“This beautifully written and compellingly argued book is an essential guide to the faith of a contemporary liberal Jew. The Lilac Tree is that rare achievement, bringing together the eclectic commitments of the Jewish people—to God, Jewish continuity, Israel, humanity—in a coherent worldview, a love song to the Jewish story. Passionate, sober and wise, this book presents an American Judaism capable of inspiring and transforming lives, showing us the way to a life of service and wonder. It explains why Ammi Hirsch is one of America’s most important and beloved rabbis.”