What Is the Mishnah?: The State of the Question

The Mishnah is the foundational document of rabbinic Judaism, but its sources and setting are obscure. A conference in January 2021 assessed the state of Mishnah studies and the papers delivered at the conference form the basis of this collection. It provides a clear sense of current and future direction of Mishnah studies.

Format: Hardback
Length: 544 pages
Publication date: 07 March 2023
Publisher: Harvard University Press

The Mishnah, the cornerstone of rabbinic Judaism, holds immense significance as it serves as the foundation for all rabbinic law, spanning from ancient times to the present. The Talmud, in turn, relies on the Mishnah as its primary source. However, the Mishnah remains a mysterious and elusive document, shrouded in obscurity regarding its sources, setting, genre, and purpose.

To delve into this enigmatic topic, the Harvard Center for Jewish Studies and the Julis-Rabinowitz Program on Jewish and Israeli Law of the Harvard Law School organized a conference in January 2021. Renowned scholars from the United States, Europe, and Israel gathered to assess the current state of Mishnah studies and explore the future prospects of this field. The insightful papers presented at this conference form the foundation of this captivating collection.

What Is the Mishnah? is a scholarly yet accessible work that provides readers with a comprehensive understanding of the current state and future directions of Mishnah studies. It offers a clear roadmap for those interested in delving deeper into this rich and complex subject matter.

The book begins by providing an overview of the Mishnah's historical development and its role within the broader context of rabbinic Judaism. It explores the various sources that contributed to the Mishnah's composition, including the oral tradition, the Tosefta, and the Jerusalem Talmud. The authors also discuss the Mishnah's structure, organization, and content, highlighting its legal rulings, ethical principles, and historical narratives.

In the subsequent chapters, the book delves into the various approaches and methodologies employed in Mishnah studies. The authors examine the historical, literary, and social factors that shaped the Mishnah's development and interpretation, as well as the impact of modern scholarship on our understanding of the document. They also explore the Mishnah's relevance in contemporary Jewish life, examining its application in legal, religious, and cultural contexts.

Throughout the collection, the authors present their insights and interpretations of the Mishnah, drawing on a wealth of scholarly literature and original research. The papers are organized in a logical and coherent manner, making it easy for readers to navigate and gain a deeper understanding of the subject matter.

In conclusion, What Is the Mishnah? is a valuable resource for scholars, students, and anyone interested in exploring the foundations of rabbinic Judaism. It offers a comprehensive and insightful examination of the Mishnah's origins, development, and significance, providing a clear sense of current and future direction in Mishnah studies. This collection will undoubtedly contribute to our understanding of this important document and its enduring impact on Jewish law and tradition.

Dimension: 229 x 152 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780674278776