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Philosophy

I Didn't Know That

I Didn't Know That

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Join Joe Bobker in his humorous adventure through Torah and Talmud, history and halacha, law and lore, and much more. This enjoyable volume on Jewish practice and law serves, in the author s words, as an envelope to be opened from time to time in order to learn something new. Packed with nuggets of information, this pithy tome is a lighthearted introduction to the serious business of being Jewish.

If You Were G-d

If You Were G-d

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Three of Rabbi Aryeh Kaplan's notable essays: If You Were G-d, Immortality and the Soul, and A World of Love.

Three of Rabbi Aryeh Kaplan's notable essays: If You Were G-d, Immortality and the Soul, and A World of Love.

ILLUMINATING JEWISH THOUGHT: Exploration Of Free Will, Afterlife, Messianic Era

ILLUMINATING JEWISH THOUGHT: Exploration Of Free Will, Afterlife, Messianic Era

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Illuminating Jewish Thought is a contemporary, multi-volume series that surveys the theological foundations of Jewish faith. With the approach and scope of a master educator for undergraduate and rabbinical students at Yeshiva University, Rabbi Wiederblank brings together a wide array of Jewish texts ranging from philosophical to Kabbalistic, ancient to modern, in a clear and accessible source book. In this volume, the author shows the richness of the Jewish scholastic tradition relating to three fundamental yet esoteric topics: free will, the afterlife, and the messianic era. Primary sources are presented in their original language with modern English translation, enabling readers to analyze the texts independently, while the author illuminates and contextualizes these complex concepts. Altogether, Illuminating Jewish Thought reveals the bedrock on which lies the nexus of Jewish belief and practice.
ILLUMINATING J THOUGHT Vol. 1- Faith, Philosophy and Knowledge of God

Illuminating Jewish Thought: Faith, Philosophy, and Knowledge of God

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Can we prove that God exists, and if we can't, why should we believe? What must we believe and what if we don't? What does the Torah say about the age of the universe? Why study philosophy? What is machshava? These are some of the questions Illuminating Jewish Thought seeks to answer by carefully studying traditional Jewish sources and considering their application to timeless and contemporary problems. We turn to the Torah to solve these queries because Torah is more than wisdom - it is light (Mishlei 6:23). Machashava, learned properly, illuminates our lives. Without it, we grope in darkenss - not only the darkness of ignorance, but utter darkenss in which we are blinded from living a meaningful religious life, and worse, darkness from loving encounters with our Creator. Illuminating Jewish Thought attempts to reveal some of that light by surveying the theological foundations of Jewish faith. This title is part of the RIETS Hashkafa Series.

In His Mercy: Understanding the 13 Midot

In His Mercy: Understanding the 13 Midot

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Each year on Yom Kippur, fast days, and the days leading up to the High Holidays, Jews around the world recite the Thirteen Midot:

"HaShem, HaShem, El Rahum veHanun, Erekh Apayim, veRav Hesed veEmet, Notzer Hesed laAlafim, Noseh Avon vaFesha veHata'a veNakeh."

In His Mercy examines the Thirteen Midot and their philosophical underpinnings through the lenses of the Talmud, the Midrash and major commentaries. It offers an insightful introduction, and concise, illuminating essays on each Mida. Based on a series of lectures given over twenty years by Rabbi Ezra Bick, a leading scholar at Israel's Yeshivat Har Etzion, In His Mercy is the first English edition of this special work.

In My Opinion

In My Opinion

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For several decades, informed readers sought out Rabbi Berel Wein's opinion column in his weekly Destiny Foundation blog, in the Jerusalem Post, and other publications to gain his perspective on current issues. The products of his highly educated and sensitive mind, the essays were uniquely "Wein" - always original, always refreshing in their candor, and subtly thought provoking. Who else could experience uplift from an orchid plant or discover the core values of the Jewish nation in the words of Israel's taxi drivers? His sweeping gaze simultaneously takes in past, present, and future. he looks at an empty field in the Land of Israel and sees not only the farmer with his plow today, but one who worked the same land two thousand years ago. And with heartfelt faith and a vibrant awareness of ancient prophecy, he envisions those who will harvest that field in the future. In this troubled, insecure age of ours, he proves that one can, one must, be a realist and an optimist at the same time. If you are a fan of Rabbi Wein's writing, you will feel as though you are encountering an old friend. If you are not already familiar with Rabbi Wein's take on life, you are in for a treat. you will feel as though you are encountering an old friend. If you are not already familiar with Rabbi Wein's take on life, you are in for a treat. you will feel as though you are encountering an old friend. If you are not already familiar with Rabbi Wein's take on life, you are in for a treat.

Insights and Attitudes

Insights and Attitudes

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Torah Essays by Rav Hershel Schachter & Rav Mayer Twersky on Fundamental Halachic and Hashkafic Issues Organized by the Weekly Parsha 

“The divrei Torah anthologized in this volume ... seek to address many serious, seminal halachic and hashkafic topics and issues in a timeless, yet timely, fashion without sacrificing the requisite breadth or depth.” Rav Mayer Twersky

This volume is comprised of Torah essays, by Rav Hershel Schachter and Rav Mayer Twersky, which not only provide insight into the parsha and halacha, but also teach us what the Torah’s attitudes are and how we should apply them to the many challenges we encounter throughout our lives. The approach which has educated and uplifted talmidim of Rav Schachter and Rav Twersky for decades is captured here for all of us to learn and grow from.

TorahWeb (a not-for-profit, volunteer organization) was created in 1999 to provide unfettered access to the guidance of leading talmidei chachamim. This sefer is the latest vehicle through which TorahWeb is pursing that mission.

Intriguing World of Jewish Time

Intriguing World of Jewish Time

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Fascinating Zmanim and Calendar Calculations Which Shemoneh Esrei was last recited in the year 1994, and won't be recited again until 2089? Why is it that some people's nineteenth Hebrew birthday does not fall out on the same day as their civil birthday? On the night of his bar mitzvah, a boy flies from Australia to Los Angeles, where it is a day earlier. Does he become "un-bar mitzvah"? Is a person's first yahrtzeit commemorated on the yom hamisah or the yom hakevurah? Why are seventeen pesukim in the Torah sometimes not read at all during the course of the year? When is the only time a klaf is rolled backward in the middle of the haftorah? In The Intriguing World of Jewish Time, you'll find the answers to these questions and many others. The Jewish calendar and zmanei hayom are complex, but Rabbi Dovid Heber makes the topic clear and easy to understand in this book. Written in a reader-friendly question-and-answer format, The Intriguing World of Jewish Time provides fascinating answers to 150 zmanim- and luach-related questions, many of which touch upon important halachic issues. Add meaning to often unnoticed special events and times in the Jewish year. With The Intriguing World of Jewish Time, your perception of the Jewish calendar will be immeasurably enhanced. By Rabbi Dovid Heber

Introspection, Teshuva, Personality, & Change: A Map

Introspection, Teshuva, Personality, & Change: A Map

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What is it about us that makes variety pleasurable and change less desirable?
The common thinking as to why change is less attractive holds the belief that we are creatures of habit. Taken a step further, we know that personal attitudes towards change can vary greatly. Some changes, like buying a new hat or tie are relatively easy. Unquestionably, we are most resistant to change when it involves changing our own habits, beliefs, or behaviors.

So, don't buy this book for someone else. Its purpose is to help you change yourself. Better to read this before personal distress forces us to make dramatic changes in our lives.

The premise of this book is that introspection and teshuvah, Judaism's formula for self-change, not only change our spiritual trajectory, they allow us to enhance and enrich our lives. These powerful vehicles can also transform personal change into a life-giving habit.

Is Everything Just a Coincidence

Is Everything Just a Coincidence

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Facing personal tragedies, diseases, natural disasters, and the death of young people - even children and babies - causes a loss of faith. It's not surprising that we ask ourselves: Where is God?

This book is an exploration of these fundamental questions.

In plain and simple language, the author tries to open the reader's eyes to all that is about us, and to provide a framework for clearly addressing the important issues of human existence. Nondenominational in approach, addressed to a wide audience, Coincidence closes the distance so many adults have put between themselves and God, encouraging a wholesome and authentic perspective on life.

Brightly illustrated with well-chosen, fascinating images, this exploration of the created world and our place in it will be of interest to any thinking person who wants to live a meaningful life.

Is There A Jewish Philosophy? Rethinking Fundamentals (Littman Library Of Jewish

Is There A Jewish Philosophy? Rethinking Fundamentals (Littman Library Of Jewish

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Leon Roth (1896-1963) was the first Professor of Philosophy at the Hebrew University of Jerusalem. He wanted his students to think, and to think about their Judaism. Typical of his approach is the question with which this selection of essays opens: in what sense can we talk about Jewish philosophy, and what can we expect to find if we look for it? The title essay ends with the contention that Judaism must be seen as the classic expression of monotheism, as the antithesis of myth, and as the essence of ethics and morality. The emphasis that Roth placed on ethics as the essence of Judaism was not merely theoretical: in 1951 he resigned from the Hebrew University and left Israel in response to what he perceived as the betrayal of Jewish ethics by the rulers of the newly established State of Israel. Defining philosophy as 'the search, through thought, for the permanent', Roth argues that in order to say whether there is a truly Jewish philosophy one has to 'rethink
fundamentals'-those elements in our lives, in history, and in nature which appear to be not incidental and trivial but basic.

The eleven elegantly written essays published here represent a selection of Roth's explorations of various aspects of his theme. Edward Ullendorff's Foreword, based on long years of personal acquaintance, is an appreciation of Roth's singular personality, grace, and moral stature, and of his devotion to an interpretation of Judaism that is rational and humane. A complete bibliography of Roth's writings, compiled by Raphael Loewe, rounds out the picture of the man and his writings. 'Roth's lucid treatment demands consideration by students in the history of Judaism and the philosophy of religion.' Gregory Kaplan, Religious Studies Review 'A clear and lively writer with an analytic grasp of what Judaism is all about . . highly recommended.' Shubert Spero, Studies in Contemporary Jewry 'Roth's erudition and deep knowledge of philosophy and Judaism are manifested throughout this very worthwhile book.' William E. Kaufman, Conservative Judaism

JEWISH INTELECTUAL TRADITION

JEWISH INTELECTUAL TRADITION

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The Jewish intellectual tradition has a long and complex history that has resulted in significant and influential works of scholarship. In this book, the authors suggest that there is a series of common principles that can be extracted from the Jewish intellectual tradition that have broad, even life-changing, implications for individual and societal achievement. These principles include respect for tradition while encouraging independent, often disruptive thinking; a precise system of logical reasoning in pursuit of the truth; universal education continuing through adulthood; and living a purposeful life. The main objective of this book is to understand the historical development of these principles and to demonstrate how applying them judiciously can lead to greater intellectual productivity, a more fulfilling existence, and a more advanced society.

Jewish Law as a Journey: Finding Meaning in Daily Practice

Jewish Law as a Journey: Finding Meaning in Daily Practice

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The 21st Century has seen a dramatic increase in the number of books published on practical halakha. As a result, Halakhic observance has never been more accessible. But how does increased commitment to halakhic detail accomplish its goal of personal and ethical refinement? Halakhic practices are meant to be spiritual entry points for divine encounters. Commitment to Jewish ritual should mold one's character and help facilitate a life guided by divine ideals. In fact, adherence to Jewish law without a parallel understanding of the meaning behind the law runs the risk of transforming halakha into a formulaic set of rules without any larger spiritual vision. Jewish Law as a Journey is a valuable companion to published works of practical halakha. It explores virtues and ideals foundational to daily halakhic practice. Moreover, it offers a systematic exploration of the mitzvot one encounters in a given day and the transformative religious messages that underlie them.

The 21st Century has seen a dramatic increase in the number of books published on practical halakha. As a result, Halakhic observance has never been more accessible. But how does increased commitment to halakhic detail accomplish its goal of personal and ethical refinement?
Halakhic practices are meant to be spiritual entry points for divine encounters.
Commitment to Jewish ritual should mold one's character and help facilitate a life guided by divine ideals. In fact, adherence to Jewish law without a parallel understanding of the meaning behind the law runs the risk of transforming halakha into a formulaic set of rules without any larger spiritual vision.
Jewish Law as a Journey is a valuable companion to published works of practical halakha. It explores virtues and ideals foundational to daily halakhic practice. Moreover, it offers a systematic exploration of the mitzvot one encounters in a given day and the transformative religious messages that underlie them.

Jewish Literacy - Revised Edition

Jewish Literacy - Revised Edition

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What does it mean to be a Jew? How does one begin to answer so extensive a question?

In this insightful and completely updated tome, esteemed rabbi and bestselling author Joseph Telushkin helps answer the question of what it means to be a Jew, in the largest sense. Widely recognized as one of the most respected and indispensable reference books on Jewish life, culture, tradition, and religion, Jewish Literacy covers every essential aspect of the Jewish people and Judaism. In 352 short and engaging chapters, Rabbi Telushkin discusses everything from the Jewish Bible and Talmud to Jewish notions of ethics to antisemitism and the Holocaust; from the history of Jews around the world to Zionism and the politics of a Jewish state; from the significance of religious traditions and holidays to how they are practiced in daily life. Whether you want to know more about Judaism in general or have specific questions you'd like answered, Jewish Literacy is sure to contain the information you need.

Rabbi Telushkin's expert knowledge of Judaism makes the updated and revised edition of Jewish Literacy an invaluable reference. A comprehensive yet thoroughly accessible resource for anyone interested in learning the fundamentals of Judaism, Jewish Literacy is a must for every Jewish home.

Jewish Wisdom for Daily Life: Sayings of Rabbi Menahem Mendl of Kotzk

Jewish Wisdom for Daily Life: Sayings of Rabbi Menahem Mendl of Kotzk

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Rabbi Menahem Mendl was a Hassidic master renowned for his wisdom throughout Europe. The spiritual leader of the Jews in a small stetl called Kotzk in a corner of Poland, he was nevertheless so famous that he was he was referred to far and wide as the Kotzker. His wise sayings--about human nature, how to live, and the world of the spirit--were repeated and passed around, and, though he kept no records, they have been savored and preserved through the years. This beautifully produced collection gathers more than 130 of his sayings and joins them with elegant cut-paper illustrations by the rabbi's great-great-great-grandson, the illustrator Gabriel Lisowki, who has also provided an introduction about his ancestor.

Jewish Wisdom for Daily Life is a treasure for spiritual seekers or anyone who enjoys life's lessons distilled into trenchant and memorable aphoristic gems. Here are a few:

Everyone has something to teach, even a thief. If he fails he tries again. If he finds nothing of value, he takes what he finds.

There is nothing more whole than a broken heart.

Angels are God's favorite creatures. It's easy to see why. They are not jealous and they like to sing.

Whoever believes in miracles is an imbecile. Whoever does not is an atheist.

Rabbi Menahem Mendl was a Hassidic master renowned for his wisdom throughout Europe. The spiritual leader of the Jews in a small stetl called Kotzk in a corner of Poland, he was nevertheless so famous that he was he was referred to far and wide as the Kotzker. His wise sayings — about human nature, how to live, and the world of the spirit — were repeated and passed around, and, though he kept no records, they have been savored and preserved through the years. This beautifully produced collection gathers more than 130 of his sayings and joins them with elegant cut-paper illustrations by the rabbi's great-great-great-grandson, the illustrator Gabriel Lisowki, who has also provided an introduction about his ancestor.

Jewish Wisdom for Daily Lifeis a treasure for spiritual seekers or anyone who enjoys life's lessons distilled into trenchant and memorable aphoristic gems. Here are a few:

Everyone has something to teach, even a thief. If he fails he tries again. If he finds nothing of value, he takes what he finds.

There is nothing more whole than a broken heart.

Angels are God's favorite creatures. It's easy to see why. They are not jealous and they like to sing.

Whoever believes in miracles is an imbecile. Whoever does not is an atheist.

Jonah The Reluctant Prophet

Jonah The Reluctant Prophet

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In Jonah: The Reluctant Prophet, Dr. Erica Brown takes us on a journey over land and sea, in the footsteps of the Bible's most recalcitrant prophet. Melding traditional commentators, rabbinic literature, modern biblical scholarship, psychological sensitivity, and artistic imagination, Brown travels through the four chapters of Jonah's story tracing his call to leadership, his subsequent intransigence, his momentary rise to duty and his tragic resignation in an effort to discover God's ultimate lesson for him. With insight and feeling, Brown provides us with a glimpse into the tormented soul of the prophet as he grapples with the notion of a forgiving God who is concerned even with the welfare of Israel's strongest adversary. As God struggles to teach His prophet to expand his vision and take up his divine mission, we come to understand the Divine call given to each of us to rise up to the possibility of greatness. After all, if God can change His plan, we can change as well.

In Jonah: The Reluctant Prophet, Dr. Erica Brown takes us on a journey over land and sea, in the footsteps of the Bible's most recalcitrant prophet. Melding traditional commentators, rabbinic literature, modern biblical scholarship, psychological sensitivity, and artistic imagination, Brown travels through the four chapters of Jonah's story tracing his call to leadership, his subsequent intransigence, his momentary rise to duty and his tragic resignation in an effort to discover God's ultimate lesson for him.
With insight and feeling, Brown provides us with a glimpse into the tormented soul of the prophet as he grapples with the notion of a forgiving God who is concerned even with the welfare of Israel's strongest adversary. As God struggles to teach His prophet to expand his vision and take up his divine mission, we come to understand the Divine call given to each of us to rise up to the possibility of greatness. After all, if God can change His plan, we can change as well.

Judaism Alive: Using the Torah to Unlock Your Life's Potential

Judaism Alive: Using the Torah to Unlock Your Life's Potential

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In this introspective guide, Rabbi Shlomo Einhorn taps into the wisdom of the wisest of men - Abraham, Joseph, and Moses - to reveal ancient secrets of productivity and success. Along with passages from the Torah and quotes from noted Jewish scholars and leaders, Rabbi Einhorn incorporates thoughts and experiences from popular culture by citing the likes of the rock group Queen, Muhammad Ali, and inspirational speaker and author Tony Robbins, among countless others. With a wit and charm honed from his varied experiences as a rabbi, lecturer, and teacher, Rabbi Einhorn melds the ancient Jewish sources with the best of modernity to guide readers to a better, more fulfilled life. Discover a vibrant and spiritual way of life--a Judaism Alive!

Judaism and Christianity: The Differences

Judaism and Christianity: The Differences

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A restatement of the fundamental differences between Judaism and Christianity.
Judaism Reclaimed Philosophy And Theology In The Torah

Judaism Reclaimed Philosophy And Theology In The Torah

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Discussions in this unique work include: How is our understanding of Torah guided by philosophy? Can Jewish tradition combat Bible criticism? Why does God permit evil? Did Rabbi Akiva reject the Torah’s death penalty? Rabbinic law vs. the spirit of halachah Rambam’s Judaism and its relevance in a post-Aristotelian world In a scholarly though highly readable manner, Judaism Reclaimed examines a range of theological and philosophical discussions emerging from the Torah. Inspired by the approaches of Rambam, Rabbi Samson Raphael Hirsch, and other leading Jewish thinkers, the author analyzes both narrative and halachic areas of the Torah’s teachings. Drawing on a wide range of sources, he examines a number of challenges posed to Orthodox Judaism from the halls of academia and addresses them from the perspective of Jewish tradition. About the Author: Rabbi Shmuel Phillips has spent almost two decades studying in yeshiva and kollel. During this time, he has also completed a law degree from the University of London.

JUDAISM STRAIGHT UP: WHY REAL RELIGION ENDURES

Judaism Straight Up

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In Judaism Straight Up, Moshe Koppel explores the central differences between traditional societies - including traditional Judaism - and contemporary cosmopolitan ones. He explains everything you always wanted to know about the subtleties of Jewish morality, tradition, and belief, and how these have unfolded to beat cosmopolitanism at its own game: advancing cooperation, fairness, and freedom. Written with incisiveness and droll wit and a scientific sensibility that draws on economics, game theory, and other disciplines, Judaism Straight Up reveals the secret of Jewish traditionalism's endurance.

Key to the Locked Garden: Learning to Enhance the Shabbat Experience

Key to the Locked Garden: Learning to Enhance the Shabbat Experience

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Key to the Locked Garden offers the reader teachings and instructions for Shabbat observance that once were available only to an elite few. The book is based on the teachings of Rabbi Moses Luria zt ”l, a Chasidic master of our times and a direct descendant of Rabbi Isaac Luria, the holy Ari z” l. Rabbi Luria's teachings brought divine service to an experiential level, shedding light upon the complex teachings of the Ari z ”l. Simcha Benyosef, the author, was commissioned by Rabbi Moses Luria, zt ”l, to further amplify these teachings to make them available, not only to Torah scholars, but also to the layperson. Rabbi Moshe Schatz, in his approbation to the book, notes, “Benyosef so brilliantly brought the Kabbalistic concepts to life, particularly for the layperson,

KEYS TO THE PALACE

KEYS TO THE PALACE

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In this latest collection of essays, Rabbi Hayyim Angel continues to demonstrate the intellectual and spiritual benefits of the interaction between religious Jewish Tanakh learning and academic Bible scholarship. Throughout these twenty studies, Rabbi Angel introduces learning tools and implements them. The first seven essays explore significant areas of learning methodology and religious outlook, and the thirteen text studies put this methodology into practice.

Rabbi Angel leads readers through the learning process so that they become involved as well. Rabbi Angel's erudite scholarship, transparency of method, and engaging style make this book-as well as all his others-a must-read for religious students of Tanakh as well as all those who are interested in the engagement of religious and academic approaches to Bible study. Mind, heart, and soul grow together through these learned and accessible studies.

Kisvei HaRambam

Kisvei HaRambam

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The Writings of the Rambam - Fascinating Classics from the Pen of the Great Master - Now in English!

Enter the thought-world of one of the greatest Rishonim — and of other great Rishonim who discussed and critiqued his works. In Kisvei HaRambam, the writings of the Rambam are translated phrase-by-phrase, annotated, and elucidated with additional insights. It is informative, inspiring, and engrossing.

Kisvei HaRambam includes the Rambam’s famous introduction to Cheilek, the Thirteen Principles of Faith, essays on the Afterlife, Providence and free will, relevant chapters from Mishneh Torah, a letter of encouragement to a struggling Jew, and much more.

This new ArtScroll commentary to these classic writings brings them to life in English as never before. It’s basic and essential – and it’s a pleasure to read.

Product Details

Catalog #KRAMH
ISBN-10: 1422633020
ISBN #: 9781422633021
Format: Hardcover
Pages: 584
Dimensions:7 x 10 inches /
 Weight:2.7 LBS
KNOWING GOD'S PLAN: DAAS TEVUNOS

Knowing Gd's Plan (Daas Tevunos) - The Precise System Through Which Gd Directs Every Aspect of Existence

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A Torah Classic of Profound Meaning, Power & Chizuk

Especially for our Generation!

Rabbi Moshe Chaim Luzzattos Daas Tevunos is a classic of fundamental hashkafah and emunah.

In an orderly manner the Ramchal discusses the precise system through which HaShem directs every aspect of existence - addressing the oneness of HaShem, HaShem s concealment, the body-soul relationship, the way HaShem directs the world of good and evil, prophecy, the world s ultimate perfection, and much more.

With a superlative new translation, complete with extensive commentary and convenient summary sections, this beautiful, bi-lingual edition is a must-read sefer for those who wish to fortify their emunah and successfully face the challenging times in which we live.

Leaves of Faith Vol I.

Leaves of Faith: The World of Jewish Learning

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This volume deals, primarily, with various aspects of traditional Torah learning. The opening chapter focuses upon the rationale and religious significance of the study of gemara in particular, with an eye to the place which presumably obtuse texts have remarkably held in many strata of the traditional Jewish community. This is followed by two essays which analyze the character and methodology of serious talmud Torah. Subsequently, the focus shifts to the interaction between Torah study, narrowly defined, and related areas--whether general culture or national service--which impinge upon the personal and institutional context of Torah study. In a similar vein, two chapters then treat the world of halakhic decision, with reference to both the qualities requisite for the decisor--posek--and the factors which legitimately affect the process. The volume concludes with appreciative portraits of two masters greatly admired by the author, each of whom, in very different ways, exerted a major impact upon him: Rav Joseph B. Soloveitchik and Rav Shlomo Zalman Auerbach.