The Emergence of Judaism
Classical Traditions in Contemporary Perspective
- World Religions
- Publisher: Fortress Press (Augsburg Fortress)
- Published: 2010
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Publisher's Description
This brief survey text tells the story of Judaism. Through the lens of modern biblical scholarship, Christine Hayes explores the shifting cultural contexts--the Babylonian exile, the Roman Empire, the Byzantine period, the rise of Christianity--that affected Jewish thought and practice, and laid the groundwork for the Talmudic era and its modern legacy. Thematic chapters explore the evolution of Judaism through its beginnings in biblical monotheism, the Second Temple Period in Palestine, the interaction of Hellenism and Judaism, the spread of rabbinic authority, and the essence of ethno-religious Jewish identity. Biographical sketches of key figures from patriarchs to prophets, and primary selections from the Hebrew Bible, the Dead Sea Scrolls, the Talmud, and others, allow for a greater understanding of an ancient movement, and provide a solid introduction to the origins of one of the world's most influential religions. The text's chapters integrate key pedagogy, including introductions, study questions, textboxes, photos, maps, suggested readings, and a glossary and timeline.
Endorsements (4)
“Hayes has produced a readable, informative, and well-informed introductory text. With clear prose and focused pedagogy, she expertly guides readers through the complex thicket of conceptual issues that face scholars working on the reconstruction of the early history of Judaism. Distinctive features of this textbook include translations and commentaries on central texts, ample bibliographical guidance, and a thorough glossary.”
“With such insights as that the Hebrew Bible is a document of compromise and with such descriptions as that the early rabbinic movement was slow, informal, chaotic, and marginal, this wide–ranging introduction is a significant tour de force. In just a few carefully crafted chapters, Christine Hayes manages astutely to convey something of the rich diversity of Judaism through the ages as well as drawing attention to key ideas, identifying its basic practices, and describing its major figures. With its multiple study resources this volume should quickly find its way onto basic reading lists for courses in the field.”
“Marvelously clear and richly insightful, The Emergence of Judaism offers a panoramic view of Jewish history, culture, and religion from its origins until the end of its classical, formative period. Christine Hayes is a brilliant pedagogue and one of the world's leading authorities on ancient Judaism. Her book is a splendid introduction to one of the world's most important and influential religious traditions. It is perfect for undergraduates and educated non-specialists.”
“A clear, balanced, and nuanced mix of background narrative and textual exegesis characterize Christine Hayes' topical approach to major events, personalities, and trends of classical Judaism (biblical and rabbinic) and its legacy through the ages. An erudite and reader friendly introduction to the matrix of Judaism, providing an exploration on the great cultural and religious ideas of the Jewish People. An enriching and exacting read.”
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