This book (basically a comparison of mainstream Talmudic scholarship and mysticism, and an endorsement of the former) struck me as the kind of book I might get more out of in a few years, when I know a lot more and have read a lot more -- and maybe when I am a grownup I will reread it. But it is not a book for people just beginning to learn about Judaism (unless they happen to have a Ph.D in philosophy). The allusions (to other thinkers), the concepts, and even the vocabulary were often over my head and are probably over the head of most people who do not have an enormous background in philosophical matters. I learned something from it, but not as much as a more learned person would.

This book is one of the most ambitious works of Jewish theology written in the past few hundred years. It is in many ways a rewrite of "Nefesh HaChayim" which has never been translated into English. The Halakhic Man is a complete coherent vision of Judaism and the world.

Time Magazine called Halakhic Man 'A sweeping defense of the validity and excitement of pursuing a religiously observant life in the modern world.'.

I think the theme here is not that a religiously observant life is intrinsically exciting; it is the only way in which a rational person can find solace.

Rav Soloveitchik aptly notes that the aim of religion is about personal liberation and creativity.

His defense of Maimonides in light of attacks from Hegel, Neitzche, Kant, et al are inspiring.

The book in truth is an autobiography. From it, the genius of Rav Soloveitchik is clear.

The subject of a class titled "A Spiritual Journey" taught by our Rabbi, this small book has engendered the deapest spiritual discussions-yet on an intellectual level-which one can imagine. However, be prepared! If you expect to get the most out of this book, you will need a very comprehensive dictionary.

While any serious reader will probably find Soloveitchik's insights helpful, it has to be said that if you don't have a solid, working knowledge of the Hebrew language and its development, together with a thorough knowledge of the Jewish religious traditions, you will miss much. Therefore, study with a Rabbi, as well as with others, is highly recommended to extract the full benefits from this book.

But is it worth it? Absolutely! You will want to read this book over and over again, something which will be easy to do because every sentence of this small volume packs hours of thought provoking insight into its discussion of the two stories of The Creation.

Soloveitchik published only a few titles during his long life as the leading Orthodox rabbi of this century. This is the one new readers should start with. It is rather difficult, and for some a dictionary may be needed, but its rewards far surpass its difficulties. Soloveitchik's thesis is that there are two stories of creation in the Bible, not because there are two literary traditions, but because there are two sides to man. Majestic Adam sees God in the splendor of the universe, and shows reverence through science. Lonely Adam craves a personal relationship with God, which is glimpsed in fleeting moments. Soloveitchik has no use for cheap "spirituality." His is the real kind, which takes deep thought and a lot of work. His is also the kind which, once attained, lasts a lifetime.

In Fate And Destiny: From The Holocaust To The State Of Israel, Rabbi Joseph Soloveitchik presents an extended, informative, insightful, inspiring theological meditation on the Holocaust and the rise of the State of Israel; a profound examination of the Jewish "covenant of faith"; and the "covenant of fate and destiny" which links all Jews, whether they be religious, irreligious, or non-religious. This covenant of faith manifests itself in shared circumstances, shared responsibility, and shared activity. Fate is thrust upon the Jews, while destiny is freely chose by the individual Jew and the Jewish people by adopting a Torah lifestyle thereby possessing both significance and purpose. Fate And Destiny is an impressive presentation and a highly recommended addition to Judaic Studies reading lists and library collections.

This book is wonderful! In addition to being a good story in and of itself, it is an important work showing the opposition to the hasidic movement in the early 19th century. Give this to your hasidic friends to annoy them! This will strengthen your Misnagedut.