Epicurus & Apikorsim: The Influence of the Greek Epicurus and Jewish Apikorsim on Judaism

Product Description


Epicurus and Apikorsim describes the influence of Epicurus on Judaism. Judaism is the only national culture which has adopted the name of this Greek philosopher, using it as a term designating Jews who believe in freedom to choose their way of life, without obligation to obey religious Mitzvot' [commandments]. Today, most Jews live as Apikorsim. This book discusses the nature of Judaism as a culture. Epicurus non-religious philosophy spread during the Hellenistic period to all Mediterranean cultures, including Judaism. Its effect can be found in the Bible in the books of Kohelet/Ecclesiastes and the Book of Job.


About the Author


Professor Yaakov Malkin (emeritus of Tel Aviv University) is the International Co-Provost of the International Institute for Secular Humanistic Judaism. He is the author of: What do Secular Jews Believe; Secular Judaism - Faith, Values, Spirituality; and Judaism without God? - Judaism as Culture, the Bible as Literature. Other works deal with Aesthetics, Rhetoric, Community, and Cinematic Arts.