Social Functions of Synagogue Song

Social Functions of Synagogue Song: A Durkheimian Approach by Jonathan L. Friedmann paints a detailed picture of the important role sacred music plays in Jewish religious communities. Drawing upon the work of Émile Durkeim, the book examines how synagogue songs serve disciplinary, cohesive, revitalizing, and euphoric functions.

Jonathan L. Friedmann is a professor of Jewish music history at the Academy for Jewish Religion, California, and Extraordinary Professor of theology at North-West University (South Africa). He is the author, editor or compiler of eleven other books on music and religion. Visit his website at jonathanfriedmann.com.

Preface Introduction 1. Durkheim and Religion 2. Discipline 3. Cohesion 4. Revitalization 5. Euphoria 6. Conclusion Appendix: Durkheimian Studies Bibliography Index About the Author