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Beyond Patriarchy: Jewish Fathers and Families

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In Beyond Patriarchy: Jewish Fathers and Families, author Lawrence H. Fuchs of Brandies University draws from a rich array of religious, cultural developmental, biological, and historic detail and trend to examine consistency and change in the lives of Jewish men today.

Fuchs cites a growing parity of men and women at work, in volunteerism, at home, a decline in old opportunities for "male bonding" in many quarters and, compared to other biological species, greater human male involvement in parenting. Thus, Jewish men --- and others --- are often accepting new family responsibilities and roles, even with a continuing "flight from fatherhood" among good numbers.

Where men have draw together over sport, hunting or womanizing, Jewish men traditionally bonded through Judaism, its books, synagogue worship and ritual. When that Jewish tradition turned to family, it emphasized the protection of women and provision for the home. Yes, Jewish women were "chattel," but those same religious laws provided for their physical well being and shielded them from abuse and neglect. Given the history of spiritual, intellectual and prayerful togetherness many Jewish men traditionally enjoyed, it is no wonder that many today embrace the call for an expanding male presence in family.

Beyond Patriarchy goes well beyond the promise of its title. The book's wide range --- into biology, for instance --- leaves the reader wondering, "When will this all come together?" It all does, eventually, after thoughtful wandering. Concise but not terse, easy to read and comprehend, Beyond Patriarchy offers a picture of the Jewish male, past and present.

God in Our Relationships: Spirituality Between People from the Teachings of Martin Buber