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| September 19, 2005 |
Kabbalah 101
Madonna, Paris Hilton, Britney Spears and Demi Moore claim to live by it. However, other than celebrity testimonials and trendy religious paraphernalia, what truly lies beneath the resurrected ancient practice of Jewish Mysticism? In The Beliefnet Guide to Kabbalah by Arthur Goldwag, readers are instructed on the basics of this Jewish mystical tradition that has fascinated and captured the interest of both Hollywood stars and the general public alike.
 As curiosity about this ancient Jewish mystical tradition continues to grow, this book is a highly informative, reader-friendly overview of Kabbalah, whose messages Moses is said to have received from God on Mt. Sinai. Comprising of speculations on the nature of divinity, the creation, the origins and fate of the soul, and the role of human beings in the world, Kabbalah's meaning and messages have influenced both Jews and Christians - and intrigued scholars for generations. The celebrity status that is now associated with Kabbalah has made some question the spiritual motivation. In my opinion, while trying to make money with Kabbalah water and candles is questionable, it is good if it makes people better, less selfish and more giving and spiritual.
The Beliefnet Guide to Kabbalah covers the essential of Kabbalah's history, sheds light on what Kabbalists believe, and provides instructions on both traditional and contemporary meditative, devotional, mystical and magical practices. In an easy-to-follow format and lucid style, this book succeeds in guiding the reader to the heart of this ancient spiritual practice that is experiencing resurgence today.
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| September 1, 2005 |
What Do You Mean, You Can't Eat in My Home?
In her book, What Do You Mean, You Can't Eat In My Home? author Azriela Jaffe tackles one of the biggest problems with Jews today - how newly observant Jews and their less-observant relatives can still get along. Her book offers sensible solutions to this everyday problem as newly observant Jews try to explain the parameters of their new lives to the people who love them - but think they've lost it. Jaffe - the observant daughter of less-observant parents - speaks straight to the heart of people on both sides of the fence, while answering these and other pressing questions.
By using general scenarios, personal reflections and suggestions, Jaffe encourages her readers to treat each other with courage and respect - strengthening the family rather than destroying it. Jaffe goes on to explain how you can share your new life with skeptical family members - how you can eat together, celebrate family occasions together and continue to love one another.
This insightful and helpful book will be an invaluable tool in the lives of an ever-increasing number of Jewish families, while people at every point in the spectrum of religious observance will find this book compelling.
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