The title of this book perpetuates a common myth, i.e., that Abraham and Biblical Jews (and Christians) were monotheists.

While they worshiped YHWH as God (and Christians worshiped Jesus/Y'shua/IHCOYC as God's son), they did not rule out the existence of other gods (though Paul may only have suggested the existence of other gods without actually believing in their existence). Hence, they were henotheists, not monotheists. YHWH was the God or only God for them, but the nations had their gods, too.

Someone needs to put this "myth of monotheism" to rest. I'm doing my part.

Having read Mr. Klinghoffer's wonderful memoir "The Lord Will Gather Me In," I had high hopes for this new book. Even so, "The Discovery of God" exceeded my expectations.

Using Jewish tradition (oral and written) to flesh out the account of Abraham's life in Genesis, Klinghoffer paints an incredibly vibrant picture of the the patriarch. As he tells this story, he also provides fascinating discussions of the cannons of Biblical exegesis, rabbinical scholarly traditions, and the sources of conflict between traditional and modernist scholars. This is weighty stuff, but Klinghoffer writes so beautifully, and has such an eye for the interesting detail, that the book never sags--rather, it soars.

All in all, "The Discovery of God" is a fascinating journey through the life of the man who Jews, Christians, and Muslims all can rightfully call "Father Abraham." Highly recommended.

David Klinghoffer is living very close to uncovering his own story. The story continues - I believe in a Temple near by his Mercer Island Home...

Excellent Book on the Story and Trials facing Abraham, Esther and a Convert in the Jewish Community...

Perhaps not so much a journey to somewhere as a return to a place.

An illustration of the highly personal nature of religious experience. If you have struggled to relate the scripture of a spiritual tradition to your life there is much to appreciate here, but the idea of moving forward by going back requires a certain predisposition, I think. I'd recommend this in combination with "A History of God" by Karen Armstrong and most anything by Joseph Campbell if you are trying to understand your own religious heritage and its place in your life.

I always read books written on the subject of Othodoxy with scepticism. Having been born and raised Orthodox, I can tell if the book or movie is authentic. Movies where,for example,the Chasidim wear their Talit to the meal, proves to me that most people that write about the subject, clearly do not live it. Klinghoffer's book, however, is totally authentic. His explanations into the origins of words, and his insight into the nature of the Halacha, not as law, but as a way of life, is refreshing.

I know that the bulk of Conservative and Reform Jews probably do not agree with his spin on their religion, however, I have to agree with him. History will bear out the fact, that Judaism by association of blood alone, will not survive. In my neighborhood we have an exceptionally large amount of Baaley tshuva and converts. I find it extremely impressive and am in awe of a person that generally gives up all that he has been raised to beleive, in search of something almost illusive: the truth.

After my divorce, I became semi-orthodox. I was angry at G-d, whom I held responsible, and felt that if he deserted me, certainly I had no obligation to maintain contact with him. On the outside I continued all the ritual, but inside I knew it was just a show. After my remarriage and subsequent death of my second husband, I reevaluated my religion and my beliefs and came to much of the same conclusions as Klinghoffer. G-d walks with me and I know that he is watching me...and not from a distance.

It would be simple if our religion could be relegated to an occasional temple trip, and not eating pork, but in our hearts, we all know that this is not what binds us together and maintains us as Jews. It is not only in the blood. It is in the heart and in the concrete observance of the Torah as well. From Abraham, to Unkelus to Ruth, some of our greatest Jews have come to us through conversion. I admire the author and other converts that have sought out the truth and the beauty of Judaism. You are an inspiration to those of us that take it often for granted.

Klinghoffer's journey to orthodox and authentic Judaism should be compulsory reading for those Jews who sincerely consider Reform and Conservative "Judaism" a religious option. Unlike Klinghoffer these people waste most of their lives with the illusion that they are in some way worshiping and particpating in the religion of Moses, Maimonides and the other teachers of our people.

having met countless Baalei Tshuva - it is refreshing to find one as intelligent and understanding as K. is. Slowly but surely he comes to see Judaism and the Torah in its genuine and unadalterated form and recognise that to be a Jew there is no other option.

I am also impressed with the fact that he doesn't fall for much of the nonsense that many Baalei Tshuva seem accept.

It would be interesting for us readers if he wrote a follow-up book on his life as an orthodox Jew with its trials and tribulations and ups and downs.

It would also be fascinating to get his view on the Charedi communities - especiallly in Brooklyn and Jerusalem.