Jewish-Christian Dialogue: A Jewish Justification

by David Novak

Overview

An examination of the Jewish-Christian relationship from a philosophical and theological viewpoint. Novak says that there is justification for a new relationship between Judaism and Christianity from within the Jewish religious tradition, and that this relationship is possible without triumphalism or relativism.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9780198021766
Publisher:	Oxford University Press
Publication date:	02/29/2000
Sold by:	Barnes & Noble
Format:	eBook
File size:	307 KB

About the Author

University of Virginia, Charlottesville

Editorial Reviews

Some Jewish traditionalists are opposed to a dialogue between Jews and Christians; it is to these Jews especially that Novak directs this philosophical justification for seeking a common ground between the two faiths. Yet general readers, whatever their religion, will find many strands of the argument of considerable interest. A rabbi and a professor at City University of New York, Novak surveys the theological wrangling between Jews and gentiles through the centuries. He ponders Jews' attempts to reconstruct a Jewish Jesus, assesses the threat that modern secularism poses to both faiths, and updates Jewish thinkers such as Maimonides and German translator Franz Rosenweig, one of the first 20th-century Jews to embark on a sustained dialogue with Christians. Delving deeply into scriptural, rabbinical and secular philosophical sources, Novak promotes mutual tolerance and understanding between the two faiths with the goal of helping each to fulfill its separate destiny and redemptive vision. (Sept.)

Publishers Weekly - Publisher's Weekly

"One of the finest books available on the subject. Novak is very sensitive in his understanding of 'where Christians are' in relation to Judaism, and he makes many positive suggestions for the advancement of the dialogue."—James Breckenridge, Baylor University

"This is a book from which both Jews and Christians will learn as much about their own traditions as about the other's. Highly recommended for upper-division undergraduate, graduate, and public libraries. Destined to become a classic in this sensitive and most timely area."—Choice

"A carefully worked out and clearly written argument for Jewish involvement in the Jewish-Christian conversation....It should be of as much interest to Christians as to Jews, in discussing the future of the dialogue of these faith communities in the emerging post-modern, post-Christian world."—Missiology

"Novak's blend of careful historical criticism with rigorous theological argument makes this an extremely important addition to a field too often characterized by apologetics and inter-communal politics. Essential reading for everyone interested in the theological dimensions of Jewish and Christian dialogue."—Religious Studies Review

"An impressive book and an important sign of how theologically serious and significant the dialogue has become."—The Christian Century

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