The Bottom Line
Did you ever wonder what Judaism says about table manners, childbirth, music, divorce, speaking Hebrew and even Gaza? Thank goodness that Rabbi Ari Enkin has taken the time to write it all down for us in the enlightening and enjoyable book Dalet Amot.
If you are living an orthodox Jewish life today or want to start to live an orthodox Jewish life, this book would be a meaningful addition to your home library. Even those who are not interested in living as orthodox Jews would find this book to be a fascinating examination of what halacha (Jewish Law) says about contemporary life.
If you are living an orthodox Jewish life today or want to start to live an orthodox Jewish life, this book would be a meaningful addition to your home library. Even those who are not interested in living as orthodox Jews would find this book to be a fascinating examination of what halacha (Jewish Law) says about contemporary life.
Pros
- Unique focus on contemporary issues using the lens of orthodox Judaism
- Comprehensive content with coverage of 100 varied issues
- Well organized content with table of contents and index
- Clear and concise explanations of Jewish Law on contemporary issues
- Author's light humor makes for an enjoyable reading experience
Cons
- More conservative or more liberal Jewish perspectives are not included
Description
- The book provides answers to over 100 contemporary halachic issues from the perspective of modern orthodox Judaism.
- Rabbi Enkin's clear, succinct and witty writing style makes it pleasant to read and learn about Jewish Law.
- Over 1000 references are listed as sources for the well-researched answers.
Guide Review - Dalet Amot - Halachic Perspectives by Rabbi Ari N. Enkin
In Dalet Amot, Rabbi Ari Enkin provides answers to over 100 contemporary halachic issues. The topics he covers are prominent and relevant to living a Jewish life today. Is it acceptable to use electric menorahs on Chanukah? Does Jewish law permit cosmetic surgery?
And then there are just interesting facts. Did you know that washing and dressing in fine clothes before the Sabbath comes from the Book of Ruth? Did you know that Judaism encourages singing?
Rabbi Enkin's writing is clear and concise. On prayer, “Prayer is a special moment of personal engagement with God.” On travel, “So the next time you pack your bags for a trip, don’t forget to pack your religion.”
The rabbi's light touch makes reading the book akin to a pleasant discussion with a learned friend over a cup of coffee. With regards to Halloween he writes: “One may ask … if participating in Halloween by distributing candies to the goblins that come knocking at the door is of any halachic concern…. Perhaps as the ideal “trick or treat”, drop a copy of this Halloween review on to your Jewish friends who may be unfamiliar with some of the relevant issues of participating in Halloween.”
While the book’s brief and witty answers make for a fun reading experience, they do not diminish the seriousness of the answers provided. Rabbi Enkin provides earnest information supported by over 1000 references. In his discussion of meal time, he writes “Our tables are considered Divine altars, and with the proper reverence, truly an opportunity to connect with the Creator.”
Dalet Amot provides a ready resource of answers to questions about orthodox Jewish living in the 21st century. Furthermore, the book provides seeds for interesting discussions about how the world’s oldest surviving religion merges with today’s global, fast-paced, hi-tech and material-worshiping world.
And then there are just interesting facts. Did you know that washing and dressing in fine clothes before the Sabbath comes from the Book of Ruth? Did you know that Judaism encourages singing?
Rabbi Enkin's writing is clear and concise. On prayer, “Prayer is a special moment of personal engagement with God.” On travel, “So the next time you pack your bags for a trip, don’t forget to pack your religion.”
The rabbi's light touch makes reading the book akin to a pleasant discussion with a learned friend over a cup of coffee. With regards to Halloween he writes: “One may ask … if participating in Halloween by distributing candies to the goblins that come knocking at the door is of any halachic concern…. Perhaps as the ideal “trick or treat”, drop a copy of this Halloween review on to your Jewish friends who may be unfamiliar with some of the relevant issues of participating in Halloween.”
While the book’s brief and witty answers make for a fun reading experience, they do not diminish the seriousness of the answers provided. Rabbi Enkin provides earnest information supported by over 1000 references. In his discussion of meal time, he writes “Our tables are considered Divine altars, and with the proper reverence, truly an opportunity to connect with the Creator.”
Dalet Amot provides a ready resource of answers to questions about orthodox Jewish living in the 21st century. Furthermore, the book provides seeds for interesting discussions about how the world’s oldest surviving religion merges with today’s global, fast-paced, hi-tech and material-worshiping world.
