Читать книгу The Book of Job - Leonard S. Kravitz - Страница 5

We have been colleagues and friends for nearly forty years. Together, we have cultivated many ideas, constantly striving to provide access to the sacred texts of the Jewish tradition to a growing number of people. And we have struggled with many sacred texts in which the inherent theology of the text does not immediately resonate with our own beliefs. This is by far the most difficult aspect of our work, never more so than with this book. For the book of Job forces us to confront the basic claims of Jewish theology and faith.

Even as we are mindful of the people whom we knew who lived righteous lives and yet were not rewarded with long life, we remain resolute in our commitment to Jewish faith and practice.

We are exceptionally appreciative of all those who have contributed of their own talents to turn the idea of this volume into a reality, particularly Ben Denckla and Rabbi Gail Diamond, the latter of whom served as a content editor. Both have been amazingly supportive partners and gentle critics throughout the process, making sure that the book speaks to those who yearn to listen. We also thank our new friends at Wipf and Stock who believe in the power of this sacred text as much as we do, especially Jim Tedrick.

We also thank our many former students and colleagues at Hebrew Union College-Jewish Institute of Religion and Big Tent Judaism who allowed us to probe the text with them and to teach Torah to others through a variety of means.

More than anything else, we express our deep appreciation to our families for supporting us on this and other journeys of the spirit that we have taken over the course of our lifetimes and our work together. It is their unconditional love that gives a depth of meaning to any of the words contained within the pages of this book. And we thank God daily for the opportunity and ability to continue to work in such vineyards so that others too may enjoy the sweet fruits of our labors.

Leonard S. Kravitz

Kerry M. Olitzky