Encyclopedia of Judaism explores a tradition that has a 2,000-year recorded history and has been a part of the culture of almost every country and society around the globe. Encapsulating all things Jewish—language, laws, literature, arts, theology, ritual, land, culture, and personalities—this authoritative volume offers readers access to Judaism from both a historical and contemporary perspective.

Since the demise of the Israelite religion, Jewish people have spread around the world, adapted to their host cultures, and produced cultural variances within Judaism. In doing so, they have experienced prosperity and tragedy, all of which is reflected in this comprehensive reference, along with biographical data on notable Jewish individuals. In a completely accessible manner, Encyclopedia of Judaism covers Jewish tradition from religious practices in the Temple through exile and diaspora in Europe and Asia.