This substantially revised and updated edition of the 1985 classic is ideal for everyone who wants to know more about Judaism. Whether you are a long-time participant in the Jewish community, a newcomer or someone who has struggled to find a home in Jewish life, this introduction to Jewish thought and practice from a Reconstructionist perspective will offer inspiration and guidance. From Kaplan's belief through contemporary innovations, this engaging text explores Reconstructionist views on God, ethics, Zionism, spirituality, text study, Tikkun Olam, life cycle ritual, intermarriage, gay and lesbian issues... and more! A must-read.
Customer Reviews:
Avg. Customer Rating: 4.0 / 5.0
Just an Introduction:
The book is very much an introduction, but not as good as those "blank for dummies books." It reads as if you entered the front door, then a second later, turn around and are back in the hall way. The chapters are short and simple. The actual philosophical and theological concepts are reduced to sentences. If anyone were to read this book believing it's the movement's intellectual history, they would be disappointed. Perhaps the greatest contribution towards reconstruction's theory is Judaism as a... more info
Guide to Reconstructionist Belief and Practice:
The Reconstructionist movement is both the newest and the smallest of the modern American Jewish movements, but its influence has been tremendous. Mordecai Kaplan, its founder, conceived of Judaism as an evolving religious civilization (more than simply a religion) and of God as a process or transcendant power (not a supernatural being). These ideas led him to a conception of Judaism that respects and honors the past while transforming it to provide a modern expression of traditional Jewish values. Although... more info
Excellent Presentation of Reconstructionism:
Alpert and Staub's book is great place for a spiritual seeker looking for basic information on Reconstructionist Judaism or for a committed Reconstructionist Jew. I found that this book has been very helpful in resolving a lot of my own personal beliefs about Judaism and feel that it can do a lot for other searching Jews. The truth, beauty, and intellectual integrity of Reconstructionism are amply demonstrated by this book. The book also provides a long list of resources for further study, all of which I... more info
Sensitive and Inclusive reentry into faith:
I just finished the book, Exploring Judaism: A Reconstructionist Approach. I can't believe that I finished it in just two evenings - it's so unlike me. I found it incredibly informative and empowering, especially coming from an oft-times exclusive traditional background. This book is written in an intellectual but accessible manner. It truly elaborates on the Reconstructionist point of entry into Judaism. It also encourages further study! I didn't realize that one could find so much beauty in my heritage -... more info
