Board of Delegates: An Editorial (Jewish Messenger)4. Cincinnati Conference, 18715. Union of American Hebrew Congregations: Three Reasons (M. Loth)--Objectives (From the Constitution)CHAPTER III: RABBINIC UNION IN AMERICA1. Philadelphia: Call--Resolutions2. Pittsburgh: Proceedings--Preparing our Platform (K. Kohler)--The Platform--Discussion--Conservative Comment--Challenge of Ethical Culture (F. Adler)--Defense (G. Gottheil)3. Founding the CCAR (I. M. Wise)CHAPTER IV: SEMINARIES1. Breslau: Invitation to Frankel--Questions Left Unanswered (S. R. Hirsch)--Progressive Tendencies in Judaism (Z. Frankel)2. Berlin: Fundamental Principles (I. Elbogen)3. Budapest: Why the Orthodox Opposed the Seminary (L. Löw)--A Choice Faculty (J. Bergl)4. Cincinnati: Needed, Our Own College (I. M. Wise)--Zion College (I. M. Wise)--Opening of Hebrew Union College (D. Philipson)--Commencement, 1883 (B. Szold)--Ill-fated Banquet (F. de Sola Mendes)5. New York: Jewish Theological Seminary (American Hebrew--L. Marshall)CHAPTER V: REALIGNMENT IN EUROPE1. france: The Paris Conference--Pastoral Letter (S. Ulmann)--The Dreyfus Affair (H. Prague)--L'Union Libérale Israélite2. England: The Jewish Religious Union (I. Abrahams)3. Germany: Program for Union--The Guide Lines--Declaration of Liberal Rabbis--French CommentPART 2--THE AGE OF CRISESCHAPTER VI: THE FIRST WAR1. The Battle2. The AftermathCHAPTER VII: THE CHANGING MOVEMENT1. New Vistas for the Seminaries2. World Union3. The Columbus Platform4. Frontiers and FailuresCHAPTER VIII: THE SOCIAL CONSCIENCE1. The German Voice2. The American VoiceCHAPTER IX: GERMANY: DREAM AND NIGHTMARE1. Tortured Dream2. Nightmare3. ReactionCHAPTER X: ZION: THE GREAT DEBATE1. Nationalism vs. Universalism2. Reality and PrincipleCHAPTER XI: THE SECOND WARCHAPTER XII: THE CHANGING ENVIRONMENT1. The Jewish People2. Chosenness and Mission3. Jew and Christian4. Our Jewish NeighborPART 3--REFORM IN TRANSITIONCHAPTER XIII: THEOLOGY IN TRANSITION1. Theology for a New Age2. Revelation3. The Nature of God4. The Reach of Man5. Faith and Reason6. The BibleCHAPTER XIV: PRACTIVE IN TRANSITION1. Reform and Halakhah2. Life and Death3. Marriage4. Of Food and Fasting5. The Sabbath6. Proselytes and ApostatesCHAPTER XV: SYNAGOGUE IN TRANSITION1. Liturgy2. Worship Practices3. Bar Mitzvah and Confirmation4. Jewish Education5. The Rabbinic Office6. The CongregationEpilogue--Reform Judaism After 1948Epilogue to the 50th Anniversary Edition by David EllensonSelect Documents, 1975-2008BibliographyIndex

Read more less

Book SynopsisRemix Judaism: Preserving Tradition in a Diverse World offers an eloquent and thoughtful new vision for all Jews, regardless of their current level of observance, seeking a sense of belonging in a changing world. By developing a “remix” approach with Jewish traditionalism at its foundation and adding a dialogue on the importance and significance of preserving Jewish identity, the reader quickly identifies the sense of urgency for understanding the cultural and religious gaps in Jewish society today.Trade ReviewIn Remix Judaism, Roberta Kwall presents a lovingly-constructed portrait of postmodern, post-denominational Judaism in North America. Her extensive research is studded with touching, insightful anecdotes that will delight and inspire, inviting the reader into self-reflection and into dialogue with the tradition. Kwall’s thoughtful examination of the foundational pillars of Jewish life, and the diverse ways in which they are “remixed” by Jews today, brings her audience into a new appreciation for the multifaceted, multivalent nature of modern Jewish life. This marvelous book will provide Kwall’s diverse audience with a joyful affirmation of the way in which today’s diverse “remix Judaism” provides for heightened meaning in one’s life. -- Oren J. Hayon, Congregation Emanu El, Houston, TexasWhen I chose a Jewish life, I was hungry for anything that could tell me exactly what I was signing up for. Judaism is ancient and traditional, but it is also dynamic and ever-adaptable. Bobbi Kwall has written the book I needed then, and what a joy to read it now and remind myself of the breadth of Jewish life and ingenuity. -- Al Rosenberg, director of strategy and communication, OneTableRemix Judaism sets out to enable the reader to find meaning in and create an authentic Jewish life. Responding to recent research on trends in the American Jewish community, Kwall recognizes the realities of 21st century life and offers ways in which Judaism may provide guidance, relevance, and insight for living in these times. Kwall believes in the preservation of the religious and cultural traditions of Judaism and at the same time strives to make Judaism accessible, opening doorways into Jewish practice and exploration in an empowering way. -- Rabbi Laura Novak Winer, Hebrew Union College-Jewish Institute of ReligionRemix Judaism does a fantastic job of drawing on Jewish text and real-life anecdotes to help people who really want to build Jewish community see multiple ways to do it. Roberta's love of Jewish tradition, of creativity and Jewish peoplehood, shines through the chapters of this book. Whether one considers oneself observant or secular, atheist or believer, Remix Judaism ultimately helps the reader envision a colorful and diverse Jewish future that transcends denominations and mines the gold at the heart of Jewish tradition. -- Rabbi Lizzi Heydemann, Mishkan ChicagoLucidly and engagingly written, Roberta Rosenthal Kwall’s Remix Judaism is a must-read for Jews and other “willing listeners” seeking to deepen their connection to Judaism in ways other than through traditional Jewish legal observance. Emphasizing “tradition” rather than “law,” Kwall advocates a “remix” strategy of personal choice of rituals and traditions rooted in the normative Jewish legal tradition that are infused with personal meaning and practiced consistently. Blending personal narratives and a scholar’s perspective, Kwall illustrates “remixes” of Shabbat, Jewish food traditions, marriage, children’s education and b’nei mitzvah, grandparenting, mourning, and tikkun olam. Kwall’s emphasis on the importance of Jewish education, the joyful, thoughtful, and consistent appropriation of Jewish traditions, and the contemporary need to balance the normative Jewish legal tradition with a search for personal meaning makes Remix Judaism an indispensable starting-point for all those seeking a rich, meaningful Jewish life outside the scope of traditional Jewish legal observance. -- Alyssa M. Gray, professor of codes and responsa literature, Hebrew Union College-Jewish Institute of ReligionRemix Judaism is a critically important work. In a world where young people face unprecedented alienation and breakdown of meaning, Jewish living has so much to offer. But with so many young Jews distant from their heritage, it must be presented in ways that resonate and meet them where they are. Professor Kwall understands these opportunities and challenges and her book serves as a guide on how to access and make meaningful our sacred resources of wisdom, culture and spirituality. -- Ari Hart, Skokie Valley Agudath Jacob SynagogueOne of the most beautiful and compelling truths about Judaism is that it evolves and keeps pace with modernity. Roberta Rosenthal Kwall’s book is a timely contribution to this generation’s search. This book captures the wonder of Jewish traditions and makes them assessable to all who are searching. -- Karyn D. Kedar, author of The Bridge to Forgiveness, Stories and Prayers for Finding God and Restoring WholenessRoberta Kwall’s informative and passionate new book melds some of the most meaningful Jewish customs and traditions with modern societal values and sensitivities. Her book provides enjoyable ways to preserve Jewish culture, in such areas as Shabbat and holidays, life cycle events, the roles of parents and grandparents, tikkun olam and much more. So many of the things we do on a day to day basis present opportunities to infuse them with Judaism, thus making them more meaningful and enjoyable. This book is a great guide to accomplishing that. -- Mark Trencher, president, Nishma ResearchKwall lovingly interweaves her personal Jewish journey with the unique stories of fellow travelers. The result: a more expansive and inclusive understanding of Jewish culture. Whether you agree or disagree with Remix Judaism’s premise, you’ll be inspired by Kwall’s use of Jewish culture as a springboard for intergenerational discussion. -- Hayim Herring, organizational futurist, coach and author of Connecting Generations: Bridging the Boomer, Gen X, and Millennial DivideRemix Judaism is a thought-provoking book filled with justification, stories, and ways to lead an assimilated lifestyle while being intentional about your Judaism. It encourages an individualistic approach to what Judaism means to you as an individual, couple, or family at any stage in your life and how to pass your tradition and culture on to those around you. As a millennial Jewish summer camp professional who works with the next generation of the Jewish people, I believe Kwall's remix Judaism is the direction my campers should embody as they begin their own journeys to discovering their Jewish identities. -- Gabrielle Gordon, assistant director, Camp Young Judaea MidwestRoberta Rosenthal Kwall's work reveals a deep examination of the unfolding nature of the Jewish Tradition in modernity, especially here in America. Kwall's analysis proves relevant for people in all stages of life. Her unique background allows for her the ability to craft explanations that make this a great resource for those who are new to the Jewish Tradition and for those who have been contemplating contemporary challenges for quite some time. I recommend reading it for all interested in understanding how to live according to Halacha (Jewish Law) today. -- Rabbi Nolan Lebovitz Lebovitz, Adat Shalom, Los Angeles, CaliforniaIn Remix Judaism: Preserving Tradition in a Diverse World, Roberta Kwall draws nimbly and intelligently from the wellsprings of Jewish tradition and practice so as to allow American Jews to forge a Judaism that is both meaningful and authentic. Kwall is a keen observer of the contemporary Jewish scene, and she offers a clear program for modern Jewish life that has the capacity to address and motivate individuals and community. Her creative and rooted vision of Judaism is both exciting and inspiring. Remix Judaism will deservedly garner a wide readership! -- Rabbi David Ellenson, Chancellor Emeritus of Hebrew Union College-Jewish Institute of ReligionRoberta Kwall grapples with the challenges and opportunities of an open and diverse society to offer pathways for engagement and deepened connection to Judaism for cultural and secular Jews. -- Deborah Waxman, president, Reconstructing JudaismRoberta Kwall provides a new way to be Jewish in America! The book's “remixed” approach to contemporary Judaism means developing practical paths that are based in historical traditions. For anyone interested in the vibrancy of the Jewish community and religion, this book provides critical grounds for thought—and action. -- Naomi Cahn, George Washington University Law SchoolIn her insightful book professor Roberta Kwall offers a challenge to the world wide Jewish community and especially the liberal community in North America. Citing example after example she offers a path for all those who want to make their Judaism meaningful. Steeped in modern Jewish sociology, survey studies, personal interviews, and stories from the field, Kwall demonstrates that a Jewish tradition which is open to personal meaning, flexibility, and innovation can make a difference even in the lives of those who may not feel impelled by its legal structure. Kwall has produced a book which will challenge Jewish clergy, educators and thought leaders even as it challenges those who want to find their path in Judaism through their own practice. It is a book worth reading and thinking about and for that we should be thankful for the insights of the author and the passion with which they are expressed. -- Vernon Kurtz, Rabbi Emeritus North Suburban Synagogue Beth El, past president American Zionist Movement, past president international Rabbinical AssemblyEveryone knows that Jewish life in America is changing, but can American Jews take control of that change? In Remix Judaism, Roberta Kwall lays out a way to think about Jewish identity and practice that embraces all Jews, and encourages American Jews to "remix" their tradition with care, thought, and an eye towards sustainable transmission for future generations. Packed with religious insights, recent studies, and concrete suggestions, Kwall has produced a book for anybody interested in the future of Judaism in America. -- Shira Telushkin, author of “Thou Shalt” Jewish advice column, Tablet MagazineProfessor Kwall, one of the prominent scholars of modern American Jewry, wrote Remix Judaism as a follow-up to The Myth of the Cultural Jew. Her new book touches the lives of so many of us who live in a non-Orthodox world yet strive to maintain a strong connection to our Judaism. With over 34 years in a pulpit, I have dealt with congregants of all ages and backgrounds who have been dealing with the issues identified by Kwall. Her diverse sources are masterfully woven into the fabric of her narrative. There is no question in my mind that this work will be a guiding light to so many of us. If I could, I would make Remix Judaism required reading for all non-Orthodox Jews. -- Rabbi Chuck Diamond, Former Rabbi of the Tree of Life – Or L’Simcha, Pittsburgh, PAIn Remix Judaism, Kwall makes the case that Judaism is an aspirational tradition where diversity and disagreement can simultaneously be a tremendous challenge and our greatest strength. Kwall’s writings always challenge my thinking through her combination of meticulous research, well-crafted arguments, copious references to traditional and modern Jewish sources, and fidelity to Jewish tradition. For a person who cares about the future of Judaism, this book presents a tremendous opportunity to take a journey with Kwall and think deeply about what it means to care about Judaism in this generation and generations to come. -- Joshua Rabin, senior director of synagogue leadership, United Synagogue of Conservative Judaism (USCJ)Remix Judaism is a sourcebook of great Jewish ideas and a guidebook for living Jewishly in the 21st century. Robertal Kwall manages to be both descriptive and perscriptive, charting a path for how Jewish living can thrive in contemporary society. This is not a book for the future; this is a vital book for right now. -- Avi Finegold, Founder, The Jewish Learning Lab

Read more less