Silver from the Land of Israel
A New Light on the Sabbath & Holidays

 

By Abraham Isaac Kook
May 2010
Urim Publications
Distributed by Coronet Books
ISBN: 9789655240429
169 pages
$27.95 Hardcover

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Because of their poetic and mystical nature, Rav Kook's writings are difficult even for readers who are fluent in Hebrew and rabbinic texts. Silver from the Land of Israel uses a clear, succinct style to provide the reader with a window into Rav Kook's original and creative insights.

A companion volume to Gold from the Land of Israel on the Torah, this book presents Rav Kook's thoughts on Shabbat and Jewish holidays. It elucidates his views on many topics, including:

What is the inner meaning of the shofar blasts?

Why are we instructed to drink on Purim?

What were Rav Kook's views on secular Zionism?

What is the role of art and literature?

Why do we need both an oral and written Torah?

Why must the Jewish calendar be set in the land of Israel?

Why does a Jewish king need his own sefer Torah?

In what way is the Shabbat like a bride?

Why do we not celebrate Chanukah with a festive meal?

Why is the Temple so important to us?


Rabbi Abraham Isaac Kook (1865-1935), the celebrated first Chief Rabbi of pre-state Israel, is recognized as being among the most important Jewish thinkers. Just as his writings reflect the mystic s search for underlying unity in all aspects of life and the world, his unique personality united a rare combination of talents and gifts. A prominent rabbinical authority and active public leader, Rav Kook was, at the same time, a deeply religious mystic. He was both Talmudic scholar and poet, original thinker and tzaddik.

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