The Passionate Torah: Sex and Judaism

Edited by Danya Ruttenberg
NYU Press

      In this unique collection of essays, edited by Rabbi Danya Ruttenberg, author of Surprised by God, some of today’s smartest Jewish thinkers explore a broad range of fundamental questions in an effort to balance ancient tradition and modern sexuality.
      In the last few decades, post-modernism, feminism, gay liberation, and more have brought discussions of sexuality to the fore, and with it a whole new set of questions that challenge time-honored traditions and ways of thinking. For Jews of all backgrounds, this has sometimes led to an unhappy standoff between tradition and sexual empowerment. The writers contend that it is important for Jews to think beyond this apparent conflict if they are to embrace both their religious beliefs and their sexuality.
      Incisive essays from contemporary rabbis, scholars, and writers survey the challenges that sexuality poses to Jewish belief, but also offer new perspectives and insights on the changing place of sexuality within Jewish theology and Jewish lives. Topics covered include monogamy, inter-faith relationships, reproductive technology, homosexuality, and other hot-button issues.


For information on this book and others published by NYU Press, visit www.nyupress.org.