What makes a Jew a Jew? In the most controversial book on Jewish identity to come along in decades, two influential Jewish leaders dare to answer that provocative question. There is an essential Jewish identity, shaped by the legacy of history and faith, which bridges divergent cultures, politics, and even beliefs. So argues author Rabbi Arthur Hertzberg, the outspoken and influential leader at the forefront of the world Jewish community, who together with Aron Hirt-Manheimer, the distinguished editor of Reform Judaism magazine, presents a myth-shattering view of Jewish character.
Jews is a landmark work that provocatively explores the meaning of Jewish identity through the ages. Hertzberg and Hirt-Manheimer present an original and insightful look at the entire Jewish experience and what it means for Jews and non-Jews alike. The authors boldly advance a series of radical arguments:
They dare to define the "essential" Jew.
They dare to say that the Jewish character has remained the same since the time of Abraham and Sarah.
They dare to propose that anti-Semitism is not a Christian invention-it is a reaction to Jews as persistent dissenters in every society.
They dare to suggest that the Holocaust was a reenactment of the Crucifixion in which the traditional roles were reversed.
They dare to examine the illness of self-hatred that has afflicted Jews from Karl Marx to Woody Allen.
This book offers a new and startling perspective on how Jews relate to people of other traditions while also defining the challenge, responsibility, and essence of being a Jew in our time. Jews: The Essence and Character of a People defies the conventional view of Jews that has prevailed for centuries and presents a compelling and realistic portrait of contemporary Jews. This important book is sure to stimulate passionate debate among both Jews and non-Jews.
"Rabbi Arthur Hertzberg's life of honor, education, and compassion commands our attention whenever he speaks. Few people have communicated so consistently from the platform of their own convictions. If more people had Rabbi Hertzberg's courage, our divisions would diminish. If more people had his wisdom, our possibilities would expand."
-Bill Bradley, former U.S. Senator, New Jersey
"Hertzberg's sharp wit and penetrating mind, his rabbinical acumen, his active involvement in all aspects of Jewish life, his strong commitment to Zionism and Israel-all combine to invest his writings with great authority. This book will no doubt be hailed as the culmination of the author's many literary and scholarly achievements."
-Justice Hayim Cohn, Deputy Chief Justice of the Supreme Court of Israel (retired)
"Arthur Hertzberg has one of America's most amazing minds. Whatever he writes is more than worth reading, it's a must for all who are interested in Judaism."
-Edgar M. Bronfman, president, World Jewish Congress
"I deeply respect Aron Hirt-Manheimer's ability as a writer, as an editor par excellence, and as a man of ideas. Any book on which he collaborates will be the better for his presence."
-Rabbi W. Gunther Plaut, editor and chief author of The Torah: A Modern Commentary
