Six Jewish Spiritual Paths: A Rationalist Looks at Spirituality

I like this book a lot. It's a great way for modern Jews to explore different ways to connect with Judaism.

Very readable and filled with many concrete examples of how others, not just rabbis, found their own paths to spirituality.You can read this book in sections, based upon your own interests as well as read it in its entirety. All religious jargon is succinctly explained to a lay person.

I was impressed by this book for many reasons. It is one of the few which I have read that present the wide variety of ways to be Jewish in the modern world. Sonsino does not address the usual distinctions of Orthodox, Reform, Conservative, Reconstructionist, Jewish Renewal, etc. He focuses rather on one's way of approaching life, of living in the world. Some people prefer to study, others to pray either in a group or individually. Still others meditate. Many define their sense of being Jewish through social activism. What Sonsino does is show us, in lucid, elegant, yet accessible prose, is that these are ALL authentic ways to be Jewish, with deep roots in the tradition. Moreover, he does not allow his own predilections to influence him away from carefully and respectfully describing those Jewish practices which are not "his cup of tea." In fact, until he reveals his own spiritual path, you are unaware of which one he is traveling down. I highly recommend the book for Jews who are seeking spiritual growth, and for non-Jews who want to understand more fully their Jewish friends and neighbors.