"This introductory textbook on the history of Judaism, written by one of the foremost scholars in the field, covers the emergence of Judaism and includes chapters on the Pentateuch and the definition of Israel; the Torah, the Mishnah, and Judaism's way of life; the Talmud and Judaism's worldview; and the definition and nature of God in Judaism. The book concludes with a discussion of why Judaism has succeeded through centuries of competition with Christianity and Islam and a chapter on exemplary figures in the emergence of Judaism." "Also included are a glossary of terms and excerpts from many important primary documents, including the Mishnah, the Tosefta, the Talmud of the Land of Israel, the Talmud of Babylonia, Genesis and Genesis Rabbah, The Fathers ('Abot), and The Fathers According to Rabbi Nathan."--Jacket.