Masters of the Talmud: Their Lives and Views

Next to the Bible itself, the Talmud is hailed as the greatest literary achievement of the Jewish people. Composed in Palestine and Babylonia over fifteen centuries ago, the two encyclopedic works that comprise the Talmud contain not only intense legal debates but also discussions on subjects as diverse as astronomy, health, sex, domestic affairs, education, prayer, food, and superstition. In fact, so wide-ranging are its contents that those deeply involved in Talmudic study are said to be "swimming in the sea of the Talmud."

Achieving an understanding of the interpretations and rulings of the biblical text as set forth by the Rabbis of the Talmud requires not only concentrated study of the tractates themselves, but also a degree of insight into those scholars whose opinions are presented. To that end, Rabbi Alfred J. Kolatch, bestselling author of The Jewish Book of Why, has combed the literature and extracted fascinating biographical and other pertinent information about the great thinkers who devoted their lives to the analysis and formulation of Jewish law.

From familial and collegial relationships to methods of argumentation and interpretation, this important work provides both scholar and novice with the perspective necessary to understand the thinking of the Talmudic sages. Startling in its scope, Masters of the Talmud is an essential tool for those interested in truly appreciating one of Judaism’s most treasured creations.