Sacred Writings Books - Page 4

JPS Hebrew-English Tanakh: Pocket Edition

Amazon Price: $19.60 List Price: $20.00 Usually ships in 24 hours By: Jewish Publication Society of America Amazon Marketplace: 41 new & used starting at $11.84

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Customer Reviews:
Total reviews: 15 Average rating: 4.5 of 5

Beautiful little book 4 out of 5 stars.
3 of 3 people found this review helpful.

This is a lovely book... beuatifully put together, a pleasure to hold and read, and with a limpid English translation. I had never seen a Jewish version of the scriptures before and this is a revelation.
Also, coming from Europe and buying this while on vacation in the US, I found the price amazingly low

JPS Tanakh 4 out of 5 stars.
3 of 3 people found this review helpful.

All I suggest is this: If you have a difficult time reading very small text, DO NOT BUY THIS.
Also, I was a bit put off by the bar-code printed in the inner cover.
Other than that, this is a fine translation, the book is well made.

Pocket tanaka 2 out of 5 stars.
3 of 3 people found this review helpful.

Type much too small for mature eyes. If you are price conscious and have good eyes--great deal

Editorial Review:

Now, for the first time, a pocket version of The Hebrew-English "Tanakh" is available, with the exact same text and number of pages as our standard edition. The type, though small, is clearly readable, and the letters, Hebrew vowels, and cantillation marks are crisp and clear. The sturdy, coated paperback cover embossed in black with gold lettering is made to endure heavy, constant use.

Abraham: A Journey to the Heart of Three Faiths (P.S.)

Bruce Feiler

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Customer Reviews:
Total reviews: 85 Average rating: 3.5 of 5

WHAT A HORRIBLE DISAPPOINTMENT. 2 out of 5 stars.
6 of 9 people found this review helpful.

Oh my, did I mess up when I check this one out. I have seldom been as disappointed in a work as I was this one. I like facts. I enjoy knowing bits of this and bits of that. I very much enjoy historical biographies. I enjoy travel books. I enjoy books of individual spiritual searches. I enjoy books written my competent archeologists and historians. I enjoy speculative fiction and non fiction. Sadly to say, this one, for me, missed the mark on just about ever one of these counts.

Basically, the author writes of and about Abraham, who, no question, is a central figure in three of our great religions, Judaism, Islam and Christianity. The author attempts to define the differences between these three religions, using Abraham as the central figure. How does this one man, Abraham, hold so much power, and have so much influence over the teachings of each of these religions? This is also something of a spiritual journey for the author, a kind of "lets find my roots" sort of thing. The author dashes here and there, interviewing various church leaders, asking their opinions about this and that. The basic, overlying questions is...Did Abraham exists or did he not exist? I am sorry to tell you that the author has come to the conclusion that it really does not matter; it is sort of the thought that counts. I am sorry, but for me, this conclusion just does not work. If the author was unable to find out one way or the other, and I can see why as there is little physical evidence one way or the other, then that is fine. The author should just say so. As another reviewer put it, "it does not matter, just is not acceptable!" Now don't read into this that I am anti- religious. I am not. I am sure that Abraham, if he did exist, was a pretty good old boy and certainly did the right thing under the circumstances of the time.

I really did not find anything new in this work. There was very little I was not already aware of. I did read the opinions of some high-up religious officials, of whose opinion I could care less about (as if one of them is not going to follow the "party line"). For the most part I found many of the author's "facts" just a bit questionable and most of it completely hearsay and speculation. When all is said and done,there was not much which I have not already heard and read many times before in other works. Also, to say that to understand the conflict in the Middle East at this time, a reader needs look no further than the last portion of this book, is the biggest bunch of bunk I have read for sometime now. Folks, it is much, much more complicated than that.

Now I will give the author credit. He can write, ergo, the two stars. His descriptive prose is quite nice. I might suggest he try travel books or something like that. On the other hand, the author is not a theologian, historian, archeologist or educational expert. This is all too apparent quite quickly after reading a few chapters. I am not real sure what he is, other thana young man in search of something that he probably does not even understand. I feel some might enjoy this sort of thing. I did not, and certainly cannot recommend reading it. I suppose if you feel you must give it a shot, I suggest you check it out at your library before you plunk down the hard cash. Like a previous reviewer, I am not at all sure why in the world I finished this thing.

Editorial Review:

Both immediate and timeless, Abraham tells the powerful story of one man's search for the shared ancestor of Judaism, Christianity, and Islam. Traveling through war zones, braving violence at religious sites, and seeking out faith leaders, Bruce Feiler uncovers the defining yet divisive role that Abraham plays for half the world's believers. Provocative and uplifting, Abraham offers a thoughtful and inspiring vision of unity that redefines what we think about our neighbors, our future, and ourselves.

This P.S. edition features an extra 16 pages of insights into the book, including author interviews, recommended reading, and more.

The Prophets

Abraham Joshua Heschel

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Customer Reviews:
Total reviews: 16 Average rating: 5.0 of 5

A Standard Reference in the Field 5 out of 5 stars.
11 of 11 people found this review helpful.

A wonderful, two-volume set that has become a standard reference in the field of the "classical," literary, Hebrew prophets, their prophecies, and their personalities. Amos, Hosea, Isaiah (Isa. 1-39), Micah, Jeremiah, Habakkuk, and Second Isaiah (Isa. 40-66) are analyzed with particular care given to their humanity as they encounter God and men in assuming their respective missions.

Heschel describes his focus in writing: "What I have aimed at is an understanding of what it means to think, feel, respond, and act as a prophet (Introduction). For this Jewish rabbi and seminary professor, "the prophet is a person, not a mircrophone. He is endowed with a mission, with the power of a word not his own that accounts for his greatness--but also with temperament, concern, character, and individuality. As there was no resisting the impact of divine inspiration, so at times there was no resisting the vortex of his own temperament. The word of God reverberated in the voice of man" (Introduction). This examination of the prophets' humanity is most compelling throughout the work with the first chapter, "What Manner of Man is the Prophet?," being worth the price of the set to me.

The second volume addresses at least sixteen different aspects of the prophetic experience, among them: "theology and philosophy of pathos," "meaning and mystery of wrath," "sympathy," "ecstasy," "poetry," and "inspiration." An examination of prophets from other cultural contexts is also included.

Highly recommended to all theologically- and philosophically-minded readers who are interested in gaining a comprehensive understanding of the Hebrew prophets from a Jewish perspective.

Editorial Review:

Abraham Heschel is a seminal name in religious studies and the author of Man Is Not Alone and God in Search of Man. When The Prophets was first published in 1962, it was immediately recognized as a masterpiece of biblical scholarship.

The Prophets provides a unique opportunity for readers of the Old Testament, both Christian and Jewish, to gain fresh and deep knowledge of Israel's prophetic movement. The author's profound understanding of the prophets also opens the door to new insight into the philosophy of religion.

The Power of Kabbalah: Technology for the Soul

Yehuda Berg

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Customer Reviews:
Total reviews: 38 Average rating: 4.0 of 5

it was ok 4 out of 5 stars.
0 of 4 people found this review helpful.

I liked the book. But I recommend people to read about Mevlana also, they will like it more.

Editorial Review:

Is it possible to turn that rush that comes from closing a business deal or having a brief, passionate affair into an enduring sense of wholeness and peace? Kabbalah, according to its increasingly large group of practitioners, is the path from that fleeting feeling of pleasure that most people settle for to the lasting fulfillment that is their birthright as human beings. In The Power of Kabbalah, renowned teacher Yehuda Berg shows how to view and navigate through life by tapping Kabbalistic truths. He explains the key process of transforming from a reactive to a proactive being that will in turn trigger increased creative energy, greater personal power, and a stronger and more satisfying sense of life. These teachings include embracing rather than avoiding problems and obstacles as true opportunities for spiritual development; making miracles through positive thinking; and accepting responsibility for what happens in one's life.

FIVE BOOKS OF MOSES, THE: The Schocken Bible: Volume I / Deluxe Edition (Schocken Bible)

Everett Dr Fox

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Customer Reviews:
Total reviews: 31 Average rating: 5.0 of 5

Excellent 5 out of 5 stars.
7 of 7 people found this review helpful.

I used to say that it was pointless to try to study the Bible without Hebrew - that it was impossible to "feel" the text, to get the humor, the irony, the poetry. Not anymore. This is a must for any student of the Bible, as it captures the liveliness and strangeness of the original and expose it as the allusive, alliterative, jabberwocky text that it is.

Hebrew is best, but this is, finally, a good second choice. It would be perfect if it had Hebrew written alongside - a great way to learn for students.

Not your grandfather's translation--but essential 4 out of 5 stars.
5 of 5 people found this review helpful.

This is not the only edition with English translation of the Pentateuch/Chumash that I own, and I don't think it's the only one anyone should own, but it is an essential part of my collection. Fox has combined precision in translation with interpretation and poetry, and the combination makes me run to it very often to see his version, which often makes a challenging and provocative comparison to more traditional translations. The type is large and well-spaced. My only criticism is that the Hebrew is not included; at times I'd like to be able to compare the original words to Fox's renderings, to see how they compare.

Editorial Review:

This monumentally important new translation of the Hebrew Scriptures is a stunning achievement which reveals the full force of the Bible's original rhetoric and poetry--the rhythm, nuances, and stylistic devices that are particular to Hebrew and essential to the Bible's true message and to the spiritual and aesthetic power of its art.

Reflections on the Psalms (Harvest Book)

C.S. Lewis

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Customer Reviews:
Total reviews: 13 Average rating: 4.5 of 5

Lewis' hidden gem 5 out of 5 stars.
6 of 6 people found this review helpful.

In most, if not all, of Lewis' non-fiction works, he, at some point, refers and appeals to "real theologians", perhaps, in an attempt to distinguish the framework of his opinions, thoughts, and understanding from individuals that have been formally educated in theology. While Lewis certainly appeared to dedicate a great deal of his time to theology, he continually reminded readers that he was not a formally educated theologian, nor did he consider himself an expert. In Reflections on the Psalms, however, it can be recognized that his authoritative disclaimer is a little more direct, adamant, and deliberate than that which might be considered typical within his work. Having been written towards the end of his life and career, it almost appears as if Lewis is pleading with the reader to remove any preconceived perception of higher authority on the matter that he might maintain in one's mind. That is, it seems as if Lewis' purpose was genuinely that of sharing thoughts and resulting conclusions that he, as a layperson, had found himself reflecting upon. He goes so far as to compare this work with schoolmates sharing and comparing notes in an effort to better comprehend how a problem is worked out, as opposed to appealing to an instructor who might only offer a solution without ever actually explaining the intricacies of how a particular difficulty is overcome. Lewis claims that this work might be beneficial to the unlearned reader because he, considering himself equally unlearned in comparison to some, had only recently met these particular difficulties and, therefore, could still remember what it was like to not understand, in contrast to the expert that has known the answer for so long that they have forgotten the difficulty altogether. While the authoritative disclaimer might be more persuasive in this work, after reading it throughout, it will likely be difficult for many readers to swallow the reality of their own understanding if Lewis is, as he claims to be, lacking in comparative understanding on the theological spectrum of knowledge.

Reflections on the Psalms, as is the case so often with this author, is an enlightening undertaking for those that have experience similar thoughts and struggles as those outlined within. This work is not the comprehensive study on the Psalms that the title might indicate but rather Lewis' actual reflections on the Psalms. Not attempting to compose a comprehensive study, Lewis has selected topics based on his own interests and approaches them systematically, beginning with those topics which he found most difficult and less pleasant to contemplate and progresses upon those foundations. That which one might find most enjoyable about this particular work is that it is not apologetic and, as such, Lewis replaces what might otherwise be argument with fluid, acute, contemplation. In this fashion, Lewis, almost casually, sheds brilliant light on some of the most difficult issues that might arise in a Christian's mind.

Surprisingly, this, one of Lewis' lesser known works, might be one of his very best. What might be considered more surprising by the unsuspecting reader is the depth of truth and understanding woven into what, if literally judged by its cover, could be interpreted as a comparatively shallow study on the Psalms. Some, like this reviewer, might have had their interest directed after reading the essay published in Christian Reflections that anticipates this work, but very little comparison should be made. Reflections on the Psalms is exactly what it is in content, not necessarily in title. This work should be recommended, at least for consideration's sake, to any Christian.

"A man can't be always defending the truth; there must be a time to feed on it." - C.S. Lewis, Reflections on the Psalms

Editorial Review:

Lewis writes here about the difficulties he has met or the joys he has gained in reading the Psalms. He points out that the Psalms are poems, intended to be sung, not doctrinal treatises or sermons. Proceeding with his characteristic grace, he guides readers through both the form and the meaning of these beloved passages in the Bible.

Sefer Yetzirah: The Book of Creation

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Customer Reviews:
Total reviews: 29 Average rating: 5.0 of 5

I own two copies... 5 out of 5 stars.
5 of 8 people found this review helpful.

One copy is at my bedside. One copy is in my study scrawled with notes, quotes and notations! I found the second copy at a bookstore bargain table! I didn't even blink, it was bought by me. I knew a second copy would give me one to share. This book is what Kabbalah is. An amazing book. Simply, amazing.

Not for a beginner! 5 out of 5 stars.
3 of 3 people found this review helpful.

Rabbi Kaplan does a wonderful job (as he does in all of his works) of explaining the primary text says and of opening the way for further study (through his copious footnotes).

The diagrams are extremely helpful, as are the recommendations concerning the "practical" use of Sefer Yetzirah.

However, even for those grounded in Jewish studies (as a spiritual path, not as an academic field), this work is NOT recommended as a "first step" in the esoteric. Try Rabbi Kaplan's "Innerspace."

Editorial Review:

Rabbi Aryeh Kaplan has translated Sefer Yetzirah, the oldest and most mysterious of all kabbalistic texts, and now brings its theoretical, meditative, and magical implications to light. He expounds on the dynamics of the spiritual domain, the worlds of the Sefirot, souls, and angels. When properly understood, Sefer Yetzirah becomes the instruction manual for a very special type of meditation meant to strengthen concentration and to aid the development of telekinetic and telepathic powers.

The Wisdom in the Hebrew Alphabet (Artscroll (Mesorah Series))

Michael L. Munk, Micheal L. Munk

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Customer Reviews:
Total reviews: 17 Average rating: 5.0 of 5

Life Renewed 5 out of 5 stars.
4 of 4 people found this review helpful.

What if you had the chance for all of your dreams, as easy as A-B-C, or should I say A-B-D, to come true? Read above the pages - this book is worth it. If you want to learn Hebrew, this book will give you such a closeness to the letters, the hard parts of learning this language will remove the blockage. If you want greater insight into the secrets of life, and how to make life doable - PURCHASE THIS BOOK! If you are a serious scholar related to this area, read and make this book a part of your library.

Editorial Review:

From the very first Kabbalistic work, through the Talmud, through an impressive array of rabbinic literature, great minds have found the Aleph-Beis to be a gold mine of wisdom and guidance. This fascinating best-seller weaves these golden threads into a glorious tapestry, presenting hundreds of ideas and comments on the Aleph-Beis, including: the Aleph-Beis as the force of Creation, as a primer for Jewish living, and as a fountainhead of Torah insight and mystical meaning. The product of decades of learning, thinking, and teaching by the revered educator, lecturer, and community activist Rabbi Michael L. Munk. A treat not to be missed.

The Zohar 4: Pritzker Edition, Volume Four (Zohar: The Pritzker Editions)

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Total reviews: 29 Average rating: 4.5 of 5

Editorial Review:

Sefer ha-Zohar (The Book of Radiance) has amazed and overwhelmed readers ever since it emerged mysteriously in medieval Spain toward the end of the thirteenth century. Written in a unique, lyrical Aramaic, this masterpiece of Kabbalah exceeds the dimensions of a normal book; it is virtually a body of literature, comprising over twenty discrete sections. The bulk of the Zohar consists of a running commentary on the Torah, from Genesis through Deuteronomy.

This fourth volume of The Zohar: Pritzker Edition covers the first half of Exodus. Here we find mystical explorations of Pharaoh’s enslavement of the Israelites, the birth of Moses, the deliverance from Egypt, the crossing of the Red Sea, and the Revelation at Mount Sinai. Throughout, the Zohar probes the biblical text and seeks deeper meaning—for example, the nature of evil and its relation to the divine realm, the romance of Moses and Shekhinah, and the inner meaning of the Ten Commandments. In the context of the miraculous splitting of the Red Sea, Rabbi Shim’on reveals the mysterious Name of 72, a complex divine name consisting of 216 letters (72 triads), formed out of three verses in Exodus 14.

These mystical interpretations are interwoven with tales of the Companions—rabbis wandering through the hills of Galilee, sharing their insights, coming upon wisdom in the most astonishing ways from a colorful cast of characters they meet on the road.

Moses Great Lives Series: Volume 4

Charles R. Swindoll

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Customer Reviews:
Total reviews: 12 Average rating: 4.0 of 5

A Pencil in the Hand of God: Moses 5 out of 5 stars.
1 of 2 people found this review helpful.

Mother Theresa of Calcutta used that phrase to describe her work. Moses was a reflection of that statement.

You cannot outwit God. Herod tried to kill all the toddlers but Moses was saved by a warning in a dream. The Court of Egypt banished him into the desert but he returned to set the Israelites free. Pharoah's magicians tried to avert the 10 plagues but God's will won.

Moses was a pencil in the writing of Exodus. Christianity and Islam both acknowledge him for the great mission he played.

I agree with another reviewer, Michael Taylor, on whom God uses and why. God will use anyone and anything in his Divine plan.

Editorial Review:

Charles Swindoll presents the Bible's real Moses-the Moses who tried to decline his assignment from God; the Moses who dazzled Pharoh; the Moses who received the Ten Commandments; the Moses who was disobedient and weak; the Moses who was the greatest leader of God's people in all of history. Through his faith and selfless dedication, Moses continually chose to follow God's will through difficult and seemingly impossible situations. This is the fourth volume of Swindoll's "Great Lives" series.