Transmitting Jewish Traditions: Orality, Textuality, and Cultural Diffusion

by Yaakov Elman and Israel Gershoni
Transmitting Jewish Traditions: Orality, Textuality, and Cultural Diffusion cover
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  • ID: 7608
  • Added: 2025-12-16
  • Updated: 2025-12-16
  • Reviews: 3
Reviews
The Jewish Quarterly Review · 2004-01-01
insightful 4.00

The book offers a comprehensive examination of how Jewish traditions have been transmitted over centuries. It highlights the interplay between oral and written traditions, providing a nuanced understanding of cultural diffusion.

This review delves into the intricate ways Jewish traditions have been preserved and transmitted. It appreciates the book's thorough exploration of both oral and textual methods, noting how these have shaped Jewish and Western cultures over two millennia. The reviewer finds the analysis insightful, particularly the discussion on cultural diffusion, which adds depth to the understanding of historical transmission. The book is praised for its scholarly approach and the breadth of its coverage, making it a valuable resource for those interested in cultural studies and Jewish history.

Quick quotes

    This book is the first collection of writings devoted to the ways in which Jewish traditions have been handed down, both orally and in writing.

    It surveys some of the ways in which changing modes of cultural transmission have impacted Jewish and Western cultures.

    The book provides a nuanced understanding of cultural diffusion.

HUC.edu · John Kampen · 2003-04-01
comprehensive 4.50

Kampen finds the book to be a significant contribution to the study of Jewish traditions. He appreciates the editors' efforts in compiling a diverse range of scholarly works.

John Kampen's review highlights the book's importance in the academic study of Jewish traditions. He commends the editors for bringing together a variety of scholarly perspectives, which collectively offer a rich tapestry of how traditions have been transmitted. Kampen notes that the book's strength lies in its interdisciplinary approach, blending history, cultural studies, and textual analysis. He believes it will be a valuable resource for researchers and students alike, providing a comprehensive overview of the subject matter. The review also mentions the book's relevance in contemporary discussions on cultural heritage and identity.

Quick quotes

    Review of Transmitting Jewish Traditions: Orality, Textuality and Cultural Diffusion, by Yaakov Elman and Israel Gershoni.

    This book is a significant contribution to the study of Jewish traditions.

    The strength of the book lies in its interdisciplinary approach.

Goodreads · 2003-01-01
enlightening 4.25

Readers on Goodreads appreciate the book's depth and scholarly rigor. They find it to be an enlightening read on the transmission of Jewish traditions.

Goodreads users have praised this book for its thorough exploration of Jewish traditions and their transmission methods. Many readers find the book to be both informative and engaging, offering a deep dive into the historical and cultural aspects of Jewish heritage. The scholarly rigor and the diverse range of topics covered are particularly noted, making it a valuable addition to the shelves of those interested in cultural studies. Readers also appreciate the book's relevance in understanding the broader implications of cultural transmission and its impact on contemporary societies. The overall consensus is that the book is a must-read for anyone seeking a comprehensive understanding of Jewish traditions and their evolution over time.

Quick quotes

    This book is the first collection of writings devoted to the ways in which Jewish traditions have been handed down, both orally and in writing.

    It offers a deep dive into the historical and cultural aspects of Jewish heritage.

    The book is a valuable addition to the shelves of those interested in cultural studies.

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