These Words Upon Our Heart: A Lexicon of Judaism and World Religions

Each chapter of These Words Upon Our Heart focuses on one of these Hebrew words central to Judaism. The book first explores the etymology of each word, clearly explaining the evolution it has undergone throughout the centuries and its role in Jewish thought and belief. The ideas behind these key words are then compared and contrasted with corresponding words and concepts in a wide variety of other religions from around the world, including Christianity, Islam, Buddhism, Hinduism, Native American traditions, Rastifarianism, and Zoroastrianism. Using this conceptual approach, Steinbock compares the basic tenets of faith as understood by different religious traditions. Commentary is provided by classical thinkers such as Maimonides, Hillel, and the Talmud. While reaching back to the traditional scholars, Steinbock also explores the role of myth and ritual in religious belief and practice and touches on the work of contemporary scholars like Joseph Campbell and Mircea Eliade. These Words Upon Our Heart blends history, philosophy, etymology, mythology, literature, anthropology, and comparative religion to create a fascinating study of important religious concepts. This book is appropriate for high school students and adult study. An accompanying teacher's guide is also available. Book jacket.