ABSTRACT

Arguing about Judaism differs from other introductions to Judaism. It is unique, not solely in its engaging dialogues between a Reform rabbi and a humanist, atheist philosopher, but also in its presentation of and challenges to the fundamental religious beliefs of the Jewish heritage and their relevance to today’s Jewish community.  

The dialogues contain both Jewish narratives and philosophical responses, with topics ranging from the nature of God to controversies over sexual relations, animal welfare and the environment — from antisemitism to the state of Israel and Zionism.

Although the rabbi and philosopher argue strongly, clearly enjoying the cut and thrust of debate, they do so with sensitivity, charm and respect, revealing the rich intricacies of the Jewish religion and contemporary Jewish life. While essential reading for those studying Judaism and Jewish history, the book aims to stimulate debate more generally amongst Jews and non-Jews, the religious and the atheist — all those with a general interest in religion and philosophy.

chapter |4 pages

Prologue

chapter |3 pages

Introduction

Judaism’s diversity

part I|63 pages

Jewish beliefs

chapter 1|7 pages

God

chapter 2|8 pages

Creation

chapter 3|8 pages

Providence

chapter 4|7 pages

Divine goodness

chapter 5|8 pages

Revelation

chapter 6|8 pages

Free will and sin

chapter 7|7 pages

The chosen people

chapter 8|8 pages

Messiah and afterlife

part II|64 pages

Jewish practice

chapter 9|8 pages

Jewish ethics

chapter 10|8 pages

Worship and prayer

chapter 11|8 pages

Holidays and festivals

chapter 12|6 pages

Men and women

chapter 13|8 pages

Sex and marriage

chapter 15|8 pages

Euthanasia and suicide

chapter 16|8 pages

Dietary laws and animal welfare

part III|76 pages

Jews and others – and the world

chapter 17|9 pages

Israel: the Promised Land

chapter 18|6 pages

Israel within: Jews and Gentiles

chapter 20|9 pages

Antisemitism

chapter 21|9 pages

Anti-Zionism

chapter 22|8 pages

Poverty and inequality

chapter 23|8 pages

The environment: Jews as ‘green’

chapter 24|8 pages

Jews and the future

chapter |9 pages

Epilogue