Perspectives On Maimonides: Philosophical And Historical Studies

Book Summary

Leading scholars have combined forces to produce this volume on the philosophy and legal views of Moses Maimonides (11381204) and the historical context in which he worked. The philosophical section examines Maimonides ethical 'For many years to come it is likely to remain a major reference volume for students of Maimonides.' Sarah Stroumsa, Jewish Quarterly Review 'These studies, however disparate, provide us with convincing evidence of the continuing importance of Maimonides' philosophy.' Marvin Fox, Times Literary Supplement 'Surely one of the best surveys both of Maimonides and of his historical context . . . an important contribution.' Oliver Leaman, Le'ela 'It is very apposite to have it now in paperback: less expensive, it will allow students to possess a volume that will acquaint them with high standards of scholarship, showing at the same time that although so much has been said and written about Maimonides, it is still possible to come up with new and interesting insights into his life and works, which continue to be interpreted very differently by different scholars.' Gad Freudenthal, Journal of Religious History Leading scholars have combined forces to produce this volume on the philosophy and legal views of Moses Maimonides (1138-1204) and the historical context in which he worked. The philosophical section examines Maimonides' ethical doctrine; his paradoxical life-style; his Guide of the Perplexed; his attitude to mysticism; his use of language; and his theory of astronomy. The legal section deals with law and medicine, the relation of Maimonides' legal thought to the Talmud; his doctrine of a just war; and his theory of redemption and Messianism. The history section examines Maimonides' accession to the position of head of the Jewish community in its historical context, at the time of the rise of the 'Ayyubid dynasty under Saladin. Contributors: Joel L. Kraemer, Lawrence V. Berman, JoshuaBlau, Gerald J. Blidstein, Joseph Drory, Andrew S. Ehrenkreutz, Ithamar Gruenwald, Steven Harvey, Warren Zev Harvey, Arthur Hyman, Alfred L. Ivry, Tzvi Langermann, Ralph Lerner, Jacob Levinger, Aviezer Ravitsky, Isadore Twersky, Michael Winter

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