A Jewish Approach to Leadership - Lewis, Hal M. Rowman & Littlefield, 2006. 172p. $18.95, paperback. $66.00, hardcover. ISBN: 978-0- 7425-5229-6 (paperback). ISBN: 978-0-7425-5228-9 (hardcover). rowmanlittlefield.com 296.6'1 Jewish leadership-United States. Leadership-Religious aspects-Judaism. Jews-United States-Politics and government-21st century.

Moses and the Journey to Leadership: Timeless Lessons of Effective Management from the Bible and Today's Leaders - Cohen, Norman J. Jewish Lights, 2007. 224p. $21.99, hardcover. $18.99, paperback. ISBN: 978-1-58023-227-2 (hardcover). ISBN: 978-1-58023-351-4 (paperback). 296.6'1 Moses (Biblical leader). Bible. O.T. Pentateuch-Criticism, interpretation, etc. Leadership-Moral and ethical aspects. Management-Moral and ethical aspects.

It is not unusual to hear people decry the lack of effective leadership in various aspects of society, including religious institutions. Hal M. Lewis of the Spertus Institute of Jewish Studies in Chicago and Rabbi Norman Cohen of Hebrew Union College-Jewish Institute of Religion in New York have each written informative and challenging books about what leadership is all about in the Jewish tradition.

Lewis's writing is more theoretical and conceptual. Cohen's, on the other hand, seems more accessible as he focuses on Moses and documents specific passages in the Bible that deal with leadership development and the problems that confronted Moses as a leader.

My suggestion is to read Lewis's book first. He carefully outlines a traditional approach, relying on what the Hebrew Bible and the rabbis had to say about leadership as a basis for what he feels current Jewish leaders need to know and understand. Leadership comes from God, he says. It is not inborn, nor is any man above God's will. Prophets, priests, and kings had power, but that power was limited. Abuses of power were to be avoided. Power was to be shared. Leaders were not perfect and were expected to admit their errors. In Jewish thought, says Lewis, a "great man" theory was not valid. Leaders have always needed the support of their people, and everyone can be tempted by power. People are looking for competence and character, honesty and integrity in their leaders.

Cohen's analysis of the leadership skills of Moses confirms much of what Lewis states. A good example is the reference to Exodus 18, where Jethro, father-in-law of Moses, talks to Moses about sharing power. Cohen explains that Moses is overburdened with the weight of leadership. At first Moses says it is the people's fault because they expect him to deal with all their problems, but then he follows Jethro's advice to look for others who can act as judges. They should be people who are strong, who believe in God, who are truthful, and who are not interested in material gain. Cohen also adds blurbs about the leadership skills of contemporary figures. The layout of his book is effective in emphasizing what constitutes outstanding leadership.

Both Lewis and Cohen include footnotes and bibliographies. From Sanctuary to Boardroom has an index. Both books are recommended for congregational libraries and for the leadership within your institutions.

Evelyn Pockrass
Indianapolis Hebrew Congregation
Indianapolis, Indiana