This newly revised all-encompassing textbook is a guide to the history, beliefs and practice of Judaism. Beginning with the ancient Near Eastern background, it covers early Israelite history, the emergence of classical rabbinic literature and the rise of medieval Judaism in Islamic and Christian lands. It also includes the early modern period and the development of Jewry in the nineteenth and twentieth centuries. Extracts from primary sources are used throughout to enliven the narrative and provide concrete examples of the rich variety of Jewish civilization. Specially designed to assist learning, Judaism:•Introducestexts and commentaries, including the Hebrew Bible, rabbinic texts, mystical literature, Jewish philosophy and Jewish theology•Providesthe skills necessary to understand these step-by-step with the help of a companion website•Explainshow to interpret the major events in nearly four thousand years of Jewish history•Supportsstudy with discussion questions on the central historical and religious issues, and includes key reading for each chapter, an extensive glossary and index•Illustratesthe development of Judaism, its concepts, observances and culture, with maps, photos, paintings and engravings•Linkseach chapter to a free companion website at www. routledge. com/cw/cohnsherbok which provides things to think about, things to do and tips for teachers as well as other online resources | Judaism by Dan Cohn-Sherbok, Paperback | Indigo Chapters