A History of Judaism - by Martin Goodman (Paperback)

Book Synopsis

A sweeping history of Judaism over more than three millennia

Judaism has preserved its distinctive identity despite the extraordinarily diverse forms and beliefs it has embodied through the centuries. Martin Goodman provides a comprehensive look at how this great religion came to be, how it has evolved from one age to the next, and how its various strains, sects, and traditions have related to each other. He takes readers from Judaism's origins in the polytheistic world of antiquity to the many varieties of Judaism today. He explains the institutions and ideas on which all forms of Judaism are based, and masterfully weaves together the different threads of doctrinal and philosophical debate that run throughout its history. A History of Judaism is a spellbinding chronicle of a vibrant religious tradition that has shaped the spiritual heritage of humankind like no other.

Review Quotes

"A magisterial work."--David Tesler, Association of Jewish Libraries

"A masterpiece."--Kirkus Reviews

"Goodman has done both Jews and non-Jews a great service with this book, encapsulating most of Jewish thought over four millennia in one extraordinarily readable volume."--Julia Neuberger, Literary Review

"Goodman's scholarship is formidable."--Daniel Beer, The Guardian

"One won't find within a single volume a more comprehensive account of Jewish religious history."--Steven Weitzman, Moment Magazine

About the Author

Martin Goodman is professor of Jewish studies at the University of Oxford, where he is former president of the Oxford Centre for Hebrew and Jewish Studies and a fellow of Wolfson College. His books include Rome and Jerusalem: The Clash of Ancient Civilizations.