I just received this book, but already its looking like it will be one of those rare gems of biblical writing where I get to make up my own mind rather than the author polluting the topic with his/her own dogma. It is very hard to find a book that is balanced in the genre of religion. Apparently, this author is Jewish, which will be a nice change since most authors on the Abrahamic linage I come across seem to be Christian. I follow the Teaching of Jesus personally, but really enjoy other perspectives besides the same old fiat that gives no critical eye to any of the Bible's history. Yep, I have high hopes for this book. Not many of these around. Even if you are a dyed in the wool traditionalist, you will enjoy the read. I doubt this man will offend you, you'll just dismiss anything that disagrees with your 'rightness' on the subject and move on.
I have been writing to many of my friends urging them to read this very special book. Why? I'm awed by the sheer volume and depth and density of its material. The sidebars and notes are an education in themselves. Daniel Hillel takes his readers on a journey through Jewish history, the Hebrew Bible and across the land of Israel - and what an enlightening tour guide he is!
On a personal level, this book has given me one more way to explore and view Jewish history and my own beliefs. I did a small bit of serious studies ages ago, when I was in my teens, but there was a long lapse until I picked it up a few years back. It's becoming increasingly important to me and I'm grateful for everything that helps me in a search to find some intelligent sense in my Jewish universe.
What else do I like so much about Daniel Hillel's book? That he explores and explains the meaning of words. His appreciation of women. And the beauty of his language. I was especially moved by the passages on the "land of your fathers" and the spirit of the desert.
I hope that this book will generate interest in reading the Bible from an environmental perspective. I think that it deserves to be seen as an important reference in the field of biblical studies.
