Description
Book SynopsisWherever Jews have settled and whatever languages they spoke, they created a community with a single set of common values. One law, one theology defined the community throughout their many migrations. A single book explains how this came aboutthe Talmud. By re-framing the Torah through sustained argument and analysis, the Talmud encourages the reader to actively apply reason and practice logic. Renowned scholar Jacob Neusner introduces readers to the Talmud, defining it, explaining its historical context, and illustrating why it remains relevant today. Neusner''s The Talmud: What It Is and What It Says invites readers to engage with the text, and emphasizes that the Talmud will continue to be an important cultural guidebook for Jewish life through the next millennium.
Trade ReviewAlthough a primer is commonly perceived as a simple, introductory book on a subject, what Neusner has produced here is a complex analysis that requires painstaking attention...Assiduous readers of all faiths will benefit from this introduction to the Talmud as a 'cookbook of culture composed of recipes for sustaining civilization.' * Publishers Weekly *
Table of ContentsPart 1 Preface Part 2 Chapter 1. History: The World in Which the Talmud Came Into Being Part 3 Chapter 2. What is the Mishnah? Part 4 Chapter 3. What is the Gemara? Part 5 Chapter 4. The Two Talmuds Part 6 Chapter 5. How Is the Talmud Part of the Torah? Part 7 Chapter 6. How is the Sage Part of the Torah? Part 8 Chapter 7. How Does the Talmud Present God? Part 9 Glossary Part 10 Sources of Rabbinic Texts Part 11 Index Part 12 About the Author
