Two Worlds of Judaism: The Israeli and American Experiences - Softcover

This interesting book compares the American and Israeli views of Judaism. Israelis live in a Jewish state where religion is a public matter, while American Jews are a minority in a diverse population that considers religion to be a personal choice. American Jews feel secure despite the presence of anti-Semitism, but Israelis face a constant physical threat from Arab neighbors. These factors influence the interpretation of religious doctrine and of history. Leonard Fein's Where Are We? The Inner Life of American Jews (LJ 5/15/88) and Charles E. Silberman's A Certain People: American Jews and Their Lives Today (LJ 9/15/88) examine only American Jewish culture. Liebman and Cohen's comparison of Jewish life in the United States and Israel offers new insights into the strengths and weaknesses of both cultures and a deeper understanding of the current situation in Israel. Highly recommended for all collections.
- Barbara M. Bibel, Oakland P.L., Cal.
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