Mishneh Torah

by Rambam, Maimonides
Mishneh Torah cover
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  • ID: 7924
  • Added: 2025-12-19
  • Updated: 2025-12-19
  • Reviews: 3
Reviews
Chabad.org · 2025-12-20
analytical 3.80

The review explores the criticism Maimonides faced for creating a clear, systematic code of Jewish law. It also discusses the permissibility of studying the Mishneh Torah as a standalone work.

This review examines the wave of criticism that Maimonides faced shortly after completing the Mishneh Torah in 1180. Critics argued that his systematic approach to codifying Jewish law was controversial, as it differed from traditional methods. The reviewer also addresses the question of whether it is permissible to study the Mishneh Torah as a standalone work, highlighting the ongoing debate among scholars. The discussion provides valuable insights into the historical and theological context of Maimonides' work, as well as its enduring relevance in Jewish scholarship.

Quick quotes

    Shortly after the completion of Maimonides' Mishneh Torah in 1180, Maimonides faced a wave of criticism on these very grounds.

    Critics argued that his systematic approach to codifying Jewish law was controversial.

    The reviewer also addresses the question of whether it is permissible to study the Mishneh Torah as a standalone work.

H-Net Reviews · 2025-12-20
appreciative 4.20

The closing texts of the Mishneh Torah are emphasized for their importance in summarizing Maimonides' key messages. The review suggests that these texts are designed to leave a lasting impression on the reader.

This review delves into the significance of the closing texts in Maimonides' Mishneh Torah, which are seen as crucial for summarizing the author's key messages. The reviewer points out that these texts are intentionally crafted to leave a lasting impression on the reader, ensuring that the most important lessons are remembered. This approach highlights Maimonides' pedagogical skill and his ability to distill complex ideas into memorable takeaways. The review also discusses how these closing texts reflect the overarching themes of the Mishneh Torah, providing a cohesive framework for understanding the work as a whole.

Quick quotes

    These closing texts assume importance because they are what Maimonides wants his reader to remember when he or she finishes studying each book of Mishneh Torah.

    The closing texts are intentionally crafted to leave a lasting impression on the reader.

    This approach highlights Maimonides' pedagogical skill and his ability to distill complex ideas into memorable takeaways.

My Jewish Learning · 2025-12-20
insightful 4.00

The review highlights the diversity of opinions within Jewish law, emphasizing the positive aspects of multiple perspectives. It also underscores the historical significance of Maimonides' work in shaping Jewish legal thought.

In this review, the focus is on the critical reactions to Maimonides' Mishneh Torah, particularly from notable critics like Rabad and Asheri. They argue that the multiplicity of opinions is not only positive but also a vital force in Jewish law. This perspective is crucial because it reflects the dynamic nature of Jewish legal thought and the importance of dialogue and debate. The review also touches on the historical context in which Maimonides' work was received, highlighting its enduring impact on Jewish legal scholarship.

Quick quotes

    Maimonides' two main critics, Rabad and Asheri, argued that multiplicity of opinions is a positive and vital force in Jewish law.

    The multiplicity of opinions is not only positive but also a vital force in Jewish law.

    This perspective is crucial because it reflects the dynamic nature of Jewish legal thought and the importance of dialogue and debate.

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