Choosing Hope: The Heritage of Judaism

The book "Choosing Hope" is the 2023 Reference Book of the Year from the Academy of Parish Clergy, exploring nine fundamental sources of hope in Judaism: Teshuvah, Tikkun Olam, Abraham and Sarah, Exodus, Covenant, Job, World to Come, and Israel. It is grounded in a contemporary theology that affirms hope in times of trial and transmits deepest hopes to the next generation.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 352 pages
Publication date: 22 February 2022
Publisher: Jewish Publication Society

Throughout our history, Jews have traditionally responded to our trials with hope, psychologist David Arnow says. Because we have had ready access to Judaism's abundant reservoir of hope, we have been able to find solace and strength in the face of adversity.

The first book to plumb the depths of this reservoir, Choosing Hope, journeys from biblical times to our day to explore nine fundamental sources of hope in Judaism:

Teshuvah: The method to fulfill our hope to become better human beings.
Tikkun Olam: The hope that we can repair the world by working together.
Abraham and Sarah: Models of persisting in hope amid trials.
Exodus: The archetype of redemptive hope.
Covenant: The hope for a durable relationship with the One of Being.
Job: The "hard-fought hope" that brings a grief-stricken man back to life.
World to Come: The sustaining hope that death is not the end.
Israel: High hope activists work to build a just and inclusive society for all Israelis.
Jewish Humor: "Hopes last weapon" in our darkest days.

Grounded in a contemporary theology that situates the responsibility for creating a better world in human hands, with God acting through us, Choosing Hope can help us both affirm hope in times of trial and transmit our deepest hopes to the next generation.

By exploring these nine sources of hope, we can find renewed strength and purpose in our lives, and inspire others to do the same. Let us embrace the power of hope and work together to create a better world for ourselves and future generations.

Dimension: 229 x 152 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780827615205