Gateway to Judaism: The What, How, And Why of Jewish Life

This book is an excellent introduction to Judaism. Excellent detail without too much on any one topic. There's a little bit on Jewish philosophy, Jewish law, life cycle events, and how Jews think of G-d. Highly recommended if you are just starting to learn about Judaism. This book explains the meaning behind Jewish rituals and fills in the numerous gaps in belief/observance that are left by afternoon Hebrew School.Also, it sure beats a Kitzur Shulchan Orech as a Bar/Bas Mitzvah present for a non-religious cousin. As Rabbi Becher observes, it makes little sense to tell a kid what order to tie their shoes in before you tell them what it is to keep Shabbos. Many have traditionally given "To Be a Jew" by Rabbi Donin or "Jewish Literacy" by Rabbi Telushkin as the more modern equivalent of the Kitzur Shulchan Orech, but it seems this book is a better choice.I had the privilege of hearing Rabbi Becher lecture at Ohr Somayach. He is funny, approachable, and a great teacher-three things that oftentimes do not go hand-in-hand. I've known too many Rabbis considered great speakers due to being funny, but found them lacking in their ability to truly teach and/or too aloof when you approach them to speak one-on-one. Rabbi Becher's voice comes through perfectly in this book, and having spoken to him one-on-one at Yeshiva, heard him speak, and listened to his tapes, I can say he is a great teacher. If you are just starting out to learn about Judaism, buy this book. It will be the best investment of your life (before you plunk down $1800 for an Artscroll Shas). And if you are already frum, this book is a great refresher and you will either (A) pick up pieces of knowledge you didn't already know or (B) learn better ways to explain things you've known since birth if you're FFB.I also recommend, "After the Return" by Rabbi Becher. It's a great guide to those halachic issues that you won't find in many seforim involving integration of a BT into society.

I loved reading this book ... it tugged at my emotions and gave me new perspectives on God, life, and everything in between. Judaism is so beautiful, but books rendering it are often tedious; not this one. Of all the books I've read on Judaism (I've started 6, but finished only 4), this is by far my favorite. Every time I re-read a section, I learn something new. The explanations are often brief, precise, but well-stated and thorough.The beginning starts differently than any other book on Judaism - with marriage TWO BECOME ONE - just like in the beginning there was Adam and Eve. He explains how we are incomplete until we find our other half.The first section of the book renders the "cycle of life" and the holidays (the yearly cycle). The next section is about the Torah and the Land. The third section is about the Jewish persona (modesty in dress and material things), eating for health, physically and spiritually, and character (behavior). The next section is on Thought, the next Speech, and recommended further reading.So he makes the book about you, not about Judaism as a learning subject ... his rendition really enabled me as a reader to feel Jewish.

My fionce and I were lended this book from a confidant in anticipation of our wedding. We liked it so much and felt it was so concise, to the point, and powerful enough that we decided to buy our own copy and give the borrowed copy back. We often read it before bed each night and have learned a great deal even though we both have varying levels of understanding of Judaism at varied education levels. I would highly recommend this to everyone who feels like they want to get back to the foundations of Jewish tradition and "what its all about" or someone who never learned before. Its not a how-to but it does cover everything and explains it. I never knew the traditions and explanations about the Hebrew calendar as one example. I highly recommend this book.

The Ḥakham Mordecai ben Nisan's writing on Karaite and Rabbanite Beliefs has significantly formed my personal views on Judaism. Now I have a great alternative source.

This is a wonderful thorough explanation of many and rituals of Judaism Rabbi Becher expands on his lectures in a straightforward manner An excellent introduction and explanation of the why and the what

As somebody who grew up completely secular, I can honestly say that, out of all the books that I'd read about Judaism (and there's many), this is by far the best one. More importantly, it's written in a style that is sure to keep the reader entertained, as well as clear and easy enough for anybody, regardless of background, to understand -from those of us who want to reconnect with our roots, to the curious-minded who are simply looking for a good introduction to Judaism. A definite must-read.

Luv the Book and Very much Enjoy watching the Rabbi on JBS !, Thank You !!!

The cover was torn some. Should have been packed better, perhaps in a separate bag? Otherwise everything was good.

Very good book

Gateway to Judaism: The What, How, And Why of Jewish Lifeの本が、一番わかりやすいと聞いたので購入しました。

Its an amazing book,that allows one to understand and see the application of being an observant person of the Jewish Family.

A wonderful book!