"Judaism is one of the world's oldest religions. This book offers an account of the 4,000-year history of the Jews, from the ancient Patriarchs and Kings through to modern times. It also explores the Jewish faith, its traditional beliefs and practices, its festivals and celebrations, and the way of life of Jewish people today. The first of two volumes, A History of the Jews, explains how over time this Middle Eastern people produced a series of sacred texts that make up the Hebrew Bible, arguably the most widely read book in history. It outlines the many attacks and persecutions suffered through centuries of life in the Diaspora, the mass migration from Europe to America, and the eventual return to the Promised Land of Israel. The final section reveals how Jews today express themselves via myriad paths. The second volume, Judaism, explores the variety of forms of Jewish existence from that practised by the twelve tribes through to the medieval mystics, continuing to the various religious approaches in the modern world including Orthodox, Reform, Conservative and Humanistic Judaism, including Kabbalism, Secular Zionism and Jewish Buddhism. The tenets of Jewish belief are outlined, introducing the reader to the Jewish ethical and spiritual path. The final section embraces all aspects of religious life, including the Sabbath, special festivals, home ceremonies and personal piety"--page 2 of cover.