Abraham Joshua Heschel--Philosopher of Wonder

Most studies of Abraham Joshua Heschel approach him as a theologian, whereas this book peers behind the theologian and honors Heschel as the original philosopher that he was. So it unearths Heschel's epistemology, his aesthetic, and his social philosophy, all reinforced by the thirty years of friendship and dialogue that Maurice Friedman shared with him.

This book raises significantly critical questions concerning Heschel's philosophy of Judaism while remaining greatly appreciative of the sweep and command of his philosophy that Friedman believes were not sufficiently worked through.


""In Abraham Joshua Heschel, Maurice Friedman, the disciple and foremost interpreter of Martin Buber, has given us a lucid and deeply personal account of his unique friendship with Abraham Heschel, the most creative Jewish thinker of the twentieth century. Friedman's love for Heschel can be seen throughout the book in spite of the fact that these two philosophers held different views on religion and Judaism. Friedman helps us understand why Heschel is considered by many to be the Jewish saint of his generation.""
--Harold Kasimow, Professor Emeritus of Religious Studies, Grinnell College

""Few of us get to experience a meaningful relationship with a great spiritual teacher, such as Friedman did with Heschel. I found this book to provide wonderfully rich insights into Heschel's lived wisdom and moral grandeur. Abraham Joshua Heschel provides an evocative account of the dialogical interactions between these remarkable thinkers.""
--Kenneth P. Kramer, Professor Emeritus of Comparative Religious Studies, San Jose State University

""Maurice Friedman gives us a beautiful, inspiring portrait of his relationship with my father over the course of many decades. His book is a superb introduction to my father's life and thought and is filled with love and admiration.""
--Susannah Heschel, Professor of Jewish Studies, Dartmouth College


Maurice S. Friedman was Professor Emeritus of Religion, Philosophy, and Comparative Literature at San Diego State University. He is the author or editor of over fifty books, including a translation of Martin Buber's Hasidism and Modern Man (2005) and Abraham Joshua Heschel & Elie Wiesel, You Are My Witnesses (1987).