The History of Judaism

"Judaism is the embodiment of diversity and pluralism, so relevant in our age of global political and religious conflicts, on one hand, and carrying the benefits of multiculturalism, liberalism, and freedom of thought, on the other. This ancient Abrahamic religion... has preserved its uniqueness despite the fact that throughout its more than three-thousand-year history it has encompassed a wide variety of beliefs and traditions. Martin Goodman — the first historian to present the evolution of Judaism from one era to another — shows the interconnections of various movements and sects within Judaism and the conditions that ensured the continuity of its tradition in each of the described historical periods. By detailing the institutions and ideas underlying all forms of Judaism, Goodman weaves together the threads of dogmatic and philosophical disputes that span its entire history. Since Jewish beliefs were largely determined by the environment in which they lived, the geography of the narrative is not limited to the Middle East, Europe, and America, but also extends to North Africa, China, and India, beautifully illustrated by numerous maps presented in the book. 
An engaging chronicle of a vibrant and multifaceted religious tradition that has made the largest contribution to the formation of humanity's spiritual heritage."