In God's Presence: A Theological Reintroduction to Judaism - Hardcover

by Alon Goshen-Gottstein (Author)

In this landmark volume, noted Jewish scholar Alon Goshen-Gottstein offers a full-orbed treatment of the Jewish faith for today.

Goshen-Gottstein's presentation explores the history and practice of Judaism and offers a framework in which this complex religious tradition makes sense to both the insider and the outsider. Painting a composite picture of Judaism from its beginnings until today, Goshen-Gottstein draws on history, literature, theology, spirituality, and practiced religious life to craft an overview in which these different parts are appreciated as pieces of a larger whole.

Beyond the canonical foundations of the Bible and the Talmud, Goshen-Gottstein incorporates mystical sources in presenting an image of spiritually engaged Jewish practice and belief. He thus argues that Judaism is best understood as a religious tradition that seeks to uphold not only a life lived in allegiance to God's law but, more importantly, a life lived in God's presence.

Written by a senior scholar well known in Jewish, Christian, and interreligious circles, In God's Presence will appeal to Jewish and Christian academic readers, those interested in the intersection of Jewish and Christian thought, and students in introduction to Judaism courses.

Back Jacket

This book is a profound, visionary, generous, and exhilarating vision of Jewish tradition and identity.
--Rowan Williams, Archbishop of Canterbury Emeritus

"I cannot think of a finer and more comprehensive way of meeting the challenge of attaining a fuller appreciation of postbiblical Judaism."
--Cardinal Pierbattista Pizzabala, Jerusalem

"A discerning, in-depth, and clear description of Judaism past and present, together with an attractive vision for its future."
--David F. Ford, University of Cambridge (emeritus)

"With a powerful vision, a truly impressive breadth of scholarly and theological learning, and a largeness of heart, Goshen-Gottstein guides the reader through every aspect of traditional Jewish life and thought."
--Norman Fischer, former abbot, San Francisco Zen Center; founder and teacher, Everyday Zen Foundation

"A welcome addition to the library of contemporary religious thought."
--Arnold Eisen, Jewish Theological Seminary of America

"This is Jewish 'systematic theology, ' or 'faith/emunah seeking understanding, ' at its deepest and highest levels."
--Christophe Chalamet, University of Geneva

"A massive achievement--born from a lifetime of learning and spiritual devotion. Jewish and Christian readers alike will greatly benefit from it."
--Michael Fishbane, University of Chicago (emeritus)

"A God-centered approach to Jewish spirituality that is both descriptive and constructive."
--Anant Rambachan, St. Olaf's College

Author Biography

Alon Goshen-Gottstein (PhD, Hebrew University of Jerusalem) is a scholar of Jewish studies and is acknowledged as one of the world's leading figures in interreligious dialogue. He is the founder and director of the Elijah Interfaith Institute in Jerusalem. Rabbi Goshen-Gottstein served on the faculty at Tel Aviv University and was director of the Center for the Study of Rabbinic Thought, Beit Morasha College, Jerusalem.