Description
Book SynopsisThe most comprehensive book on the topic,
Thinking about Good and Evil traces salient Jewish ideas about why innocent people seem to suffer, why evil individuals seem to prosper, and God’s role in matters of (in)justice, from antiquity to modernity.
Trade Review"Illuminating analysis. . . . Allen produces a nuanced, vital exploration. . . . Allen's work as a congregational rabbi enables him to imbue this sophisticated yet accessible guide with heartfelt emotion. This remarkable guide will be of interest to any Jewish reader contemplating God's role in suffering."—
Publishers Weekly"Allen believes it's important to understand Jewish philosophical thought about good and evil in order to better realize the importance of what he calls the 'two quintessential Jewish values: justice and goodness.' He challenges readers to see where they agree or disagree with each philosopher, which may help them to devise their own personal theology. His book would work well in a classroom setting or for a discussion group about theology. Anyone interested in the subject of good and evil should enjoy this interesting and provocative work."—Rabbi Rachel Esserman,
Reporter“Rabbi Wayne Allen translates a lifetime of deep reflection about the most vexing question posed for Jewish faith, and indeed all religious faith, into an exceptional encounter with the myriad thinkers who have struggled with it.”—James A. Diamond, author of
Jewish Theology Unbound“
Thinking about Good and Evil is impressive for its comprehensiveness, scholarship, accessibility, and originality—dealing with sources largely if not completely ignored, usually because they have never before been translated into English.”—Rabbi David Novak, author of
Jewish Justice“A comprehensive, learned, and clear exploration of Judaism’s many answers to the most difficult question: why does God permit evil? Both novices and scholars will find much here to stimulate their thoughts and stir their souls.”—Rabbi David Wolpe, Sinai Temple, Los Angeles
Table of ContentsPreface
Acknowledgments
Introduction
1. Good and Evil in the Bible and Apocrypha
2. Rabbinic Approaches to Good and Evil
3. Good and Evil in Medieval Philosophy
4. Kabbalah and the Problem of Evil
5. Hasidic Masters on Evil and Suffering
6. Early Modern Thinkers on Good and Evil
7. Modern Thinkers on Good and Evil
8. The Special Problem of the Shoah
Conclusion
Notes
Bibliography
General Index
Index of Texts
