A complete lack of skepticism, 08 Jan 2007
I was fascinated by this book. I read half of it with intense interest and a willingness to believe what I read. Then I did a little research on the web to see if there were any other accounts of this 'mfkzt' or 'ORMUS'. I found two things. Firstly, a lot of untrustworthy sites trying to sell ORMUS, claiming to have solid evidence of its amazing properties. Secondly, I found many scholarly debates which point out the lack of available evidence (the evidence can be purchased). As a result, I encourage readers to keep a skeptical perspective on this work. Gardner's view that Moses was descended from the Pharaohs has intriguing implications for interpretation of biblical works. However, Gardner's reports on events during the past century are very misleading. He reaches some hilarious conclusions on the current location of the Ark. Overall, this book is not Science, Fiction, or Comedy. It is Gardner's popular blend of tricksy pseudoscience.

Hmmm...still undecided, 20 May 2006
I sought out this book after reading an article a few years ago in the Daily Express (i think?), whilst waiting for my plane at Manchester Airport. The article was fascinating, being based upon, and using abbreviated extracts from, this book...mfktz, monatomic gold, weightlessness, other dimensions...it made truly revelatory reading. To describe it in VERY loose terms, this book is all about the Ark of the Covenant; what it was exactly; where it is now; and the mysterious substance it contained (the aforementioned 'mfktz' or 'monatomic gold'). To be honest, the newspaper article told me all i wanted to know, and the book itself did little else than to pad-out the interesting facts with theory and wild speculation. Whilst undoubtedly fascinating, the book can at times be a little mind-numbing, although, to be fair to Gardner, this is only because he has done his best to back-up his theories with as much evidence as possible - albeit rather thin evidence in most cases.
In summary, enjoy this book for what it is, but don't expect to be too enlightened by the end of it.

Amusing Fiction, Terrible Facts, 13 Dec 2005
I can't quite decide if this book is the most hilarious thing I ever read or if the author should be blugeoned to death with an ancient Egyptian relic. I gave up about half way through, having had my fill of ludicrous pseudo-science, but at the same time I was greatly entertained by what I read. As a fictional book, it's great, as fact it's one of a great number of appalling attempts to sucker people into believing anything just because it's in a big shiny book that says its true. I hate to break it to everyone but the Egyptians may well have had basic batteries, after all you can make a battery out of a couple of bits of metal and a lemon, but they did not have anti-gravity or trans-dimensional travel.

fiction not fact, 11 May 2005
although this book is well writen and the claims it makes are fully backed up with painstaking research after reading many a book of this genre (as well as watching a good few doctumenterys) i feel that the claims made are more fiction than fact a fantasy more than anything... apart from this the book is a interesting read just not to be taken to seriously

Lost Secrets of the Sacred Ark, 30 Aug 2004
This is not a book which can simply be scanned generally in an evening; one has to read and understand what is being stated, in some cases maybe even reading just a little 'between the lines'. It is exceptionally detailed in places and I had to return to some chapters to ensure I had grasped the detail.
EVERYONE should either have a copy or read one and then think- think for a long time about its content and the ramifications.

A complete lack of skepticism, 08 Jan 2007
I was fascinated by this book. I read half of it with intense interest and a willingness to believe what I read. Then I did a little research on the web to see if there were any other accounts of this 'mfkzt' or 'ORMUS'. I found two things. Firstly, a lot of untrustworthy sites trying to sell ORMUS, claiming to have solid evidence of its amazing properties. Secondly, I found many scholarly debates which point out the lack of available evidence (the evidence can be purchased). As a result, I encourage readers to keep a skeptical perspective on this work. Gardner's view that Moses was descended from the Pharaohs has intriguing implications for interpretation of biblical works. However, Gardner's reports on events during the past century are very misleading. He reaches some hilarious conclusions on the current location of the Ark. Overall, this book is not Science, Fiction, or Comedy. It is Gardner's popular blend of tricksy pseudoscience.

Hmmm...still undecided, 20 May 2006
I sought out this book after reading an article a few years ago in the Daily Express (i think?), whilst waiting for my plane at Manchester Airport. The article was fascinating, being based upon, and using abbreviated extracts from, this book...mfktz, monatomic gold, weightlessness, other dimensions...it made truly revelatory reading. To describe it in VERY loose terms, this book is all about the Ark of the Covenant; what it was exactly; where it is now; and the mysterious substance it contained (the aforementioned 'mfktz' or 'monatomic gold'). To be honest, the newspaper article told me all i wanted to know, and the book itself did little else than to pad-out the interesting facts with theory and wild speculation. Whilst undoubtedly fascinating, the book can at times be a little mind-numbing, although, to be fair to Gardner, this is only because he has done his best to back-up his theories with as much evidence as possible - albeit rather thin evidence in most cases.
In summary, enjoy this book for what it is, but don't expect to be too enlightened by the end of it.

Amusing Fiction, Terrible Facts, 13 Dec 2005
I can't quite decide if this book is the most hilarious thing I ever read or if the author should be blugeoned to death with an ancient Egyptian relic. I gave up about half way through, having had my fill of ludicrous pseudo-science, but at the same time I was greatly entertained by what I read. As a fictional book, it's great, as fact it's one of a great number of appalling attempts to sucker people into believing anything just because it's in a big shiny book that says its true. I hate to break it to everyone but the Egyptians may well have had basic batteries, after all you can make a battery out of a couple of bits of metal and a lemon, but they did not have anti-gravity or trans-dimensional travel.

fiction not fact, 11 May 2005
although this book is well writen and the claims it makes are fully backed up with painstaking research after reading many a book of this genre (as well as watching a good few doctumenterys) i feel that the claims made are more fiction than fact a fantasy more than anything... apart from this the book is a interesting read just not to be taken to seriously

Lost Secrets of the Sacred Ark, 30 Aug 2004
This is not a book which can simply be scanned generally in an evening; one has to read and understand what is being stated, in some cases maybe even reading just a little 'between the lines'. It is exceptionally detailed in places and I had to return to some chapters to ensure I had grasped the detail.
EVERYONE should either have a copy or read one and then think- think for a long time about its content and the ramifications.

An absolute must, 30 Jun 2001
The best book around on Jewish observance. Written from a very frum perspective, which can be slightly intimidating. Donin has no time for lapses in observance! If this is an area you want to know about, buy this book, because you will not regret it. Mazel Tov!

Excellent, thorough introduction to Judaism, 19 Jun 1999
This book is exactly what its title proclaims-a very detailed guide to living as a Jew. I did not find it as reader friendly as "Living Judaism". After reading that title, though, I returned to this book and everything was clearer. I highly recommend it as an excellent addition to any library. It stands on its own merits and is second to none.

An excellent introduction, 21 Oct 1997
Although this book is primarily Askenazi it is a comprehensive but manageable introduction to Jewish living. I've used this book with people who wish to return to Judaism and they have found it invaluble. Along with 'How to Pray as a Jew' by Rabbi Donin this has to be a standard text for the modern Jewish home where there is little possible access to classical texts. This book is also useful in the class room when answering questions about Judaism before going onto further research. Certainly teachers in Lincolnshire, England, have found this book useful when teaching GCSE and A level Judaism.

a book worth reading, 08 Sep 1997
This book,by Hayim Ha-Levy Donin, was an in-depth and thorough account about what it meant to be Jewish, the emotional ties its people have to the faith, and so forth. Donin helped to open a once impregnable barrier between two seemingly clashing worlds. An excellent offering.

A complete lack of skepticism, 08 Jan 2007
I was fascinated by this book. I read half of it with intense interest and a willingness to believe what I read. Then I did a little research on the web to see if there were any other accounts of this 'mfkzt' or 'ORMUS'. I found two things. Firstly, a lot of untrustworthy sites trying to sell ORMUS, claiming to have solid evidence of its amazing properties. Secondly, I found many scholarly debates which point out the lack of available evidence (the evidence can be purchased). As a result, I encourage readers to keep a skeptical perspective on this work. Gardner's view that Moses was descended from the Pharaohs has intriguing implications for interpretation of biblical works. However, Gardner's reports on events during the past century are very misleading. He reaches some hilarious conclusions on the current location of the Ark. Overall, this book is not Science, Fiction, or Comedy. It is Gardner's popular blend of tricksy pseudoscience.

Hmmm...still undecided, 20 May 2006
I sought out this book after reading an article a few years ago in the Daily Express (i think?), whilst waiting for my plane at Manchester Airport. The article was fascinating, being based upon, and using abbreviated extracts from, this book...mfktz, monatomic gold, weightlessness, other dimensions...it made truly revelatory reading. To describe it in VERY loose terms, this book is all about the Ark of the Covenant; what it was exactly; where it is now; and the mysterious substance it contained (the aforementioned 'mfktz' or 'monatomic gold'). To be honest, the newspaper article told me all i wanted to know, and the book itself did little else than to pad-out the interesting facts with theory and wild speculation. Whilst undoubtedly fascinating, the book can at times be a little mind-numbing, although, to be fair to Gardner, this is only because he has done his best to back-up his theories with as much evidence as possible - albeit rather thin evidence in most cases.
In summary, enjoy this book for what it is, but don't expect to be too enlightened by the end of it.

Amusing Fiction, Terrible Facts, 13 Dec 2005
I can't quite decide if this book is the most hilarious thing I ever read or if the author should be blugeoned to death with an ancient Egyptian relic. I gave up about half way through, having had my fill of ludicrous pseudo-science, but at the same time I was greatly entertained by what I read. As a fictional book, it's great, as fact it's one of a great number of appalling attempts to sucker people into believing anything just because it's in a big shiny book that says its true. I hate to break it to everyone but the Egyptians may well have had basic batteries, after all you can make a battery out of a couple of bits of metal and a lemon, but they did not have anti-gravity or trans-dimensional travel.

fiction not fact, 11 May 2005
although this book is well writen and the claims it makes are fully backed up with painstaking research after reading many a book of this genre (as well as watching a good few doctumenterys) i feel that the claims made are more fiction than fact a fantasy more than anything... apart from this the book is a interesting read just not to be taken to seriously

Lost Secrets of the Sacred Ark, 30 Aug 2004
This is not a book which can simply be scanned generally in an evening; one has to read and understand what is being stated, in some cases maybe even reading just a little 'between the lines'. It is exceptionally detailed in places and I had to return to some chapters to ensure I had grasped the detail.
EVERYONE should either have a copy or read one and then think- think for a long time about its content and the ramifications.

An absolute must, 30 Jun 2001
The best book around on Jewish observance. Written from a very frum perspective, which can be slightly intimidating. Donin has no time for lapses in observance! If this is an area you want to know about, buy this book, because you will not regret it. Mazel Tov!

Excellent, thorough introduction to Judaism, 19 Jun 1999
This book is exactly what its title proclaims-a very detailed guide to living as a Jew. I did not find it as reader friendly as "Living Judaism". After reading that title, though, I returned to this book and everything was clearer. I highly recommend it as an excellent addition to any library. It stands on its own merits and is second to none.

An excellent introduction, 21 Oct 1997
Although this book is primarily Askenazi it is a comprehensive but manageable introduction to Jewish living. I've used this book with people who wish to return to Judaism and they have found it invaluble. Along with 'How to Pray as a Jew' by Rabbi Donin this has to be a standard text for the modern Jewish home where there is little possible access to classical texts. This book is also useful in the class room when answering questions about Judaism before going onto further research. Certainly teachers in Lincolnshire, England, have found this book useful when teaching GCSE and A level Judaism.

a book worth reading, 08 Sep 1997
This book,by Hayim Ha-Levy Donin, was an in-depth and thorough account about what it meant to be Jewish, the emotional ties its people have to the faith, and so forth. Donin helped to open a once impregnable barrier between two seemingly clashing worlds. An excellent offering.

Excellent for people with religious families, 06 May 2008
This is an excellent guide for anyone converting, and as I don't want to repeat the other reviews here I'll get straight to the point:

This book is excellent if your family is religious and your in-laws are jewish. Yet I am from a non-religious background and one of those rare single converts (no jewish boyfriend/fiance/husband). So pretty much half of the book is completely wasted on me, because even though the advice on how to tell your family, and how to get your jewish in-laws to accept you is great, it simply doesn't apply to singles like me.

So I was a little disappointed that I wasted money on just about 50% of the book, but it is a nice introductory guide. Just not for singles with no religious upbringing. I would highly recommend "Judaism for Dummies" here, which is brilliant (except for the daft title).

Caveat Emptor: only suitable for non-orthodox, 23 Jan 2007
A somewhat 'lay' view of what religion is all about but an invaluable guide to the process all the same.

Buyers be aware, the book is only appropriate for what the author calls "liberal" (i.e. non-orthodox) Judaism. For a guide to the Orthodox process the author recommends Rabbi Maurice Lamm's "Becoming a Jew".

A great introduction for converts, 31 Jan 2004
This was the first book that I read to seek guidance on the essential points involved in conversion. It was a great read and will continue to stand as a point of reference for me.

I recommend this book to anyone considering conversion or as a gift for the convert's family / friends.

A great step-by-step explaination of conversion, 01 Sep 1998
Ths book dealt with a wide range of topics, trying to answer the "universal" questions of the Jew by Choice, such as how to cope with Christmas, how to tell one's parents, etc. However, by far the greatest strength of this book, and the reason I highly recomend it to anyone considering conversion, is the step-by-step explaination of what kinds of questions the rabbi will ask, what happens at the mikva, and what the bet din is like. This book got me really excited about conversion.

Extraordinarily helpful., 24 Dec 1997
As one who is new to the conversion process, I found this book to be extremely helpful. Not only does it describe in user-friendly terms the actual procedures involved in conversion, Ms. Dimante discusses areas involving psychological discomfort, i.e., how one's birth family might feel rejected, giving up the trappings of Christmas whether or not one believes in the concept. I read this book in two sittings, and I didn't want to put it down. I know I'll read parts of it again.

When author Rachel Naomi Remen (Kitchen Table Wisdom) was young she was caught between two different views of life: a rabbi grandfather and his sense of the holy nature of the world and her highly academic, research-oriented parents, who believed that religion was the "opiate of the masses." As Remen gravitated toward academics and serving the world as a medical doctor, her grandfather became an "island of mysticism in a vast sea of science." But over time, Remen discovered that two seemingly divergent paths could lead to the same destination, especially as she eventually learned to blend her spiritual beliefs with her medical treatment.

Remen uses the heartrending stories of her patients to teach readers how to follow in her example, that is combining a life of service with a life of receiving and giving blessings (a combination that avoids common problems such as burn-out, self-sacrifice and navel-gazing.) Remen also includes numerous personal stories of her rabbi grandfather who showered the world with his mystical beliefs and wizened blessings. While this story-by-story structure is similar to the best selling Kitchen Table Wisdom, it is still a tear-wrenching and utterly satisfying formula. --Gail Hudson

Essential Judaism: A Complete Guide to Beliefs, Customs and Rituals is a brief but comprehensive layman's handbook to Jewish prayer, worship, festivals, customs, history, language, philosophy and ideology. Its author, George Robinson, returned to synagogue after a 20-year absence and found himself utterly confused about the basics of his religion, despite having attended Hebrew school. He looked far and wide for a reference work that would help him get his bearings but did not find one; so he wrote it himself. Robinson's background as a journalist proved to be an asset in this project, which shows evidence of much detective work, the results of which are plainly described and clearly organised. Robinson is sensitive to the many perspectives of contemporary Judaism without being mealy-mouthed. His work is a triumph of diplomacy and clear thinking; his overview of Hebrew Scripture, and his excellent Kosher primer, would be worth the price of this book in themselves. --Christine Buttery

A complete lack of skepticism, 08 Jan 2007
I was fascinated by this book. I read half of it with intense interest and a willingness to believe what I read. Then I did a little research on the web to see if there were any other accounts of this 'mfkzt' or 'ORMUS'. I found two things. Firstly, a lot of untrustworthy sites trying to sell ORMUS, claiming to have solid evidence of its amazing properties. Secondly, I found many scholarly debates which point out the lack of available evidence (the evidence can be purchased). As a result, I encourage readers to keep a skeptical perspective on this work. Gardner's view that Moses was descended from the Pharaohs has intriguing implications for interpretation of biblical works. However, Gardner's reports on events during the past century are very misleading. He reaches some hilarious conclusions on the current location of the Ark. Overall, this book is not Science, Fiction, or Comedy. It is Gardner's popular blend of tricksy pseudoscience.

Hmmm...still undecided, 20 May 2006
I sought out this book after reading an article a few years ago in the Daily Express (i think?), whilst waiting for my plane at Manchester Airport. The article was fascinating, being based upon, and using abbreviated extracts from, this book...mfktz, monatomic gold, weightlessness, other dimensions...it made truly revelatory reading. To describe it in VERY loose terms, this book is all about the Ark of the Covenant; what it was exactly; where it is now; and the mysterious substance it contained (the aforementioned 'mfktz' or 'monatomic gold'). To be honest, the newspaper article told me all i wanted to know, and the book itself did little else than to pad-out the interesting facts with theory and wild speculation. Whilst undoubtedly fascinating, the book can at times be a little mind-numbing, although, to be fair to Gardner, this is only because he has done his best to back-up his theories with as much evidence as possible - albeit rather thin evidence in most cases.
In summary, enjoy this book for what it is, but don't expect to be too enlightened by the end of it.

Amusing Fiction, Terrible Facts, 13 Dec 2005
I can't quite decide if this book is the most hilarious thing I ever read or if the author should be blugeoned to death with an ancient Egyptian relic. I gave up about half way through, having had my fill of ludicrous pseudo-science, but at the same time I was greatly entertained by what I read. As a fictional book, it's great, as fact it's one of a great number of appalling attempts to sucker people into believing anything just because it's in a big shiny book that says its true. I hate to break it to everyone but the Egyptians may well have had basic batteries, after all you can make a battery out of a couple of bits of metal and a lemon, but they did not have anti-gravity or trans-dimensional travel.

fiction not fact, 11 May 2005
although this book is well writen and the claims it makes are fully backed up with painstaking research after reading many a book of this genre (as well as watching a good few doctumenterys) i feel that the claims made are more fiction than fact a fantasy more than anything... apart from this the book is a interesting read just not to be taken to seriously

Lost Secrets of the Sacred Ark, 30 Aug 2004
This is not a book which can simply be scanned generally in an evening; one has to read and understand what is being stated, in some cases maybe even reading just a little 'between the lines'. It is exceptionally detailed in places and I had to return to some chapters to ensure I had grasped the detail.
EVERYONE should either have a copy or read one and then think- think for a long time about its content and the ramifications.

An absolute must, 30 Jun 2001
The best book around on Jewish observance. Written from a very frum perspective, which can be slightly intimidating. Donin has no time for lapses in observance! If this is an area you want to know about, buy this book, because you will not regret it. Mazel Tov!

Excellent, thorough introduction to Judaism, 19 Jun 1999
This book is exactly what its title proclaims-a very detailed guide to living as a Jew. I did not find it as reader friendly as "Living Judaism". After reading that title, though, I returned to this book and everything was clearer. I highly recommend it as an excellent addition to any library. It stands on its own merits and is second to none.

An excellent introduction, 21 Oct 1997
Although this book is primarily Askenazi it is a comprehensive but manageable introduction to Jewish living. I've used this book with people who wish to return to Judaism and they have found it invaluble. Along with 'How to Pray as a Jew' by Rabbi Donin this has to be a standard text for the modern Jewish home where there is little possible access to classical texts. This book is also useful in the class room when answering questions about Judaism before going onto further research. Certainly teachers in Lincolnshire, England, have found this book useful when teaching GCSE and A level Judaism.

a book worth reading, 08 Sep 1997
This book,by Hayim Ha-Levy Donin, was an in-depth and thorough account about what it meant to be Jewish, the emotional ties its people have to the faith, and so forth. Donin helped to open a once impregnable barrier between two seemingly clashing worlds. An excellent offering.

Excellent for people with religious families, 06 May 2008
This is an excellent guide for anyone converting, and as I don't want to repeat the other reviews here I'll get straight to the point:

This book is excellent if your family is religious and your in-laws are jewish. Yet I am from a non-religious background and one of those rare single converts (no jewish boyfriend/fiance/husband). So pretty much half of the book is completely wasted on me, because even though the advice on how to tell your family, and how to get your jewish in-laws to accept you is great, it simply doesn't apply to singles like me.

So I was a little disappointed that I wasted money on just about 50% of the book, but it is a nice introductory guide. Just not for singles with no religious upbringing. I would highly recommend "Judaism for Dummies" here, which is brilliant (except for the daft title).

Caveat Emptor: only suitable for non-orthodox, 23 Jan 2007
A somewhat 'lay' view of what religion is all about but an invaluable guide to the process all the same.

Buyers be aware, the book is only appropriate for what the author calls "liberal" (i.e. non-orthodox) Judaism. For a guide to the Orthodox process the author recommends Rabbi Maurice Lamm's "Becoming a Jew".

A great introduction for converts, 31 Jan 2004
This was the first book that I read to seek guidance on the essential points involved in conversion. It was a great read and will continue to stand as a point of reference for me.

I recommend this book to anyone considering conversion or as a gift for the convert's family / friends.

A great step-by-step explaination of conversion, 01 Sep 1998
Ths book dealt with a wide range of topics, trying to answer the "universal" questions of the Jew by Choice, such as how to cope with Christmas, how to tell one's parents, etc. However, by far the greatest strength of this book, and the reason I highly recomend it to anyone considering conversion, is the step-by-step explaination of what kinds of questions the rabbi will ask, what happens at the mikva, and what the bet din is like. This book got me really excited about conversion.

Extraordinarily helpful., 24 Dec 1997
As one who is new to the conversion process, I found this book to be extremely helpful. Not only does it describe in user-friendly terms the actual procedures involved in conversion, Ms. Dimante discusses areas involving psychological discomfort, i.e., how one's birth family might feel rejected, giving up the trappings of Christmas whether or not one believes in the concept. I read this book in two sittings, and I didn't want to put it down. I know I'll read parts of it again.

An essential resource for anyone wanting to learn to pray., 18 Nov 1997
There are few books as easy to read as "To Pray as a Jew." You will find all the essentials ... from preparing to attend synagogue to what to do when you leave and thereafter. If you desire to learn how to make prayer an effective part of your everyday life, then you MUST read this book. It is a "how to", "when to", "what to", "what else" manual. You will certainly wear this book out!

A complete lack of skepticism, 08 Jan 2007
I was fascinated by this book. I read half of it with intense interest and a willingness to believe what I read. Then I did a little research on the web to see if there were any other accounts of this 'mfkzt' or 'ORMUS'. I found two things. Firstly, a lot of untrustworthy sites trying to sell ORMUS, claiming to have solid evidence of its amazing properties. Secondly, I found many scholarly debates which point out the lack of available evidence (the evidence can be purchased). As a result, I encourage readers to keep a skeptical perspective on this work. Gardner's view that Moses was descended from the Pharaohs has intriguing implications for interpretation of biblical works. However, Gardner's reports on events during the past century are very misleading. He reaches some hilarious conclusions on the current location of the Ark. Overall, this book is not Science, Fiction, or Comedy. It is Gardner's popular blend of tricksy pseudoscience.

Hmmm...still undecided, 20 May 2006
I sought out this book after reading an article a few years ago in the Daily Express (i think?), whilst waiting for my plane at Manchester Airport. The article was fascinating, being based upon, and using abbreviated extracts from, this book...mfktz, monatomic gold, weightlessness, other dimensions...it made truly revelatory reading. To describe it in VERY loose terms, this book is all about the Ark of the Covenant; what it was exactly; where it is now; and the mysterious substance it contained (the aforementioned 'mfktz' or 'monatomic gold'). To be honest, the newspaper article told me all i wanted to know, and the book itself did little else than to pad-out the interesting facts with theory and wild speculation. Whilst undoubtedly fascinating, the book can at times be a little mind-numbing, although, to be fair to Gardner, this is only because he has done his best to back-up his theories with as much evidence as possible - albeit rather thin evidence in most cases.
In summary, enjoy this book for what it is, but don't expect to be too enlightened by the end of it.

Amusing Fiction, Terrible Facts, 13 Dec 2005
I can't quite decide if this book is the most hilarious thing I ever read or if the author should be blugeoned to death with an ancient Egyptian relic. I gave up about half way through, having had my fill of ludicrous pseudo-science, but at the same time I was greatly entertained by what I read. As a fictional book, it's great, as fact it's one of a great number of appalling attempts to sucker people into believing anything just because it's in a big shiny book that says its true. I hate to break it to everyone but the Egyptians may well have had basic batteries, after all you can make a battery out of a couple of bits of metal and a lemon, but they did not have anti-gravity or trans-dimensional travel.

fiction not fact, 11 May 2005
although this book is well writen and the claims it makes are fully backed up with painstaking research after reading many a book of this genre (as well as watching a good few doctumenterys) i feel that the claims made are more fiction than fact a fantasy more than anything... apart from this the book is a interesting read just not to be taken to seriously

Lost Secrets of the Sacred Ark, 30 Aug 2004
This is not a book which can simply be scanned generally in an evening; one has to read and understand what is being stated, in some cases maybe even reading just a little 'between the lines'. It is exceptionally detailed in places and I had to return to some chapters to ensure I had grasped the detail.
EVERYONE should either have a copy or read one and then think- think for a long time about its content and the ramifications.

An absolute must, 30 Jun 2001
The best book around on Jewish observance. Written from a very frum perspective, which can be slightly intimidating. Donin has no time for lapses in observance! If this is an area you want to know about, buy this book, because you will not regret it. Mazel Tov!

Excellent, thorough introduction to Judaism, 19 Jun 1999
This book is exactly what its title proclaims-a very detailed guide to living as a Jew. I did not find it as reader friendly as "Living Judaism". After reading that title, though, I returned to this book and everything was clearer. I highly recommend it as an excellent addition to any library. It stands on its own merits and is second to none.

An excellent introduction, 21 Oct 1997
Although this book is primarily Askenazi it is a comprehensive but manageable introduction to Jewish living. I've used this book with people who wish to return to Judaism and they have found it invaluble. Along with 'How to Pray as a Jew' by Rabbi Donin this has to be a standard text for the modern Jewish home where there is little possible access to classical texts. This book is also useful in the class room when answering questions about Judaism before going onto further research. Certainly teachers in Lincolnshire, England, have found this book useful when teaching GCSE and A level Judaism.

a book worth reading, 08 Sep 1997
This book,by Hayim Ha-Levy Donin, was an in-depth and thorough account about what it meant to be Jewish, the emotional ties its people have to the faith, and so forth. Donin helped to open a once impregnable barrier between two seemingly clashing worlds. An excellent offering.

Excellent for people with religious families, 06 May 2008
This is an excellent guide for anyone converting, and as I don't want to repeat the other reviews here I'll get straight to the point:

This book is excellent if your family is religious and your in-laws are jewish. Yet I am from a non-religious background and one of those rare single converts (no jewish boyfriend/fiance/husband). So pretty much half of the book is completely wasted on me, because even though the advice on how to tell your family, and how to get your jewish in-laws to accept you is great, it simply doesn't apply to singles like me.

So I was a little disappointed that I wasted money on just about 50% of the book, but it is a nice introductory guide. Just not for singles with no religious upbringing. I would highly recommend "Judaism for Dummies" here, which is brilliant (except for the daft title).

Caveat Emptor: only suitable for non-orthodox, 23 Jan 2007
A somewhat 'lay' view of what religion is all about but an invaluable guide to the process all the same.

Buyers be aware, the book is only appropriate for what the author calls "liberal" (i.e. non-orthodox) Judaism. For a guide to the Orthodox process the author recommends Rabbi Maurice Lamm's "Becoming a Jew".

A great introduction for converts, 31 Jan 2004
This was the first book that I read to seek guidance on the essential points involved in conversion. It was a great read and will continue to stand as a point of reference for me.

I recommend this book to anyone considering conversion or as a gift for the convert's family / friends.

A great step-by-step explaination of conversion, 01 Sep 1998
Ths book dealt with a wide range of topics, trying to answer the "universal" questions of the Jew by Choice, such as how to cope with Christmas, how to tell one's parents, etc. However, by far the greatest strength of this book, and the reason I highly recomend it to anyone considering conversion, is the step-by-step explaination of what kinds of questions the rabbi will ask, what happens at the mikva, and what the bet din is like. This book got me really excited about conversion.

Extraordinarily helpful., 24 Dec 1997
As one who is new to the conversion process, I found this book to be extremely helpful. Not only does it describe in user-friendly terms the actual procedures involved in conversion, Ms. Dimante discusses areas involving psychological discomfort, i.e., how one's birth family might feel rejected, giving up the trappings of Christmas whether or not one believes in the concept. I read this book in two sittings, and I didn't want to put it down. I know I'll read parts of it again.

An essential resource for anyone wanting to learn to pray., 18 Nov 1997
There are few books as easy to read as "To Pray as a Jew." You will find all the essentials ... from preparing to attend synagogue to what to do when you leave and thereafter. If you desire to learn how to make prayer an effective part of your everyday life, then you MUST read this book. It is a "how to", "when to", "what to", "what else" manual. You will certainly wear this book out!

The one book you'll read again and again, 30 Nov 2002
I have had this book for a couple of years now and I still go back and read it on a regular basis. Why?? The content and format of the book is well structured, informative, interesting and enjoyable to read. It has everything. Good valuable information, well researched and presented in chapters that end much too soon!!! Each chapter deals with a specific holiday and it has been arranged in relevant sections. Full of interesting information and written in a user friendly style it truely is a book that you can just pick up and read, no struggling with the heavy stuff or the boring stuff, just a good read. My personal favorite is ''the dream and how to live it'' a wonderful insight into living the Sabbath .. I have read a lot of books on Judaism but this one is packed to the rafters with information and written with a wonderfully shared warmth, that draws you in. Before you know it, we'll all be ''Living the Dream''.

Excellent practical introduction to the Jewish festivals, 05 Oct 1996
"An excellent practical introduction to the festivals...succeeds brilliantly in bringing fresh life to our thoughts about the Jewish year." -- Jewish Chronicle In thoughtful and engaging prose, Rabbi Irving Greenberg explains and interprets the origin, background, interconnections, ceremonial rituals, and religious significance of all the Jewish holidays, including Passover, Yom Kippur, Purim, Hanukkah, Holocaust Remembrance Day and Israeli Independence Day. Giving detailed instructions for observance - the rituals, prayers, foods, and songs - he shows how celebrating the holy days of the Jewish calendar not only relives Jewish history but puts one in touch with the basic ideals of Judaism and the fundamental experience of life. Insightful, original, and engrossing, The Jewish Way is an essential volume that should be in every Jewish home, library, and synagogue. "An important book, one that should be read, discussed, critiqued, and then read over again." -- The Jewish Review

A complete lack of skepticism, 08 Jan 2007
I was fascinated by this book. I read half of it with intense interest and a willingness to believe what I read. Then I did a little research on the web to see if there were any other accounts of this 'mfkzt' or 'ORMUS'. I found two things. Firstly, a lot of untrustworthy sites trying to sell ORMUS, claiming to have solid evidence of its amazing properties. Secondly, I found many scholarly debates which point out the lack of available evidence (the evidence can be purchased). As a result, I encourage readers to keep a skeptical perspective on this work. Gardner's view that Moses was descended from the Pharaohs has intriguing implications for interpretation of biblical works. However, Gardner's reports on events during the past century are very misleading. He reaches some hilarious conclusions on the current location of the Ark. Overall, this book is not Science, Fiction, or Comedy. It is Gardner's popular blend of tricksy pseudoscience.

Hmmm...still undecided, 20 May 2006
I sought out this book after reading an article a few years ago in the Daily Express (i think?), whilst waiting for my plane at Manchester Airport. The article was fascinating, being based upon, and using abbreviated extracts from, this book...mfktz, monatomic gold, weightlessness, other dimensions...it made truly revelatory reading. To describe it in VERY loose terms, this book is all about the Ark of the Covenant; what it was exactly; where it is now; and the mysterious substance it contained (the aforementioned 'mfktz' or 'monatomic gold'). To be honest, the newspaper article told me all i wanted to know, and the book itself did little else than to pad-out the interesting facts with theory and wild speculation. Whilst undoubtedly fascinating, the book can at times be a little mind-numbing, although, to be fair to Gardner, this is only because he has done his best to back-up his theories with as much evidence as possible - albeit rather thin evidence in most cases.
In summary, enjoy this book for what it is, but don't expect to be too enlightened by the end of it.

Amusing Fiction, Terrible Facts, 13 Dec 2005
I can't quite decide if this book is the most hilarious thing I ever read or if the author should be blugeoned to death with an ancient Egyptian relic. I gave up about half way through, having had my fill of ludicrous pseudo-science, but at the same time I was greatly entertained by what I read. As a fictional book, it's great, as fact it's one of a great number of appalling attempts to sucker people into believing anything just because it's in a big shiny book that says its true. I hate to break it to everyone but the Egyptians may well have had basic batteries, after all you can make a battery out of a couple of bits of metal and a lemon, but they did not have anti-gravity or trans-dimensional travel.

fiction not fact, 11 May 2005
although this book is well writen and the claims it makes are fully backed up with painstaking research after reading many a book of this genre (as well as watching a good few doctumenterys) i feel that the claims made are more fiction than fact a fantasy more than anything... apart from this the book is a interesting read just not to be taken to seriously

Lost Secrets of the Sacred Ark, 30 Aug 2004
This is not a book which can simply be scanned generally in an evening; one has to read and understand what is being stated, in some cases maybe even reading just a little 'between the lines'. It is exceptionally detailed in places and I had to return to some chapters to ensure I had grasped the detail.
EVERYONE should either have a copy or read one and then think- think for a long time about its content and the ramifications.

An absolute must, 30 Jun 2001
The best book around on Jewish observance. Written from a very frum perspective, which can be slightly intimidating. Donin has no time for lapses in observance! If this is an area you want to know about, buy this book, because you will not regret it. Mazel Tov!

Excellent, thorough introduction to Judaism, 19 Jun 1999
This book is exactly what its title proclaims-a very detailed guide to living as a Jew. I did not find it as reader friendly as "Living Judaism". After reading that title, though, I returned to this book and everything was clearer. I highly recommend it as an excellent addition to any library. It stands on its own merits and is second to none.

An excellent introduction, 21 Oct 1997
Although this book is primarily Askenazi it is a comprehensive but manageable introduction to Jewish living. I've used this book with people who wish to return to Judaism and they have found it invaluble. Along with 'How to Pray as a Jew' by Rabbi Donin this has to be a standard text for the modern Jewish home where there is little possible access to classical texts. This book is also useful in the class room when answering questions about Judaism before going onto further research. Certainly teachers in Lincolnshire, England, have found this book useful when teaching GCSE and A level Judaism.

a book worth reading, 08 Sep 1997
This book,by Hayim Ha-Levy Donin, was an in-depth and thorough account about what it meant to be Jewish, the emotional ties its people have to the faith, and so forth. Donin helped to open a once impregnable barrier between two seemingly clashing worlds. An excellent offering.

Excellent for people with religious families, 06 May 2008
This is an excellent guide for anyone converting, and as I don't want to repeat the other reviews here I'll get straight to the point:

This book is excellent if your family is religious and your in-laws are jewish. Yet I am from a non-religious background and one of those rare single converts (no jewish boyfriend/fiance/husband). So pretty much half of the book is completely wasted on me, because even though the advice on how to tell your family, and how to get your jewish in-laws to accept you is great, it simply doesn't apply to singles like me.

So I was a little disappointed that I wasted money on just about 50% of the book, but it is a nice introductory guide. Just not for singles with no religious upbringing. I would highly recommend "Judaism for Dummies" here, which is brilliant (except for the daft title).

Caveat Emptor: only suitable for non-orthodox, 23 Jan 2007
A somewhat 'lay' view of what religion is all about but an invaluable guide to the process all the same.

Buyers be aware, the book is only appropriate for what the author calls "liberal" (i.e. non-orthodox) Judaism. For a guide to the Orthodox process the author recommends Rabbi Maurice Lamm's "Becoming a Jew".

A great introduction for converts, 31 Jan 2004
This was the first book that I read to seek guidance on the essential points involved in conversion. It was a great read and will continue to stand as a point of reference for me.

I recommend this book to anyone considering conversion or as a gift for the convert's family / friends.

A great step-by-step explaination of conversion, 01 Sep 1998
Ths book dealt with a wide range of topics, trying to answer the "universal" questions of the Jew by Choice, such as how to cope with Christmas, how to tell one's parents, etc. However, by far the greatest strength of this book, and the reason I highly recomend it to anyone considering conversion, is the step-by-step explaination of what kinds of questions the rabbi will ask, what happens at the mikva, and what the bet din is like. This book got me really excited about conversion.

Extraordinarily helpful., 24 Dec 1997
As one who is new to the conversion process, I found this book to be extremely helpful. Not only does it describe in user-friendly terms the actual procedures involved in conversion, Ms. Dimante discusses areas involving psychological discomfort, i.e., how one's birth family might feel rejected, giving up the trappings of Christmas whether or not one believes in the concept. I read this book in two sittings, and I didn't want to put it down. I know I'll read parts of it again.

An essential resource for anyone wanting to learn to pray., 18 Nov 1997
There are few books as easy to read as "To Pray as a Jew." You will find all the essentials ... from preparing to attend synagogue to what to do when you leave and thereafter. If you desire to learn how to make prayer an effective part of your everyday life, then you MUST read this book. It is a "how to", "when to", "what to", "what else" manual. You will certainly wear this book out!

The one book you'll read again and again, 30 Nov 2002
I have had this book for a couple of years now and I still go back and read it on a regular basis. Why?? The content and format of the book is well structured, informative, interesting and enjoyable to read. It has everything. Good valuable information, well researched and presented in chapters that end much too soon!!! Each chapter deals with a specific holiday and it has been arranged in relevant sections. Full of interesting information and written in a user friendly style it truely is a book that you can just pick up and read, no struggling with the heavy stuff or the boring stuff, just a good read. My personal favorite is ''the dream and how to live it'' a wonderful insight into living the Sabbath .. I have read a lot of books on Judaism but this one is packed to the rafters with information and written with a wonderfully shared warmth, that draws you in. Before you know it, we'll all be ''Living the Dream''.

Excellent practical introduction to the Jewish festivals, 05 Oct 1996
"An excellent practical introduction to the festivals...succeeds brilliantly in bringing fresh life to our thoughts about the Jewish year." -- Jewish Chronicle In thoughtful and engaging prose, Rabbi Irving Greenberg explains and interprets the origin, background, interconnections, ceremonial rituals, and religious significance of all the Jewish holidays, including Passover, Yom Kippur, Purim, Hanukkah, Holocaust Remembrance Day and Israeli Independence Day. Giving detailed instructions for observance - the rituals, prayers, foods, and songs - he shows how celebrating the holy days of the Jewish calendar not only relives Jewish history but puts one in touch with the basic ideals of Judaism and the fundamental experience of life. Insightful, original, and engrossing, The Jewish Way is an essential volume that should be in every Jewish home, library, and synagogue. "An important book, one that should be read, discussed, critiqued, and then read over again." -- The Jewish Review

Truly a book of Splendour, 25 Dec 2006
This is a superb book. If you are interested in Kaballah then it is best to go back to the original sources - the great Kabbalistic Rabbis of the past. And if you are going to back to the source it is good to have a guide who not only understands the source but can make it accessible. Kaplan is all these.

The selections are excellent and wonderfully rendered into English. Along with the extracts Kaplan includes quick, concise but erudite contextual commentaries and descriptions of the main Kaballists and their lives. Thus one can gain an overview of the history of Kaballah and how it developed over the centuries.

The only criticism I have is that there are a lot of typos but otherwise I cannot recommend this book highly enough. Its pages drip with love, ecstasy and joy.

No rubbish, only the "purest gold" translated, 25 Jul 1999
Rabbi Kaplan, Z"L, as ever, does a great job by inheriting the world the first translation of the almost forgotten methods of meditation used by the Talmudic sages, Chasidim, R. Abulafia, R. Luria, Baal Shem Tov, etc. They all seem dangerous (if you understand Kabbalah fully and are guided by an excellent teacher, there will be no problem) but are a good reference on the evolution and diversification of these techniques to attain revelation and ecstasy. 100% recommendable, easy to read.

A complete lack of skepticism, 08 Jan 2007
I was fascinated by this book. I read half of it with intense interest and a willingness to believe what I read. Then I did a little research on the web to see if there were any other accounts of this 'mfkzt' or 'ORMUS'. I found two things. Firstly, a lot of untrustworthy sites trying to sell ORMUS, claiming to have solid evidence of its amazing properties. Secondly, I found many scholarly debates which point out the lack of available evidence (the evidence can be purchased). As a result, I encourage readers to keep a skeptical perspective on this work. Gardner's view that Moses was descended from the Pharaohs has intriguing implications for interpretation of biblical works. However, Gardner's reports on events during the past century are very misleading. He reaches some hilarious conclusions on the current location of the Ark. Overall, this book is not Science, Fiction, or Comedy. It is Gardner's popular blend of tricksy pseudoscience.

Hmmm...still undecided, 20 May 2006
I sought out this book after reading an article a few years ago in the Daily Express (i think?), whilst waiting for my plane at Manchester Airport. The article was fascinating, being based upon, and using abbreviated extracts from, this book...mfktz, monatomic gold, weightlessness, other dimensions...it made truly revelatory reading. To describe it in VERY loose terms, this book is all about the Ark of the Covenant; what it was exactly; where it is now; and the mysterious substance it contained (the aforementioned 'mfktz' or 'monatomic gold'). To be honest, the newspaper article told me all i wanted to know, and the book itself did little else than to pad-out the interesting facts with theory and wild speculation. Whilst undoubtedly fascinating, the book can at times be a little mind-numbing, although, to be fair to Gardner, this is only because he has done his best to back-up his theories with as much evidence as possible - albeit rather thin evidence in most cases.
In summary, enjoy this book for what it is, but don't expect to be too enlightened by the end of it.

Amusing Fiction, Terrible Facts, 13 Dec 2005
I can't quite decide if this book is the most hilarious thing I ever read or if the author should be blugeoned to death with an ancient Egyptian relic. I gave up about half way through, having had my fill of ludicrous pseudo-science, but at the same time I was greatly entertained by what I read. As a fictional book, it's great, as fact it's one of a great number of appalling attempts to sucker people into believing anything just because it's in a big shiny book that says its true. I hate to break it to everyone but the Egyptians may well have had basic batteries, after all you can make a battery out of a couple of bits of metal and a lemon, but they did not have anti-gravity or trans-dimensional travel.

fiction not fact, 11 May 2005
although this book is well writen and the claims it makes are fully backed up with painstaking research after reading many a book of this genre (as well as watching a good few doctumenterys) i feel that the claims made are more fiction than fact a fantasy more than anything... apart from this the book is a interesting read just not to be taken to seriously

Lost Secrets of the Sacred Ark, 30 Aug 2004
This is not a book which can simply be scanned generally in an evening; one has to read and understand what is being stated, in some cases maybe even reading just a little 'between the lines'. It is exceptionally detailed in places and I had to return to some chapters to ensure I had grasped the detail.
EVERYONE should either have a copy or read one and then think- think for a long time about its content and the ramifications.

An absolute must, 30 Jun 2001
The best book around on Jewish observance. Written from a very frum perspective, which can be slightly intimidating. Donin has no time for lapses in observance! If this is an area you want to know about, buy this book, because you will not regret it. Mazel Tov!

Excellent, thorough introduction to Judaism, 19 Jun 1999
This book is exactly what its title proclaims-a very detailed guide to living as a Jew. I did not find it as reader friendly as "Living Judaism". After reading that title, though, I returned to this book and everything was clearer. I highly recommend it as an excellent addition to any library. It stands on its own merits and is second to none.

An excellent introduction, 21 Oct 1997
Although this book is primarily Askenazi it is a comprehensive but manageable introduction to Jewish living. I've used this book with people who wish to return to Judaism and they have found it invaluble. Along with 'How to Pray as a Jew' by Rabbi Donin this has to be a standard text for the modern Jewish home where there is little possible access to classical texts. This book is also useful in the class room when answering questions about Judaism before going onto further research. Certainly teachers in Lincolnshire, England, have found this book useful when teaching GCSE and A level Judaism.

a book worth reading, 08 Sep 1997
This book,by Hayim Ha-Levy Donin, was an in-depth and thorough account about what it meant to be Jewish, the emotional ties its people have to the faith, and so forth. Donin helped to open a once impregnable barrier between two seemingly clashing worlds. An excellent offering.

Excellent for people with religious families, 06 May 2008
This is an excellent guide for anyone converting, and as I don't want to repeat the other reviews here I'll get straight to the point:

This book is excellent if your family is religious and your in-laws are jewish. Yet I am from a non-religious background and one of those rare single converts (no jewish boyfriend/fiance/husband). So pretty much half of the book is completely wasted on me, because even though the advice on how to tell your family, and how to get your jewish in-laws to accept you is great, it simply doesn't apply to singles like me.

So I was a little disappointed that I wasted money on just about 50% of the book, but it is a nice introductory guide. Just not for singles with no religious upbringing. I would highly recommend "Judaism for Dummies" here, which is brilliant (except for the daft title).

Caveat Emptor: only suitable for non-orthodox, 23 Jan 2007
A somewhat 'lay' view of what religion is all about but an invaluable guide to the process all the same.

Buyers be aware, the book is only appropriate for what the author calls "liberal" (i.e. non-orthodox) Judaism. For a guide to the Orthodox process the author recommends Rabbi Maurice Lamm's "Becoming a Jew".

A great introduction for converts, 31 Jan 2004
This was the first book that I read to seek guidance on the essential points involved in conversion. It was a great read and will continue to stand as a point of reference for me.

I recommend this book to anyone considering conversion or as a gift for the convert's family / friends.

A great step-by-step explaination of conversion, 01 Sep 1998
Ths book dealt with a wide range of topics, trying to answer the "universal" questions of the Jew by Choice, such as how to cope with Christmas, how to tell one's parents, etc. However, by far the greatest strength of this book, and the reason I highly recomend it to anyone considering conversion, is the step-by-step explaination of what kinds of questions the rabbi will ask, what happens at the mikva, and what the bet din is like. This book got me really excited about conversion.

Extraordinarily helpful., 24 Dec 1997
As one who is new to the conversion process, I found this book to be extremely helpful. Not only does it describe in user-friendly terms the actual procedures involved in conversion, Ms. Dimante discusses areas involving psychological discomfort, i.e., how one's birth family might feel rejected, giving up the trappings of Christmas whether or not one believes in the concept. I read this book in two sittings, and I didn't want to put it down. I know I'll read parts of it again.

An essential resource for anyone wanting to learn to pray., 18 Nov 1997
There are few books as easy to read as "To Pray as a Jew." You will find all the essentials ... from preparing to attend synagogue to what to do when you leave and thereafter. If you desire to learn how to make prayer an effective part of your everyday life, then you MUST read this book. It is a "how to", "when to", "what to", "what else" manual. You will certainly wear this book out!

The one book you'll read again and again, 30 Nov 2002
I have had this book for a couple of years now and I still go back and read it on a regular basis. Why?? The content and format of the book is well structured, informative, interesting and enjoyable to read. It has everything. Good valuable information, well researched and presented in chapters that end much too soon!!! Each chapter deals with a specific holiday and it has been arranged in relevant sections. Full of interesting information and written in a user friendly style it truely is a book that you can just pick up and read, no struggling with the heavy stuff or the boring stuff, just a good read. My personal favorite is ''the dream and how to live it'' a wonderful insight into living the Sabbath .. I have read a lot of books on Judaism but this one is packed to the rafters with information and written with a wonderfully shared warmth, that draws you in. Before you know it, we'll all be ''Living the Dream''.

Excellent practical introduction to the Jewish festivals, 05 Oct 1996
"An excellent practical introduction to the festivals...succeeds brilliantly in bringing fresh life to our thoughts about the Jewish year." -- Jewish Chronicle In thoughtful and engaging prose, Rabbi Irving Greenberg explains and interprets the origin, background, interconnections, ceremonial rituals, and religious significance of all the Jewish holidays, including Passover, Yom Kippur, Purim, Hanukkah, Holocaust Remembrance Day and Israeli Independence Day. Giving detailed instructions for observance - the rituals, prayers, foods, and songs - he shows how celebrating the holy days of the Jewish calendar not only relives Jewish history but puts one in touch with the basic ideals of Judaism and the fundamental experience of life. Insightful, original, and engrossing, The Jewish Way is an essential volume that should be in every Jewish home, library, and synagogue. "An important book, one that should be read, discussed, critiqued, and then read over again." -- The Jewish Review

Truly a book of Splendour, 25 Dec 2006
This is a superb book. If you are interested in Kaballah then it is best to go back to the original sources - the great Kabbalistic Rabbis of the past. And if you are going to back to the source it is good to have a guide who not only understands the source but can make it accessible. Kaplan is all these.

The selections are excellent and wonderfully rendered into English. Along with the extracts Kaplan includes quick, concise but erudite contextual commentaries and descriptions of the main Kaballists and their lives. Thus one can gain an overview of the history of Kaballah and how it developed over the centuries.

The only criticism I have is that there are a lot of typos but otherwise I cannot recommend this book highly enough. Its pages drip with love, ecstasy and joy.

No rubbish, only the "purest gold" translated, 25 Jul 1999
Rabbi Kaplan, Z"L, as ever, does a great job by inheriting the world the first translation of the almost forgotten methods of meditation used by the Talmudic sages, Chasidim, R. Abulafia, R. Luria, Baal Shem Tov, etc. They all seem dangerous (if you understand Kabbalah fully and are guided by an excellent teacher, there will be no problem) but are a good reference on the evolution and diversification of these techniques to attain revelation and ecstasy. 100% recommendable, easy to read.

An Amazing Read, 23 Jun 2002
The Wisdom in the Hebrew Alphabet is an outstanding book. It begins by giving a clear overview of how and why the aleph bet contains hidden, deeper meanings. It cites, for example, 'how the combination of letters, as formulated by the spiritual masters who composed the prayers, have the power to arouse spritual forces beyond our imagination'-as anyone who is a regular in shul would understand. It then goes on to explain what each letter can teach us, constantly referring to the Sages throughout. This book is truely a masterpeace-for those who are frum already, it will only reaffirm your faith and allow you to learn Torah better. If your thinking of buying this book for someone who is not so frum, then it is also a good bet. Being able to speak or read Hebrew is by no means a precondition-R. Munk explains everything in English also, through logical, well explained observation. I would think this to be an ideal present for any one who has a belief in the Almighty-from bar mitzvah to your grandparents. And for those who are atheists-buy this book anyway, you may just change your mind.

A complete lack of skepticism, 08 Jan 2007
I was fascinated by this book. I read half of it with intense interest and a willingness to believe what I read. Then I did a little research on the web to see if there were any other accounts of this 'mfkzt' or 'ORMUS'. I found two things. Firstly, a lot of untrustworthy sites trying to sell ORMUS, claiming to have solid evidence of its amazing properties. Secondly, I found many scholarly debates which point out the lack of available evidence (the evidence can be purchased). As a result, I encourage readers to keep a skeptical perspective on this work. Gardner's view that Moses was descended from the Pharaohs has intriguing implications for interpretation of biblical works. However, Gardner's reports on events during the past century are very misleading. He reaches some hilarious conclusions on the current location of the Ark. Overall, this book is not Science, Fiction, or Comedy. It is Gardner's popular blend of tricksy pseudoscience.

Hmmm...still undecided, 20 May 2006
I sought out this book after reading an article a few years ago in the Daily Express (i think?), whilst waiting for my plane at Manchester Airport. The article was fascinating, being based upon, and using abbreviated extracts from, this book...mfktz, monatomic gold, weightlessness, other dimensions...it made truly revelatory reading. To describe it in VERY loose terms, this book is all about the Ark of the Covenant; what it was exactly; where it is now; and the mysterious substance it contained (the aforementioned 'mfktz' or 'monatomic gold'). To be honest, the newspaper article told me all i wanted to know, and the book itself did little else than to pad-out the interesting facts with theory and wild speculation. Whilst undoubtedly fascinating, the book can at times be a little mind-numbing, although, to be fair to Gardner, this is only because he has done his best to back-up his theories with as much evidence as possible - albeit rather thin evidence in most cases.
In summary, enjoy this book for what it is, but don't expect to be too enlightened by the end of it.

Amusing Fiction, Terrible Facts, 13 Dec 2005
I can't quite decide if this book is the most hilarious thing I ever read or if the author should be blugeoned to death with an ancient Egyptian relic. I gave up about half way through, having had my fill of ludicrous pseudo-science, but at the same time I was greatly entertained by what I read. As a fictional book, it's great, as fact it's one of a great number of appalling attempts to sucker people into believing anything just because it's in a big shiny book that says its true. I hate to break it to everyone but the Egyptians may well have had basic batteries, after all you can make a battery out of a couple of bits of metal and a lemon, but they did not have anti-gravity or trans-dimensional travel.

fiction not fact, 11 May 2005
although this book is well writen and the claims it makes are fully backed up with painstaking research after reading many a book of this genre (as well as watching a good few doctumenterys) i feel that the claims made are more fiction than fact a fantasy more than anything... apart from this the book is a interesting read just not to be taken to seriously

Lost Secrets of the Sacred Ark, 30 Aug 2004
This is not a book which can simply be scanned generally in an evening; one has to read and understand what is being stated, in some cases maybe even reading just a little 'between the lines'. It is exceptionally detailed in places and I had to return to some chapters to ensure I had grasped the detail.
EVERYONE should either have a copy or read one and then think- think for a long time about its content and the ramifications.

An absolute must, 30 Jun 2001
The best book around on Jewish observance. Written from a very frum perspective, which can be slightly intimidating. Donin has no time for lapses in observance! If this is an area you want to know about, buy this book, because you will not regret it. Mazel Tov!

Excellent, thorough introduction to Judaism, 19 Jun 1999
This book is exactly what its title proclaims-a very detailed guide to living as a Jew. I did not find it as reader friendly as "Living Judaism". After reading that title, though, I returned to this book and everything was clearer. I highly recommend it as an excellent addition to any library. It stands on its own merits and is second to none.

An excellent introduction, 21 Oct 1997
Although this book is primarily Askenazi it is a comprehensive but manageable introduction to Jewish living. I've used this book with people who wish to return to Judaism and they have found it invaluble. Along with 'How to Pray as a Jew' by Rabbi Donin this has to be a standard text for the modern Jewish home where there is little possible access to classical texts. This book is also useful in the class room when answering questions about Judaism before going onto further research. Certainly teachers in Lincolnshire, England, have found this book useful when teaching GCSE and A level Judaism.

a book worth reading, 08 Sep 1997
This book,by Hayim Ha-Levy Donin, was an in-depth and thorough account about what it meant to be Jewish, the emotional ties its people have to the faith, and so forth. Donin helped to open a once impregnable barrier between two seemingly clashing worlds. An excellent offering.

Excellent for people with religious families, 06 May 2008
This is an excellent guide for anyone converting, and as I don't want to repeat the other reviews here I'll get straight to the point:

This book is excellent if your family is religious and your in-laws are jewish. Yet I am from a non-religious background and one of those rare single converts (no jewish boyfriend/fiance/husband). So pretty much half of the book is completely wasted on me, because even though the advice on how to tell your family, and how to get your jewish in-laws to accept you is great, it simply doesn't apply to singles like me.

So I was a little disappointed that I wasted money on just about 50% of the book, but it is a nice introductory guide. Just not for singles with no religious upbringing. I would highly recommend "Judaism for Dummies" here, which is brilliant (except for the daft title).

Caveat Emptor: only suitable for non-orthodox, 23 Jan 2007
A somewhat 'lay' view of what religion is all about but an invaluable guide to the process all the same.

Buyers be aware, the book is only appropriate for what the author calls "liberal" (i.e. non-orthodox) Judaism. For a guide to the Orthodox process the author recommends Rabbi Maurice Lamm's "Becoming a Jew".

A great introduction for converts, 31 Jan 2004
This was the first book that I read to seek guidance on the essential points involved in conversion. It was a great read and will continue to stand as a point of reference for me.

I recommend this book to anyone considering conversion or as a gift for the convert's family / friends.

A great step-by-step explaination of conversion, 01 Sep 1998
Ths book dealt with a wide range of topics, trying to answer the "universal" questions of the Jew by Choice, such as how to cope with Christmas, how to tell one's parents, etc. However, by far the greatest strength of this book, and the reason I highly recomend it to anyone considering conversion, is the step-by-step explaination of what kinds of questions the rabbi will ask, what happens at the mikva, and what the bet din is like. This book got me really excited about conversion.

Extraordinarily helpful., 24 Dec 1997
As one who is new to the conversion process, I found this book to be extremely helpful. Not only does it describe in user-friendly terms the actual procedures involved in conversion, Ms. Dimante discusses areas involving psychological discomfort, i.e., how one's birth family might feel rejected, giving up the trappings of Christmas whether or not one believes in the concept. I read this book in two sittings, and I didn't want to put it down. I know I'll read parts of it again.

An essential resource for anyone wanting to learn to pray., 18 Nov 1997
There are few books as easy to read as "To Pray as a Jew." You will find all the essentials ... from preparing to attend synagogue to what to do when you leave and thereafter. If you desire to learn how to make prayer an effective part of your everyday life, then you MUST read this book. It is a "how to", "when to", "what to", "what else" manual. You will certainly wear this book out!

The one book you'll read again and again, 30 Nov 2002
I have had this book for a couple of years now and I still go back and read it on a regular basis. Why?? The content and format of the book is well structured, informative, interesting and enjoyable to read. It has everything. Good valuable information, well researched and presented in chapters that end much too soon!!! Each chapter deals with a specific holiday and it has been arranged in relevant sections. Full of interesting information and written in a user friendly style it truely is a book that you can just pick up and read, no struggling with the heavy stuff or the boring stuff, just a good read. My personal favorite is ''the dream and how to live it'' a wonderful insight into living the Sabbath .. I have read a lot of books on Judaism but this one is packed to the rafters with information and written with a wonderfully shared warmth, that draws you in. Before you know it, we'll all be ''Living the Dream''.

Excellent practical introduction to the Jewish festivals, 05 Oct 1996
"An excellent practical introduction to the festivals...succeeds brilliantly in bringing fresh life to our thoughts about the Jewish year." -- Jewish Chronicle In thoughtful and engaging prose, Rabbi Irving Greenberg explains and interprets the origin, background, interconnections, ceremonial rituals, and religious significance of all the Jewish holidays, including Passover, Yom Kippur, Purim, Hanukkah, Holocaust Remembrance Day and Israeli Independence Day. Giving detailed instructions for observance - the rituals, prayers, foods, and songs - he shows how celebrating the holy days of the Jewish calendar not only relives Jewish history but puts one in touch with the basic ideals of Judaism and the fundamental experience of life. Insightful, original, and engrossing, The Jewish Way is an essential volume that should be in every Jewish home, library, and synagogue. "An important book, one that should be read, discussed, critiqued, and then read over again." -- The Jewish Review

Truly a book of Splendour, 25 Dec 2006
This is a superb book. If you are interested in Kaballah then it is best to go back to the original sources - the great Kabbalistic Rabbis of the past. And if you are going to back to the source it is good to have a guide who not only understands the source but can make it accessible. Kaplan is all these.

The selections are excellent and wonderfully rendered into English. Along with the extracts Kaplan includes quick, concise but erudite contextual commentaries and descriptions of the main Kaballists and their lives. Thus one can gain an overview of the history of Kaballah and how it developed over the centuries.

The only criticism I have is that there are a lot of typos but otherwise I cannot recommend this book highly enough. Its pages drip with love, ecstasy and joy.

No rubbish, only the "purest gold" translated, 25 Jul 1999
Rabbi Kaplan, Z"L, as ever, does a great job by inheriting the world the first translation of the almost forgotten methods of meditation used by the Talmudic sages, Chasidim, R. Abulafia, R. Luria, Baal Shem Tov, etc. They all seem dangerous (if you unde