In this second volume of his essays on the history of halakhah; author Haym Soloveitchik grapples with much-disputed topics in medieval Jewish history and takes issue with a number of reigning views. His insistence that proper understanding requires substantive; in-depth analysis of the sources leads him to a searching analysis of oft-cited halakhic texts of Ashkenaz; frequently with conclusions that differ from the current consensus. Medieval Jewish historians cannot; he argues; avoid engaging in detailed textual criticism; and texts must always be interpreted in the context of the legal culture of their time. Historians who shirk these tasks risk reinforcing a version that supports their own preconceptions; and retrojecting later notions on to an earlier age. These basic methodological points underlie every topic discussed. In Part I of the book; devoted to the cultural origins of Ashkenaz and its lasting impact; Professor Soloveitchik questions the scholarly consensus that the roots of Ashkenaz lie deep in Palestinian soil. He challenges the widespread notion that it was immemorial custom (minhag kadmon) that primarily governed Early Ashkenaz; the culture that emerged in the Rhineland in the late 10th century and which was ended by the ravages of the First Crusade (1096). He similarly rejects the theory that it was only towards the middle of the 11th century that the Babylonian Talmud came to be regarded as fully authoritative. On the basis of an in-depth analysis of the literature of the time; he shows that the scholars of Early Ashkenaz displayed an astonishing command of the complex corpus of the Babylonian Talmud and viewed it at all times as the touchstone of the permissible and the forbidden. The section concludes with his own radical proposal as to the source of Ashkenazi culture and the stamp it left upon the Jews of northern Europe for close to a millennium. Part II treats the issue of martyrdom as perceived and practiced by Jews under Islam and Christianity. In one of the longer essays; Soloveitchik claims that Maimonides' problematic Iggeret ha-Shemad is a work of rhetoric; not halakhah - a conclusion that has generated much criticism from other scholars; to whom he replies one by one. This is followed by a comprehensive study of kiddush ha-shemn Ashkenaz; which draws him into an analysis of whether aggadic sources were used by the Tosafists in halakhic arguments; as some historians claim; whether there was any halakhic validation of the widespread phenomenon of voluntary martyrdom; and; indeed; whether halakhic considerations played any part in such tragic life-and-death issues. The book concludes with two essays on Mishneh Torah; which argue that the famed code must also be viewed as a work of art which sustains; as masterpieces do; multiple conflicting interpretations.
#187856 in Books Encounter Books 2003-07-25Ingredients: Example IngredientsOriginal language:EnglishPDF # 1 8.60 x .72 x 6.40l; #File Name: 1893554732150 pages
Review
4 of 4 people found the following review helpful. A GOOD READ AND VERY RELEVANTBy GrannyKI loved this book. Even though it was written about a decade ago; it is very relevant now. Mr. Hanson gives info relating to the issues involving the main players in his book. He doesn't just preach from his own perspective. He seems pretty open minded and gives suggestions for solving some of the problems faced by California and the U.S. Unfortunately; they have gone unheeded over the past decade.2 of 2 people found the following review helpful. Must reading for all concerned.By Jim MiskoWell written. Well thought out and with plenty of personal references to nail down the changes that are occurring in California by not only legal but illegal immigration. Although the book is now a decade behind; it is right on and should be required reading for every California legislator and member of congress. Whether the state or the nation can do anything to stop this influx is unknown at this moment by the electorate; but reproduction rates and the use of social services are not unknown. This nation must find a way that is humane; socially responsible; and yet adheres to the laws of our land.3 of 3 people found the following review helpful. Both sides of the story!By William J. Boswell Jr.This is a very in depth; even handed and reflective study of the current socioeconomic and demographic situation especially in California. It isn't as one sided and inflammatory as Ann Coulter's book; Adios America.
