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Dragons, unicorns, mermaids ... all the famous creatures of myth and legend are to be found in the Torah, Talmud and Midrash. But what are we to make of them? Do they really exist? Did the Torah scholars of old believe in their existence? And if not, why did they describe these creatures? Sacred Monsters is a thoroughly revised and vastly expanded edition of the bestselling book Mysterious Creatures. Rabbi Natan Slifkin, the famous "Zoo Rabbi," revisits all the creatures of that work as well as a host of new ones, including werewolves, giants, dwarfs, two-headed mutants, and the enigmatic shamir-worm. Sacred Monsters explores these cases in detail and discusses a range of different approaches for understanding them. Aside from the fascinating insights into these cryptic creatures, Sacred Monsters also presents a framework within which to approach any conflict between classical Jewish texts and the modern scientific worldview. Complete with extraordinary photographs and fascinating ancient illustrations, Sacred Monsters is a scholarly yet stimulating work that will be a treasured addition to your bookshelf
KNOWLEDGE: Do we obtain reliable knowledge about the world from ongoing supernatural revelation, or from scientific investigation? NATURE: Is it preferable to perceive God as working through nature, or through supernatural miracles? SUPERNATURAL ENTITIES: Are we surrounded by all kinds of supernatural forces and entities, such as endless conscious angels, demons and the Evil Eye? MITZVOT: Do the commandments function solely to change our thoughts and behavior, or primarily to manipulate mystical forces? TORAH: Is Torah a Divine guide for life, or is it also a metaphysical blueprint for existence with all kinds of supernatural qualities? Rationalism vs. Mysticism is a thorough study of how these questions were answered very differently by various rabbinic scholars over history, reflecting two fundamentally different views of the nature of Judaism. It will profoundly deepen your understanding of Judaism and many of the intellectual conflicts that have arisen in Jewish history.
Torah & Rationalism is presented for the two different readers. For the Torah Jew, this book will intellectually secure his mind by demonstrating the structure of Torah and Halachah in a rational way. And, for the person who lacks an understanding of Torah, but is seeking the truth. For this individual, this book will provide a unique system of thinking, and challenge the reader with a genuine test of their search.
The Challenge of Creation is a completely revised and vastly expanded edition of The Science Of Torah. That work was widely hailed as the best book of its kind for its honesty and thoroughness of approach. The Challenge of Creation builds upon its approach, covering more issues and in greater depth. Carefully, methodically, and eschewing sensationalistic or dogmatic claims in favor of reasoned analysis, it shows how some of the greatest Jewish thinkers explained Judaism and Genesis in a way that complements modern science rather than conflicts with it. The Challenge of Creation is an invaluable resource for anyone grappling with conflicts between science and religion. It is a profound work that is sure to become a classic
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Man and Beast presents a comprehensive Jewish perspective on our relationship with the animal kingdom. From the blessings to be recited when visiting the zoo, to understanding what exactly sets us apart from animals, to the issues involved in keeping pets - an entire framework is presented.
The religious person in the modern world, especially the academic world, lives under fire. In every area his views are assailed as outmoded and anachronistic. In the scientific arena, in particular, new discoveries and theories constantly call into question traditional notions. In response, a new literary genre has arisen offering innovative approaches to issues of religion and science. Jewish writers have not been left behind. Torah, Chazal & Science is a unique contribution to this discussion in its emphasis on faithfulness to the Mesorah - the system of beliefs passed down from generation to generation - and on appreciation for the profundity of Chazal (the sages of the Talmud). The author's thesis is that valid solutions can come only from within the Torah's own framework. Moreover, remaining true to the classic sources is the best way to let the Torah's light shine forth. Authentic Torah sells itself. Through this book the reader will gain a new appreciation for the Torah's truth and beauty.
The crucial question for today's Jewish world, Kellner argues, is not whether Jews will have Jewish grandchildren, but how many different sorts of mutually exclusive Judaisms those grandchildren will face. This accessible book examines how the split that threatens the Jewish future can be avoided. For this second edition, the author has added a substantial Afterword, reviewing his thinking on the subject and addressing the reactions to the original edition.
"The Torah Encyclopedia of the Animal Kingdom is a milestone in publishing. It includes: Entries on every animal found in the Torah, Prophets and Writings, every reference to the animal in Scripture, a vast range of sources from the Talmud and Midrash, detailed analyses of the identities of these animals, based on classical Jewish sources and contemporary zoology,the symbolism of these animals in Jewish thought throughout the ages, zoological information about these animals and fascinating facts, lessons that Judaism derives from these animals for us to use in our own daily lives, Laws relating to the various different animals, and stunning, full-color photographs, that bring the Scriptural and Rabbinic descriptions to life"--