Encyclopedia of Jewish Folklore and Traditions

Jews have lived everywhere, spoken in many tongues, and yet are one people. Their folklore then, recounts tales from around the world around singular themes. This Encyclopedia of Jewish Folklore and Traditions wonderfully relates expected folklore – costumes, dances, medicine and goes on to specific folklore – Sukkot, Yom Kippur and Purim. In this volume, are the stories behind menorahs, Hanukkah lamps and sedar plates, Sambation and Wandering Jews and angels. This is a wonderful encyclopedia, both for reference and for dipping into simply because it is fascinating.

There are many familiar faces here: Abraham, Cain and Abel, Elijah, Ruth...