Author: Michael Fishbane
Format: Medium Softcover
Condition: Very Good
The lines of Michael Fishbane's book trace the spiritual face of Judaism in one of its many appearances. Fishbane explores the quest for spiritual perfection in early rabbinic sources and in Jewish philosophy and mysticism. The "kiss of God," a symbol for union with God, and the ritual practicesmeditation and performanceconnected with it are presented.
The book identifies a persistent passion for religious perfection, expressed as the love of God unto death itself. The masters of the tradition cultivated this ideal in all periods, in diverse genres, and in different modes. Rabbinic law and midrash, medieval philosophy and mysticism, public and private ritual all contributed to its development. Rooted in the understanding that the spiritual life requires discipline, the sages set up different ladders of ascension. For some, the Law itself was the means of spiritual growth; for others, more private practices were built upon its foundation. But all agreed that the purification of desire and the perfection of the soul offered the hope of personal salvation. None denied the historical redemption of the nation.
Description of book condition:
New Brand new and unread book.
As New A secondhand book that can easily pass for a new one.
Very Good Book is in great condition with only a minor blemish here and there.
Good Book shows visible reading wear but nothing serious.
Fair Book shows clear and more significant wear, especially on the cover, but is still solid and intact.
Worn Book shows severe wear and tear while still being intact (commonly known as a "reading copy"). Worn books are still good perfect for a good read, all pages will be intact with none threatening to fall out.
