A Guide to Jewish Studies: Rabbinic Literature

"This book is written for the vast majority of adults who either attend synagogue or have a general interest in Judaism, whether Jewish or not. It provides insight into the meaning of terms that are used in sermons, lectures, and articles, such as "Torah," "halakhah," "midrash," "Talmud," and "Jewish law," all of which are component elements of rabbinic literature. Sicker explains the meaning of these and other terms, the bodies of literature they refer to, and the historical linkage between them in an easy, accessible manner. In a sense, this book is not only a guide to the literature, but also an intellectual history of Judaic thought and culture. It should be of interest to anyone even slightly curious about how Judaism managed to survive for millennia without central institutions or clerical hierarchy." - from the publisher

"This Essential Guide discusses all the texts in Rabbinic literature, including the Mishnah, Tosefta, Talmuds, and Midrash. With this Guide, students will better understand the complex and unique world of Judaism and its significance for studying the Bible, Judaism, and Christian origins." - from the publisher

"This companion guides beginning students of rabbinic literature to the range of historical-interpretive and culture-critical issues that contemporary scholars use when studying the rabbinic texts of late antiquity." - from the publisher

Translated into English with notes, glossary, and indices under the editorship of I. Epstein.

"Rabbi Moshe ben Nachman, the 13th century Jewish leader and scholar known as Ramban, earned himself a place alongside Rashi as one of Judaism's primary Torah commentators. His commentary, which encompasses a vast panorama of Jewish learning, language, halachah, aggadah, philosophy, Kabbalah, and history offers a penetrating analysis of the Torah that will both enlighten and inspire. Rabbi Chavel's elegant English translation is based on the original Hebrew manuscripts. Insightful notes offer clarification of Ramban's commentary and provide his sources. An essential guide to the Torah that should grace the bookshelves of every Jewish home! English only." - Publisher description

"The Zohar is a book of great mystical power and wisdom. Universally recognized as the definitive work on the Kabbalah, and much more. The Zohar is a wellspring of spiritual energy, a fountainhead of metaphysical power that not only reveals and explains, but literally brings blessing, protection, and well-being into the lives of all those who read or peruse its sacred texts. Unlike other books, The Zohar is written in a kind of code, through which metaphors, parables, and cryptic language at first conceal but ultimately reveal the forces of creation. As electrical current is concealed in wire and cable before disclosing itself as an illuminated light bulb, the spiritual Light of the Creator is wrapped in allegory and symbolism throughout the Aramic text of the Zohar. It's primary purpose is not only to help us acquire wisdom, but to draw Light from the Upper Worlds and to bring sanctification into our lives."

Translated into English with notes, glossary and indices under the editorship of H. Freedman and Maurice Simon. With a foreword by I. Epstein.