
Like Bread on the Seder Plate
Jewish Lesbians and the Transformation of Tradition
Rebecca Alpert(Author)
Columbia University Press
Will be published approx. on 5. May 1997
Book
Hardback
224 pages
978-0-231-09660-7 (ISBN)
Description
This text explores what it is like to be part of both the lesbian and Jewish communities, suggesting ways in which lesbians can reconcile these seemingly discordant elements of their identity. It advocates the acceptance of lesbians into the Jewish tradition by offering new interpretations of the Torah traditionally regarded as prohibitive of homosexuality. The book counters the millenia of "Midrashim" (scholarly comment on the Torah) condemning gays and lesbians, by examining the culture of biblical lawgivers and the culture of the commentators themselves. By examining passages from Scripture and by featuring texts that portray Jewish lesbians as role models in a new cultural canon, the author presents a case for the integration of the lesbian voice into Jewish experience.
Reviews / Votes
An excellent resource for scholars of both Jewish and lesbian cultures in the United States. American Studies International A solid contribution to both Jewish feminism and lesbian and gay studies, breaking new ground in its focus on transforming Jewish religious life from a lesbian perspective. Women's Review of Books An extremely valuable and visionary source for Jewish lesbians who long to be recognized and to participate fully in mainstream synagogue life... The author is to be congratulated for bravely taking on such an all-consuming topic and writing such an accessible, powerful and provocative book. Lambda Book ReportMore details
Language
English
Place of publication
New York
United States
Target group
Professional and scholarly
Product notice
Trade binding
Weight
524 gr
ISBN-13
978-0-231-09660-7 (9780231096607)
Copyright in bibliographic data and cover images is held by Nielsen Book Services Limited or by the publishers or by their respective licensors: all rights reserved.
Schweitzer Classification
Other editions
Additional editions

Book
09/1998
Columbia University Press
€34.66
Shipment within 10-20 days
Person
Rebecca Alpert is assistant professor of religion and women's studies at Temple University and is a codirector of the Women's Studies Program. She is the coauthor ofExploring Judaism: A Reconstructionist Approach.