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New Book Helps High School Students and Adult Learners Although the Talmud and midrashic literature have been central to Jewish ethics, learning, and culture for more than a millennium, many adult and young adult learners are unfamiliar with the timeless lessons they contain. A Taste of Text, a new book published by the URJ PRESS, seeks to introduce these groups to the lessons of these Jewish masterworks, addressing sixteen topics of religious, moral, and ethical importance through key Talmudic and Midrashic passages. Written by Rabbi Ronald H. Isaacs, spiritual leader of Temple Sholom in Bridgewater, NJ, and adjunct lecturer of professional and pastoral skills at the Jewish Theological Seminary, A Taste of Text enables students to read, investigate, and question texts that may once have seemed daunting or inaccessible. "The love of learning has always dominated our faith," writes Isaacs, author of The Jewish Book of Etiquette and Every Person's Guide to Jewish Prayer. "It is through study of text that we learn how to lead a moral and ethical life-a life that cares for the needs of other people and reflects our continuing partnership with God." Each of the sixteen chapters in A Taste of Text focuses on one important issue, and begins with an original talmudic or midrashic tale, with original Hebrew text running alongside an English translation. A section providing background material edifies the text and makes it more understandable, while two additional sections, "What Does Judaism Say?" and "Notable Quotations," give readers a sampling of ancient and modern quotations and readings related to the chapter topic. Finally, a page or two of study questions provide students with ideas for discussion and debate. "A Taste of Text is a truly valuable resource," says Rabbi Jan Katzew, Director of the UAHC's Department of Lifelong Jewish Learning. "By illustrating how the Talmud and Midrash relate to important contemporary issues, such as honoring one's parents, ecology, and caring for the sick and elderly, Isaacs gives learners an important introduction to some of the most sacred and important texts of the Jewish tradition." Topics covered in A Taste of Text include hospitality, care of the body, parent-child relationships, ecology, and many more. A Taste Of Text is available in paperback and retails for $12.95. It can be purchased by contacting the URJ PRESS toll-free at 888.489.8242, press@urj.org, or visiting the URJ PRESS Web site at www.URJPress.com. The URJ PRESS is the book-publishing arm of the Union of American Hebrew Congregations, the synagogue arm of the Reform Movement in North America. Uniting more than 1.5 million Reform Jews in 900 congregations across the United States and Canada, UAHC programs and services include music and book publishing, adult education opportunities, outreach to unaffiliated and intermarried Jews, and the Religious Action Center in Washington, DC. ### 10/03
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