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People OF All Faiths, All Backgrounds from The Other Talmud — The Yerushalmi: Unlocking the Secrets of The Talmud of Israel for Judaism Today (p. 9)
Words FOR THE Soul— MADE IN Vermont
Lights at “Jewish as been g h g in h Publis nablin ont of e nonr f e r o f the nd Jews (a lks of seeking wa rom all f ul ) s w e J eaningf m e v a life to h s with Jewish ter ion.” encoun d tradit texts an
JEWISH LIGHTS
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JL FALL 2011
New & Recently Published Books & Selected Backlist
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Contents—New Books
RECENTLY PUBLISHED
THE TORAH REVOLUTION Fourteen Truths That Changed the World / Hammer
BESTSELLING BACKLIST BY CATEGORY 1
THE SABBATH SOUL Mystical Reflections on the Transformative Power of Holy Time / Fishbane
2
MASKING AND UNMASKING OURSELVES Interpreting Biblical Texts on Clothing & Identity / Cohen 3 THE MITZVAH PROJECT BOOK Making Mitzvah Part of Your Bar/Bat Mitzvah … and Your Life / Suneby/Heiman
4
DISCOVERING JEWISH MEDITATION, 2ND EDITION Instruction & Guidance for Learning an Ancient Spiritual Practice / Gefen
5
PROVERBS Annotated & Explained / Shapiro
6
MAIMONIDES—ESSENTIAL TEACHINGS ON JEWISH FAITH AND ETHICS The Book of Knowledge and the Thirteen Principles of Faith—Annotated and Explained / Angel
7
RELIGION GONE ASTRAY What We Found at the Heart of Interfaith / Falcon/Mackenzie/Rahman
8
THE OTHER TALMUD—THE YERUSHALMI Unlocking the Secrets of The Talmud of Israel for Judaism Today / Abrams
9
JEWISH THREADS A Hands-On Guide to Stitching Spiritual Intention into Jewish Fabric Crafts / Drew/Grayson
11
PROFESSIONAL SPIRITUAL AND PASTORAL CARE A Practical Clergy and Chaplain’s Handbook / Roberts
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13–14, 16–22
23 Bar/Bat Mitzvah 4, 22 Nature 18 Bible Study 3, 6 Passover 12 Children’s 21 Pastoral Care 7, 14 Community 16, 20 Philosophy 18, 20 Comparative Religion 8 Politics Prayer 15–16 Congregation Resources 4, 16, 22 Prayers of Awe 15 Crafts 10–11 Psychology 19 Current Affairs 20, 23 Rebbe Nachman of Breslov 17 Ecology 18, 23 Religion 1–2, 4, 6–9, 11–18, 20–24 Etiquette 12 Graphic Novels 22 Ritual/Sacred Practice 11, 13, 22 Hasidic Wisdom 2, 17 3, 19 High Holy Days 15, 24 Self-Help 20 History 7, 8, 17 Social Justice 5, 6, 23 Holidays 15, 18, 24 Spiritual Practice 2, 5–6, 10–11, Inspiration 17, 19, 24 Spirituality 13, 16, 19, 23–24 Interfaith Relations 8, 18, 23 Sports Spirituality 23 Jewish Identity 8, 9, 21–22 17, 19 Jewish Life 4, 11, 13, 22, 24 Stories 7, 9, 13, 14, 16 Judaism 1–9, 11–24 Theology 1, 24 Leadership 3, 16 Torah Commentary 24 Life Cycle 3, 4, 22, 24 Women’s Interest 15–16 Management 3 Worship 4, 22 Meditation 5 Young Adult Men’s Interest 1 Mysticism 2, 17 For more listings and categories not included in this catalog, please visit our website at www.jewishlights.com. There are many other categories of Jewish Lights books, including: Aging Fiction, Mystery, Recovery Science Fiction Business Travel Healing Death/Mourning Twelve Step Israel Depression Weddings Kabbalah Enneagram
Who Are We?
What Are We Doing?
Given our name and subject matter, the tendency is immediately to pigeonhole us as “another publisher of Jewish books.” As we are publishing books of a type that, in many cases, have not been published before, it is hard to find a simple category in which to place us. We recognize that it is also difficult to communicate this difference to a world that is used simply to categorizing things as “Jewish books” or “Judaica.” We don’t think of ourselves in either of those categories. We describe ourselves as publishing books that reflect the Jewish wisdom tradition for people of all faiths, all backgrounds. Our books really focus on the issue of the quest for the self, seeking meaning in life. They are books that help you to understand who you are and who you might become as a Jewish person, or as a person who is part of a tradition that has its roots in the Judeo-Christian world. They deal with issues of personal growth. They deal with issues of religious inspiration.
People of all faiths and backgrounds yearn for books that attract, engage, educate, and spiritually inspire. Our principal goal is to stimulate thought and help all people learn about who the Jewish People are, where they come from, and what the future can be made to hold. While people of our diverse Jewish heritage are the primary audience, our books speak to people in the Christian world as well and will broaden their understanding of Judaism and the roots of their own faith. Jewish Lights seeks out materials about the unity and community of the Jewish People and the relevance of Judaism to everyday life. To help us in these efforts, respectful of the rich diversity of the Jewish heritage, we have established an Advisory Board representing a broad range of Jewish perspectives. The Advisory Board helps seek out new material and provides insights into the publishing needs of the Jewish community. We bring to you authors who are at the forefront of spiritual thought and experience. While each has something different to say, they all say it in a voice that you can hear. Our books are designed to welcome the reader and then to engage, stimulate, and inspire. We judge our success not only by whether or not our books are beautiful and commercially successful, but by whether or not they make a difference in your life.
Jewish Lights Publishing A division of LongHill Partners, Inc. Sunset Farm Offices, Route 4, P.O. Box 237 Woodstock, Vermont 05091 Tel: (802) 457-4000 Fax: (802) 457-4004 www.jewishlights.com Find us on Facebook SkyLight Paths Publishing (www.skylightpaths.com) is a sister imprint of Jewish Lights Publishing.
I Am Jewish 22 I’m God; You’re Not 1 Jewish Family Fun Book, 2nd Ed. 11 Jewish Lights Spirituality Handbook 13 Jewish Meditation Practices for Everyday Life 5 Jewish Mysticism and the Spiritual Life 2 Jewish Pastoral Care, 2nd Ed. 12 Jewish Spiritual Direction 12 Jewish Stories from Heaven and Earth19 Jewish Theology in Our Time 16 Jewish Threads 11 Jews and Judaism in the 21st Century 9 JGirl’s Guide 4 Judaism and Justice 20 Kids’ Fun Book of Jewish Time 21 Knitting Way 10 Life’s Daily Blessings 24 Living Covenant 14 Living Jewish Life Cycle 24 Lost Princess 17 Love and Terror in the God Encounter14 Maimonides—Essential Teachings on Jewish Faith and Ethics 7 Maimonides, Spinoza and Us 7 Making Prayer Real 16 Masking and Unmasking Ourselves 3 Meditation from the Heart of Judaism 5 Mitzvah Project Book 4 Modern Jews Engage the New Testament 8 Modern Men’s Torah Commentary 1 Moses and the Journey to Leadership 3 Other Talmud—The Yerushalmi 9 Painting Path 10 Professional Spiritual and Pastoral Care 12 Proverbs 6
Putting God on the Guest List, 3rd Ed. 22 Quilting Path 10 Rabbi Harvey vs. the Wisdom Kid 22 Reclaiming Judaism as a Spiritual Practice 24 Religion Gone Astray 8 Repentance 24 Restoring Life’s Missing Pieces 19 Rituals & Practices of a Jewish Life 11 Rosh Hashanah Readings 24 Sabbath Soul 2 Sacred Art of Lovingkindness 6 Sage Tales 17 Sage Tales Teacher’s Guide 17 Scrapbooking Journey 10 Self, Struggle & Change 3 Seven Beggars 17 Shabbat, 2nd Ed. 11 Soulwork of Clay 10 Tanya, the Masterpiece of Hasidic Wisdom 2 There Shall Be No Needy 20 Torah of the Earth 18 Torah Revolution 1 Tough Questions Jews Ask, 2nd Ed. 4, 22 Voices from Genesis 3 Way Into Judaism and the Environment 23 Way Into the Varieties of Jewishness 9 Way Into Torah 1 What Makes Someone a Jew? 21 Where Justice Dwells 20 Who by Fire, Who by Water— Un’taneh Tokef 15, 24 Wild Faith 23 Wisdom of Judaism 9 Women’s Haftarah Commentary 24 Women’s Torah Commentary 24 Yom Kippur Readings 24
New Books and Release Months JULY
OCTOBER
Proverbs
Jewish Threads
Annotated & Explained
A Hands-On Guide to Stitching Spiritual Intention into Jewish Fabric Crafts
Translation and Annotation by Rabbi Rami Shapiro (see p. 6)
AUGUST Discovering Jewish Meditation, 2nd Edition Instruction & Guidance for Learning an Ancient Spiritual Practice By Nan Fink Gefen (see p. 5)
The Mitzvah Project Book Making Mitzvah Part of Your Bar/Bat Mitzvah … and Your Life By Liz Suneby and Diane Heiman Foreword by Rabbi Jeffrey K. Salkin Preface by Rabbi Sharon Brous (see p. 4)
By Diana Drew with Robert Grayson (see p. 11)
Maimonides—Essential Teachings on Jewish Faith and Ethics The Book of Knowledge and the Thirteen Principles of Faith—Annotated and Explained Translation and Annotation by Rabbi Marc D. Angel, PhD (see p. 7)
Masking and Unmasking Ourselves Interpreting Biblical Texts on Clothing & Identity
Religion Gone Astray What We Found at the Heart of Interfaith By Rabbi Ted Falcon, Pastor Donald Mackenzie and Imam Jamal Rahman (see p. 8)
The Sabbath Soul Mystical Reflections on the Transformative Power of Holy Time By Eitan Fishbane, PhD (see p. 2)
The Torah Revolution Fourteen Truths That Changed the World By Rabbi Reuven Hammer, PhD (see p. 1)
NOVEMBER The Other Talmud— The Yerushalmi
By Dr. Norman J. Cohen (see p. 3)
Unlocking the Secrets of The Talmud of Israel for Judaism Today
Professional Spiritual and Pastoral Care
By Rabbi Judith Z. Abrams, PhD (see p. 9)
A Practical Clergy and Chaplain’s Handbook
Orders: 800-962-4544 (8:30 AM –5:30 PM ET M–F) E-mail: sales@jewishlights.com Printed in the United States of America. © 2011 by Jewish Lights Publishing Cover art © Mary Lane / Fotolia.com
Index—New and Selected Backlist All These Vows—Kol Nidre 15 Around the World in One Shabbat 21 Beading—The Creative Spirit 10 Because Nothing Looks Like God 21 Book of Jewish Sacred Practices 13 Bridge to Forgiveness 19 Christians & Jews—Faith to Faith 8 Claiming Earth as Common Ground 23 Conscience 20 Contemplative Crochet 10 Discovering Jewish Meditation, 2nd Ed. 5 Ecclesiastes 6 Empowered Judaism 16 Empty Chair 17 Ethics of the Sages 7 Fly Fishing—The Sacred Art 23 For Kids—Putting God on Your Guest List, 2nd Ed. 4 Foundations of Sephardic Spirituality 7 Freedom Journeys 18 Getting to the Heart of Interfaith 8 God of Me 16 God Upgrade 13 God Was in This Place & I, i Did Not Know 13 God Who Hates Lies 14 Godwrestling—Round 2 18 Handbook of Jewish Meditation Practices 5 Hanukkah, 2nd Ed. 24 Happiness and the Human Spirit 19 Hasidic Tales 2 Heart of Many Rooms 14 Hebrew Prophets 6 Hineini in Our Lives 3 How to Be a Perfect Stranger, 5th Ed. 12
Edited by Rabbi Stephen B. Roberts, BCJC (see p. 12)
Stuart M. Matlins, Publisher
See Centerfold Insert for Order Form
A SkyLight Paths book
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Judaism—NEW
BOOKS
THE TORAH REVOLUTION
Fourteen Truths That Changed the World By Rabbi Reuven Hammer, PhD
Unlock the truths that shattered ancient beliefs and paved the way for the new and revolutionary religion that eventually became Judaism. The Torah is the foundation stone of Jewish existence. Embedded within these teachings of Moses are core concepts that radically transformed the important religious insights of the patriarchs into a dynamic new religion that would go on to influence the world. This religion of Israel yielded a new way of understanding God and the meaning of the human life. Some of these concepts have never been fully realized, some have gone unrecognized, and many are obscured under so many layers of interpretation that the original vision is difficult to discern. In this accessible look at these revolutionary teachings of Moses, Dr. Reuven Hammer presents fourteen radical ideas found in Torah, explains their original intentions, and shows how understanding these “truths” can help you better understand the narrative and laws of Judaism. Dr. Hammer shows you that when taken together, these value concepts present a picture of the world and human life that is surprisingly modern and relevant: humanity is one as God is one; human beings are responsible for their actions and have the choice to do good or evil; poverty, deprivation, slavery and hatred are evils that must be eradicated. He shows how a society based on these principles would revolutionize civilization and lead toward a more perfect world for humankind.
Judaism 6 x 9, 250 pp (est), Hardcover 978-1-58023-457-3 $24.99 Avail. October 2011 Author’s Home Area: Israel Rabbi Reuven Hammer, PhD, named one of the “Forward 50”—a list of the most influential members of the American Jewish community—is a former president of the International Rabbinical Assembly. A prolific writer, he is the author of many books, including Entering the High Holy Days, a winner of the National Jewish Book Award.
ALSO AVAILABLE RECENTLY PUBLISHED
“Breezy [and] accessible … Kushner[’s] wisdom, realism, and the sources he calls upon demonstrate the depth and perceptiveness of his approach to difficult problems.” —Publishers Weekly
The Way Into Torah By Rabbi Norman J. Cohen, PhD
“Highly recommended.” —Library Journal 6 x 9, 176 pp, Quality PB 978-1-58023-198-5 $16.99
The Modern Men’s Torah Commentary New Insights from Jewish Men on the 54 Weekly Torah Portions Edited by Rabbi Jeffrey K. Salkin 6 x 9, 368 pp, Hardcover 978-1-58023-395-8 $24.99
I’m God;You’re Not Observations on Organized Religion & Other Disguises of the Ego By Lawrence Kushner 6 x 9, 256 pp, Hardcover 978-1-58023-441-2 $21.99
For more about these books, visit www.jewishlights.com
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NEW BOOKS—Judaism / Spirituality THE SABBATH SOUL
Mystical Reflections on the Transformative Power of Holy Time By Eitan Fishbane, PhD
Enter into the mystery of the Sabbath, into the wonder and light of the seventh day. Explore the spiritual texture of Shabbat and its meaning for our lives today through the writings of mystical masters from the history of Hasidism. Drawing from the origins of the movement in late eighteenth-century Poland to late twentieth-century Jerusalem, Eitan Fishbane evokes the movement of the Sabbath experience—advancing from candle lighting and the donning of white clothing to the Friday night Kiddush and the act of sacred eating. Fishbane also translates and interprets sources that reflect the spiritual transformation that takes place for the mystic on the seventh day—one in which the person undergoes a radical shift in awareness, a journey into the realm that is all soul. Fishbane offers original translations from a wide landscape of Hebrew Hasidic sources and extended commentary to help you enrich your experience of the Sabbath. He also includes passages from the personal prayers of the Breslov (Bratzlav) Hasidic tradition, special writings that express the spiritual dimension of Shabbat in the language of devotional and individual yearning.
Judaism / Spirituality 6 x 9, 200 pp (est), Quality PB Original 978-1-58023-459-7 $18.99 Avail. October 2011 Author’s Home Area: New York City Eitan Fishbane, PhD, a frequent scholar-in-residence and guest speaker at congregations across North America, is assistant professor of Jewish thought at The Jewish Theological Seminary; author of As Light Before Dawn: The Inner World of a Medieval Kabbalist;and co-editor of Jewish Mysticism and the Spiritual Life: Classical Texts, Contemporary Reflections (Jewish Lights).
Praise for Eitan Fishbane’s Work “A masterpiece that could itself become a classic text of Jewish spiritual thinking…. A must for anyone serious about Jewish spiritual thought.” —Tikkun
ALSO AVAILABLE AWARDWINNER Translated into Czech, Dutch, French, Italian, Russian and Spanish
RECENTLY PUBLISHED
Jewish Mysticism and the Spiritual Life Classical Texts, Contemporary Reflections Edited by Lawrence Fine, PhD, Eitan Fishbane, PhD, and Rabbi Or N. Rose
“Intelligent … [a] relevant and timely understanding of the subject.” —Publishers Weekly 6 x 9, 256 pp, Hardcover 978-1-58023-434-4 $24.99
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Hasidic Tales Annotated & Explained Translation and Annotation by Rabbi Rami Shapiro Foreword by Andrew Harvey
“An excellent introduction and anthology of exemplary tales from the Hasidic tradition…. Highly recommended.” —Library Journal 51⁄2 x 81⁄2, 240 pp, Quality PB Original 978-1-893361-86-7 $16.95
JEWISH LIGHTS PUBLISHING
Tanya, the Masterpiece of Hasidic Wisdom Selections Annotated & Explained Translation and Annotation by Rabbi Rami Shapiro Foreword by Rabbi Zalman Schachter-Shalomi 51⁄2 x 81⁄2, 240 pp, Quality PB Original 978-1-59473-275-1 $16.99
To Order: 800-962-4544
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Bible Study / Judaism—NEW
BOOKS
MASKING
AND UNMASKING OURSELVES Interpreting Biblical Texts on Clothing & Identity By Dr. Norman J. Cohen
A fascinating look at the symbolic power of clothing in the Bible and what it reveals about identity and how we perceive it. Whatever the context in which it is worn, our clothing is often our most powerful form of communication. As in any great literature, the language of putting on and taking off clothing in the Bible—especially the narratives that turn on the symbolic use of clothes—can provide us with a sense of the overarching worldview of the biblical writers. Yet, by immersing ourselves in the symbolic language and stories of the Bible, we can also gain insight into ourselves and our own lives. In this engaging look at interpretations of clothing in the Bible, renowned Torah scholar and midrashist Norman Cohen presents ten paradigmatic Bible stories that involve clothing in an essential way, as a means of learning about the text, its characters and their interactions. But he also shows us how these stories help us confront our own life dramas, our own stories. In doing so, he presents Torah as a mirror, reflecting back to us our own personalities, ambivalences, struggles and potential for growth. By helping us uncover the “garments of Torah,” Cohen shows us how to shed our own layers of insulation to reveal our authentic selves.
Judaism / Bible Study 6 x 9, 240 pp (est), Hardcover 978-1-58023-461-0 $24.99 Avail. October 2011 Author’s Home Area: New York City
Praise for Dr. Norman J. Cohen’s Work
Dr. Norman J. Cohen, renowned for his expertise in Torah study and midrash, lectures frequently to audiences of many faiths. He is a rabbi, former provost of Hebrew Union College–Jewish Institute of Religion, and professor of midrash. He is the author of Self, Struggle & Change: Family Conflict Stories in Genesis and Their Healing Insights for Our Lives; Moses and the Journey to Leadership: Timeless Lessons of Effective Management from the Bible and Today’s Leaders (both Jewish Lights); and other books.
“Intriguing….Will be of value to many people who use the Bible as a guidebook for their daily lives.” —Publishers Weekly
“A reinvention of traditional Rabbinic approaches [that] will please and instruct many Jewish and —Library Journal Christian readers.” “A spiritual guide as much as a tool for biblical study.” —Association of Jewish Libraries Newsletter
BY
DR. NORMAN J. COHEN
Translated into Portuguese
ALSO AVAILABLE
Self, Struggle & Change Family Conflict Stories in Genesis and Their Healing Insights for Our Lives
Moses and the Journey to Leadership Timeless Lessons of Effective Management from the Bible and Today’s Leaders
Hineini in Our Lives Voices from Genesis Learning How to Guiding Us through the Respond to Others Stages of Life through 14 Biblical Texts 6 x 9, 192 pp, Quality PB 978-1-58023-118-3 $16.95 & Personal Stories
6 x 9, 224 pp, Quality PB 978-1-879045-66-8 $18.99
6 x 9, 240 pp, Quality PB 6 x 9, 240 pp, Quality PB 978-1-58023-274-6 $16.99 978-1-58023-351-4 $18.99 Hardcover, 978-1-58023-227-2 $21.99
For more about these books, visit www.jewishlights.com
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NEW BOOKS—Judaism / Bar & Bat Mitzvah THE MITZVAH PROJECT BOOK
Making Mitzvah Part of Your Bar/Bat Mitzvah … and Your Life By Liz Suneby and Diane Heiman Foreword by Rabbi Jeffrey K. Salkin Preface by Rabbi Sharon Brous
The go-to source for Jewish young adults and their families looking to make the world a better place through good deeds—big or small.
For ages 11–13
Juvenile / Judaism 6 x 9, 200 pp (est), Quality PB Original 978-1-58023-458-0 $16.99 Avail. August 2011 Authors’ Home Area: Boston and Washington, DC
More and more families, teens and pre-teens are searching for meaningful and fun mitzvah projects as a growing number of synagogues embrace Bar/Bat Mitzvah service projects and Mitzvah Day. This inspiring book is packed with ideas to help boys and girls connect something they love to a mitzvah project or tikkun olam initiative they can be passionate about. It is filled with information, ideas and activities to spark young imaginations, as well as a planning guide to get organized and off to a good start. To further inspire their actions, kids will love reading stories from young people around the country who have completed rewarding projects in the following categories: Creativity and Compassion—Arts & Crafts • Clothes & Fashion • Computers & Technology • Food & Cooking • Movies & Drama • Reading & Writing Putting Mitzvot in Motion—Animals • Camp • Fitness • Health • Music & Dance • Sports Your World, Our World—Environment • Family • Friends, Neighbors & Your Community • Global Community • Israel • Your Jewish Heritage
Liz Suneby and Diane Heiman are co-authors of the Children’s Choice Award winner See What You Can Be: Explore Careers That Could Be for You! Rabbi Jeffrey K. Salkin is the author of the bestseller Putting God on the Guest List: How to Reclaim the Spiritual Meaning of Your Child’s Bar or Bat Mitzvah; and For Kids—Putting God on Your Guest List: How to Claim the Spiritual Meaning of Your Bar or Bat Mitzvah, among other books. Rabbi Sharon Brous, listed among the Forward’s fifty most influential American Jews and Newsweek’s leading rabbis in the country, is the founder of IKAR, a Jewish spiritual community in Los Angeles that integrates spiritual and religious practice and the pursuit of social justice.
ALSO AVAILABLE AWARDWINNER
AWARDWINNER
BESTSELLER
Translated into Turkish
“Charged with energy and insight … offers information about culture and history as well as answers to life’s most vexing questions.” —American Library Association’s For ages Booklist 11 and up
For ages 11 and up
The JGirl’s Guide: The Young Jewish Woman’s Handbook for Coming of Age
Tough Questions Jews Ask, 2nd Ed.: A Young Adult’s Guide to Building a Jewish Life
By Penina Adelman,Ali Feldman and Shulamit Reinharz 6 x 9, 240 pp, Quality PB Original 978-1-58023-215-9 $14.99
By Rabbi Edward Feinstein 6 x 9, 160 pp (est), Quality PB Original 978-1-58023-454-2 $16.99
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JEWISH LIGHTS PUBLISHING
For ages 11–13
For Kids—Putting God on Your Guest List, 2nd Ed. How to Claim the Spiritual Meaning of Your Bar or Bat Mitzvah By Rabbi Jeffrey K. Salkin 6 x 9, 144 pp, Quality PB Original 978-1-58023-308-8 $15.99
To Order: 800-962-4544
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Judaism / Spirituality—NEW BOOKS
DISCOVERING JEWISH MEDITATION, 2ND EDITION Instruction & Guidance for Learning an Ancient Spiritual Practice By Nan Fink Gefen
The breakthrough how-to-meditate guide—now updated and expanded! A supportive and wise guide that is an absolute must for anyone who wants to learn Jewish meditation or improve their practice—now updated and expanded! Nan Fink Gefen teaches you how to meditate on your own, and starts you on the path to a deeper connection with the Divine and to greater insight about your own life. The most comprehensive introduction to a timehonored practice: • Answers commonly asked questions about the nature and history of Jewish meditation and examines how it differs from other meditative practices • Shows beginners how to start their practice, including where and how to do it • Gives step-by-step instructions for meditations that are at the core of Jewish meditative practice • Explains the challenges and rewards of a Jewish meditative practice. “Encourages Jews of all persuasions to give meditation —Publishers Weekly a shot….Worthwhile.” “Shows users how to combine [meditation] with prayer…. An excellent source for classes as well as —Jewish Book World for independent study.” “Extremely useful … [links] Jewish meditation with a fuller practice of Torah study, mitzvot, Shabbat, and —Tikkun other traditional Jewish paths to God.”
Judaism / Spirituality 6 x 9, 208 pp (est), Quality PB Original 978-1-58023-462-7 $16.99 Avail. August 2011 Author’s Home Area: San Francisco Nan Fink Gefen has taught Jewish meditation to hundreds of students across the country. She cofounded Tikkun magazine in 1985, and is currently the co-founding editor of Persimmon Tree: An Online Magazine of the Arts.
ALSO AVAILABLE “Anyone interested in calming one’s spirit and growing one’s soul will benefit from this excellent book.” —Jewish Media Review
Jewish Meditation Practices for Everyday Life: Awakening Your Heart, Connecting with God By Rabbi Jeff Roth 6 x 9, 224 pp, Quality PB Original 978-1-58023-397-2 $18.99
The Handbook of Jewish Meditation Practices A Guide for Enriching the Sabbath and Other Days of Your Life
Meditation from the Heart of Judaism Today’s Teachers Share Their Practices,Techniques, and Faith
By Rabbi David A. Cooper 6 x 9, 208 pp, Quality PB Original 978-1-58023-102-2 $16.95
Edited by Avram Davis 6 x 9, 256 pp, Quality PB Original 978-1-58023-049-0 $16.95
For more about these books, visit www.jewishlights.com
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NEW BOOKS—Bible PROVERBS
Annotated & Explained Translation and Annotation by Rabbi Rami Shapiro
A book from SkyLight Paths, Jewish Lights’ sister imprint
This collection of timeless and practical prescriptions for living honestly and responsibly can be a companion for your own spiritual journey.
Religion / Judaism / Christianity 51⁄2 x 81⁄2, 176 pp (est), Quality PB Original 978-1-59473-310-9 $16.99 Avail. July 2011 Author’s Home Area: Nashville Rabbi Rami Shapiro is a renowned teacher of spirituality across faith traditions. He is author of The Sacred Art of Lovingkindness: Preparing to Practice; The Divine Feminine in Biblical Wisdom Literature: Selections Annotated & Explained; and Ecclesiastes: Annotated & Explained, among other books.
More than commonplace truisms, the Book of Proverbs is an anthology of teachings designed to help you live with a sense of self-responsibility. Its wisdom, compiled in the seventh century BCE and credited to King Solomon, transcends nationality and politics, addressing instead the individual seeking the true satisfaction and tranquility that comes from living with an honest perception of reality. In this fresh translation of an ancient “how-to,” Rami Shapiro unpacks the proverbs, demonstrating how these complex poetic forms are actually straightforward instructions to live simply, without rationalizations and excuses. He shows how unlike almost anything else in the Hebrew Bible, the truths claimed in the Book of Proverbs are testable and verifiable. They force us to examine our lives and how we are living them without the benefit of psychological sophistry and New Age babble: We are either doing good or doing bad; we are either disciplined or lazy; we are either students of wisdom or puppets of desire. Now you can experience the Book of Proverbs and understand Solomon’s teachings with no previous knowledge of the Hebrew Bible. This SkyLight Illuminations edition presents insightful commentary that shares the ancient king’s timeless principles and encourages us to put them into practice in ways that are uniquely our own.
ALSO AVAILABLE RECENTLY PUBLISHED
AWARDWINNER
“The introduction alone makes this book a worthwhile addition to your library.” —Association of Jewish Libraries Newsletter
SLP Ecclesiastes Annotated & Explained Translation and Annotation by Rabbi Rami Shapiro Foreword by Rev. Barbara Cawthorne Crafton 51⁄2 x 81⁄2, 160 pp, Quality PB Original 978-1-59473-287-4 $16.99
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SLP The Sacred Art of Lovingkindness Preparing to Practice By Rabbi Rami Shapiro Foreword by Marcia Ford 51⁄2 x 81⁄2, 176 pp, Quality PB Original 978-1-59473-151-8 $16.99
JEWISH LIGHTS PUBLISHING
SLP The Hebrew Prophets Selections Annotated & Explained Translation and Annotation by Rabbi Rami Shapiro Foreword by Rabbi Zalman M. Schachter-Shalomi 51⁄2 x 81⁄2, 224 pp, Quality PB Original 978-1-59473-037-5 $16.99
To Order: 800-962-4544
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Judaism / Philosophy—NEW BOOKS
MAIMONIDES—ESSENTIAL TEACHINGS JEWISH FAITH AND ETHICS
ON
The Book of Knowledge and the Thirteen Principles of Faith— Annotated and Explained Translation and Annotation by Rabbi Marc D. Angel, PhD
Moses Maimonides (1138–1204) is Jewish history’s greatest exponent of a rational, philosophically based Judaism. He opened his classic code of Jewish law, the Mishneh Torah, with the “Book of Knowledge,” providing the essential teachings of Jewish faith and ethics. His “Thirteen Principles of Faith,” included in his commentary on the Mishnah, have become cornerstones in Jewish theology. In this book, Rabbi Marc Angel provides a lucid English translation of Maimonides’ key teachings on Jewish faith and ethics, as well as an informative commentary that brings his wisdom to life. Readers will confront Maimonides’ views on the nature of God, providence, prophecy, free will, human nature, repentance—and more. The teachings of Maimonides continue to have profound relevance to those seeking an intellectually vibrant understanding of Judaism. Although deeply rooted in Jewish sources, the writings of Maimonides provide spiritual insights for people of all backgrounds.
Praise for Rabbi Marc D. Angel’s Work “More than a scholarly treatise…. Readable narratives … demonstrate the ‘triumph of the human spirit,’ resolute in its optimism and dignity.” —Publishers Weekly
“Intelligent … highly readable…. A salutary and —Jewish Book World accessible effort.”
A book from SkyLight Paths, Jewish Lights’ sister imprint
The teachings of Judaism’s greatest medieval philosopher can be a companion on your own spiritual journey.
Religion / Judaism 51⁄2 x 81⁄2, 200 pp (est), Quality PB Original 978-1-59473-311-6 $18.99 Avail. October 2011 Author’s Home Area: New York City Rabbi Marc D. Angel, PhD, is founder and director of the Institute for Jewish Ideas and Ideals (www.jewishideas.org). Rabbi emeritus of Congregation Shearith Israel of New York City, he is author and editor of twenty-nine books, including Maimonides, Spinoza and Us:Toward an Intellectually Vibrant Judaism and Foundations of Sephardic Spirituality:The Inner Life of Jews of the Ottoman Empire (both Jewish Lights), both finalists for the National Jewish Book Award.
ALSO AVAILABLE AWARDWINNER
AWARDWINNER
“A laudable … bold venture….Will appeal to everyone interested in religion, Judaism, theology, and philosophy.” —Publishers Weekly
Maimonides, Spinoza and Us Toward an Intellectually Vibrant Judaism By Rabbi Marc D. Angel, PhD 6 x 9, 224 pp, Hardcover 978-1-58023-411-5 $24.99
SLP Foundations of Sephardic Spirituality: The Inner Life of Jews of the Ottoman Empire By Rabbi Marc D. Angel, PhD 6 x 9, 224 pp, Quality PB 978-1-58023-341-5 $18.99
Ethics of the Sages: Pirke Avot—Annotated & Explained Translation and Annotation by Rabbi Rami Shapiro 51⁄2 x 81⁄2, 192 pp, Quality PB Original 978-1-59473-207-2 $16.99
For more about these books, visit www.jewishlights.com
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NEW BOOKS—Religion / Interfaith RELIGION GONE ASTRAY
What We Found at the Heart of Interfaith By Rabbi Ted Falcon, Pastor Don Mackenzie and Imam Jamal Rahman
A challenging look at the deeper dimensions of interfaith dialogue—that which divides us personally, spiritually and institutionally. A book from SkyLight Paths, Jewish Lights’ sister imprint
Virtually everyone acknowledges difficulty with some aspect of their own religious tradition, even if they are wholly devoted to their faith identity. These vulnerabilities can inhibit meaningful personal engagement with a faith tradition but they can also feed misunderstanding between religious institutions and undermine any hope of authentic interfaith dialogue. Expanding on the conversation started with their very successful first book, the Interfaith Amigos—a rabbi, a pastor and an imam—probe more deeply into the problematic aspects of our religious institutions to provide a profound understanding of the nature of what divides us. They identify four common problem areas in the Abrahamic faiths—exclusivity, violence, inequality of men and women, and homophobia—and their origins. They explore the ways critics use these beliefs as divisive weapons. And they present the ways we can use these vulnerabilities to open the doors for more profound personal relationships, collaboration required to address our common issues, and true interfaith healing.
Religion / Interfaith 6 x 9, 224 pp (est), Quality PB Original 978-1-59473-317-8 $18.99 Avail. October 2011 Authors’ Home Area: Seattle
Praise for the Authors’ Work “No topic is off-limits…. Designed to produce meaningful learning, sharing, appreciation of all —Jewish Book World faiths, and deepening of one’s own faith as well.” Widely known for their many events around the United States, Rabbi Ted Falcon, Pastor Don Mackenzie and Imam Jamal Rahman—known as the Interfaith Amigos—are former hosts of Interfaith Talk Radio. Falcon, founder of Makom Ohr Shalom in Los Angeles and co-founder of Bet Alef Meditative Synagogue in Seattle, is author of A Journey Awakening: Kabbalistic Meditation on the Tree of Life. Mackenzie is former minister at University Congregational United Church of Christ in Seattle. Rahman, a Muslim Sufi minister at Interfaith Community Church, is author of The Fragrance of Faith.
ALSO AVAILABLE AWARDWINNER
RECENTLY PUBLISHED
“Crystal clear…. Draws extensively from the historical and religious records of both Jews and Christians … impressive.”
Featured in the New York Times, on CBS Evening News and on NPR’s On Point and Here & Now
—American Library Association’s Booklist
SLP Getting to the Heart of Interfaith Modern Jews Engage the The Eye-Opening, Hope-Filled Friendship New Testament of a Pastor, a Rabbi and a Sheikh Enhancing Jewish Well-Being in a Christian Environment By Rabbi Ted Falcon, Pastor Don
Christians & Jews— Faith to Faith Tragic History, Promising Present, Fragile Future
Mackenzie and Imam Jamal Rahman 6 x 9, 192 pp, Quality PB Original 978-1-59473-263-8 $16.99
By Rabbi James Rudin 6 x 9, 288 pp, Hardcover 978-1-58023-432-0 $24.99
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By Rabbi Michael J. Cook, PhD 6 x 9, 416 pp, Hardcover 978-1-58023-313-2 $29.99
JEWISH LIGHTS PUBLISHING
To Order: 800-962-4544
JLP F11 Trade
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12:41 PM
Page 9
Judaism—NEW BOOKS
THE OTHER TALMUD—THE YERUSHALMI
Unlocking the Secrets of The Talmud of Israel for Judaism Today By Rabbi Judith Z. Abrams, PhD
A fascinating—and fun—look at “the other Talmud” and the possibilities for Jewish life reflected there. Today’s Judaism is based on the Babylonian Talmud, the Bavli. All the law codes we have are based on this Talmud. But what if the other Talmud, the Yerushalmi— the “Talmud of the Land of Israel”—had won? What would that mean for the practice of Judaism today? This engaging look at the Judaism that might have been breaks open the Talmud of the Land of Israel, which is growing in popularity. It examines what the Yerushalmi is, how it differs from the Bavli, and how and why the Bavli is used today. It reveals how the Yerushalmi’s vision of Jewish practice resembles today’s liberal Judaism. You’ll explore the many ways this Talmud would have influenced all aspects of Jewish life: • What kind of mysticism would you practice? • How would you meditate? • How would holiday celebrations differ from those we have today? • How would you pray? • What would be your greatest virtues? Your most terrible sins? • What kind of karma would you believe in? Like Barry W. Holtz’s Back to the Sources, The Other Talmud—The Yerushalmi provides a broad but accessible overview of all the essential aspects of the Talmud of Israel, equipping you for further study and exploration.
Judaism 6 x 9, 250 pp (est), Hardcover 978-1-58023-463-4 $24.99 Avail. November 2011 Author’s Home Area: Houston Rabbi Judith Z. Abrams, PhD, is a frequent speaker on the topics of Jewish learning and sacred literature around the United States. She is the founder and director of Maqom: A School for Adult Talmud Study and author of Learn Talmud and A Talmud Tale, among other books.
ALSO AVAILABLE AWARDWINNER
“An excellent introduction to the diversity of Jewish life.” —★ Publishers Weekly starred review
The Wisdom of Judaism Jews and Judaism in the 21st An Introduction to the Values Century of the Talmud Human Responsibility, the Presence of God and the Future of the Covenant By Rabbi Dov Peretz Elkins “Contributes significantly to Edited by Rabbi Edward Feinstein our practical understanding Foreword by Paula E. Hyman “Required reading for all those who of Talmudic wisdom.” —Publishers Weekly are shaping the Jewish future.” 6 x 9, 192 pp, Quality PB Original 978-1-58023-327-9 $16.99
—Congregational Libraries Today 6 x 9, 192 pp, Quality PB 978-1-58023-374-3 $19.99 Hardcover, 978-1-58023-315-6 $24.99
The Way Into the Varieties of Jewishness By Sylvia Barack Fishman, PhD
“Readable, engrossing…. A useful tool for understanding Judaism at this point in the twenty-first century. Highly recommended.” —Congregational Libraries Today 6 x 9, 288 pp, Quality PB 978-1-58023-367-5 $18.99 Hardcover, 978-1-58023-030-8 $24.99
For more about these books, visit www.jewishlights.com
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CRAFTS, CREATIVITY & SPIRITUALITY From SkyLight Paths Publishing, Jewish Lights’ Sister Imprint Beading—The Creative Spirit: Finding Your Sacred Center through the Art of Beadwork By Wendy Ellsworth
®
irit One Sp b lu Book C n ti Selec o
Includes fourteen exercises and beading projects, each with a meditative experience to encourage a contemplative spirit and creative play. “Remarkably insightful and personal.… Whether you do beading, pursue other artistic activities, or are interested in devotional practices, you will find this a powerful and engaging work.” —Robert Wuthnow, author, Creative Spirituality 7 x 9, 240 pp, 40+ b/w photos, 40 diagrams and 8-page color insert Quality PB Original, 978-1-59473-267-6 $18.99
Contemplative Crochet: A Hands-On Guide for Interlocking Faith & Craft By Cindy Crandall-Frazier; Foreword by Linda Skolnik
Includes ten original projects for beginners or experienced crocheters, including a prayer shawl, pocket mandala, prayer beads and more. “A gem…. Regardless of whether you do the projects, the gentle wisdom in this book instills beauty, peace and grace.” —Light of Consciousness 7 x 9, 208 pp, b/w photos, Quality PB Original, 978-1-59473-238-6 $16.99
The Knitting Way: A Guide to Spiritual Self-Discovery By Linda Skolnik and Janice MacDaniels
Includes nineteen easy-to-follow patterns and instructions for projects that anyone can do! “Light, swift, and well illustrated … contains a helpful list of additional resources on knitting.” —Library Journal ® irit One Sp b lu Book C n Selectio
7 x 9, 240 pp, b/w photos, Quality PB Original, 978-1-59473-079-5 $16.99
The Painting Path: Embodying Spiritual Discovery through Yoga, Brush and Color By Linda Novick; Foreword by Richard Segalman
Includes eleven original art projects that help you explore themes essential to both your creativity and your spirituality. For the painting novice or accomplished artist. “A playful, imaginative resource … like a fantastic painting workshop with a wonderful teacher…. Easy to follow … filled with inspiration and surprisingly deep awareness.” —Spirit of Change 7 x 9, 208 pp, 8-page color insert, plus b/w photos, Quality PB Original, 978-1-59473-226-3 $18.99
The Quilting Path: A Guide to Spiritual Discovery through Fabric,Thread and Kabbalah By Louise Silk
Ten carefully designed projects include: String Pieced Pillows • Straight Furrows Baby Blanket • Quilting Carry-all Bag • Patchwork Prayer Shawl • Folk Art Appliqué Quilt • T-shirt Quilt … and more! “Shows you how the art of quilting can become a daily ritual of spiritual and psychological renewal, regardless of your faith.” —Quilts with Style 7 x 9, 192 pp, b/w photos & illus., Quality PB Original, 978-1-59473-206-5 $16.99
The Scrapbooking Journey: A Hands-On Guide to Spiritual Discovery By Cory Richardson-Lauve; Foreword by Stacy Julian
Includes eight original scrapbooking projects with dozens of variations— for both cut-and-paste and digital artists, beginning scrapbookers and published designers alike. 7 x 9, 176 pp, 8-page color insert, plus b/w photos, Quality PB Original, 978-1-59473-216-4 $18.99
The Soulwork of Clay: A Hands-On Approach to Spirituality By Marjory Zoet Bankson; Photos by Peter Bankson
Includes reflective questions and twenty-one unique clay projects that even beginners can do. “Inspiring….Teaches us about staying centered, about the playfulness of choices, and about the crucible of transformation.” —Spirituality & Practice 7 x 9, 192 pp, b/w photos, Quality PB Original, 978-1-59473-249-2 $16.99
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JEWISH LIGHTS PUBLISHING
To Order: 800-962-4544
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Crafts / Judaism—NEW BOOKS
JEWISH THREADS
A Hands-On Guide to Stitching Spiritual Intention into Jewish Fabric Crafts By Diana Drew with Robert Grayson
Learn how to make your own Jewish fabric crafts with spiritual intention— a journey of creativity, imagination and inspiration. This accessible guide for both novice and expert fabric crafters presents thirty handmade Jewish fabric craft projects from around the United States and Israel and the inspiring stories behind them. With projects for the home and the shul, for celebrating the Jewish holidays, and for various milestones in the Jewish life cycle—most fairly easy to make—the book weaves together stories of families, celebration and contemporary rituals surrounding these handmade fabric crafts. These pieces are destined to become treasured heirlooms to be passed from generation to generation. Among the projects showcased in the book are: • Quilted challah covers • Matzah cover • Knit seder plate • Afikomen envelopes • Torah mantles • Tree of Life shulchan cover • Biblical Purim hand puppets • Tallitot • Healing and memorial quilts • Wall hangings for various holidays
Judaism / Needlework 7 x 9, 225 pp (est), Quality PB Original w/ 8-page color insert and b/w illus. 978-1-58023-442-9 $19.99 Avail. October 2011 Author’s Home Area: New York City Diana Drew, co-president of National Council of Jewish Women (NCJW), West Morris (NJ) Section, is an awardwinning former daily newspaper reporter and a longtime book editor.
ALSO AVAILABLE
“Brims with upbeat ideas … a wealth of year-round activities.” —Jewish Woman
The Jewish Family Fun Book, 2nd Ed. Shabbat, 2nd Ed. The Rituals & Practices of a Holiday Projects, Everyday Activities, and The Family Guide to Preparing Jewish Life: A Handbook for Travel Ideas with Jewish Themes for and Celebrating the Personal Spiritual Renewal Sabbath By Danielle Dardashti and Roni Sarig Edited by Rabbi Kerry M. Olitzky Illustrations by Avi Katz
By Dr. Ron Wolfson
and Rabbi Daniel Judson
“[Will] help children understand and enjoy “Covers virtually every aspect “Both resource and inspiration for the Jewish holidays and Sabbath…. Helpful of the Sabbath.” … daily Jewish ritual practice…. and informative.” —Publishers Weekly —Jewish Book World Excellent.” —Association of Jewish 6 x 9, 304 pp, 70+ b/w illus. & diagrams Quality PB Original 978-1-58023-333-0 $18.99
7 x 9, 320 pp, Illus. Quality PB Original 978-1-58023-164-0 $19.99
Libraries Newsletter 6 x 9, 272 pp, Illus., Quality PB Original 978-1-58023-169-5 $18.95
For more about these books, visit www.jewishlights.com
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NEW BOOKS—Pastoral Care PROFESSIONAL SPIRITUAL
AND PASTORAL A Practical Clergy and Chaplain’s Handbook
CARE
Edited by Rabbi Stephen B. Roberts, BCJC
For all faiths—the definitive reference for spiritual and pastoral caregivers.
A book from SkyLight Paths, Jewish Lights’ sister imprint
This is the first comprehensive resource for spiritual and pastoral care—a vital resource for clergy, seminarians, chaplains, pastoral counselors and caregivers of all faith traditions. It integrates the classic foundations of pastoral care with the latest approaches to spiritual care. It is specifically intended for professionals who work in or visit congregants in acute care hospitals, behavioral health facilities, rehabilitation centers and long-term care facilities. Offering the latest theological perspectives and tools, along with basic theory and skills from the best pastoral and spiritual care texts, research and concepts, the contributors to this resource are experts in their fields and include eight current or past presidents of the major chaplaincy organizations. Topics include: • The Theology of Spiritual and Pastoral Care— How do you create a theology to do spiritual/pastoral care? • The Process of Spiritual and Pastoral Care— The general theory behind spiritual/pastoral care; conducting spiritual assessments; creating and implementing a pastoral plan; ethics. • Spiritual/Pastoral Care with Special Populations and Their Needs—International cultures and immigrants, pediatrics, mental health, LGBT, disabled, palliative care with chronic illness, arrested and complicated grief. • The Infrastructure of Spiritual and Pastoral Care— How to begin strategic planning, standards of care for all chaplains, quality assurance, designing sacred spaces, cultural competencies.
Pastoral Care 6 x 9, 500 pp (est), Hardcover 978-1-59473-312-3 $50.00 Avail. October 2011 Editor’s Home Area: New York City Rabbi Stephen B. Roberts, BCJC, past president of the National Association of Jewish Chaplains, is chairman emeritus and a founder of Disaster Chaplaincy Services, Inc., a partnership program within the American Red Cross in Greater New York. He has taught extensively on pastoral and spiritual care. He is co-editor of Disaster Spiritual Care: Practical Clergy Responses to Community, Regional and National Tragedy (SkyLight Paths).
ALSO AVAILABLE Translated into French and Russian
AWARDWINNER
“The things Miss Manners forgot to tell us about religion.” —Los Angeles Times
“Highly recommended.” —Library Journal
SLP How to Be a Perfect Stranger, 5th Ed. The Essential Religious Etiquette Handbook Edited by Stuart M. Matlins and Arthur J. Magida
“The central idea here is excellent.... —Publishers Weekly A perfect gift.” 6 x 9, 432 pp, Quality PB Original 978-1-59473-294-2 $19.99
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Jewish Pastoral Care, 2nd Ed. A Practical Handbook from Traditional & Contemporary Sources Edited by Rabbi Dayle A. Friedman, MSW, MAJCS, BCC 6 x 9, 528 pp, Quality PB 978-1-58023-427-6 $30.00
JEWISH LIGHTS PUBLISHING
Jewish Spiritual Direction An Innovative Guide from Traditional and Contemporary Sources Edited by Rabbi Howard A. Addison and Barbara Eve Breitman, MSW 6 x 9, 368 pp, Hardcover 978-1-58023-230-2 $30.00
To Order: 800-962-4544
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Judaism / Spirituality—RECENTLY PUBLISHED
THE GOD UPGRADE
Finding Your 21st-Century Spirituality in Judaism’s 5,000-Year-Old Tradition By Rabbi Jamie S. Korngold Foreword by Rabbi Harold M. Schulweis
FEATURED IN USA TODAY
For people who don’t believe that God can intervene in our lives, and why Judaism is still important. For some people, the biggest stumbling block in religion is God—even for an ordained rabbi who admits her rational mind “can’t buy into a God in the sky who writes down our deeds and rewards and punishes us accordingly.” But not being sold on an intervening God shouldn’t bar you from living a vibrant and fulfilling Jewish life. The God concept has seen many upgrades over the centuries, and it is these reinterpretations that have kept Judaism relevant. In this provocative look at the ways in which God concepts have evolved and been upgraded through the centuries, Adventure Rabbi Jamie Korngold examines how our changing ideas of God have shaped every aspect of Judaism. With enthusiasm and humor, she shows that by aligning our understanding of God with modern sensibilities, Judaism can be made more meaningful, accessible and fully compatible with twenty-first-century life. “Will produce a fresh view of God…. [Korngold’s] powerful message can resonate with people of all faiths as they struggle to reconcile science and religion.” —★ Publishers Weekly starred review
“Clear, accessible … will serve as a safe entry point into serious conversations about Jewish theology and spirituality for a new generation.” —Rabbi Daniel Freelander, senior vice president, Union for Reform Judaism
Judaism / Spirituality 6 x 9, 176 pp, Quality PB 978-1-58023-443-6 $15.99 Rabbi Jamie S. Korngold, the Adventure Rabbi, has been featured in the New York Times,USA Today and many other media outlets for her innovative work in Judaism. Founder and spiritual leader of the Adventure Rabbi Program, she is a popular retreat leader and speaker on the topics of Judaism and Jewish life. She is the author of God in the Wilderness: Rediscovering the Spirituality of the Great Outdoors. Rabbi Harold M. Schulweis, one of the most respected spiritual leaders of his generation, is author of Conscience:The Duty to Obey and the Duty to Disobey ( Jewish Lights).
Translated into Czech, Dutch, Italian and Portuguese
ALSO AVAILABLE
The Book of Jewish Sacred Practices CLAL’s Guide to Everyday & Holiday Rituals & Blessings Edited by Rabbi Irwin Kula and Vanessa L. Ochs, PhD 6 x 9, 368 pp, Quality PB Original 978-1-58023-152-7 $18.95
A URJ “Significant Jewish Book”
God Was in This Place & I, i Did Not Know Finding Self, Spirituality and Ultimate Meaning By Lawrence Kushner 6 x 9, 192 pp, Quality PB 978-1-879045-33-0 $16.95
The Jewish Lights Spirituality Handbook A Guide to Understanding, Exploring and Living a Spiritual Life Edited by Stuart M. Matlins 6 x 9, 456 pp, Quality PB 978-1-58023-093-3 $19.99
For more about these books, visit www.jewishlights.com
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RECENTLY PUBLISHED—Judaism / Theology / Philosophy
THE GOD WHO HATES LIES
Confronting & Rethinking Jewish Tradition By Dr. David Hartman with Charlie Buckholtz
Covenant & Conscience— A Groundbreaking Journey to the Heart of Halakha In this deeply personal look at the struggle between commitment to Jewish religious tradition and personal morality, Dr. David Hartman, the world’s leading Modern Orthodox Jewish theologian, probes the deepest questions at the heart of what it means to be a human being and a Jew. Dr. Hartman draws on a lifetime of learning, teaching and experience as a social activist to present an intellectual framework for examining covenantal theology as it is applied to religious life. As much an expression of his impassioned commitment to Jewish law as it is testament to a lifetime of intellectual questioning and courage, this bold examination of the halakhic system offers fresh insights into Judaism and the quest for spiritual nourishment. “Insightful and thought-provoking … a new, highly provocative approach to Jewish law that grapples with the place of personal morality…. Passionate, intelligent, and honest … equipped to open an important and meaningful dialogue.”
Judaism / Theology 6 x 9, 208 pp, Hardcover 978-1-58023-455-9 $24.99 Dr. David Hartman, one of the most respected theologians in the world today, is founder and president emeritus of the Shalom Hartman Institute in Jerusalem. He is author of many award-winning books, including A Living Covenant: The Innovative Spirit in Traditional Judaism ( Jewish Lights) and Maimonides: Torah and Philosophic Quest, both winners of the National Jewish Book Award; A Heart of Many Rooms: Celebrating the Many Voices within Judaism ( Jewish Lights), finalist for the National Jewish Book Award and a Publishers Weekly “Best Book of the Year”; and other books.
ALSO AVAILABLE
BY
—Publishers Weekly
“A powerful and important book for … Jews of every denomination and lifestyle who want to discover for themselves why Judaism matters. Brilliantly, boldly and creatively challenges all of us to understand that there are indeed two Torahs—the Torah of tradition and the Torah of our own lives.” —Rabbi Laura Geller, senior rabbi, Temple Emanuel of Beverly Hills
DR. DAVID HARTMAN AWARDWINNER
Translated into Spanish
Translated into Hebrew and Spanish
AWARDWINNER
A Heart of Many Rooms Celebrating the Many Voices within Judaism
A Living Covenant The Innovative Spirit in Traditional Judaism
A Publishers Weekly “Best Book of the Year” Finalist, National Jewish Book Award
Winner, National Jewish Book Award 6 x 9, 368 pp, Quality PB 978-1-58023-011-7 $25.00
Love and Terror in the God Encounter The Theological Legacy of Rabbi Joseph B. Soloveitchik 6 x 9, 240 pp, Quality PB 978-1-58023-176-3 $19.95
6 x 9, 352 pp, Quality PB 978-1-58023-156-5 $19.95
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JEWISH LIGHTS PUBLISHING
To Order: 800-962-4544
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High Holy Days—PREVIOUSLY ANNOUNCED
ALL THESE VOWS—KOL NIDRE Prayers of Awe Series
Edited by Rabbi Lawrence A. Hoffman, PhD
The most memorable prayer of the Jewish New Year— what it means, why we sing it, and the secret of its magical appeal. People who attend no other services go out of their way to be present on Yom Kippur eve just to hear Kol Nidre chanted. Yet the prayer is in medieval Aramaic, which no one understands, and may not even have a translation supplied, since the prayer’s content defies moral logic. Kol Nidre is a blanket request that God hold us guiltless for vows we make and do not honor! Judaism demands, however, just the reverse. We must honor promises we make. How then did this prayer come into being? Why was it retained? How did it attract the most haunting chant in all of Jewish tradition? All These Vows—Kol Nidre examines the prayer’s theology, authorship and history through a set of lively essays, all written in accessible language by over thirty contributors who span three continents and all major Jewish denominations. They are men and women, scholars and rabbis, artists and poets. Introductory essays trace the actual history of the prayer and attempts through the ages to emend it, downplay it and even do away with it—all in vain. Kol Nidre remains despite them all, an annual liturgical highlight that is regularly attended even by Jews who disbelieve everything the prayer says.
Prayers of Awe Series An exciting new series that examines the High Holy Day liturgy to enrich the praying experience of everyone—whether experienced worshipers or guests who encounter Jewish prayer for the very first time.
ALSO AVAILABLE
IN THE
PRAYERS
OF
Judaism / High Holy Days 6 x 9, 300 pp (est), Hardcover 978-1-58023-430-6 $24.99 Avail. July 2011 Rabbi Lawrence A. Hoffman, PhD, lectures widely across the United States. He is professor of liturgy, worship and ritual at Hebrew Union College; the editor of the Prayers of Awe series and the tenvolume series My People’s Prayer Book:Traditional Prayers, Modern Commentaries, winner of the National Jewish Book Award; and coeditor of My People’s Passover Haggadah: Traditional Texts, Modern Commentaries, a finalist for the National Jewish Book Award (all Jewish Lights).
AWE SERIES
WHO BY FIRE, WHO UN’TANEH TOKEF
BY
WATER—
Prayers of Awe Series Edited by Rabbi Lawrence A. Hoffman, PhD
Explore the profound, perplexing and persuasive power of Un’taneh Tokef, one of the most beloved, prominent and controversial pieces in the Ashkenazi High Holy Day liturgy. Interact with thought-provoking and inspiring discussions on all aspects of this prayer that defies easy understanding—its moral challenge, fatalistic theology, proclamation of God’s holiness, call to human responsibility and prescription for redemption. “Look[s] at the powerful liturgy with its memorable, even haunting, tone in all its fullness—its history, authorship, legend and layers of meaning, as well as its drama and politics.” —New York Jewish Week 6 x 9, 272 pp, Hardcover, 978-1-58023-424-5 $24.99
For more about these books, visit www.jewishlights.com
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RECENTLY PUBLISHED—Judaism / Spirituality GOD
OF ME Imagining God throughout Your Lifetime By Rabbi David Lyon
The God of Abraham, God of Isaac, God of Jacob … God of me. There is no easy prescription for how to know God, yet everyone can pursue a personal relationship with God, just as our patriarchs and matriarchs did in their lives. How we come to know God, however, is unique to each of us, influenced by our study of Torah and the insights of the Rabbis of antiquity, as well as our own experiences throughout our lifetime. To open the way for you to find God’s presence in your life, Rabbi David Lyon uses the central prayer in Jewish worship, the Amidah, as a starting point, and guides you compellingly through classic Torah texts and midrash. He helps you clear away preconceived images of God from your childhood or dogmas that restrict your experience of God in personal and meaningful ways today. Combining profound teachings from Jewish sources with insights and experiences from real life, he shows how you can enjoy a unique relationship with God— the God of you, your God of me.
Judaism / Spirituality 6 x 9, 176 pp, Quality PB Original 978-1-58023-452-8 $16.99 Rabbi David Lyon is an innovative spiritual leader and educator recognized for making ancient teachings accessible in contemporary spiritual life. Senior rabbi at Congregation Beth Israel in Houston, Texas, he is vice chair of the Board of the Institute for Spirituality and Health at the Texas Medical Center and an active participant in interfaith activities.
“Shows how one’s understanding of God evolves over a lifetime, through maturity, possible struggles of faith and the challenges of modern life.” —New York Jewish Week
“Weaves intellect and imagination into the fabric of Jewish faith.” —Rabbi Harold M. Schulweis, author, Conscience: The Duty to Obey and the Duty to Disobey
“Offer[s] mature ideas for adults on the spiritual quest.” —Rabbi Judith Z. Abrams, PhD, director, Maqom
ALSO AVAILABLE “Belongs on the shelf of every serious student of Jewish thought.”
“Outstanding…. Examines … the role prayer plays in a Jew’s life both inside and outside the synagogue.”
—Rabbi Neil Gillman, PhD, author, Doing Jewish Theology: God, Torah & Israel in Modern Judaism
—New York Jewish Week
Making Prayer Real Leading Jewish Spiritual Voices on Why Prayer Is Difficult and What to Do about It By Rabbi Mike Comins 6 x 9, 320 pp, Quality PB Original 978-1-58023-417-7 $18.99
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Empowered Judaism What Independent Minyanim Can Teach Us about Building Vibrant Jewish Communities By Rabbi Elie Kaunfer Foreword by Prof. Jonathan D. Sarna 6 x 9, 224 pp, Quality PB Original 978-1-58023-412-2 $18.99
JEWISH LIGHTS PUBLISHING
Jewish Theology in Our Time A New Generation Explores the Foundations and Future of Jewish Belief Edited by Rabbi Elliot J. Cosgrove, PhD Foreword by Rabbi David J.Wolpe Preface by Rabbi Carole B. Balin, PhD 6 x 9, 240 pp, Hardcover 978-1-58023-413-9 $24.99
To Order: 800-962-4544
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Judaism / History—RECENTLY PUBLISHED
SAGE TALES
Wisdom and Wonder from the Rabbis of the Talmud By Rabbi Burton L.Visotzky
These ancient stories whisper truth to your soul. Great stories have the power to draw the heart. But certain stories have the power to draw the heart to God and awaken the better angels of our nature. Such are the tales of the rabbis of the Talmud, colorful, quirky yarns that tug at our heartstrings and test our values, ethics, morality—and our imaginations. In this collection for people of all faiths and backgrounds, Rabbi Burton Visotzky draws on four decades of telling and teaching these legends in order to unlock their wisdom for the contemporary heart. He introduces you to the cast of characters, explains their motivations and provides the historical background needed to penetrate the wise lessons often hidden within these unusual narratives. In learning how and why these oft-told tales were spun, you discover how they continue to hold value for our lives. “This chatty, friendly overture to the lessons of the Talmud … is excellent for casual readers as well as —Library Journal synagogues.” “A revelation…. A thrilling journey full of wisdom, humor and timeless lessons…. In short, Rabbi Visotzky has blessed us with a deep and lasting gift, a spectacular work that we want to read over and —Rabbi Naomi Levy, author, over again.” Hope Will Find You and To Begin Again
Also Available: Sage Tales Teacher’s Guide The Complete Teacher’s Companion to Sage Tales: Wisdom and Wonder from the Rabbis of the Talmud 81⁄2 x 11, 12 pp, PB, 978-1-58023-460-3 $8.99 Download a free copy at www.jewishlights.com.
Judaism 6 x 9, 256 pp, Hardcover 978-1-58023-456-6 $24.99 Rabbi Burton L. Visotzky has been engaging spiritual seekers with the ancient wisdom of Judaism for over forty years. He is Appleman Professor of Midrash and Interreligious Studies and director of the Louis Finkelstein Institute for Religious and Social Studies at The Jewish Theological Seminary. Dr. Visotzky consulted with Bill Moyers and was a featured participant in the PBS television series Genesis: A Living Conversation. He is a lecturer and scholar-in-residence in synagogues, churches and mosques throughout North America, and the author of nine other books, including Reading the Book: Making the Bible a Timeless Text.
Translated into Catalán, Czech, Dutch, French, German, Hebrew, Hindi, Italian, Korean, Polish, Portuguese, Romanian, Russian and Spanish
ALSO AVAILABLE
The Empty Chair Finding Hope and Joy—Timeless Wisdom from a Hasidic Master, Rebbe Nachman of Breslov Adapted by Moshe Mykoff and the Breslov Research Institute 4 x 6, 128 pp, Deluxe PB 978-1-879045-67-5 $9.99
The Seven Beggars & Other Kabbalistic Tales of Rebbe Nachman of Breslov
The Lost Princess & Other Kabbalistic Tales of Rebbe Nachman of Breslov
Translation by Rabbi Aryeh Kaplan Preface by Rabbi Chaim Kramer 6 x 9, 192 pp, Quality PB Original 978-1-58023-250-0 $16.99
Translation by Rabbi Aryeh Kaplan Preface by Rabbi Chaim Kramer 6 x 9, 400 pp, Quality PB Original 978-1-58023-217-3 $18.99
For more about these books, visit www.jewishlights.com
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RECENTLY PUBLISHED—Judaism / Politics FREEDOM JOURNEYS
The Tale of Exodus and Wilderness across Millennia By Rabbi Arthur O.Waskow and Rabbi Phyllis O. Berman
How does the story of the Exodus echo in our own generation and in our own lives?
Judaism / Passover 6 x 9, 288 pp, Hardcover 978-1-58023-445-0 $24.99 Rabbi Arthur O. Waskow, an innovative and inspiring spiritual leader and frequent speaker on the topics of Jewish life, community and social justice, is director of The Shalom Center and author of Godwrestling—Round 2: Ancient Wisdom, Future Paths;Torah of the Earth: Exploring 4,000 Years of Ecology in Jewish Thought (both Jewish Lights); Down-to-Earth Judaism and other books. Rabbi Phyllis O. Berman is co-author, with Rabbi Waskow, of A Time for Every Purpose Under Heaven:The Jewish Life-Spiral as a Spiritual Path.
The story Jews retell on Passover is about rising up against tyranny, about the triumph of the God who sides with the despised against a resplendent emperor. Exploring how this tale applies to our own time enriches the ancient account—and it expands and transforms the community for which Exodus is a collective family story. Exodus is not only the saga of the escape from slavery, but also a story of courage, celebration, rebirth and community from which people of all faith traditions have learned and can continue to learn. Calling us to relearn and rethink the Passover story, Rabbi Arthur O. Waskow and Rabbi Phyllis O. Berman share: • The enduring spiritual resonance of the Hebrews’ journey for our own time • Social justice, ecological and feminist perspectives on the Exodus • How the Passover story has been adapted and used by African American as well as Christian and Muslim communities to provide insight and inspiration. With contributions by: Dr. Vincent Harding: “Exodus in African America: A Great Camp Meeting” Dr. S. Ayse Kadayifci-Orellana: “Exodus in the Qur’an: Mercy, Compassion, and Forgiveness” Ched Myers and Russell Powell: “Exodus in the Life and Death of Jesus”
ALSO AVAILABLE BY RABBI ARTHUR O. WASKOW “Fresh, bold, insightful interpretations … eloquently invite us to remember and to rethink how our ancient mission addresses the most urgent crises humanity faces today.” —Rabbi David Saperstein, director,
AWARDWINNER
Religious Action Center of Reform Judaism
“A powerful retracing of the Exodus story that reminds us all of our obligation to move against oppression and toward freedom in our own lives and in our own —Ruth W. Messinger, president, time.” American Jewish World Service
“One of the most exciting interpretations of Exodus in contemporary Jewish literature…. Should be used at every Seder and in every synagogue in America.” —Rabbi Michael Lerner, editor, Tikkun Magazine, www.tikkun.org
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JEWISH LIGHTS PUBLISHING
Godwrestling— Round 2 Ancient Wisdom, Future Paths 6 x 9, 352 pp, Quality PB 978-1-879045-72-9 $18.95
Torah of the Earth Exploring 4,000 Years of Ecology in Jewish Thought Vol. 1: Biblical Israel/Rabbinic Judaism Vol. 2: Zionism/Eco-Judaism Vol. 1: 6 x 9, 272 pp, Quality PB Original 978-1-58023-086-5 $19.95 Vol. 2: 6 x 9, 336 pp, Quality PB Original 978-1-58023-087-2 $19.95
To Order: 800-962-4544
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Personal Growth—RECENTLY PUBLISHED
RESTORING LIFE’S MISSING PIECES
The Spiritual Power of Remembering & Reuniting with People, Places, Things & Self By Caren Goldman Foreword by Dr. Nancy Copeland-Payton
A powerful and thought-provoking look at “reunions” of all kinds as roads to remembering and re-membering ourselves. A book from SkyLight Paths, Jewish Lights’ sister imprint
Explore humankind’s timeless, universal and deeply spiritual desire to reunite for the sake of healing and wholeness. Whether we wander far from home or reminisce from our favorite armchair, people of all faiths or none whatsoever undertake journeys to remember, restore and re-member the missing pieces of our stories, psyches and souls: • Do you occasionally Google a person from your past in hopes of “catching up”? • Do you leaf through old address books to try to call someone for the first time in decades? • When you visit gravesites or memorials, can you pinpoint what drew you there? • Have you felt an urge to revisit your birthplace or travel to your ancestors’ homelands? • Do you feel compelled to attend an upcoming high school, family or other reunion? If not, why not? Delve deeply into ways that your body, mind and spirit answer the Spirit of Re-union’s calls to reconnect with people, places, things and self.
Self-Help / Spirituality 6 x 9, 208 pp, Quality PB Original 978-1-59473-295-9 $16.99 Caren Goldman, award-winning journalist and spiritual retreat leader, is author of Healing Words for the Body, Mind and Spirit: 101 Words to Inspire and Affirm, associate editor of Bible Workbench and contributing writer to www.explorefaith.org.
“A rich, profound and wide-ranging meditation on time, memory and cohering parts of the self…. Relish these pages!” —Belleruth Naparstek, author, Invisible Heroes: Survivors of Trauma and How They Heal; creator of the Health Journeys guided imagery series
ALSO AVAILABLE RECENTLY PUBLISHED IN PB
“In this highly readable text … one finds humor, reality, and encouragement. Recommended.” —Congregational Libraries Today
Happiness and the Human Spirit The Spirituality of Becoming the Best You Can Be By Abraham J.Twerski, MD 6 x 9, 176 pp, Quality PB 978-1-58023-404-7 $16.99 Hardcover, 978-1-58023-343-9 $19.99
“Amazing.… Impossible to put down.” —Association of Jewish Libraries Newsletter
Jewish Stories from Heaven and Earth Inspiring Tales to Nourish the Heart and Soul Edited by Rabbi Dov Peretz Elkins 6 x 9, 304 pp, Quality PB Original 978-1-58023-363-7 $16.99
The Bridge to Forgiveness Stories and Prayers for Finding God and Restoring Wholeness By Karyn D. Kedar 6 x 9, 176 pp, Quality PB 978-1-58023-451-1 $16.99 Hardcover, 978-1-58023-324-8 $19.99
For more about these books, visit www.jewishlights.com
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RECENTLY PUBLISHED—Judaism / Social Justice WHERE JUSTICE DWELLS
A Hands-On Guide to Doing Social Justice in Your Jewish Community By Rabbi Jill Jacobs Foreword by Rabbi David Saperstein
How can Jewish values inform our work to create a just world—and help us work together for the good of all communities?
Judaism 7 x 9, 288 pp, Quality PB Original 978-1-58023-453-5 $24.99 Rabbi Jill Jacobs is executive director of Rabbis for Human Rights–North America.Widely acknowledged as one of the leading voices in Jewish social justice, Rabbi Jacobs is also the author of There Shall Be No Needy: Pursuing Social Justice through Jewish Law and Tradition (Jewish Lights). She has been voted to the Forward newspaper’s list of fifty influential Jews, to Newsweek’s list of the fifty most influential rabbis in America, and to the Jewish Week’s list of “thirty-six under thirty-six.”
This practical guide provides ways to envision and act on your own ideals of social justice by helping you navigate through such issues as: • Creating a narrative mission statement that reflects your organization’s values • Balancing the needs of your community with those of other communities • Weighing the pros and cons of various models of social justice work (direct service, advocacy, investment and community organizing) • Expanding the impact and efficiency of your work • Locating your social justice goals and methods within the context of Jewish tradition • Maintaining the motivation and inspiration to continue your social justice work Each chapter includes a set of discussion questions to prompt reflection and conversation, as well as tips, tools, processes and forms for getting your social justice project off the ground. “Fresh and inspiring … a guide to Jewish responsibility and a restoration of classical biblical and rabbinic values in the lives of Jews today.” —Susannah Heschel, Eli Black Professor of Jewish Studies, Dartmouth College
Rabbi David Saperstein is director of the Religious Action Center of Reform Judaism. A prolific writer and speaker, he has appeared on many television news and talk shows.
ALSO AVAILABLE AWARDWINNER
“Whether religious or not, readers concerned with the culture of mindless complicity will find this volume revealing and enlightening.”
Conscience The Duty to Obey and the Duty to Disobey
—Publishers Weekly
By Rabbi Harold M. Schulweis 6 x 9, 160 pp, Quality PB 978-1-58023-419-1 $16.99 Hardcover, 978-1-58023-375-0 $19.99
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“[An] excellent examination of the Jewish response to contemporary issues of social justice.” —Publishers Weekly
There Shall Be No Needy Pursuing Social Justice through Jewish Law and Tradition
Judaism and Justice: The Jewish Passion to Repair the World
By Rabbi Jill Jacobs Foreword by Rabbi Elliot N.Dorff,PhD Preface by Simon Greer 6 x 9, 288 pp, Quality PB, 978-1-58023-425-2 $16.99 Hardcover, 978-1-58023-394-1 $21.99
JEWISH LIGHTS PUBLISHING
By Rabbi Sidney Schwarz Foreword by Ruth Messinger 6 x 9, 352 pp, Quality PB 978-1-58023-353-8 $19.99 Hardcover, 978-1-58023-312-5 $24.99
To Order: 800-962-4544
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Judaism / Children’s—RECENTLY PUBLISHED
AROUND
THE WORLD IN ONE SHABBAT Jewish People Celebrate the Sabbath Together By Durga Yael Bernhard
Take your child on a colorful adventure to share the many ways Jewish people celebrate Shabbat around the world. Shabbat Shalom! • Beginning in an old Jerusalem market Friday morning, shopping for foods to make Shabbat meals special • Setting a beautiful Sabbath table in Australia Friday afternoon • Lighting Shabbat candles with a family in Turkey • Singing zemirot with relatives in Russia • Making hamotzi as a congregation in the United States • Parading the Torah scrolls at Shabbat morning services in a synagogue in Germany • Relaxing in the peace of Shabbat day in Canada • Enjoying a special Sabbath afternoon meal in Morocco “Successfully provides an introduction to Shabbat rituals, prayers, and customs, and many vibrant Jewish communities.” —School Library Journal
For ages 3 & up
Children’s / Religion / Judaism 11 x 81⁄2, 32 pp, Hardcover 978-1-58023-433-7 $18.99 Durga Yael Bernhard has authored and illustrated many award-winning books for children.
“Child-centric….Warm, genial paintings add to an overall sense of serenity and community.The lyricism of the vignettes belies just how much information Bernhard packs into the book … an excellent —Publishers Weekly resource.”
The Kids’ Fun Book of Jewish Time By Emily Sper 9 x 71⁄2, 24 pp, Full-color illus. Hardcover, 978-1-58023-311-8 $16.99 For ages 3–6
INTERACTIVE What Makes Someone a Jew? By Lauren Seidman
“What makes a person a Jew? Is it the way that they look, or the things that they do?” For ages 3–6
10 x 81⁄2, 32 pp, Full-color photos Quality PB Original, 978-1-58023-321-7 $8.99
Translated into Spanish
ALSO AVAILABLE
For ages 4 and up
Because Nothing Looks Like God By Lawrence Kushner and Karen Kushner Full-color illus. by Dawn W. Majewski
“Empowers children to do God’s work.” –American Library Association’s Booklist 11 x 81⁄2, 32 pp, Full-color illus. Hardcover, 978-1-58023-092-6 $17.99
For more about these books, visit www.jewishlights.com
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PREVIOUSLY ANNOUNCED—Young Adults TOUGH QUESTIONS JEWS ASK, 2ND EDITION A Young Adult’s Guide to Building a Jewish Life
AWARDWINNER
For ages 11 and up
Judaism / Juvenile 6 x 9, 160 pp (est), Quality PB Original 978-1-58023-454-2 $16.99 Rabbi Edward Feinstein, a noted educator, author and speaker, is senior rabbi of Valley Beth Shalom in Encino, California.
Also Available: Tough Questions Jews Ask Teacher’s Guide The Complete Leader’s Guide to Tough Questions Jews Ask: A Young Adult’s Guide to Building a Jewish Life 81⁄2 x 11, 72 pp, PB, 978-1-58023-187-9 $8.95
By Rabbi Edward Feinstein
What your rabbi probably has never told you, but could—if you’d only ask. Updated and expanded! In Judaism we’re allowed to ask questions. We are invited to ask them. But for young people, it often feels as if no one is willing to take tough questions about religion, ourselves and the world seriously. Tough Questions Jews Ask turns that all around. With honesty, humor and respect, Rabbi Edward Feinstein tackles topics as diverse as: • Why does God let terrible things happen? • What is God anyway? • If I pray for something, will I get it? • What’s the meaning of life? Is that a dumb question? • Why does religion need so many rules? • Why be Jewish? and in this new edition: • Do Jews get tattoos (and body piercings)? • I have a friend who is Muslim … is that OK? With insight and wisdom—and without pretending to have all the answers—Rabbi Feinstein encourages young people to make sense of the Jewish tradition by wrestling with what we don’t understand. “Charged with energy and insight … offers information about culture and history as well as answers to life’s most vexing questions.” —American Library Association’s Booklist
“The perfect title for young Bar/Bat Mitzvahs looking —Jewish Exponent to further understand Judaism.”
ALSO AVAILABLE AWARDWINNER
AWARDWINNER
I Am Jewish Personal Reflections Inspired by the Last Words of Daniel Pearl Edited by Judea and Ruth Pearl 6 x 9, 304 pp, Deluxe PB w/ flaps 978-1-58023-259-3 $18.99
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Translated into French
Winner, National Jewish Book Award
“Shares both practical and spiritual suggestions for bringing God and significance back to each stage of the bar or bat mitzvah.” —American Library Association’s Booklist
Rabbi Harvey vs. the Wisdom Kid: A Graphic Novel of Dueling Jewish Folktales in the Wild West By Steve Sheinkin 6 x 9, 144 pp, Full-color illus. Quality PB Original 978-1-58023-422-1 $16.99
JEWISH LIGHTS PUBLISHING
Putting God on the Guest List, 3rd Ed. How to Reclaim the Spiritual Meaning of Your Child’s Bar or Bat Mitzvah By Rabbi Jeffrey K. Salkin Foreword by Rabbi Sandy Eisenberg Sasso 6 x 9, 224 pp, Quality PB, 978-1-58023-222-7 $16.99 Hardcover, 978-1-58023-260-9 $24.99
To Order: 800-962-4544
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Spirituality / Nature—PREVIOUSLY ANNOUNCED
FLY FISHING—THE SACRED ART Casting a Fly as a Spiritual Practice By Rabbi Eric Eisenkramer and Rev. Michael Attas, MD
We go fly fishing to catch fish, to experience the rush of adrenaline when a trout rises to the surface, grabs the fly and the line goes taut. But the fly line is more than a way to connect human beings to fish. Each cast of the fly line connects us to nature, to others and to the Divine Presence. In this unique exploration of fly fishing as a spiritual practice, a rabbi and an Episcopal priest spend a day with you on the river, illuminating what each step on a fly-fishing trip has to teach us about reflection, awe and wonder of the natural world, the benefits of solitude, the blessing of community and the search for the Divine. Tapping the wisdom in each of their traditions, they outline seven steps of a typical flyfishing trip and the lessons found within: • The Off-Season and Fly Tying: Anticipation and Preparation • The Drive to the River: Unplugging from the World • Wading into the Stream: Finding Our Place in Nature • Fly Casting: Searching for God at the End of the Line • Setting the Hook: Life and Death on the Stream • The Drive Home: Contemplation and Reflection • “It Was This Big”: Sharing Our Stories This fly-fishing excursion is for people of all faiths and all levels of fly-fishing experience—or none. Includes a helpful resource section, “Getting Started,” guiding first-time anglers through the basics of fly rod and fishing gear, casting a fly, places to fly fish and suggested readings and websites.
A book from SkyLight Paths, Jewish Lights’ sister imprint
Capture the spiritual potential inherent in every cast of the fly rod.
Sports / Fishing / Spirituality 51⁄2 x 81⁄2, 192 pp (est), Quality PB Original 978-1-59473-299-7 $16.99 Avail. October 2011 Authors’ Home Areas: New York City; Waco,TX; Basalt, CO Rabbi Eric Eisenkramer is creator of The Fly Fishing Rabbi: A Blog about Trout, God and Religion, and a contributor to Trout magazine and Reform Judaism magazine. He is the spiritual leader of Temple Shearith Israel in Ridgefield, Connecticut. Rev. Michael Attas, MD, an avid fly fisher for over forty years, is assisting priest at St. Paul’s Episcopal Church in Waco, Texas, a practicing cardiologist, professor of medical humanities at Baylor University, and columnist for the Waco Tribune Herald. During the summer months, he works as a volunteer fly-fishing guide in Colorado.
ALSO AVAILABLE AWARDWINNER
“Compelling…. Commands an active read, with pen in hand.” —Jewish Book World
SLP Claiming Earth as Common Ground The Ecological Crisis through the Lens of Faith By Rabbi Andrea Cohen-Kiener Foreword by Rev. Sally Bingham 6 x 9, 192 pp, Quality PB Original 978-1-59473-261-4 $16.99
The Way Into Judaism and the Environment By Jeremy Benstein, PhD 6 x 9, 288 pp, Quality PB 978-1-58023-368-2 $18.99 Hardcover, 978-1-58023-268-5 $24.99
“For those who love nature and know little about Judaism, and those who love Judaism but know little about wilderness, Comins’s message is clear: one need not choose between the two to find potential, promise and fulfillment.”
A Wild Faith Jewish Ways into Wilderness,Wilderness Ways into Judaism
—Publishers Weekly
By Rabbi Mike Comins Foreword by Nigel Savage 6 x 9, 240 pp, Quality PB, 978-1-58023-316-3 $16.99
For more about these books, visit www.jewishlights.com
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978-1-58023-205-0
7 x 9, 272 pp, Quality PB Original
978-1-58023-335-4
$16.99
“Should be warmly received by most Jewish congregations and readers, as well as interested non-Jewish readers.” —Library Journal
—Jewish Book World
See p. 15 for more information.
Hardcover, 978-1-58023-271-5
RECENTLY PUBLISHED IN PB
6 x 9, 400 pp, Quality PB, 978-1-58023-437-5
Edited by Rabbi Lawrence A. Hoffman, PhD $24.99 “Earnestly tangl[es] with the meaning of this particular prayer…. Raw, revealing, honest, and even profound.”
978-1-58023-396-5
By Rabbi Kerry M. Olitzky
—Library Journal RECENTLY PUBLISHED IN PB
$19.99
41⁄2 x 61⁄2, 368 pp, Quality PB Original
$19.99
“Offers diverse and thoughtful reflection….Very accessible and quite enjoyable.”
6 x 9, 368 pp, Quality PB, 978-1-58023-438-2
978-1-58023-424-5
6 x 9, 272 pp, Hardcover
—American Library Association’s Booklist
By Rabbi Goldie Milgram
A framework for understanding the powerful and often unexplained intellectual, emotional and spiritual tools essential for a lively, relevant and fulfilling Jewish spiritual practice.
Edited by Rabbi Elyse Goldstein
HC $34.95
“The ideas raised are worthy of discussion and the writing is uniformly high in quality. The women rabbis give new life to ancient sisters.”
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$19.99
Pays careful attention to both traditional and emerging practices across the full spectrum of Jewish life. 6 x 9, 560 pp, Quality PB, 978-1-58023-371-2
Hardcover, 978-1-58023-076-6
6 x 9, 496 pp, Quality PB, 978-1-58023-370-5
Edited by Rabbi Elyse Goldstein PB $19.99
By Rabbi Goldie Milgram
Edited by Rabbi Dov Peretz Elkins Section Introductions from Arthur Green’s These Are the Words PB $19.99 each
JEWISH LIGHTS PUBLISHING
HC $24.99
978-1-58023-426-9
$18.95
Easy-to-use classic spiritual sourcebook. Resources for every aspect of the celebration.
6 x 9, 256 pp, Hardcover
By Dr. Ron Wolfson
7 x 9, 320 pp, Quality PB Original
978-1-58023-122-0
7 x 9, 240 pp, Illus., Quality PB Original
FOR THE CYCLE OF THE JEWISH YEAR THIS FALL
By Dr. Louis E. Newman Foreword by Rabbi Harold M. Schulweis; Preface by Rabbi Karyn D. Kedar $24.99 “Perfect for reading in daily doses … eloquently [explains] the components of the teshuvah process,and [the] factors that people encounter and struggle with.” —Jewish Book World
To Order: 800-962-4544
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Contents—New Books
RECENTLY PUBLISHED
THE TORAH REVOLUTION Fourteen Truths That Changed the World / Hammer
BESTSELLING BACKLIST BY CATEGORY 1
THE SABBATH SOUL Mystical Reflections on the Transformative Power of Holy Time / Fishbane
2
MASKING AND UNMASKING OURSELVES Interpreting Biblical Texts on Clothing & Identity / Cohen 3 THE MITZVAH PROJECT BOOK Making Mitzvah Part of Your Bar/Bat Mitzvah … and Your Life / Suneby/Heiman
4
DISCOVERING JEWISH MEDITATION, 2ND EDITION Instruction & Guidance for Learning an Ancient Spiritual Practice / Gefen
5
PROVERBS Annotated & Explained / Shapiro
6
MAIMONIDES—ESSENTIAL TEACHINGS ON JEWISH FAITH AND ETHICS The Book of Knowledge and the Thirteen Principles of Faith—Annotated and Explained / Angel
7
RELIGION GONE ASTRAY What We Found at the Heart of Interfaith / Falcon/Mackenzie/Rahman
8
THE OTHER TALMUD—THE YERUSHALMI Unlocking the Secrets of The Talmud of Israel for Judaism Today / Abrams
9
JEWISH THREADS A Hands-On Guide to Stitching Spiritual Intention into Jewish Fabric Crafts / Drew/Grayson
11
PROFESSIONAL SPIRITUAL AND PASTORAL CARE A Practical Clergy and Chaplain’s Handbook / Roberts
12
13–14, 16–22
23 Bar/Bat Mitzvah 4, 22 Nature 18 Bible Study 3, 6 Passover 12 Children’s 21 Pastoral Care 7, 14 Community 16, 20 Philosophy 18, 20 Comparative Religion 8 Politics Prayer 15–16 Congregation Resources 4, 16, 22 Prayers of Awe 15 Crafts 10–11 Psychology 19 Current Affairs 20, 23 Rebbe Nachman of Breslov 17 Ecology 18, 23 Religion 1–2, 4, 6–9, 11–18, 20–24 Etiquette 12 Graphic Novels 22 Ritual/Sacred Practice 11, 13, 22 Hasidic Wisdom 2, 17 3, 19 High Holy Days 15, 24 Self-Help 20 History 7, 8, 17 Social Justice 5, 6, 23 Holidays 15, 18, 24 Spiritual Practice 2, 5–6, 10–11, Inspiration 17, 19, 24 Spirituality 13, 16, 19, 23–24 Interfaith Relations 8, 18, 23 Sports Spirituality 23 Jewish Identity 8, 9, 21–22 17, 19 Jewish Life 4, 11, 13, 22, 24 Stories 7, 9, 13, 14, 16 Judaism 1–9, 11–24 Theology 1, 24 Leadership 3, 16 Torah Commentary 24 Life Cycle 3, 4, 22, 24 Women’s Interest 15–16 Management 3 Worship 4, 22 Meditation 5 Young Adult Men’s Interest 1 Mysticism 2, 17 For more listings and categories not included in this catalog, please visit our website at www.jewishlights.com. There are many other categories of Jewish Lights books, including: Aging Fiction, Mystery, Recovery Science Fiction Business Travel Healing Death/Mourning Twelve Step Israel Depression Weddings Kabbalah Enneagram
Who Are We?
What Are We Doing?
Given our name and subject matter, the tendency is immediately to pigeonhole us as “another publisher of Jewish books.” As we are publishing books of a type that, in many cases, have not been published before, it is hard to find a simple category in which to place us. We recognize that it is also difficult to communicate this difference to a world that is used simply to categorizing things as “Jewish books” or “Judaica.” We don’t think of ourselves in either of those categories. We describe ourselves as publishing books that reflect the Jewish wisdom tradition for people of all faiths, all backgrounds. Our books really focus on the issue of the quest for the self, seeking meaning in life. They are books that help you to understand who you are and who you might become as a Jewish person, or as a person who is part of a tradition that has its roots in the Judeo-Christian world. They deal with issues of personal growth. They deal with issues of religious inspiration.
People of all faiths and backgrounds yearn for books that attract, engage, educate, and spiritually inspire. Our principal goal is to stimulate thought and help all people learn about who the Jewish People are, where they come from, and what the future can be made to hold. While people of our diverse Jewish heritage are the primary audience, our books speak to people in the Christian world as well and will broaden their understanding of Judaism and the roots of their own faith. Jewish Lights seeks out materials about the unity and community of the Jewish People and the relevance of Judaism to everyday life. To help us in these efforts, respectful of the rich diversity of the Jewish heritage, we have established an Advisory Board representing a broad range of Jewish perspectives. The Advisory Board helps seek out new material and provides insights into the publishing needs of the Jewish community. We bring to you authors who are at the forefront of spiritual thought and experience. While each has something different to say, they all say it in a voice that you can hear. Our books are designed to welcome the reader and then to engage, stimulate, and inspire. We judge our success not only by whether or not our books are beautiful and commercially successful, but by whether or not they make a difference in your life.
Jewish Lights Publishing A division of LongHill Partners, Inc. Sunset Farm Offices, Route 4, P.O. Box 237 Woodstock, Vermont 05091 Tel: (802) 457-4000 Fax: (802) 457-4004 www.jewishlights.com Find us on Facebook SkyLight Paths Publishing (www.skylightpaths.com) is a sister imprint of Jewish Lights Publishing.
I Am Jewish 22 I’m God; You’re Not 1 Jewish Family Fun Book, 2nd Ed. 11 Jewish Lights Spirituality Handbook 13 Jewish Meditation Practices for Everyday Life 5 Jewish Mysticism and the Spiritual Life 2 Jewish Pastoral Care, 2nd Ed. 12 Jewish Spiritual Direction 12 Jewish Stories from Heaven and Earth19 Jewish Theology in Our Time 16 Jewish Threads 11 Jews and Judaism in the 21st Century 9 JGirl’s Guide 4 Judaism and Justice 20 Kids’ Fun Book of Jewish Time 21 Knitting Way 10 Life’s Daily Blessings 24 Living Covenant 14 Living Jewish Life Cycle 24 Lost Princess 17 Love and Terror in the God Encounter14 Maimonides—Essential Teachings on Jewish Faith and Ethics 7 Maimonides, Spinoza and Us 7 Making Prayer Real 16 Masking and Unmasking Ourselves 3 Meditation from the Heart of Judaism 5 Mitzvah Project Book 4 Modern Jews Engage the New Testament 8 Modern Men’s Torah Commentary 1 Moses and the Journey to Leadership 3 Other Talmud—The Yerushalmi 9 Painting Path 10 Professional Spiritual and Pastoral Care 12 Proverbs 6
Putting God on the Guest List, 3rd Ed. 22 Quilting Path 10 Rabbi Harvey vs. the Wisdom Kid 22 Reclaiming Judaism as a Spiritual Practice 24 Religion Gone Astray 8 Repentance 24 Restoring Life’s Missing Pieces 19 Rituals & Practices of a Jewish Life 11 Rosh Hashanah Readings 24 Sabbath Soul 2 Sacred Art of Lovingkindness 6 Sage Tales 17 Sage Tales Teacher’s Guide 17 Scrapbooking Journey 10 Self, Struggle & Change 3 Seven Beggars 17 Shabbat, 2nd Ed. 11 Soulwork of Clay 10 Tanya, the Masterpiece of Hasidic Wisdom 2 There Shall Be No Needy 20 Torah of the Earth 18 Torah Revolution 1 Tough Questions Jews Ask, 2nd Ed. 4, 22 Voices from Genesis 3 Way Into Judaism and the Environment 23 Way Into the Varieties of Jewishness 9 Way Into Torah 1 What Makes Someone a Jew? 21 Where Justice Dwells 20 Who by Fire, Who by Water— Un’taneh Tokef 15, 24 Wild Faith 23 Wisdom of Judaism 9 Women’s Haftarah Commentary 24 Women’s Torah Commentary 24 Yom Kippur Readings 24
New Books and Release Months JULY
OCTOBER
Proverbs
Jewish Threads
Annotated & Explained
A Hands-On Guide to Stitching Spiritual Intention into Jewish Fabric Crafts
Translation and Annotation by Rabbi Rami Shapiro (see p. 6)
AUGUST Discovering Jewish Meditation, 2nd Edition Instruction & Guidance for Learning an Ancient Spiritual Practice By Nan Fink Gefen (see p. 5)
The Mitzvah Project Book Making Mitzvah Part of Your Bar/Bat Mitzvah … and Your Life By Liz Suneby and Diane Heiman Foreword by Rabbi Jeffrey K. Salkin Preface by Rabbi Sharon Brous (see p. 4)
By Diana Drew with Robert Grayson (see p. 11)
Maimonides—Essential Teachings on Jewish Faith and Ethics The Book of Knowledge and the Thirteen Principles of Faith—Annotated and Explained Translation and Annotation by Rabbi Marc D. Angel, PhD (see p. 7)
Masking and Unmasking Ourselves Interpreting Biblical Texts on Clothing & Identity
Religion Gone Astray What We Found at the Heart of Interfaith By Rabbi Ted Falcon, Pastor Donald Mackenzie and Imam Jamal Rahman (see p. 8)
The Sabbath Soul Mystical Reflections on the Transformative Power of Holy Time By Eitan Fishbane, PhD (see p. 2)
The Torah Revolution Fourteen Truths That Changed the World By Rabbi Reuven Hammer, PhD (see p. 1)
NOVEMBER The Other Talmud— The Yerushalmi
By Dr. Norman J. Cohen (see p. 3)
Unlocking the Secrets of The Talmud of Israel for Judaism Today
Professional Spiritual and Pastoral Care
By Rabbi Judith Z. Abrams, PhD (see p. 9)
A Practical Clergy and Chaplain’s Handbook
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Index—New and Selected Backlist All These Vows—Kol Nidre 15 Around the World in One Shabbat 21 Beading—The Creative Spirit 10 Because Nothing Looks Like God 21 Book of Jewish Sacred Practices 13 Bridge to Forgiveness 19 Christians & Jews—Faith to Faith 8 Claiming Earth as Common Ground 23 Conscience 20 Contemplative Crochet 10 Discovering Jewish Meditation, 2nd Ed. 5 Ecclesiastes 6 Empowered Judaism 16 Empty Chair 17 Ethics of the Sages 7 Fly Fishing—The Sacred Art 23 For Kids—Putting God on Your Guest List, 2nd Ed. 4 Foundations of Sephardic Spirituality 7 Freedom Journeys 18 Getting to the Heart of Interfaith 8 God of Me 16 God Upgrade 13 God Was in This Place & I, i Did Not Know 13 God Who Hates Lies 14 Godwrestling—Round 2 18 Handbook of Jewish Meditation Practices 5 Hanukkah, 2nd Ed. 24 Happiness and the Human Spirit 19 Hasidic Tales 2 Heart of Many Rooms 14 Hebrew Prophets 6 Hineini in Our Lives 3 How to Be a Perfect Stranger, 5th Ed. 12
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New & Recently Published Books & Selected Backlist