The beauty in this book is not just the stories of the Jews or the theologies of the Christians. It is the gentle telling of what the rituals mean to both Jews and Christians, and how they can inform each other on the glory and purposes of God. Reading each chapter brings back lots of memories about the stories I have heard in my studies of spirituality. Winner was one of my memorable Summer School professors as well. Her writing is crisp; the stories heartwarming; and the journey very personal. One can sense how much Winner misses the Jewish practices as she uses the actual Hebrew words to represent the rituals. Translating it to modern English takes away some of the beauty of the language. Thankfully, Winner supplements this with stories from the Bible, the desert fathers, the Jewish rabbis, spiritual masters, modern writers, and the way the Jewish rituals are performed and what they meant. I appreciate the insights given by the author which bridges the gulf of understanding between Christians and Jewish practices. Reading this book tells me how much I do not understand about Judaism, and the riches behind the religious practices of the Hebrews.
-Conrade Yap, Panorama of a Book SaintThe difference between this edition and its earlier incarnation (other than the new introduction) is the study notes. Winner's words remain the same but the chapters are peppered with quotations, selections from Jewish authors and Hebrew scripture and discussion questions. While Winner's original was thoughtful and engaged Judaism, it was much more a personal reflection on how she as a Christian convert could still appropriate these practices as part of her own spiritual life. That was the charm of the book. The study edition helps Christian readers engage these concepts and practices more thoughtfully for themselves.
Personally I like this edition a lot. It is possible to treat this book like the original, reading the main body of text as an exhortation to beef up your personal spiritual practices. But a study edition invites you into something more demanding and rewarding. The first edition was more privatized. This edition invites engagement. I gave the original four stars once upon a time, this I give five. Christian readers will find a deep well of spiritual practice. Jewish readers may find a book from a Christian borrowing from their traditions off-putting, but will be put at ease by the care and sensitivity with which Winner engages their religious tradition. If you never read the original, skip it. This is the definitive edition. --James Matichuk
