The big Jewish book for Jews

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Martin Cohen

'This book is a fresh and original introduction to philosophy. Intended for those with little or no prior knowledge of philosophy, such as A-level students or readers in Further Education courses, the first part of the book presents philosophical problems as thought experiments which stimulate and promote thought and debate. The second part contains solutions and further discussions, complete with a glossary of unfamiliar terms. The problems offer the reader a thorough grounding in the history of philosophical ideas and are discussed in a clear, concise and often humorous manner.

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Inge Bolin

"In the remoteness of their mountain retreat, the herders of Chillihuani, Peru, recognize that respect for others is the central and most significant element of all thought and action," observes Inge Bolin. "Without respect, no society, no civilization, can flourish for long. Without respect, humanity is doomed and so is the earth, sustainer of all life." In this beautifully written ethnography, Bolin describes the rituals of respect that maintain harmonious relations among people, the natural world, and the realm of the gods in an isolated Andean community of llama and alpaca herders that reaches up to 16,500 feet. Bolin was the first foreigner to visit Chillihuani, and she was permitted to participate in private family rituals, as well as public ceremonies. In turn, she allows the villagers to explain the meaning of their rituals in their own words. From these first-hand experiences, Bolin offers an intimate portrait of an annual ritual cycle that dates back to Inca and pre-Inca times, including the ancient Pukllay weddings the Fiesta de Santiago, with its horse races on the top of the world and Peru's Independence Day, when the Rituals of Respect for elders and young people alike are carried out within male and female hierarchies reminiscent of Inca times.

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Eddie Jones, Cindy Sproles

Do you sense something vital missing from your relationship with your spouse, children and God? Are you easily distracted by the busyness of life and left feeling drained, bored, and discouraged? Do you sense you were meant to enjoy the richness of life, but spend your days feasting on crumbs? This heart-warming collection of stories (54 in all) will inspire you to reach for the true source of joy: a life lived for and through God. These deeply personal (and sometimes humorous) devotions offer biblical insights and spiritual truths from the unique perspective of one man and one woman. Learn to cultivate a life of passion. Perfect for your quiet time, these moments of meditative reflection illustrate the importance of allowing God to work within you and speak through you. No matter if you are newlyweds or newly retired, this book of devotions will help you put the spark back into your love life and explore the precious relationships God desires for you.

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Oliver Tallec

Louis I, King of the Sheep is a funny philosophical fable about a sheep who finds a crown, and revels in dreams of power.