Library

The Guide to the Perplexed

Major definitive texts on the famous work which was a lifetime's work as Professor Pines had to translate every word form the original Arabic with its Hebrew words and then work on the Hebrew. The most complete text on Maimonides' masterpiece. Considered the finest translation of the text in the modern world.

The Jew and His Home

Orthodox commentary on the sanctity of marriage, the way to domestic bliss, the requirements for men and women in marriage (modesty and esteem, hospitality and a liberal spirit all extolled), as well as information about Challah, Terumoth and Maasroth (dough offerings, Heave offerings and tithes).

The Jewish Festivals

Wonderful commentary on the history, custom and practice of various Jewish festivals including text, aggadah and folklore. A classic!

The Jewish Holidays, A Guide and Commentary

Geared for the adult, this is a good, in-depth guide to celebrating and understanding the various Jewish holidays; everything is here from soup to nuts halachically speaking.

The Jewish Marriage Anthology

There are five parts in this highly scholarly approach to marriage: Part one discusses Jewish marriage in traditional literature (Bible, Midrash, Talmud, Meddle Ages, Responsa, Laws. Part two discusses theory of Jewish marriages from Biblical times to the present included the laws and background of the Ketubah. Part three deals with Jewish marriages in art, poetry and the short story. Part Four discusses the spirituality of Jewish Marriages as well as the marriage ceremony. Part Five lists traditional and folk songs for the Jewish marriage. There's even room at the back for a bridge to write in a family tree. This would make a wonderful wedding present to an observant and serious-minded, more academic bride. It's really something worth reading.

The Jewish Woman-New Perspectives

Series of articles by major Jewish writers and personalities and clerics, which discuss the Spirituality, Life Cycle and rituals form a feminist point of view. Some enlightening articles about past, present and future models for women in the Jewish community and some excellent commentaries on women in Jewish literature.

The Jews of Silence

Records Elie Wiesel's trip to Russia in 1965, and in subsequent visits, to tell of the plight of Jews in Russia, their difficulty in responding openly and the effect of 80 years (and the rest) of oppression under communist rule.

The Living Talmud, The Wisdom of the Fathers

Scholarly book of specific passages from the Talmud with commentaries. This Perke Abot is an abridged compilation of what 'constitutes God-fearing, civilised conduct and thought. 'It is a line by line commentary and interpretation of particular passages including, The Right Course, Who is a Wise Man?, and Acquiring Torah. English/Hebrew

The Modern Jewish Woman

Oye Veh. The idea of a modern Jewish woman in the Lubavitch Movement almost seems a contradiction in terms. Conservative but thoughtful articles on being Jewish, one's spiritual dimensions in marriage the role of creativity and why women are traditionally very special.

The Nine Questions People Ask About Judaism

All the major doubts and dilemmas here: the nature and existence of God, merits of organised religion, issues of Anti-Zionism and Anti-Semitism, issues of intermarriage and dwindling Jewish numbers, and practising what one preaches. Thoughtful.

The Palm Tree of Deborah

Mystical work by 16th century Zohar scholar in Safed with commentary by R. Louise Jacobs. This work explains divine commandments and ethical conduct of life and is studied by Kabbalists during the ten day period of Penitence.

The Purim Story, 2013

Historical and geared for children, the story of Purim is told again in a new, delightful way. Perfect for Cheder classes, and young and old alike.

The Religion and Worship of the Synagogue from New Testament Period

Commentaries on Judaism, its origins and practices and doctrines given from a Christian perspective .researched by early 20th century Cambridge and Oxford scholars.

The story of God

Popular commentator and scientist with a commitment to Judaism, Winston looks as the relationship between science and theology and a belief in God. Beginning at the begining and tracing this relationship from the ancient times to the present, this book encompasses a great deal, all of which is highly accessible to the lay reader.

The Talmud

Biblical History from Cain and Abel to the death of Jacob; Biblical commentaries Egypt, Plagues, Moses, Esther, Solomon]; The Rabbis-teachings and incidents in their lives; proverbs and sayings of the rabbis, & legends; civil and criminal law; the Holy Days. English

The Way of Torah: An Introduction to Judaism

Introduction to the history of Judaism, the structure of classical Judaism and changes made in modern times.

The Women's Torah Commentary-New insights from women rabbis on the 54 weekly parashot

This is a most wonderful and fascinating and useful text, particularly if one is studying particular parashah; the essays give a thoughtful commentary on each Torah portion For instance, instead of the female rabbi commenting on the obvious synopsis of the chapter, instead, she introduces Midrash, and it brings another perspective into view. How 'accurate' all this is questionable, but one must also realise that Torah is a religious history of a people, not a natural history. If one wants to tear holes in things, it is not the book for you; if one is open to possibilities, why then , you'll not be able to put it down.

Three Pillars of Judaism

Nicely written and thoughtful account of Jewish values. Discussions of the nature of praying, the dilemmas about studying Torah, the merits of loyalty and loving kindness, the need for community and the ever, on-going relationships of man to God and God to man.

To Be A Jewish Woman

Scholarly, sensible and sensitive book covering a broad area of matters concerning women who are leading active Jewish lives. Ways in which women can partake of a full Jewish life; everything here from prayer to sex, from birth control to divorce. A conservative/orthodox approach.

To Mend the World, Foundations of Post-Holocaust Jewish Thought

Deep philosophical discussion by Toronto's eminent philosopher, Dr. Fackenheim, about the origins, of philosophical thought (from Spinoza to Rosenzweig) on the Holocaust and Jewish Thought. Book also discusses Judaism after the Holocaust. Elevated and lofty as one would expect from Dr. Fackenheim. Not for the faint-hearted.