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Rethinking Synagogues: A New Vocabulary for Congregational Life

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Written by Rabbi Lawrence A. Hoffman, Rethinking Synagogues: A New Vocabulary for Congregational Life is a daring call for transformation in the modern synagogue, particularly the American synagogue. Chapters discuss means of reconceptualizing synagogue life in order to preserve Judaism as a religion that is taken seriously, rather than as a lingering ethnic nostalgia with trimmings of outward demonstrations and ritual observance. Hoffman acknowledges that the American synagogue is not currently in danger of falling into disuse, but compares synagogues to public schools in that they could be and do so much more than they are. A passionate call to reawaken core beliefs and life practices, and reexamine the meaning of living and passing on the Jewish faith.

This author hit the nail on the head in description of modern synagogue quandries and the approach to them. Although discussions are occasionally distracting when off the focus of the chapter, they lend color to the book. A must read for anyone with a vested interest in synagogue life.