In this clearly written book, Jacob Neusner answers the central questions about the world of Judaism in which Christianity was born. He gives an overview of the history and religion of Israel and an analysis of the Judaic legacy as it endured among those who did not become Christians. He also discusses the troubling issue of the Pharisees and investigates the identity of the "historical Hillel." This accessible book aims to speak directly to every student who is concerned with both the early and contemporary meanings of the Jewish and Christian faiths.
"An extraordinary suggestive introduction to the Judaism of the first century, brilliantly written by America's foremost specialist on Judaism, who here focuses especially on Pharisaic Judaism because of the large role it plays in the New Testament itself."
--Martin Hengel
