From Library Journal
Davis (The Way of the Flame, HarperCollins, 1996) has compiled 22 essays on meditation by Jewish leaders, teachers, and writers such as Lawrence Kushner, Rami Shapiro, Nan Fink, Edward Hoffman, and others. These thinkers discuss issues of interest to the Jewish lay reader: traditional background, meditative approaches and techniques, obstacles to practice, and the importance of attitude. Davis summarizes the basics in the final chapter, noting that because it did not spring from a monastic tradition, the essence of Jewish meditation lies largely in a concern with everyday life. A worthwhile addition to the growing number of books on Jewish spirituality.Copyright 1998 Reed Business Information, Inc.


From Booklist
After years of being virtually ignored, the practice of Jewish meditation is now coming into its own. This collection of anecdotes and advice from 22 Jewish meditators (including Lawrence Kushner and Lynn Gottlieb on women and the Kabbalah) covers the whys and hows of meditation, and equally important, the contributors are honest about the obstacles to meditation, mostly boredom. Editor Davis' commonsensical piece (which would have made a good introduction rather than appearing in the middle of the book) is especially good for those just delving into the topic. Naturally, with so many scholars and rabbis having their say, some of the information included here seems contradictory; on the other hand, there is something for everyone interested in the discipline and plenty of suggestions for people who wish to begin. Ilene Cooper


Rodger Kamenetz, author, Stalking Elijah and The Jew in the Lotus
"Avram Davis is a pioneer in the new art of teaching Jewish meditation....He has assembled a sparkling catalog of some of its best contemporary teachers. Their many perspectives light up facets of the holy quest for nearness to the One."


Body Mind Spirit Magazine Nov./Dec. 1997
"A treasure trove of wisdom about this important spiritual practice."


Jack Kornfield, author of A Path With Heart
"In dozens of beautiful ways this book shows how meditation can bring you home to yourself and God."

FROM THE PUBLISHER

This inspiring yet practical introduction to Jewish meditation approaches it in a new way: As a living experience described by today's most experienced Jewish meditators from around the world.

In their own individual voices, 22 masters of meditation-rabbis, scholars, psychologists, teachers-explain why they meditate, how they meditate, and how the meditative experience brings them closer to themselves, to God, to the universe. Equally important are their confessions about obstacles to meditation in their daily life-and how they can be overcome.

Through a detailed compendium of the experts' "Best Practices," editor Avram Davis offers readers practical advice, starting points, and direction for making meditation a source of spiritual energy in their own lives.

Meditation has been practiced for centuries in the Jewish community as a powerful tool to transcend words, personality and ego and directly experience the divine. Meditation is not, as many assume, the sole province of eastern faiths, but also a Jewish spiritual resource for today that can benefit all people.
"Engaging and informative, offering a wonderful introduction to the practice of Jewish meditation."
-Publishers Weekly

"Avram Davis is a pioneer in the new art of teaching Jewish meditation....He has assembled a sparkling catalog of some of its best contemporary teachers. Their many perspectives light up facets of the holy quest for nearness to the One."
-Rodger Kamenetz, author, Stalking Elijah and The Jew in the Lotus

"A treasure trove of wisdom about this important spiritual practice."
-Body Mind Spirit Magazine

"In dozens of beautiful ways this book shows how meditation can bring you home to yourself and God."
-Jack Kornfeld, author of A Path With Heart

FROM THE CRITICS

Library Journal