Of Tears and Laughter

Publisher: Kehot Publication Society
Adapted and Translated by: Rabbi Eli Block
Format: 6" x 9" Hardcover, 80 pages
Language: English

A Talmudic exegesis by the Rebbe, Rabbi Menachem M. Schneerson. Adapted from two siyumim delivered by the Rebbe (on tractates Makkot and Yoma), Of Tears and Laughter focuses on two moving Talmudic stories that occurred in the aftermath of the destruction of the second Beit Hamikdash.

With his unique, holistic approach to Torah study, the Rebbe explores the positions taken by the leading Sages of that time, and examines their lives and teachings. With a spotlight on Rabbi Akiva and his response, the Rebbe searches the Talmud for laws taught by Rabbi Akiva, his lifes story and allusions to the composition of his very soul, to provide a comprehensive and insightful reasoning for Rabbi Akivas optimism. In the final analysis the Rebbe provides a breathtaking mosaic of the leaders of the Jewish people in the post second Beit Hamikdash era.

A erudite Talmudic exegesis by the Rebbe, Rabbi Menachem M. Schneerson, "Of Tears and Laughter" is deftly adapted from two siyumim delivered by the Rebbe (on the tractates Makkot and Yoma). "Of Tears and Laughter" focuses on two moving Talmudic stories that occured in the aftermath of the destruction of the second Beit Hamikdash. With his unique, holistic approach to Torah study, the Rebbe explores the positions taken by the leading Sages of that time, and examines their lives and teachings. With a spotlight on Rabbi Akiva and his response, the Rebbe searches the Talmud for laws taught by Rabbi Akiva, his life`s story and allusions to the composition of his very soul, to provide a comprehensive and insightful reasoning for Rabbi Akiva`s optimism. In the final analysis the Rebbe provides a breathtaking mosaic of the leaders of the Jewish people in the post second Beit Hamikdash era. As informed and informative as it is thoughtful and thought-provoking, "Of Tears and Laughter" is unreservedly recommended for personal, synagogue, and academic library Judaic Studies collections and supplemental reading lists.

--Midwest Book Review
James A. Cox, Editor-in-chief

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