The Kuzari — Rabbi Yehudah HaLevi

In the 12th century, Yehuda HaLevi authored a classic of world literature when he developed a vibrant dialogue between a Jewish scholar and a ruler from the kingdom of Khazar.

The book, published in Arabic, was called The Kuzari, and it addresses a series of theological, philosophical, and ideological concerns posed by the Khazar king. Among the topics discussed: comparing the Jewish, Christian, and Muslim faiths, the history of the world, origins of the Jewish nation; how God interacts with the physical world, Israel and the nations, the concept of Sabbath, the World to Come, faith, prophecy, astrology, proofs for the existence of a soul, the human intellect, free will, and more.

This edition of The Kuzari offers an accurate, easy-to-read translation of the text along with incisive commentary, an extensive biography of Yehuda HaLevi, and a history of the original Khazar kingdom. The result is a richly-rewarding learning opportunity – one that provides a compelling look at timely answers to timeless questions as they relate to the human condition in a modern world.