Course

The course offers a study of a selection of texts from classical rabbinic literature from the Mishnah to the Babylonian Talmud. After a brief survey of the emergence of the rabbinic movement and the political, cultural and linguistic context in which it developed, the main part of the course is devoted to close readings of a selection of rabbinic texts in Hebrew/Aramaic with a translation. To enable the inclusion of a larger number of texts in order to display the various genres included in rabbinic literature, some texts will be read only in translation. In addition to acquiring and developing skills in rabbinic Hebrew, students will gain insights into rabbinic thought and culture, and acquire a basic knowledge of the scope, style and characteristics of rabbinic texts. The main focus will be on the Mishnah (early 3^rd century), the Mekhilta (late 3^rd century), Genesis and Leviticus Rabbah (early 5^th century) and the Babylonian Talmud (300–700 C.E).

Intended learning outcome

• Demonstrate knowledge of the most important rabbinic texts and their respective genres and characteristics
• Acquire a basic ability to read and analyze rabbinic texts
• Gain insight into rabbinic thought and culture through a reading of a selection of rabbinic texts
• Critically discuss the emergence and development of rabbinic Judaism in relation to previous and contemporary Jewish groups, including Jesus-oriented ones, and critically assess rabbinic texts as sources for historical reconstruction
• Independently evaluate the significance of rabbinic literature for later Jewish tradition