The unique wisdom of Judaism comes from the Talmud and the Judaic sages' other ancient writings that preserve the tradition of the originally oral Torah, or Teachings of Moses. Sometimes surprising - "better sincere sin than hypocritical virtue" - and always penetrating and helpful - "who are rich? those who are happy with their lot" - the wisdom of the oral Torah is set forth on more than one hundred subjects, arranged alphabetically, in their sources' own words, here rendered in clear and easily readable English. This is the "how-to" book for people who think deeply about everyday life: facing death of a loved one, the duties and rights of women and men together, busy-ness versus real achievement, deceit, gossip, discretion, virtue, honor, forbearance, forgiveness.

David Daube (1909-1999) was known for his unique and sophisticated research on Roman law, biblical law, Jewish law, and medical ethics. In his second set of Gifford Lectures presented in April and May 1964, Daube derives from his complex understanding of biblical texts both ancient and contemporary notions of wisdom, justice, and education. His thinking bridges the gap between humanism and religion, especially with regard to Christianity and Judaism. With his sophisticated understanding of Talmudic law and literature, his thinking revolutionized prevailing perceptions about the New Testament