Maimonides (Jewish Encounters)

Maimonides (M) is to Judaism what Aquinas is to Catholicism-the most important philosopher-theologian in the tradition. This is a very painless introduction to M. Nuland, an award winning author of popular medical writing, provides an easy overview of M's life and times. What's unique about this text is the emphasis on M as physician and writer of medical works. The...more

Maimonides (M) is to Judaism what Aquinas is to Catholicism-the most important philosopher-theologian in the tradition. This is a very painless introduction to M. Nuland, an award winning author of popular medical writing, provides an easy overview of M's life and times. What's unique about this text is the emphasis on M as physician and writer of medical works. The chapter on Jews and medicine is an informative intro to the topic. M was born in Muslim Spain, moves between North African cities with his family, settling near Cairo. With his photographic memory, command of Jewish, Greek & Islamic texts, and aspirations to be a public authority, M writes three Jewish classics: a commentary on the Mishnah (from age 20-30!), his codification of Talmudic materials (Mishneh Torah) and a work of philosophy (Guide for the Perplexed). He rises to be the head of the Jews in Saladin's empire, including being head physician to the court. I recommend it as a smooth intro to this rationalist thinker.   hide