"This book deals with two problems central to Jewish theology: the chosenness of the Jewish people and the rationale of the ritual commandments in Judaism. The two topics are naturally connected since the ritual commandments of Judaism most clearly demarcate Judaism from other religions and therefore contribute to the sense of chosenness so widespread among Jews." — Michael Wyschogrod, Baruch College"These philosophical reflections sharpen our understanding of Jewish existence and deepen our knowledge of the history of Jewish philosophy, both medieval and modern. In addition, the book represents an important methodological breakthrough for the academic discipline of Jewish philosophy. By incorporating models from the field of anthropology and philosophy of language, the essays on Jewish ritual integrate Jewish philosophy into the larger academic discipline of religious studies. The philosophical reflection on Jewish particularism is very significant. It sheds light on the meaning of Jewish existence, the nature of Jewish philosophy, and the central questions of post-modernity." — Hava Tirosh-Rothschild, Indiana University
