What Do Jews Believe?: The Spiritual Foundations of Judaism

There are more than five million Jews in America, and everyone knows of many famous people in this society who are Jewish, but most people in the U.S. today probably do not know much about what Jews believe. I certainly didn't learn much about Judaism as I grew up in rural Michigan and rural Texas. David Ariel has written this volume outlining basic Jewish beliefs. The author asserts that there is a rubric of "sacred myths" that unites all Jews, and that Judaism is a set of evolving beliefs about God and life. This book lays out Jewish views on creation, humanity, ethics, good and evil, the afterlife, the Torah, and many other topics. Also discussed is the Jewish view of the Messiah and how Judaism differs from Christianity. "What Do Jews Believe" is a good, not-too-long, not-too-short volume that should satisfy non-Jews who would like to gain a basic understanding of Judaism.

This book is excellent for those who wish to understand the heart of Judaism. For the longest time, those who are not jews have greatly misunderstood the beliefs and practices of the jewish faith, leading to blood bath after blood bath. Ariel presents the variation and beauty of jewish beliefs spanning accross many centuries all the way upto to our own. His presentation is informative and concise so that it is easy to understand. A great read for anyone who is interested in Judaism or the beliefs of of jews.

This book was a simply fantastic read. I feel it really captures the development, and belief system of ancient and modern Judaism. Would recommend to anyone learning about Judaism.

I like the book because it presents belief and history across the spectrum of Jewish thought. It doesn't say some Jews believe this.. some Jews believe that. Ariel explains why Jews believe what they believe and those beliefs evolved.

The most lucid explanation of the basic ideas of Judaism I've ever read. Reccomended for the scholar and the layman. Be sure to read the ethical will to Dr. Ariel's children.