Softcover
6.5" x 9.5"
428 Pages
Written by: Pinchas Taylor
Published by: Feldheim
For too long, shluchim and educators have struggled to find a book to recommend to those looking for a solid introduction to Jewish thought. A book has just been published that will now satisfy this need! Pillars of Faith, by Rabbi Pinchas Taylor, director of Adult Education and Outreach of Chabad of Plantation, Florida, has something that is sure to please all palates, whether a beginner exploring Judaism for the first time or a well-seasoned Torah student. In it’s over 400 pages, Rabbi Taylor methodically explains a reasonable approach to why we believe and do the things we do as Jews. A logical approach to G-d, evolution, evil and suffering, the Torah’s divinity, the soul, the afterlife, kashrus and Shabbos, Moshiach and resurrection, are just a few of the topics of which the reader will gain a comprehensive understanding. This book stands out head and shoulders from other books of its kind with its readable, well-organized contents, meticulous attention to detail, and its overarching Chassidic perspective. The broad range of references will appeal to all people across the Jewish spectrum. In addition, it will provide any educator with the source material to prepare in-depth, interesting, and enlightening shiurim on the subjects within. With over 1100 footnotes and sources, the door is wide open for further exploration on any of its contents. This is one of those books that belong in everyone’s home.
In times past, the average Jewish person was born in a shtetl, a small Jewish town,with a local kosher baker and fish market,with pious people in the study halls, and a Rabbi who knew both you (and your grandparents) by name. The spirit of the next holiday permeated the air. Life was rich. People were sincere. Jewish knowledge was simply absorbed from daily life. Tradition was cherished.
In our own times, the shtetl walls have come down. In Western society, Jewish beliefs and customs are largely ignored - and sometimes scorned. These days, nothing is automatic. Individuals must make their own choices and ask themselves:Does Judaism make sense? Can a modern, thinking person identify with traditional Judaism?
In this remarkable book, Jewish belief is explained clearly and logically, for both the beginner and scholar, using a wide variety of both ancient and modern sources.This fascinating book shows that there is a rational way of understanding traditional Jewish values.
Review
Your book, Pillars of Faith, will enlighten the understanding of all who follow the laws of the Torah, and serve as a source of knowledge and inspiration for those who are seeking a life of truth. --Rabbi Shmuel Kamenetsky
… an invaluable aid to introduce one to the foundations of Jewish belief and also to inspire and strengthen the faith of those already on the Torah path. --Rabbi Zev Leff
Impressive… clear and logical explanations of many difficult and complicated subjects. --Rabbi Gedalia Dov Schwartz
About the Author
From an early age, Pinchas Taylor showed a particular interest in history and science. A top student, he decided to pursue the path to the rabbinate. After graduating from the Rabbinical College of America, he completed his formal rabbinic studies in Los Angeles, CA, and began teaching and counseling people in addiction recovery. After expanding Jewish educational and outreach activities in several communities around the globe, he and his wife Miriam returned to teach at the Rabbinical College of America. In 2010, the Taylors moved to south Florida, where Rabbi Taylor serves as the Director of Adult Education and Outreach at the Chabad of Plantation. His regular Monday night lectures in Jewish Thought are very popular, and his writings and classes can be found all over the Web. As an erudite and inspirational young scholar, Rabbi Taylor has become a sought-after educator and speaker. To contact him, please visit PinchasTaylor.com
