The Wisdom of Judaism

by Dov Peretz Elkins

While the Hebrew Bible (Tanakh) is the cornerstone of Judaism, it is the Talmud that provides many of the central values which Jews live by today. We find important ethical principles in the Torah and in the writings of the prophets, but the Talmud fleshes out these bare outlines with specific guidelines and lyrical admonitions regarding kindness through giving, welcoming and sharing; treating others fairly, openly and lovingly; personal values such as humility and dignity; family values regarding marriage, honoring parents, and unconditional love; teaching and learning?the methods, goals and results?and other profound words of advice for life's most intractable puzzles. In this inspiring introduction to Talmudic wisdom, readers will explore the essence of Judaism through reflections on the words of the rabbinic sages, from one of American Judaism's foremost teachers and writers.