Holiness in Words: Abraham Joshua Heschel's Poetics of Piety (Suny Series, Judaica)

Holiness in Words: Abraham Joshua Heschel's Poetics of Piety (Suny Series, Judaica) by Kaplan, Edward K.. paperback edition. ISBN: 9780791428689.

A strategy for reading Heschels major works, as well as a new route to understanding religious writing in general: a lucid study of modern religious and ethical thought using literary criticism. Holiness in Words: Abraham Joshua Heschels Poetics of Piety is both an introduction to reading Heschels works in English, and an in-depth study of the way his literary style can transform the consciousness of readers. Heschels life and works respond to the contemporary crisis in religion, formulating positions on faith and despair, racism and social justice, the Holocaust, interreligious dialogue, and the availability of Gods presence. We study Heschels theory and use of literary language, his "poetics of piety," in order to elucidate his narrative strategy to teach God-centered (or prophetic) thinking. The book traces the major themes of his "depth theology," awe and radical amazement, the meaning of symbol, ritual, prayer, and mystical insight. Historical and biographical information clarifies Heschels implicit polemic with Martin Buber and a supplemental study guide provides sources for each chapter and suggestions for further thought and discussion.