Description: It would seem that we have taken on an impossible task in this book: trying to demonstrate to modern Americans, be they secular or religious, Jews or Christians, that the sacrificial rites found in Leviticus have any germaneness to their lives. After all, to the extent that any modern reader turns to the pages of Leviticus at all, the notion that they would be inspired by the text and pine for the restoration of animal sacrifices is ludicrous! However, Leviticus is more than laws of sacrifices. As we demonstrate, Leviticus sets forth a template for nation-building via large, regularly-scheduled communal gatherings intended to foster national unity and identity among the Jewish people.
Brief description:
Reuven Travis has taught a wide range of classes, including Jewish law, Bible, and Jewish history, to students from grade two through high school. He received his BA from Dartmouth College, where he graduated Phi Beta Kappa. He holds a master's degree in teaching from Mercer University and a master's in Judaic studies from Spertus College. In addition to this Curious Student's Guide series, he has also published three scholarly works on the books of Job, Numbers, and Genesis, respectively.
Review Quotes: "A tour de force of subtle, nuanced biblical exposition that also manages to paint a magnificently rich portrait of a national identity being formed and defined by ritual and law. In addressing an increasingly divided society--one groaning for unity--a compelling picture of hope is birthed from the writings of Leviticus. One where the table and the festival become the central elements of unification."
--Brad Daugherty, COO and lead navigator, Replicate Ministries
"A fascinating argument for the importance of 'deistic ceremonialism' in the construction of a national religious identity, this book adds a new layer of meaning and complexity to the modern American hesitation, even in the face of widespread secularization, to completely turn its back on the rituals, traditions, and symbols that still give (many of) its people meaning, comfort, and a sense of enduring belonging."
--Mark Goldfeder, director, National Jewish Advocacy Center
"What is the relationship between religious ritual and nation building? Drawing on the Bible, rabbinic sources, and American law, Rabbis Michael Broyde and Reuven Travis show that biblical-rabbinic tradition shapes religion into a nation-building ritual. They then propose a fascinating reshaping of the American civil calendar to do just that. Every reader will have to rethink his or her position on American holidays."
--David R. Blumenthal, retired professor of Judaic studies, Emory University