Customer Reviews

Saving the World Entire: And 100 Other Beloved Parables from the Talmud

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This is a lovely little book. I have started giving it to bar and bat mitzvahs (along with a more substantial or "cool" gift), and the kids have all really enjoyed it. Each parable is a 1 or 2 page mini-story, and then comes a very brief interpretation. All provide insight and wisdom that is applicable in today's world, although they may require thought. Even those that are transparent engender thought. It is the sort of book that a 10 year old can read and benefit from, as well as an adult. Rereading brings more insights.

This is one of my favorite books. It's ancient wisdom which serves as a map to how to live a good life. But it doesn't tell you what to do. It leads you there. Short commentaries after each little story from the rabbi/author make the book even better. There's something about this little book that I just find satisfying, like a good, home-cooked meal. The book is a snapshot of what Judaism can do for people. Judaism is not just about ritual. It's not just about using an occasional Yiddish word or eating a bagel and lox. Judaism can also teach us lessons for better living, and this book is a great way to get started with that aspect of the faith. I've never met Rabbi Bleefeld but I'd like to take this opportunity to thank him for the book. Thank you, rabbi.

What a cute discovery! Here is a book that shows how and why the Rabbis of old tell parables - to enlighten the understanding of the reader using examples of course! Reading Jesus' cryptic parables no more than 50 or 60 in all and many which are of a limited thematic nature, is a very different experience from this selection of 100 parables from the 1000s listed from the early Jewish writings. This book and the NT parables of course brings interesting comparisons, but shows how telling stories is a very Jewish way to get a point across.

It is a great way to get in touch with the thinking of the early rabbis and Jewish ethical teaching. The parable details are reflective of real people and the tales are embellished with the banter of the rabbis. They are stylistically very different than in the NT. I recommend this delightful book to both Jews and Christians who are interested in the Jewish moral perspective.