In 23 provocative essays grounded by cultural texts/artefacts, leading scholars (archeologists, historians, literary critics, folklorists) from Israel and diaspora countries address issues of ever-evolving Jewish identity (or is it identities?) and bilateral relations with their majority cultural contexts. Biale (Jewish history, U. of California, Davis) introduces sections on Mediterranean origins, diaspora diversities, and modern challenges to tradition worldwide. The some 100 illustrations include dust jacket art from the c. 1300 Schoken Bible . Annotation (c) Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)