Merkaz Moreshet Yisrael
Brooklyn College – Judaic Studies 33
Ricky Hidary - rhidary@merkaz.com
Fall 2006, Mondays, 6:20-9:00PM
Maimonides: Intellectual Portrait
|
Date
|
Readings |
Response Paper Topics |
Powerpoint |
|
1. Sept 6 |
Rambam's Life and Times
Letter to Samuel Ibn-Tibbon in Alexander Altman, “Texts by By and About Maimonides,” JQR N.S. vol. 25 (1934-35) pp. 374-381. (PDF)
Twersky, Reader, 1-29.
|
1. What is the "Golden Age of Spain?" Choose one figure from the Golden Age and compare him to Maimonides. or 2. Write a paper about any of the Muslim philosophers who influenced Rambam such as Al Farabi, Avicenna, Averroes, or the Kalam thinkers. Please cite your sources for either topic.
|
|
|
2. Sept 11 |
Letter on Martyrdom
Halkin and Hartman, Epistles of Maimonides: Crisis and Leadership (The Jewish Publication Society: Philadelphia, 1985), pp. 15-34. (PDF)
|
Rambam uses many Biblical verses and quotes from the Talmud to back up his opinion in the letter on martyrdom. Choose a few of these sources and look them up in their original context. Are there other ways to interpret the sources? Do they really prove the point? Does Rambam interpret them in the simplest manner? Are there other sources he omitted? What does all this say about how Rambam uses Biblical and Talmudic sources? Here are the footnotes to the letter to help you find the sources. |
|
|
3. Sept 18 |
Freewill
Mishneh Torah, Hilchot Teshubah ch 5-6 and Talmudic Sources. (English partly in Twersky pp. 77-78.) (PDF)
Eight Cahpters, ch. 8 (Twersky, pp. 379-386). Commentary on Mishnah Abot 3:15 (Twersky, p. 395).
Letter on Astrology (Twersky, pp. 469-472).
|
Choose two or three Talmudic sources which discuss freewill or astrology (at least one we didn't discuss in class). Quote and explain each source. Does it fit in with Rambam's thought? If not, how could Rambam deal with that source? See Encyclopedia Judaica articles to help find sources. |
|
|
Sept 25 - No Class
4. Oct 3 Conversion Day |
Introduction to Commentary on the Mishnah
Rosner, Fred, and Twersky, Aaron. Maimonides’ Introduction to His Commentary on the Mishnah. (Northvale: Jason Aronson, 1995). On divisions of the Oral Torah, pp. 74-83. On the meaning of Life, pp. 118-131. (PDF)
Halbertal, Moshe. "The History of Halakhah, Views from Within: Three Medieval Approaches to Tradition and Controversy." (HTML) (PDF)
|
1. Write an essay evaluating the strengths and weaknesses of the various opinions concerning the origin and purpose of controversy in the Mishnah. Which is most appealing to you?
or
2. Trace the source of Rambam's view about the purpose of human existence to the Greek philosophers. How is Rambam's view similar to and different from that of the philophers?
|
|
|
5. Oct 9 Makeup Class |
Eight Chapters
Twersky, Reader. pp. 361-379.
|
Compare what Rambam writes in his Eight Chapters with what he writes about the same subjects in Mishneh Torah, Madah, chapters 1-3 (Twersky, pp. 51-57). What does Rambam add in Mishneh Torah? Is there anyting different? |
|
|
6. Oct 16 |
Book of Commandments
Twersky, Reader, pp. 424-436.
Davidson, Herbert. Moses Maimonides: The Mand and His Works (Oxford, Oxford University Press, 2005), pp. 168-178. (PDF)
Midterm Review
|
Summarize one dispute between Maimonides and Nachmanides in Sefer Hamisvoth. You can find both at the beginning of Mishneh Torah.
or
Come up with your own topic. |
|
|
7. Oct 23 |
Midterm |
|
|
|
8. Oct 30 |
Mishneh Torah
Introduction to Mishneh Torah: Twersky, Reader, pp. 35-41.
Twersky, Isadore, Introduction to the Code of Maimonides (New Haven: Yale University Press, 1980), pp. 32-47. (PDF) |
Find an interesting chapter in Mishneh Torah on any subject. Summarize it and discuss why it is interesting. (Hint: Rambam often inserts philosophical reflections at the ends of major sections of law. These are interesting about the way Rambam seeks a rational understanding of laws.) |
|
|
9. Nov 6 |
Guide of the Perplexed - Introduction
Twersky, Reader, pp. 231-246. |
Find a contradiction or hint in the Guide and explain what it means. (worth 2 papers) |
|
|
10. Nov 13 |
Incorporeality
Twersky, Reader, pp. 43-45, 246-277. |
Translate one chapter of Tanakh in which God is described as corporeal using no anthropomorphic terminology. Discuss the choices you made, how difficult it was, and whether it is a viable way of understanding Tanakh. |
|
|
11. Nov 20 |
Creation & Prophecy
Twersky, Reader, pp. 278-296. Mishneh Torah, Hilkhot Yesode Hatorah, ch. 7. (Word) Guide, II, 32. (PDF) |
Summarize and discuss any of the chapters of the Guide relating to creation of prophecy which we didn't get to in class. |
|
|
12. Nov 27 |
Reasons for Commandments
Twersky, Reader, pp. 310-349. |
Choose any category of commandments from part III of the Guide chapters 35 to 49. What is included in this category and what are the reason for these commandments. Are Rambam's explanations convincing? |
|
|
13. Dec 4 |
Afterlife & Resurrection
Twersky, Reader, pp. 401-423.
Halkin and Hartman, Epistles of Maimonides: Crisis and Leadership (The Jewish Publication Society: Philadelphia, 1985), pp. 211-233. (PDF) |
Analyze the two questions and answers Rambam adds at the end of his Letter on Resurrection. Is the answer satisfactory or is the question better than the answer? What do you think was Rambam's true opinion? |
|
|
14. Dec 11 |
Rambam's Legacy
|
Discuss Rambam's relevance to philosophical and political issued of today. |
|
|
15. Dec 18 |
|
||
Requirements:
This course will survey the life, writings, and impact of Rabbi Moses Maimonides. We will read and discuss selections from each of his major writings and review the various interpretations of modern Maimonidean scholars. We will also look at how Maimonides’ writings were received during his and subsequent generations and how they are relevant today.
The grade for the course will determined as follows: Midterm 30%, Final 35%, Participation 15%, Response papers 20%. Attendance is required and lateness will be penalized. Participation includes preparing the readings and being active in class discussions. Each student is required to four response papers during the semester, 3-4 pages, which will review and further explore topics we cover in class.
Required Books:
Twersky, Isadore, A Maimonides Reader (New York: Behrman House, 1972).
Available online or at Here’s a Book Store, 1964 Coney Island Ave, (718) 645-6675. ($25)
Course readings – available as one PDF or as individual files below.
Suggested Books:
Davidson, Herbert. Moses Maimonides: The Man and His Works (Oxford, Oxford University Press, 2005).
Heschel, Abraham Joshua. Maimonides: A Biography (New York, 1981).
Seeskin, Kenneth. Maimonides: A Guide for Today’s Perplexed (West Orange: Behrman House, 1991).
Merkaz Moreshet Yisrael
Brooklyn College – Judaic Studies 33
Ricky Hidary - rhidary@merkaz.com
Fall 2006, Mondays, 6:20-9:00PM
Maimonides: Intellectual Portrait
|
Date
|
Readings |
Response Paper Topics |
Powerpoint |
|
1. Sept 6 |
Rambam's Life and Times
Letter to Samuel Ibn-Tibbon in Alexander Altman, “Texts by By and About Maimonides,” JQR N.S. vol. 25 (1934-35) pp. 374-381. (PDF)
Twersky, Reader, 1-29.
|
1. What is the "Golden Age of Spain?" Choose one figure from the Golden Age and compare him to Maimonides. or 2. Write a paper about any of the Muslim philosophers who influenced Rambam such as Al Farabi, Avicenna, Averroes, or the Kalam thinkers. Please cite your sources for either topic.
|
|
|
2. Sept 11 |
Letter on Martyrdom
Halkin and Hartman, Epistles of Maimonides: Crisis and Leadership (The Jewish Publication Society: Philadelphia, 1985), pp. 15-34. (PDF)
|
Rambam uses many Biblical verses and quotes from the Talmud to back up his opinion in the letter on martyrdom. Choose a few of these sources and look them up in their original context. Are there other ways to interpret the sources? Do they really prove the point? Does Rambam interpret them in the simplest manner? Are there other sources he omitted? What does all this say about how Rambam uses Biblical and Talmudic sources? Here are the footnotes to the letter to help you find the sources. |
|
|
3. Sept 18 |
Freewill
Mishneh Torah, Hilchot Teshubah ch 5-6 and Talmudic Sources. (English partly in Twersky pp. 77-78.) (PDF)
Eight Cahpters, ch. 8 (Twersky, pp. 379-386). Commentary on Mishnah Abot 3:15 (Twersky, p. 395).
Letter on Astrology (Twersky, pp. 469-472).
|
Choose two or three Talmudic sources which discuss freewill or astrology (at least one we didn't discuss in class). Quote and explain each source. Does it fit in with Rambam's thought? If not, how could Rambam deal with that source? See Encyclopedia Judaica articles to help find sources. |
|
|
Sept 25 - No Class
4. Oct 3 Conversion Day |
Introduction to Commentary on the Mishnah
Rosner, Fred, and Twersky, Aaron. Maimonides’ Introduction to His Commentary on the Mishnah. (Northvale: Jason Aronson, 1995). On divisions of the Oral Torah, pp. 74-83. On the meaning of Life, pp. 118-131. (PDF)
Halbertal, Moshe. "The History of Halakhah, Views from Within: Three Medieval Approaches to Tradition and Controversy." (HTML) (PDF)
|
1. Write an essay evaluating the strengths and weaknesses of the various opinions concerning the origin and purpose of controversy in the Mishnah. Which is most appealing to you?
or
2. Trace the source of Rambam's view about the purpose of human existence to the Greek philosophers. How is Rambam's view similar to and different from that of the philophers?
|
|
|
5. Oct 9 Makeup Class |
Eight Chapters
Twersky, Reader. pp. 361-379.
|
Compare what Rambam writes in his Eight Chapters with what he writes about the same subjects in Mishneh Torah, Madah, chapters 1-3 (Twersky, pp. 51-57). What does Rambam add in Mishneh Torah? Is there anyting different? |
|
|
6. Oct 16 |
Book of Commandments
Twersky, Reader, pp. 424-436.
Davidson, Herbert. Moses Maimonides: The Mand and His Works (Oxford, Oxford University Press, 2005), pp. 168-178. (PDF)
Midterm Review
|
Summarize one dispute between Maimonides and Nachmanides in Sefer Hamisvoth. You can find both at the beginning of Mishneh Torah.
or
Come up with your own topic. |
|
|
7. Oct 23 |
Midterm |
|
|
|
8. Oct 30 |
Mishneh Torah
Introduction to Mishneh Torah: Twersky, Reader, pp. 35-41.
Twersky, Isadore, Introduction to the Code of Maimonides (New Haven: Yale University Press, 1980), pp. 32-47. (PDF) |
Find an interesting chapter in Mishneh Torah on any subject. Summarize it and discuss why it is interesting. (Hint: Rambam often inserts philosophical reflections at the ends of major sections of law. These are interesting about the way Rambam seeks a rational understanding of laws.) |
|
|
9. Nov 6 |
Guide of the Perplexed - Introduction
Twersky, Reader, pp. 231-246. |
Find a contradiction or hint in the Guide and explain what it means. (worth 2 papers) |
|
|
10. Nov 13 |
Incorporeality
Twersky, Reader, pp. 43-45, 246-277. |
Translate one chapter of Tanakh in which God is described as corporeal using no anthropomorphic terminology. Discuss the choices you made, how difficult it was, and whether it is a viable way of understanding Tanakh. |
|
|
11. Nov 20 |
Creation & Prophecy
Twersky, Reader, pp. 278-296. Mishneh Torah, Hilkhot Yesode Hatorah, ch. 7. (Word) Guide, II, 32. (PDF) |
Summarize and discuss any of the chapters of the Guide relating to creation of prophecy which we didn't get to in class. |
|
|
12. Nov 27 |
Reasons for Commandments
Twersky, Reader, pp. 310-349. |
Choose any category of commandments from part III of the Guide chapters 35 to 49. What is included in this category and what are the reason for these commandments. Are Rambam's explanations convincing? |
|
|
13. Dec 4 |
Afterlife & Resurrection
Twersky, Reader, pp. 401-423.
Halkin and Hartman, Epistles of Maimonides: Crisis and Leadership (The Jewish Publication Society: Philadelphia, 1985), pp. 211-233. (PDF) |
Analyze the two questions and answers Rambam adds at the end of his Letter on Resurrection. Is the answer satisfactory or is the question better than the answer? What do you think was Rambam's true opinion? |
|
|
14. Dec 11 |
Rambam's Legacy
|
Discuss Rambam's relevance to philosophical and political issued of today. |
|
|
15. Dec 18 |
|
||
Requirements:
This course will survey the life, writings, and impact of Rabbi Moses Maimonides. We will read and discuss selections from each of his major writings and review the various interpretations of modern Maimonidean scholars. We will also look at how Maimonides’ writings were received during his and subsequent generations and how they are relevant today.
The grade for the course will determined as follows: Midterm 30%, Final 35%, Participation 15%, Response papers 20%. Attendance is required and lateness will be penalized. Participation includes preparing the readings and being active in class discussions. Each student is required to four response papers during the semester, 3-4 pages, which will review and further explore topics we cover in class.
Required Books:
Twersky, Isadore, A Maimonides Reader (New York: Behrman House, 1972).
Available online or at Here’s a Book Store, 1964 Coney Island Ave, (718) 645-6675. ($25)
Course readings – available as one PDF or as individual files below.
Suggested Books:
Davidson, Herbert. Moses Maimonides: The Man and His Works (Oxford, Oxford University Press, 2005).
Heschel, Abraham Joshua. Maimonides: A Biography (New York, 1981).
Seeskin, Kenneth. Maimonides: A Guide for Today’s Perplexed (West Orange: Behrman House, 1991).
Merkaz Moreshet Yisrael
Brooklyn College – Judaic Studies 33
Ricky Hidary - rhidary@merkaz.com
Fall 2006, Mondays, 6:20-9:00PM
Maimonides: Intellectual Portrait
|
Date
|
Readings |
Response Paper Topics |
Powerpoint |
|
1. Sept 6 |
Rambam's Life and Times
Letter to Samuel Ibn-Tibbon in Alexander Altman, “Texts by By and About Maimonides,” JQR N.S. vol. 25 (1934-35) pp. 374-381. (PDF)
Twersky, Reader, 1-29.
|
1. What is the "Golden Age of Spain?" Choose one figure from the Golden Age and compare him to Maimonides. or 2. Write a paper about any of the Muslim philosophers who influenced Rambam such as Al Farabi, Avicenna, Averroes, or the Kalam thinkers. Please cite your sources for either topic.
|
|
|
2. Sept 11 |
Letter on Martyrdom
Halkin and Hartman, Epistles of Maimonides: Crisis and Leadership (The Jewish Publication Society: Philadelphia, 1985), pp. 15-34. (PDF)
|
Rambam uses many Biblical verses and quotes from the Talmud to back up his opinion in the letter on martyrdom. Choose a few of these sources and look them up in their original context. Are there other ways to interpret the sources? Do they really prove the point? Does Rambam interpret them in the simplest manner? Are there other sources he omitted? What does all this say about how Rambam uses Biblical and Talmudic sources? Here are the footnotes to the letter to help you find the sources. |
|
|
3. Sept 18 |
Freewill
Mishneh Torah, Hilchot Teshubah ch 5-6 and Talmudic Sources. (English partly in Twersky pp. 77-78.) (PDF)
Eight Cahpters, ch. 8 (Twersky, pp. 379-386). Commentary on Mishnah Abot 3:15 (Twersky, p. 395).
Letter on Astrology (Twersky, pp. 469-472).
|
Choose two or three Talmudic sources which discuss freewill or astrology (at least one we didn't discuss in class). Quote and explain each source. Does it fit in with Rambam's thought? If not, how could Rambam deal with that source? See Encyclopedia Judaica articles to help find sources. |
|
|
Sept 25 - No Class
4. Oct 3 Conversion Day |
Introduction to Commentary on the Mishnah
Rosner, Fred, and Twersky, Aaron. Maimonides’ Introduction to His Commentary on the Mishnah. (Northvale: Jason Aronson, 1995). On divisions of the Oral Torah, pp. 74-83. On the meaning of Life, pp. 118-131. (PDF)
Halbertal, Moshe. "The History of Halakhah, Views from Within: Three Medieval Approaches to Tradition and Controversy." (HTML) (PDF)
|
1. Write an essay evaluating the strengths and weaknesses of the various opinions concerning the origin and purpose of controversy in the Mishnah. Which is most appealing to you?
or
2. Trace the source of Rambam's view about the purpose of human existence to the Greek philosophers. How is Rambam's view similar to and different from that of the philophers?
|
|
|
5. Oct 9 Makeup Class |
Eight Chapters
Twersky, Reader. pp. 361-379.
|
Compare what Rambam writes in his Eight Chapters with what he writes about the same subjects in Mishneh Torah, Madah, chapters 1-3 (Twersky, pp. 51-57). What does Rambam add in Mishneh Torah? Is there anyting different? |
|
|
6. Oct 16 |
Book of Commandments
Twersky, Reader, pp. 424-436.
Davidson, Herbert. Moses Maimonides: The Mand and His Works (Oxford, Oxford University Press, 2005), pp. 168-178. (PDF)
Midterm Review
|
Summarize one dispute between Maimonides and Nachmanides in Sefer Hamisvoth. You can find both at the beginning of Mishneh Torah.
or
Come up with your own topic. |
|
|
7. Oct 23 |
Midterm |
|
|
|
8. Oct 30 |
Mishneh Torah
Introduction to Mishneh Torah: Twersky, Reader, pp. 35-41.
Twersky, Isadore, Introduction to the Code of Maimonides (New Haven: Yale University Press, 1980), pp. 32-47. (PDF) |
Find an interesting chapter in Mishneh Torah on any subject. Summarize it and discuss why it is interesting. (Hint: Rambam often inserts philosophical reflections at the ends of major sections of law. These are interesting about the way Rambam seeks a rational understanding of laws.) |
|
|
9. Nov 6 |
Guide of the Perplexed - Introduction
Twersky, Reader, pp. 231-246. |
Find a contradiction or hint in the Guide and explain what it means. (worth 2 papers) |
|
|
10. Nov 13 |
Incorporeality
Twersky, Reader, pp. 43-45, 246-277. |
Translate one chapter of Tanakh in which God is described as corporeal using no anthropomorphic terminology. Discuss the choices you made, how difficult it was, and whether it is a viable way of understanding Tanakh. |
|
|
11. Nov 20 |
Creation & Prophecy
Twersky, Reader, pp. 278-296. Mishneh Torah, Hilkhot Yesode Hatorah, ch. 7. (Word) Guide, II, 32. (PDF) |
Summarize and discuss any of the chapters of the Guide relating to creation of prophecy which we didn't get to in class. |
|
|
12. Nov 27 |
Reasons for Commandments
Twersky, Reader, pp. 310-349. |
Choose any category of commandments from part III of the Guide chapters 35 to 49. What is included in this category and what are the reason for these commandments. Are Rambam's explanations convincing? |
|
|
13. Dec 4 |
Afterlife & Resurrection
Twersky, Reader, pp. 401-423.
Halkin and Hartman, Epistles of Maimonides: Crisis and Leadership (The Jewish Publication Society: Philadelphia, 1985), pp. 211-233. (PDF) |
Analyze the two questions and answers Rambam adds at the end of his Letter on Resurrection. Is the answer satisfactory or is the question better than the answer? What do you think was Rambam's true opinion? |
|
|
14. Dec 11 |
Rambam's Legacy
|
Discuss Rambam's relevance to philosophical and political issued of today. |
|
|
15. Dec 18 |
|
||
Requirements:
This course will survey the life, writings, and impact of Rabbi Moses Maimonides. We will read and discuss selections from each of his major writings and review the various interpretations of modern Maimonidean scholars. We will also look at how Maimonides’ writings were received during his and subsequent generations and how they are relevant today.
The grade for the course will determined as follows: Midterm 30%, Final 35%, Participation 15%, Response papers 20%. Attendance is required and lateness will be penalized. Participation includes preparing the readings and being active in class discussions. Each student is required to four response papers during the semester, 3-4 pages, which will review and further explore topics we cover in class.
Required Books:
Twersky, Isadore, A Maimonides Reader (New York: Behrman House, 1972).
Available online or at Here’s a Book Store, 1964 Coney Island Ave, (718) 645-6675. ($25)
Course readings – available as one PDF or as individual files below.
Suggested Books:
Davidson, Herbert. Moses Maimonides: The Man and His Works (Oxford, Oxford University Press, 2005).
Heschel, Abraham Joshua. Maimonides: A Biography (New York, 1981).
Seeskin, Kenneth. Maimonides: A Guide for Today’s Perplexed (West Orange: Behrman House, 1991).
Merkaz Moreshet Yisrael
Brooklyn College – Judaic Studies 33
Ricky Hidary - rhidary@merkaz.com
Fall 2006, Mondays, 6:20-9:00PM
Maimonides: Intellectual Portrait
|
Date
|
Readings |
Response Paper Topics |
Powerpoint |
|
1. Sept 6 |
Rambam's Life and Times
Letter to Samuel Ibn-Tibbon in Alexander Altman, “Texts by By and About Maimonides,” JQR N.S. vol. 25 (1934-35) pp. 374-381. (PDF)
Twersky, Reader, 1-29.
|
1. What is the "Golden Age of Spain?" Choose one figure from the Golden Age and compare him to Maimonides. or 2. Write a paper about any of the Muslim philosophers who influenced Rambam such as Al Farabi, Avicenna, Averroes, or the Kalam thinkers. Please cite your sources for either topic.
|
|
|
2. Sept 11 |
Letter on Martyrdom
Halkin and Hartman, Epistles of Maimonides: Crisis and Leadership (The Jewish Publication Society: Philadelphia, 1985), pp. 15-34. (PDF)
|
Rambam uses many Biblical verses and quotes from the Talmud to back up his opinion in the letter on martyrdom. Choose a few of these sources and look them up in their original context. Are there other ways to interpret the sources? Do they really prove the point? Does Rambam interpret them in the simplest manner? Are there other sources he omitted? What does all this say about how Rambam uses Biblical and Talmudic sources? Here are the footnotes to the letter to help you find the sources. |
|
|
3. Sept 18 |
Freewill
Mishneh Torah, Hilchot Teshubah ch 5-6 and Talmudic Sources. (English partly in Twersky pp. 77-78.) (PDF)
Eight Cahpters, ch. 8 (Twersky, pp. 379-386). Commentary on Mishnah Abot 3:15 (Twersky, p. 395).
Letter on Astrology (Twersky, pp. 469-472).
|
Choose two or three Talmudic sources which discuss freewill or astrology (at least one we didn't discuss in class). Quote and explain each source. Does it fit in with Rambam's thought? If not, how could Rambam deal with that source? See Encyclopedia Judaica articles to help find sources. |
|
|
Sept 25 - No Class
4. Oct 3 Conversion Day |
Introduction to Commentary on the Mishnah
Rosner, Fred, and Twersky, Aaron. Maimonides’ Introduction to His Commentary on the Mishnah. (Northvale: Jason Aronson, 1995). On divisions of the Oral Torah, pp. 74-83. On the meaning of Life, pp. 118-131. (PDF)
Halbertal, Moshe. "The History of Halakhah, Views from Within: Three Medieval Approaches to Tradition and Controversy." (HTML) (PDF)
|
1. Write an essay evaluating the strengths and weaknesses of the various opinions concerning the origin and purpose of controversy in the Mishnah. Which is most appealing to you?
or
2. Trace the source of Rambam's view about the purpose of human existence to the Greek philosophers. How is Rambam's view similar to and different from that of the philophers?
|
|
|
5. Oct 9 Makeup Class |
Eight Chapters
Twersky, Reader. pp. 361-379.
|
Compare what Rambam writes in his Eight Chapters with what he writes about the same subjects in Mishneh Torah, Madah, chapters 1-3 (Twersky, pp. 51-57). What does Rambam add in Mishneh Torah? Is there anyting different? |
|
|
6. Oct 16 |
Book of Commandments
Twersky, Reader, pp. 424-436.
Davidson, Herbert. Moses Maimonides: The Mand and His Works (Oxford, Oxford University Press, 2005), pp. 168-178. (PDF)
Midterm Review
|
Summarize one dispute between Maimonides and Nachmanides in Sefer Hamisvoth. You can find both at the beginning of Mishneh Torah.
or
Come up with your own topic. |
|
|
7. Oct 23 |
Midterm |
|
|
|
8. Oct 30 |
Mishneh Torah
Introduction to Mishneh Torah: Twersky, Reader, pp. 35-41.
Twersky, Isadore, Introduction to the Code of Maimonides (New Haven: Yale University Press, 1980), pp. 32-47. (PDF) |
Find an interesting chapter in Mishneh Torah on any subject. Summarize it and discuss why it is interesting. (Hint: Rambam often inserts philosophical reflections at the ends of major sections of law. These are interesting about the way Rambam seeks a rational understanding of laws.) |
|
|
9. Nov 6 |
Guide of the Perplexed - Introduction
Twersky, Reader, pp. 231-246. |
Find a contradiction or hint in the Guide and explain what it means. (worth 2 papers) |
|
|
10. Nov 13 |
Incorporeality
Twersky, Reader, pp. 43-45, 246-277. |
Translate one chapter of Tanakh in which God is described as corporeal using no anthropomorphic terminology. Discuss the choices you made, how difficult it was, and whether it is a viable way of understanding Tanakh. |
|
|
11. Nov 20 |
Creation & Prophecy
Twersky, Reader, pp. 278-296. Mishneh Torah, Hilkhot Yesode Hatorah, ch. 7. (Word) Guide, II, 32. (PDF) |
Summarize and discuss any of the chapters of the Guide relating to creation of prophecy which we didn't get to in class. |
|
|
12. Nov 27 |
Reasons for Commandments
Twersky, Reader, pp. 310-349. |
Choose any category of commandments from part III of the Guide chapters 35 to 49. What is included in this category and what are the reason for these commandments. Are Rambam's explanations convincing? |
|
|
13. Dec 4 |
Afterlife & Resurrection
Twersky, Reader, pp. 401-423.
Halkin and Hartman, Epistles of Maimonides: Crisis and Leadership (The Jewish Publication Society: Philadelphia, 1985), pp. 211-233. (PDF) |
Analyze the two questions and answers Rambam adds at the end of his Letter on Resurrection. Is the answer satisfactory or is the question better than the answer? What do you think was Rambam's true opinion? |
|
|
14. Dec 11 |
Rambam's Legacy
|
Discuss Rambam's relevance to philosophical and political issued of today. |
|
|
15. Dec 18 |
|
||
Requirements:
This course will survey the life, writings, and impact of Rabbi Moses Maimonides. We will read and discuss selections from each of his major writings and review the various interpretations of modern Maimonidean scholars. We will also look at how Maimonides’ writings were received during his and subsequent generations and how they are relevant today.
The grade for the course will determined as follows: Midterm 30%, Final 35%, Participation 15%, Response papers 20%. Attendance is required and lateness will be penalized. Participation includes preparing the readings and being active in class discussions. Each student is required to four response papers during the semester, 3-4 pages, which will review and further explore topics we cover in class.
Required Books:
Twersky, Isadore, A Maimonides Reader (New York: Behrman House, 1972).
Available online or at Here’s a Book Store, 1964 Coney Island Ave, (718) 645-6675. ($25)
Course readings – available as one PDF or as individual files below.
Suggested Books:
Davidson, Herbert. Moses Maimonides: The Man and His Works (Oxford, Oxford University Press, 2005).
Heschel, Abraham Joshua. Maimonides: A Biography (New York, 1981).
Seeskin, Kenneth. Maimonides: A Guide for Today’s Perplexed (West Orange: Behrman House, 1991).
Merkaz Moreshet Yisrael
Brooklyn College – Judaic Studies 33
Ricky Hidary - rhidary@merkaz.com
Fall 2006, Mondays, 6:20-9:00PM
Maimonides: Intellectual Portrait
|
Date
|
Readings |
Response Paper Topics |
Powerpoint |
|
1. Sept 6 |
Rambam's Life and Times
Letter to Samuel Ibn-Tibbon in Alexander Altman, “Texts by By and About Maimonides,” JQR N.S. vol. 25 (1934-35) pp. 374-381. (PDF)
Twersky, Reader, 1-29.
|
1. What is the "Golden Age of Spain?" Choose one figure from the Golden Age and compare him to Maimonides. or 2. Write a paper about any of the Muslim philosophers who influenced Rambam such as Al Farabi, Avicenna, Averroes, or the Kalam thinkers. Please cite your sources for either topic.
|
|
|
2. Sept 11 |
Letter on Martyrdom
Halkin and Hartman, Epistles of Maimonides: Crisis and Leadership (The Jewish Publication Society: Philadelphia, 1985), pp. 15-34. (PDF)
|
Rambam uses many Biblical verses and quotes from the Talmud to back up his opinion in the letter on martyrdom. Choose a few of these sources and look them up in their original context. Are there other ways to interpret the sources? Do they really prove the point? Does Rambam interpret them in the simplest manner? Are there other sources he omitted? What does all this say about how Rambam uses Biblical and Talmudic sources? Here are the footnotes to the letter to help you find the sources. |
|
|
3. Sept 18 |
Freewill
Mishneh Torah, Hilchot Teshubah ch 5-6 and Talmudic Sources. (English partly in Twersky pp. 77-78.) (PDF)
Eight Cahpters, ch. 8 (Twersky, pp. 379-386). Commentary on Mishnah Abot 3:15 (Twersky, p. 395).
Letter on Astrology (Twersky, pp. 469-472).
|
Choose two or three Talmudic sources which discuss freewill or astrology (at least one we didn't discuss in class). Quote and explain each source. Does it fit in with Rambam's thought? If not, how could Rambam deal with that source? See Encyclopedia Judaica articles to help find sources. |
|
|
Sept 25 - No Class
4. Oct 3 Conversion Day |
Introduction to Commentary on the Mishnah
Rosner, Fred, and Twersky, Aaron. Maimonides’ Introduction to His Commentary on the Mishnah. (Northvale: Jason Aronson, 1995). On divisions of the Oral Torah, pp. 74-83. On the meaning of Life, pp. 118-131. (PDF)
Halbertal, Moshe. "The History of Halakhah, Views from Within: Three Medieval Approaches to Tradition and Controversy." (HTML) (PDF)
|
1. Write an essay evaluating the strengths and weaknesses of the various opinions concerning the origin and purpose of controversy in the Mishnah. Which is most appealing to you?
or
2. Trace the source of Rambam's view about the purpose of human existence to the Greek philosophers. How is Rambam's view similar to and different from that of the philophers?
|
|
|
5. Oct 9 Makeup Class |
Eight Chapters
Twersky, Reader. pp. 361-379.
|
Compare what Rambam writes in his Eight Chapters with what he writes about the same subjects in Mishneh Torah, Madah, chapters 1-3 (Twersky, pp. 51-57). What does Rambam add in Mishneh Torah? Is there anyting different? |
|
|
6. Oct 16 |
Book of Commandments
Twersky, Reader, pp. 424-436.
Davidson, Herbert. Moses Maimonides: The Mand and His Works (Oxford, Oxford University Press, 2005), pp. 168-178. (PDF)
Midterm Review
|
Summarize one dispute between Maimonides and Nachmanides in Sefer Hamisvoth. You can find both at the beginning of Mishneh Torah.
or
Come up with your own topic. |
|
|
7. Oct 23 |
Midterm |
|
|
|
8. Oct 30 |
Mishneh Torah
Introduction to Mishneh Torah: Twersky, Reader, pp. 35-41.
Twersky, Isadore, Introduction to the Code of Maimonides (New Haven: Yale University Press, 1980), pp. 32-47. (PDF) |
Find an interesting chapter in Mishneh Torah on any subject. Summarize it and discuss why it is interesting. (Hint: Rambam often inserts philosophical reflections at the ends of major sections of law. These are interesting about the way Rambam seeks a rational understanding of laws.) |
|
|
9. Nov 6 |
Guide of the Perplexed - Introduction
Twersky, Reader, pp. 231-246. |
Find a contradiction or hint in the Guide and explain what it means. (worth 2 papers) |
|
|
10. Nov 13 |
Incorporeality
Twersky, Reader, pp. 43-45, 246-277. |
Translate one chapter of Tanakh in which God is described as corporeal using no anthropomorphic terminology. Discuss the choices you made, how difficult it was, and whether it is a viable way of understanding Tanakh. |
|
|
11. Nov 20 |
Creation & Prophecy
Twersky, Reader, pp. 278-296. Mishneh Torah, Hilkhot Yesode Hatorah, ch. 7. (Word) Guide, II, 32. (PDF) |
Summarize and discuss any of the chapters of the Guide relating to creation of prophecy which we didn't get to in class. |
|
|
12. Nov 27 |
Reasons for Commandments
Twersky, Reader, pp. 310-349. |
Choose any category of commandments from part III of the Guide chapters 35 to 49. What is included in this category and what are the reason for these commandments. Are Rambam's explanations convincing? |
|
|
13. Dec 4 |
Afterlife & Resurrection
Twersky, Reader, pp. 401-423.
Halkin and Hartman, Epistles of Maimonides: Crisis and Leadership (The Jewish Publication Society: Philadelphia, 1985), pp. 211-233. (PDF) |
Analyze the two questions and answers Rambam adds at the end of his Letter on Resurrection. Is the answer satisfactory or is the question better than the answer? What do you think was Rambam's true opinion? |
|
|
14. Dec 11 |
Rambam's Legacy
|
Discuss Rambam's relevance to philosophical and political issued of today. |
|
|
15. Dec 18 |
|
||
Requirements:
This course will survey the life, writings, and impact of Rabbi Moses Maimonides. We will read and discuss selections from each of his major writings and review the various interpretations of modern Maimonidean scholars. We will also look at how Maimonides’ writings were received during his and subsequent generations and how they are relevant today.
The grade for the course will determined as follows: Midterm 30%, Final 35%, Participation 15%, Response papers 20%. Attendance is required and lateness will be penalized. Participation includes preparing the readings and being active in class discussions. Each student is required to four response papers during the semester, 3-4 pages, which will review and further explore topics we cover in class.
Required Books:
Twersky, Isadore, A Maimonides Reader (New York: Behrman House, 1972).
Available online or at Here’s a Book Store, 1964 Coney Island Ave, (718) 645-6675. ($25)
Course readings – available as one PDF or as individual files below.
Suggested Books:
Davidson, Herbert. Moses Maimonides: The Man and His Works (Oxford, Oxford University Press, 2005).
Heschel, Abraham Joshua. Maimonides: A Biography (New York, 1981).
Seeskin, Kenneth. Maimonides: A Guide for Today’s Perplexed (West Orange: Behrman House, 1991).
Merkaz Moreshet Yisrael
Brooklyn College – Judaic Studies 33
Ricky Hidary - rhidary@merkaz.com
Fall 2006, Mondays, 6:20-9:00PM
Maimonides: Intellectual Portrait
|
Date
|
Readings |
Response Paper Topics |
Powerpoint |
|
1. Sept 6 |
Rambam's Life and Times
Letter to Samuel Ibn-Tibbon in Alexander Altman, “Texts by By and About Maimonides,” JQR N.S. vol. 25 (1934-35) pp. 374-381. (PDF)
Twersky, Reader, 1-29.
|
1. What is the "Golden Age of Spain?" Choose one figure from the Golden Age and compare him to Maimonides. or 2. Write a paper about any of the Muslim philosophers who influenced Rambam such as Al Farabi, Avicenna, Averroes, or the Kalam thinkers. Please cite your sources for either topic.
|
|
|
2. Sept 11 |
Letter on Martyrdom
Halkin and Hartman, Epistles of Maimonides: Crisis and Leadership (The Jewish Publication Society: Philadelphia, 1985), pp. 15-34. (PDF)
|
Rambam uses many Biblical verses and quotes from the Talmud to back up his opinion in the letter on martyrdom. Choose a few of these sources and look them up in their original context. Are there other ways to interpret the sources? Do they really prove the point? Does Rambam interpret them in the simplest manner? Are there other sources he omitted? What does all this say about how Rambam uses Biblical and Talmudic sources? Here are the footnotes to the letter to help you find the sources. |
|
|
3. Sept 18 |
Freewill
Mishneh Torah, Hilchot Teshubah ch 5-6 and Talmudic Sources. (English partly in Twersky pp. 77-78.) (PDF)
Eight Cahpters, ch. 8 (Twersky, pp. 379-386). Commentary on Mishnah Abot 3:15 (Twersky, p. 395).
Letter on Astrology (Twersky, pp. 469-472).
|
Choose two or three Talmudic sources which discuss freewill or astrology (at least one we didn't discuss in class). Quote and explain each source. Does it fit in with Rambam's thought? If not, how could Rambam deal with that source? See Encyclopedia Judaica articles to help find sources. |
|
|
Sept 25 - No Class
4. Oct 3 Conversion Day |
Introduction to Commentary on the Mishnah
Rosner, Fred, and Twersky, Aaron. Maimonides’ Introduction to His Commentary on the Mishnah. (Northvale: Jason Aronson, 1995). On divisions of the Oral Torah, pp. 74-83. On the meaning of Life, pp. 118-131. (PDF)
Halbertal, Moshe. "The History of Halakhah, Views from Within: Three Medieval Approaches to Tradition and Controversy." (HTML) (PDF)
|
1. Write an essay evaluating the strengths and weaknesses of the various opinions concerning the origin and purpose of controversy in the Mishnah. Which is most appealing to you?
or
2. Trace the source of Rambam's view about the purpose of human existence to the Greek philosophers. How is Rambam's view similar to and different from that of the philophers?
|
|
|
5. Oct 9 Makeup Class |
Eight Chapters
Twersky, Reader. pp. 361-379.
|
Compare what Rambam writes in his Eight Chapters with what he writes about the same subjects in Mishneh Torah, Madah, chapters 1-3 (Twersky, pp. 51-57). What does Rambam add in Mishneh Torah? Is there anyting different? |
|
|
6. Oct 16 |
Book of Commandments
Twersky, Reader, pp. 424-436.
Davidson, Herbert. Moses Maimonides: The Mand and His Works (Oxford, Oxford University Press, 2005), pp. 168-178. (PDF)
Midterm Review
|
Summarize one dispute between Maimonides and Nachmanides in Sefer Hamisvoth. You can find both at the beginning of Mishneh Torah.
or
Come up with your own topic. |
|
|
7. Oct 23 |
Midterm |
|
|
|
8. Oct 30 |
Mishneh Torah
Introduction to Mishneh Torah: Twersky, Reader, pp. 35-41.
Twersky, Isadore, Introduction to the Code of Maimonides (New Haven: Yale University Press, 1980), pp. 32-47. (PDF) |
Find an interesting chapter in Mishneh Torah on any subject. Summarize it and discuss why it is interesting. (Hint: Rambam often inserts philosophical reflections at the ends of major sections of law. These are interesting about the way Rambam seeks a rational understanding of laws.) |
|
|
9. Nov 6 |
Guide of the Perplexed - Introduction
Twersky, Reader, pp. 231-246. |
Find a contradiction or hint in the Guide and explain what it means. (worth 2 papers) |
|
|
10. Nov 13 |
Incorporeality
Twersky, Reader, pp. 43-45, 246-277. |
Translate one chapter of Tanakh in which God is described as corporeal using no anthropomorphic terminology. Discuss the choices you made, how difficult it was, and whether it is a viable way of understanding Tanakh. |
|
|
11. Nov 20 |
Creation & Prophecy
Twersky, Reader, pp. 278-296. Mishneh Torah, Hilkhot Yesode Hatorah, ch. 7. (Word) Guide, II, 32. (PDF) |
Summarize and discuss any of the chapters of the Guide relating to creation of prophecy which we didn't get to in class. |
|
|
12. Nov 27 |
Reasons for Commandments
Twersky, Reader, pp. 310-349. |
Choose any category of commandments from part III of the Guide chapters 35 to 49. What is included in this category and what are the reason for these commandments. Are Rambam's explanations convincing? |
|
|
13. Dec 4 |
Afterlife & Resurrection
Twersky, Reader, pp. 401-423.
Halkin and Hartman, Epistles of Maimonides: Crisis and Leadership (The Jewish Publication Society: Philadelphia, 1985), pp. 211-233. (PDF) |
Analyze the two questions and answers Rambam adds at the end of his Letter on Resurrection. Is the answer satisfactory or is the question better than the answer? What do you think was Rambam's true opinion? |
|
|
14. Dec 11 |
Rambam's Legacy
|
Discuss Rambam's relevance to philosophical and political issued of today. |
|
|
15. Dec 18 |
|
||
Requirements:
This course will survey the life, writings, and impact of Rabbi Moses Maimonides. We will read and discuss selections from each of his major writings and review the various interpretations of modern Maimonidean scholars. We will also look at how Maimonides’ writings were received during his and subsequent generations and how they are relevant today.
The grade for the course will determined as follows: Midterm 30%, Final 35%, Participation 15%, Response papers 20%. Attendance is required and lateness will be penalized. Participation includes preparing the readings and being active in class discussions. Each student is required to four response papers during the semester, 3-4 pages, which will review and further explore topics we cover in class.
Required Books:
Twersky, Isadore, A Maimonides Reader (New York: Behrman House, 1972).
Available online or at Here’s a Book Store, 1964 Coney Island Ave, (718) 645-6675. ($25)
Course readings – available as one PDF or as individual files below.
Suggested Books:
Davidson, Herbert. Moses Maimonides: The Man and His Works (Oxford, Oxford University Press, 2005).
Heschel, Abraham Joshua. Maimonides: A Biography (New York, 1981).
Seeskin, Kenneth. Maimonides: A Guide for Today’s Perplexed (West Orange: Behrman House, 1991).
Merkaz Moreshet Yisrael
Brooklyn College – Judaic Studies 33
Ricky Hidary - rhidary@merkaz.com
Fall 2006, Mondays, 6:20-9:00PM
Maimonides: Intellectual Portrait
|
Date
|
Readings |
Response Paper Topics |
Powerpoint |
|
1. Sept 6 |
Rambam's Life and Times
Letter to Samuel Ibn-Tibbon in Alexander Altman, “Texts by By and About Maimonides,” JQR N.S. vol. 25 (1934-35) pp. 374-381. (PDF)
Twersky, Reader, 1-29.
|
1. What is the "Golden Age of Spain?" Choose one figure from the Golden Age and compare him to Maimonides. or 2. Write a paper about any of the Muslim philosophers who influenced Rambam such as Al Farabi, Avicenna, Averroes, or the Kalam thinkers. Please cite your sources for either topic.
|
|
|
2. Sept 11 |
Letter on Martyrdom
Halkin and Hartman, Epistles of Maimonides: Crisis and Leadership (The Jewish Publication Society: Philadelphia, 1985), pp. 15-34. (PDF)
|
Rambam uses many Biblical verses and quotes from the Talmud to back up his opinion in the letter on martyrdom. Choose a few of these sources and look them up in their original context. Are there other ways to interpret the sources? Do they really prove the point? Does Rambam interpret them in the simplest manner? Are there other sources he omitted? What does all this say about how Rambam uses Biblical and Talmudic sources? Here are the footnotes to the letter to help you find the sources. |
|
|
3. Sept 18 |
Freewill
Mishneh Torah, Hilchot Teshubah ch 5-6 and Talmudic Sources. (English partly in Twersky pp. 77-78.) (PDF)
Eight Cahpters, ch. 8 (Twersky, pp. 379-386). Commentary on Mishnah Abot 3:15 (Twersky, p. 395).
Letter on Astrology (Twersky, pp. 469-472).
|
Choose two or three Talmudic sources which discuss freewill or astrology (at least one we didn't discuss in class). Quote and explain each source. Does it fit in with Rambam's thought? If not, how could Rambam deal with that source? See Encyclopedia Judaica articles to help find sources. |
|
|
Sept 25 - No Class
4. Oct 3 Conversion Day |
Introduction to Commentary on the Mishnah
Rosner, Fred, and Twersky, Aaron. Maimonides’ Introduction to His Commentary on the Mishnah. (Northvale: Jason Aronson, 1995). On divisions of the Oral Torah, pp. 74-83. On the meaning of Life, pp. 118-131. (PDF)
Halbertal, Moshe. "The History of Halakhah, Views from Within: Three Medieval Approaches to Tradition and Controversy." (HTML) (PDF)
|
1. Write an essay evaluating the strengths and weaknesses of the various opinions concerning the origin and purpose of controversy in the Mishnah. Which is most appealing to you?
or
2. Trace the source of Rambam's view about the purpose of human existence to the Greek philosophers. How is Rambam's view similar to and different from that of the philophers?
|
|
|
5. Oct 9 Makeup Class |
Eight Chapters
Twersky, Reader. pp. 361-379.
|
Compare what Rambam writes in his Eight Chapters with what he writes about the same subjects in Mishneh Torah, Madah, chapters 1-3 (Twersky, pp. 51-57). What does Rambam add in Mishneh Torah? Is there anyting different? |
|
|
6. Oct 16 |
Book of Commandments
Twersky, Reader, pp. 424-436.
Davidson, Herbert. Moses Maimonides: The Mand and His Works (Oxford, Oxford University Press, 2005), pp. 168-178. (PDF)
Midterm Review
|
Summarize one dispute between Maimonides and Nachmanides in Sefer Hamisvoth. You can find both at the beginning of Mishneh Torah.
or
Come up with your own topic. |
|
|
7. Oct 23 |
Midterm |
|
|
|
8. Oct 30 |
Mishneh Torah
Introduction to Mishneh Torah: Twersky, Reader, pp. 35-41.
Twersky, Isadore, Introduction to the Code of Maimonides (New Haven: Yale University Press, 1980), pp. 32-47. (PDF) |
Find an interesting chapter in Mishneh Torah on any subject. Summarize it and discuss why it is interesting. (Hint: Rambam often inserts philosophical reflections at the ends of major sections of law. These are interesting about the way Rambam seeks a rational understanding of laws.) |
|
|
9. Nov 6 |
Guide of the Perplexed - Introduction
Twersky, Reader, pp. 231-246. |
Find a contradiction or hint in the Guide and explain what it means. (worth 2 papers) |
|
|
10. Nov 13 |
Incorporeality
Twersky, Reader, pp. 43-45, 246-277. |
Translate one chapter of Tanakh in which God is described as corporeal using no anthropomorphic terminology. Discuss the choices you made, how difficult it was, and whether it is a viable way of understanding Tanakh. |
|
|
11. Nov 20 |
Creation & Prophecy
Twersky, Reader, pp. 278-296. Mishneh Torah, Hilkhot Yesode Hatorah, ch. 7. (Word) Guide, II, 32. (PDF) |
Summarize and discuss any of the chapters of the Guide relating to creation of prophecy which we didn't get to in class. |
|
|
12. Nov 27 |
Reasons for Commandments
Twersky, Reader, pp. 310-349. |
Choose any category of commandments from part III of the Guide chapters 35 to 49. What is included in this category and what are the reason for these commandments. Are Rambam's explanations convincing? |
|
|
13. Dec 4 |
Afterlife & Resurrection
Twersky, Reader, pp. 401-423.
Halkin and Hartman, Epistles of Maimonides: Crisis and Leadership (The Jewish Publication Society: Philadelphia, 1985), pp. 211-233. (PDF) |
Analyze the two questions and answers Rambam adds at the end of his Letter on Resurrection. Is the answer satisfactory or is the question better than the answer? What do you think was Rambam's true opinion? |
|
|
14. Dec 11 |
Rambam's Legacy
|
Discuss Rambam's relevance to philosophical and political issued of today. |
|
|
15. Dec 18 |
|
||
Requirements:
This course will survey the life, writings, and impact of Rabbi Moses Maimonides. We will read and discuss selections from each of his major writings and review the various interpretations of modern Maimonidean scholars. We will also look at how Maimonides’ writings were received during his and subsequent generations and how they are relevant today.
The grade for the course will determined as follows: Midterm 30%, Final 35%, Participation 15%, Response papers 20%. Attendance is required and lateness will be penalized. Participation includes preparing the readings and being active in class discussions. Each student is required to four response papers during the semester, 3-4 pages, which will review and further explore topics we cover in class.
Required Books:
Twersky, Isadore, A Maimonides Reader (New York: Behrman House, 1972).
Available online or at Here’s a Book Store, 1964 Coney Island Ave, (718) 645-6675. ($25)
Course readings – available as one PDF or as individual files below.
Suggested Books:
Davidson, Herbert. Moses Maimonides: The Man and His Works (Oxford, Oxford University Press, 2005).
Heschel, Abraham Joshua. Maimonides: A Biography (New York, 1981).
Seeskin, Kenneth. Maimonides: A Guide for Today’s Perplexed (West Orange: Behrman House, 1991).
Merkaz Moreshet Yisrael
Brooklyn College – Judaic Studies 33
Ricky Hidary - rhidary@merkaz.com
Fall 2006, Mondays, 6:20-9:00PM
Maimonides: Intellectual Portrait
|
Date
|
Readings |
Response Paper Topics |
Powerpoint |
|
1. Sept 6 |
Rambam's Life and Times
Letter to Samuel Ibn-Tibbon in Alexander Altman, “Texts by By and About Maimonides,” JQR N.S. vol. 25 (1934-35) pp. 374-381. (PDF)
Twersky, Reader, 1-29.
|
1. What is the "Golden Age of Spain?" Choose one figure from the Golden Age and compare him to Maimonides. or 2. Write a paper about any of the Muslim philosophers who influenced Rambam such as Al Farabi, Avicenna, Averroes, or the Kalam thinkers. Please cite your sources for either topic.
|
|
|
2. Sept 11 |
Letter on Martyrdom
Halkin and Hartman, Epistles of Maimonides: Crisis and Leadership (The Jewish Publication Society: Philadelphia, 1985), pp. 15-34. (PDF)
|
Rambam uses many Biblical verses and quotes from the Talmud to back up his opinion in the letter on martyrdom. Choose a few of these sources and look them up in their original context. Are there other ways to interpret the sources? Do they really prove the point? Does Rambam interpret them in the simplest manner? Are there other sources he omitted? What does all this say about how Rambam uses Biblical and Talmudic sources? Here are the footnotes to the letter to help you find the sources. |
|
|
3. Sept 18 |
Freewill
Mishneh Torah, Hilchot Teshubah ch 5-6 and Talmudic Sources. (English partly in Twersky pp. 77-78.) (PDF)
Eight Cahpters, ch. 8 (Twersky, pp. 379-386). Commentary on Mishnah Abot 3:15 (Twersky, p. 395).
Letter on Astrology (Twersky, pp. 469-472).
|
Choose two or three Talmudic sources which discuss freewill or astrology (at least one we didn't discuss in class). Quote and explain each source. Does it fit in with Rambam's thought? If not, how could Rambam deal with that source? See Encyclopedia Judaica articles to help find sources. |
|
|
Sept 25 - No Class
4. Oct 3 Conversion Day |
Introduction to Commentary on the Mishnah
Rosner, Fred, and Twersky, Aaron. Maimonides’ Introduction to His Commentary on the Mishnah. (Northvale: Jason Aronson, 1995). On divisions of the Oral Torah, pp. 74-83. On the meaning of Life, pp. 118-131. (PDF)
Halbertal, Moshe. "The History of Halakhah, Views from Within: Three Medieval Approaches to Tradition and Controversy." (HTML) (PDF)
|
1. Write an essay evaluating the strengths and weaknesses of the various opinions concerning the origin and purpose of controversy in the Mishnah. Which is most appealing to you?
or
2. Trace the source of Rambam's view about the purpose of human existence to the Greek philosophers. How is Rambam's view similar to and different from that of the philophers?
|
|
|
5. Oct 9 Makeup Class |
Eight Chapters
Twersky, Reader. pp. 361-379.
|
Compare what Rambam writes in his Eight Chapters with what he writes about the same subjects in Mishneh Torah, Madah, chapters 1-3 (Twersky, pp. 51-57). What does Rambam add in Mishneh Torah? Is there anyting different? |
|
|
6. Oct 16 |
Book of Commandments
Twersky, Reader, pp. 424-436.
Davidson, Herbert. Moses Maimonides: The Mand and His Works (Oxford, Oxford University Press, 2005), pp. 168-178. (PDF)
Midterm Review
|
Summarize one dispute between Maimonides and Nachmanides in Sefer Hamisvoth. You can find both at the beginning of Mishneh Torah.
or
Come up with your own topic. |
|
|
7. Oct 23 |
Midterm |
|
|
|
8. Oct 30 |
Mishneh Torah
Introduction to Mishneh Torah: Twersky, Reader, pp. 35-41.
Twersky, Isadore, Introduction to the Code of Maimonides (New Haven: Yale University Press, 1980), pp. 32-47. (PDF) |
Find an interesting chapter in Mishneh Torah on any subject. Summarize it and discuss why it is interesting. (Hint: Rambam often inserts philosophical reflections at the ends of major sections of law. These are interesting about the way Rambam seeks a rational understanding of laws.) |
|
|
9. Nov 6 |
Guide of the Perplexed - Introduction
Twersky, Reader, pp. 231-246. |
Find a contradiction or hint in the Guide and explain what it means. (worth 2 papers) |
|
|
10. Nov 13 |
Incorporeality
Twersky, Reader, pp. 43-45, 246-277. |
Translate one chapter of Tanakh in which God is described as corporeal using no anthropomorphic terminology. Discuss the choices you made, how difficult it was, and whether it is a viable way of understanding Tanakh. |
|
|
11. Nov 20 |
Creation & Prophecy
Twersky, Reader, pp. 278-296. Mishneh Torah, Hilkhot Yesode Hatorah, ch. 7. (Word) Guide, II, 32. (PDF) |
Summarize and discuss any of the chapters of the Guide relating to creation of prophecy which we didn't get to in class. |
|
|
12. Nov 27 |
Reasons for Commandments
Twersky, Reader, pp. 310-349. |
Choose any category of commandments from part III of the Guide chapters 35 to 49. What is included in this category and what are the reason for these commandments. Are Rambam's explanations convincing? |
|
|
13. Dec 4 |
Afterlife & Resurrection
Twersky, Reader, pp. 401-423.
Halkin and Hartman, Epistles of Maimonides: Crisis and Leadership (The Jewish Publication Society: Philadelphia, 1985), pp. 211-233. (PDF) |
Analyze the two questions and answers Rambam adds at the end of his Letter on Resurrection. Is the answer satisfactory or is the question better than the answer? What do you think was Rambam's true opinion? |
|
|
14. Dec 11 |
Rambam's Legacy
|
Discuss Rambam's relevance to philosophical and political issued of today. |
|
|
15. Dec 18 |
|
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Requirements:
This course will survey the life, writings, and impact of Rabbi Moses Maimonides. We will read and discuss selections from each of his major writings and review the various interpretations of modern Maimonidean scholars. We will also look at how Maimonides’ writings were received during his and subsequent generations and how they are relevant today.
The grade for the course will determined as follows: Midterm 30%, Final 35%, Participation 15%, Response papers 20%. Attendance is required and lateness will be penalized. Participation includes preparing the readings and being active in class discussions. Each student is required to four response papers during the semester, 3-4 pages, which will review and further explore topics we cover in class.
Required Books:
Twersky, Isadore, A Maimonides Reader (New York: Behrman House, 1972).
Available online or at Here’s a Book Store, 1964 Coney Island Ave, (718) 645-6675. ($25)
Course readings – available as one PDF or as individual files below.
Suggested Books:
Davidson, Herbert. Moses Maimonides: The Man and His Works (Oxford, Oxford University Press, 2005).
Heschel, Abraham Joshua. Maimonides: A Biography (New York, 1981).
Seeskin, Kenneth. Maimonides: A Guide for Today’s Perplexed (West Orange: Behrman House, 1991).