Basic Judaism by Milton Steinberg

Basic Judaism is a comprehensive introduction to the fundamental aspects of the Jewish faith. It explores the rich history, core beliefs, and daily practices that have shaped Judaism over centuries. This classic guide provides a clear and accessible overview, making it an invaluable resource for both beginners and those looking to deepen their understanding. The book delves into the spiritual and cultural dimensions of Judaism, offering insights into its rituals, traditions, and ethical teachings. It is designed to be an easy-to-follow reference, helping readers navigate the complexities of Jewish thought and practice. Whether you are new to Judaism or seeking to refresh your knowledge, this book serves as an essential companion.

Reviews

Goodreads · 2025-12-20

praiseworthy 4.00

The book is highly praised for its presentation of essential Judaism. It is described as concise and elegant, making it a valuable resource for understanding the religion.

Goodreads reviewers consistently highlight Rabbi Milton Steinberg's Basic Judaism as one of the best presentations of essential Judaism. The book is praised for its concise and elegant style, making it an accessible and insightful read. Reviewers appreciate the book's ability to distill the essential elements of Judaism, making it a valuable resource for both scholars and general readers. The book is seen as a comprehensive overview of Judaism, offering a clear and coherent understanding of the religion.

Quick quotes

Rabbi Milton Steinberg's Basic Judaism is one of the best presentations of essential Judaism.

Concise and elegant, this is a book about the essential elements of Judaism.

The book is a valuable resource for both scholars and general readers.

Commentary Magazine · Irving Kristol · 1948-01-18

informative 4.00

The book is praised for its fair and objective reporting of the differences within Judaism. It is seen as a valuable resource for understanding the common denominator of Judaism throughout history.

Irving Kristol highlights that Rabbi Milton Steinberg's Basic Judaism is a commendable effort to present a balanced view of the various differences within Judaism. The book is noted for its fairness and objectivity in discussing creedal and ritual differences. Kristol appreciates the book's ability to distill the essential elements of Judaism, making it a valuable resource for those seeking a deeper understanding of the religion. The book is seen as particularly useful in an uncomfortable world, offering a comfortable and comprehensive overview of Judaism.

Quick quotes

In writing this book, Rabbi Steinberg has tried to be fair and objective in reporting the various differences, creedal and ritual, within the body of Israel.

Basic Judaism is a valuable resource for understanding the common denominator of Judaism throughout history.

The book offers a comfortable and comprehensive overview of Judaism in an uncomfortable world.

The New York Times · 1948-01-18

balanced 4.00

The book is commended for its calm appraisal of the persistent elements of Judaism. It is seen as a concise and elegant presentation of essential Judaism.

The New York Times review praises Rabbi Milton Steinberg's Basic Judaism for its calm and balanced appraisal of the common denominator of all the persistent elements of Judaism throughout its history. The book is described as concise and elegant, making it an accessible and insightful read. The review highlights the book's ability to present essential Judaism in a clear and coherent manner, making it a valuable resource for both scholars and general readers.

Quick quotes

In his latest work he sets out to present a calm appraisal of the common denominator of all the persistent elements of Judaism throughout its history.

Concise and elegant, this is a book about the essential elements of Judaism.

The book is a valuable resource for both scholars and general readers.

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Top 100 Jewish Books