From Library Journal
With his typical grace and sparkling wit, Talmudic master and rabbi Steinsaltz explores in these collected essays topics ranging from the nature of Jewish identity and the character of the state of Israel to interpretations of the five megillot (Ruth, Song of Songs, Ecclesiastes, Lamentations, and Esther). Included here are two interviews that provide glimpses into the intensity that marks the life and work of this great teacher. Highly recommended.Copyright 1995 Reed Business Information, Inc.

Language Notes
Text: English (translation)
Original Language: Hebrew

FROM THE PUBLISHER

On Being Free is a collection of illuminating essays written by one of the leading rabbis of the twentieth century. In this new volume Rabbi Adin Steinsaltz explores such topics as the fate of the Jewish people, the causes of assimilation, sin and atonement, and mysticism. He also devotes a section of the book to a study of the five Megillot of the Bible, drawing out the messages these Megillot contain for the modern Jew. The reader also has the unique opportunity of listening in on two candid conversations in which Rabbi Steinsaltz highlights the role of divine revelation in Judaism, unravels the secret of the tenacity of the Jewish religion, and discusses the steps man must take in order to truly "hear" God. Those familiar with the work of Adin Steinsaltz will once again be delighted to find that many of his essays that have formerly been published in a variety of sources - as well as many unpublished works - are now together in one volume. Readers will encounter in this book a master teacher who, while deeply rooted in the most traditional form of Judaism, is extremely effective at shedding light on the meaning of Jewish existence for the newcomer. On Being Free serves as an important forum for one of the great Jewish teachers of our time.

FROM THE CRITICS

Library Journal