Essentials of Judaism: Faith, Tradition, Bible and History - Hardcover

by Rabbi Chaim Iram (Author), Rabbi Chashi Freedman (Editor)

Essentials of Judaism provides access to an entire Jewish world in a single volume. For those interested in discovering the deep richness of Jewish heritage, this new work focuses on the central themes and beliefs of Judaism while delving into relevant and meaningful details. Written in clear, user-friendly language and accompanied by color illustrations, Essentials of Judaism explores the story of the Jewish people over the millennia. Covering topics found in the Torah (Bible), Jewish history, faith, philosophy, Halacha (Jewish law) and its meaning, as well as Jewish customs and lifestyles, this volume discusses sensitive - even controversial - issues with care and respect. It presents the complexity and diversity of views and approaches (netivim) to many topics relevant to the modern reader. "Essentials of Judaism is an indispensable presentation of authentic Judaism for today's world. It is invaluable for anyone interested in a concise, clear, organized guide to traditional Jewish life." -Rabbi Michael Whitman,

Author Biography

Rabbi Chaim Iram holds rabbinical ordination and certification as a dayan (religious judge) from the Eretz Hemdah and Harry Fischel Institutes. Involved in conversion for over thirty years, Rabbi Iram served as the deputy head of the Israeli conversion courts. He taught at NATIV and later served as its director. Rabbi Iram serves as the rabbi of Elazar in Gush Etzion and is an international consultant and speaker on Jewish topics and programs. He is a graduate of Netiv Meir and Yeshivat Or Etzion, and served in the infantry with the IDF hesder program. Rabbi Chashi Freedman is the Director of Education at NATIV. Born and raised in New York, Rabbi Freedman moved to Israel as a lone soldier in 1982 and served as a sergeant in the Paratrooper Brigade. He holds a B.A. in Talmud and an M.A. in Jewish Education, along with rabbinic ordination and teacher certification. Rabbi Freedman served as a congregational rabbi in Palm Springs, Coordinator of Jewish Thought and Identity at the Van Leer Jerusalem Institute, and Director of the Yachad Jewish Leadership Program. He is the recipient of the Avi Chai Foundation Sabbatical Prize.