|
Rabbi Shmuely Boteach is a well known author, TV personality and expert at bridge building who firmly believes that all issues should be aired, especially the difficult ones, in order to repair relationships. His new book, Kosher Jesus, is a provocatively titled attempt to do just that with Jews and Christians. He delves into sources both Talmudic and historical to show that Jesus was one of many political rebels murdered by the Romans and that it was his followers who created what we now know as Christianity. In the process the horribly cruel Roman behavior was whitewashed and the Jews were wrongfully blamed for killing 'G-d", a canard that led to 2 millennia of persecution, forced conversions and death. Neither Jews nor Christians will find this an easy read, but in order to move forward Boteach feels that the truth must be told so that common ground can be found and misunderstandings and old wounds healed for the future. Both groups are searching for truth in a chaotic world; this book may help provide some answers for some questions, yet undoubtedly raise others. And the journey continues. From Gefen Publishing. Plus, the week that was; thoughts from underground in the Galilee.