The Complete Idiot's Guide to the Talmud

September 1, 2004
How the Bible relates to contemporary life and addresses Americans' spiritual yearnings is currently a popular theme in religious literature. Part of "The Complete Idiot's Guide" series in Judaism and Jewish culture, this new book by Rabbi Parry (education director, Jews for Judaism, West Coast branch) makes an important contribution by explaining the Talmud to both Jews and Gentiles. As outlined in its five parts, the book aims to introduce the Talmud, describe its contents, explain the various methods used by Talmudic sages throughout history, explore the Talmudic worldview, and show how its principles apply to our contemporary world. To help explain or illustrate more technical topics, each chapter contains several different types of easily identifiable information boxes (e.g., "Talmud Tutor," "Talmud Trivia"). Written for a popular audience in a clear, accessible style, this book is highly recommended for public libraries with large religion collections. Charles Murray, C.S.S., White Plains, NY

Copyright 2004 Library Journal, LLC Used with permission.