Torah
from scroll to symbol in formative Judaism
By Jacob Neusner
Jacob Neusner explores a pivotal transformation in Jewish spiritual thought during late antiquity, when the very concept of Torah underwent profound redefinition. This scholarly examination reveals how ancient rabbis revolutionized their understanding of sacred text and tradition, moving beyond the physical scroll to embrace Torah as something far more expansive.
The author traces how religious authorities of this era faced a crucial challenge: incorporating the Mishnah into their sacred framework required reimagining what Torah actually meant. Through careful analysis, Neusner demonstrates how this process transformed Torah from a specific written document into a comprehensive symbol representing an entire worldview and way of life.
This evolution reflects a remarkable shift in spiritual thinking. What began as reference to particular scrolls and their contents gradually expanded to encompass the complete system of beliefs, practices, and values that defined rabbinic Judaism. The transformation shows how religious communities adapt their core concepts to meet new spiritual and intellectual needs while maintaining continuity with their traditions.
For readers interested in how sacred concepts develop and change over time, this work offers valuable insights into the dynamic nature of religious thought. Neusner's investigation illuminates the creative process through which spiritual leaders reinterpreted fundamental ideas about salvation, sanctification, and the relationship between written text and lived faith. The book provides a window into how religious communities navigate the tension between preserving ancient wisdom and addressing contemporary spiritual needs.
What You'll Discover
- ✓ Explore Rabbinische Literatur
- ✓ Explore History and criticism
- ✓ Learn Torah teachings
- ✓ Explore Begriff
- ✓ Explore Tora
- ✓ Explore Thora
- ✓ Explore Judaïsme
- ✓ Explore Rabbijnse literatuur
Topics
Details
- Published
- 1985
- Publisher
- Fortress Press
- ISBN-10
- 0800607341
- Pages
- 181
- Language
- EN
