Judaism: A Guide for Christians

An innovative introduction to Judaism and the Jewish people for Christian readers

In this fascinating and highly original book, Tzvi Novick introduces readers to foundational features of Jewish theology by explaining its similarities to and differences from Christian theology. Novick also leads readers through the major milestones of Christian teaching about Jews and Judaism, devoting particular attention to contemporary teachings and unsettled questions. Each chapter includes helpful recommendations for further reading as well as detailed discussion questions, making the book an outstanding resource for teaching.

In the introduction, Novick eloquently conveys why a book like this is needed: ＂If Christians take themselves to have, in some sense, a common destiny with the Jewish people, then they should understand who these fellow travelers are. . . . If the Church is committed to the notion that God’s covenant with the Jewish people endures, then Jewish responses to God can in principle be an important source of theological insight for Christians themselves.＂ This is a beautifully written book that contributes richly to interfaith dialogue and understanding.

Tzvi Novick is the Abrams Jewish Thought and Culture Professor of Theology at the University of Notre Dame. His publications include An Introduction to the Scriptures of Israel: History and Theology and Piyyuṭ and Midrash: Form, Genre, and History.