Voices of Wisdom

Designed for the modern reader, with introductions and explanations by Francine Klagsbrun, the book deals with Jewish viewpoints, guidelines, and arguments, both ancient and modern, on every major contemporary issue: abortion and birth control, in vitro fertilization, the environment, civil disobedience, business ethics, the position of women, divorce, gossip, choosing public officials, and many other concerns. We find here ways of improving our relationship with others, getting along better with our children, protecting our bodies, and preserving our health. But equally important, these writings hold up a vision of human possibilities and open up age-old yet startling fresh perspectives on ourselves.

Easy to use, this book is also a joy to read. The voices of Judaism, alive, witty, and wise, argue with each other across thousands of years. A talmudic parable, an old folktale, and a twelfth-century lesson may be juxtaposed against the most modern debates on a given topic.