The Bible and Jews in Medieval Spain

The Bible and Jews in Medieval Spain explores the grammatical, exegetical, philosophical, and mystical interpretations of the Bible that took place in Spain during the medieval period. It focuses on the Hebrew commentaries of Abraham Ibn Ezra and later Christian Spain, comparing and contrasting major topics. The book also describes the many Spanish Jewish biblical manuscripts and the history of printed editions and Spanish translations.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 468 pages
Publication date: 09 January 2023
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

The Bible and Jews in Medieval Spain delves into the intricate and diverse interpretations of the Bible that flourished in Spain during the medieval era. The Bible held a paramount position in Jewish culture during this time, and the study of Hebrew grammar, which emerged in al-Andalus in the ninth and tenth centuries, played a crucial role in shaping biblical exegesis. This shift from homiletic interpretation allowed scholars to explore the text on grammatical and contextual terms, leading to the development of the first complete biblical commentaries in Hebrew.

Abraham Ibn Ezra, a prominent figure in Hebrew commentary, set the standard for subsequent generations with his comprehensive works. This book examines the approach and distinctive contributions of these commentaries, expanding to include those of later Christian Spain, such as the Qimhi family, Nahmanides, and his followers, as well as the esoteric-mystical tradition. By comparing and contrasting major topics addressed in the commentaries, the book provides a comprehensive picture of the entire fabric of Hebrew commentary in medieval Spain.

Furthermore, the book delves into the rich history of Spanish Jewish biblical manuscripts that have survived to this day, shedding light on the preservation and transmission of Jewish religious texts. It also details the history of printed editions and Spanish translations (for Jews and Christians) produced by medieval Spanish Jews, contributing to our understanding of the cultural exchange and interaction between different religious communities in medieval Spain.

This book appeals to scholars and students of medieval Spain, as well as those with an interest in the history of religion and cultural history. It offers valuable insights into the complex relationship between the Bible, Jewish culture, and medieval Spanish society, providing a deeper understanding of the rich tapestry of medieval intellectual and religious life.

Weight: 730g
Dimension: 154 x 234 x 30 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780367708207