2.3 Torah Interpretation and Commentary
4 min read•july 30, 2024
Torah interpretation is a complex art, blending literal and mystical approaches. From the straightforward to the esoteric , rabbis have developed intricate systems to unpack layers of meaning. This rich tradition allows Jews to continually find new relevance in ancient texts.
Commentators like and offer diverse perspectives on Torah passages. Their insights, along with midrashic expansions and mystical readings, create a tapestry of interpretation. This multifaceted approach keeps the Torah vibrant and applicable across generations.
Key terms in Torah interpretation
Levels of interpretation
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History of the Jewish interpretation of Genesis 1:26, 3:5, 3:22 in the Middle Ages View original
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Top images from around the web for Levels of interpretation
History of the Jewish interpretation of Genesis 1:26, 3:5, 3:22 in the Middle Ages View original
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Torah - Wikipedia View original
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History of the Jewish interpretation of Genesis 1:26, 3:5, 3:22 in the Middle Ages View original
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- Peshat refers to the literal, plain, or simple meaning of the Torah text
- Straightforward interpretation of the verses
- Derash, or , is the interpretive meaning that goes beyond the literal
- Expounds upon the text, often drawing out moral lessons or mystical insights
- Sod is the secret or mystical meaning of the text
- Delves into Kabbalistic and esoteric interpretations
- Looks for hidden meanings and spiritual allegories
PaRDeS system
- The four levels of interpretation are called
- Peshat (literal), Remez (allusion), Derash (interpretive), and Sod (mystical)
- Together they allow for extracting different layers of meaning
- The , passed down through generations, is essential for unlocking the full depth of meaning in the Written Torah
Role of Midrash in Torah interpretation
Expanding narratives
- Midrash, meaning "to investigate" or "study," is the body of rabbinic literature that interprets and expands upon the Torah
- Often fills in gaps in the biblical narrative
- Provides background details
- Fleshes out characters and storylines (Abraham's childhood, Moses in Pharaoh's court)
- Frequently draws moral and ethical lessons from the actions and lives of biblical figures
- Derives practical wisdom (hospitality, kindness, faith)
Reconciling contradictions and revealing hidden meanings
- Can reconcile apparent contradictions in verses by providing additional explanatory details
- Two different names for Moses' father-in-law (Reuel and Jethro)
- Varied listings of the Ten Commandments (Exodus vs Deuteronomy)
- Some midrashim focus on revealing the mystical and allegorical meanings embedded in the Torah text
- Jacob's dream of the ladder as a metaphor for prayer ascending
- Splitting of the Sea as a symbol of personal transformation
- Well-known midrashic works include , , and
- The midrashim are often anthologized in the Midrash Rabbah
Schools of Torah commentary: Rashi vs Ramban
Rashi's commentary
- Rashi (Rabbi Shlomo Yitzchaki, 1040-1105) wrote the most widely studied Torah commentary
- Focuses heavily on peshat, concisely explaining the plain meaning
- Also incorporates midrash and Talmudic explanations
- Rashi's grandsons, the Tosafists, continued his work
- Added glosses and expanded his commentaries
Contrasting commentaries
- Ramban (Nahmanides, Rabbi Moshe ben Nahman, 1194-1270) wrote a commentary often contrasted with Rashi
- Frequently disagrees with Rashi's interpretations
- Incorporates more philosophical and Kabbalistic ideas, seeing symbolism and esotericism in the text
- (Rabbi Abraham ben Meir ibn Ezra, 1092-1167) was a more rationalist commentator
- Used Hebrew grammar and the tools of peshat to concisely explain difficulties
- Avoided midrash and non-literal interpretations
- The (Rabbi Yaakov ben Asher, 1269-1343) wrote a commentary using (assigning numerical values to letters/words)
- Connects verses to halakhic details
- Reveals patterns and inter-verse links
- Many commentaries, like Rashi and Ramban, are printed in the margins of the Mikraot Gedolot (Rabbinic Bible) for comparative study
- They represent diverse schools of thought (peshat, derash, rationalist, mystical)
Applying interpretive techniques to Torah passages
Examining peshat
- When analyzing a passage, first examine the peshat, the straightforward meaning
- Note any key words, phrases or grammatical structures
- Consult classic commentaries like Rashi, Ramban, and Ibn Ezra
- Understand how they explained the passage and what details they focus on
Intertextual and midrashic analysis
- Look for intertextual links to other related passages in the Torah
- Words or phrases may allude to other verses that shed light on meaning
- Examine how the passage is expounded in midrashic and Talmudic literature
- These frequently derive additional layers of moral, ethical and allegorical meaning (Abraham's tent open on all sides, manna as spiritual sustenance)
Mystical and esoteric dimensions
- Consider mystical and esoteric interpretations, especially from Kabbalistic sources and hasidic masters
- Often reveal spiritual and metaphysical dimensions (Genesis creation as unfolding of divine attributes)
- Synthesize insights from the various interpretive approaches
- Arrive at a multifaceted understanding of the passage and its implications
- Different schools together provide a holistic analysis (simple meaning, rabbinic exegesis, philosophical ideas, mystical allusions)
Key Terms to Review (27)
Ancient Israel: Ancient Israel refers to the historical region and the socio-political entity that existed in the land of Canaan from approximately 1200 BCE to 586 BCE. This period is significant for its foundational role in the development of Judaism, particularly through its relationship with the Torah, which outlines laws, teachings, and narratives central to Jewish identity and faith.
Baal Haturim: Baal Haturim is a famous medieval Jewish commentator known for his unique approach to the Torah, particularly his work on the Chumash (the Five Books of Moses). His commentary, which is based on both textual analysis and gematria (numerical values of letters), brings a distinctive perspective that highlights connections between different verses and themes within the Torah. The insights of Baal Haturim contribute significantly to the field of Torah interpretation and offer a deeper understanding of biblical texts.
Chavruta: Chavruta is a traditional Jewish method of studying texts in pairs, emphasizing dialogue and discussion as a means of interpretation. This practice fosters a dynamic exchange of ideas, allowing students to challenge each other's perspectives and deepen their understanding of sacred texts, particularly the Torah. It is an integral part of Jewish education and learning, highlighting the communal aspect of scholarship.
Covenant: In Judaism, a covenant is a sacred agreement or promise between God and the people, establishing a mutual relationship based on commitments and responsibilities. This concept is foundational to Jewish belief, illustrating the special bond between God and the Israelites, and it encompasses not only laws and commandments but also the overall relationship between humanity and the divine.
Drash: Drash is a method of interpreting sacred texts in Judaism, particularly the Torah, that seeks to uncover deeper, often moral or ethical meanings beyond the literal text. This interpretive approach allows for diverse insights and applications of scripture to contemporary life, encouraging readers to engage with the text in a meaningful way. Drash often contrasts with other methods of interpretation, such as Peshat, which focuses on the plain meaning of the text.
Exodus Rabbah: Exodus Rabbah is a significant rabbinic text that serves as a midrashic commentary on the Book of Exodus in the Hebrew Bible. This collection of teachings and interpretations provides deep insights into the narratives and laws presented in Exodus, drawing upon various themes such as redemption, covenant, and divine providence. By blending storytelling and theological reflections, Exodus Rabbah enriches the understanding of the Torah's messages and implications for Jewish life and practice.
Gemara: Gemara refers to the component of the Talmud that consists of rabbinical analysis and commentary on the Mishnah. It expands on the legal and ethical discussions found in the Mishnah, providing context and elaboration. The gemara plays a crucial role in understanding Torah interpretation, as it reflects the dynamic dialogue among sages and contributes significantly to Jewish law and tradition.
Gematria: Gematria is a traditional Jewish system of assigning numerical value to a word or phrase based on its letters. This method of calculation plays an important role in Torah interpretation and commentary, as it allows scholars to uncover hidden meanings and connections between different concepts. Additionally, gematria is significant in Kabbalah, where it serves as a tool for mystical interpretation and spiritual insight, helping practitioners explore deeper relationships between words and their numerical values.
Genesis Rabbah: Genesis Rabbah is a classical Jewish text that serves as a midrashic commentary on the Book of Genesis, one of the foundational texts of the Torah. This work is part of a larger collection of midrashim that interpret and elaborate upon biblical narratives, providing insights into Jewish law, ethics, and theology. The text is known for its rich storytelling and interpretative methods, utilizing allegory and parables to extract deeper meanings from the scripture.
Halakha: Halakha refers to the collective body of Jewish religious laws derived from the Written and Oral Torah. It guides the everyday life and religious practices of Jewish people, influencing their beliefs, rituals, and community interactions.
Hasidism: Hasidism is a Jewish religious movement that emerged in the 18th century in Eastern Europe, emphasizing mysticism, spirituality, and a personal relationship with God. It arose as a response to the rigid intellectualism of Jewish life at the time, promoting joyful worship, emotional connection, and community bonding, which are essential elements of its teachings.
Ibn Ezra: Ibn Ezra was a prominent Jewish scholar, poet, and biblical commentator from the 12th century who made significant contributions to Torah interpretation and Jewish thought. His works are notable for blending traditional Jewish exegesis with rationalism and linguistic analysis, leading to a more nuanced understanding of the biblical texts. Ibn Ezra's influence can be seen in his focus on the historical and grammatical context of the Torah, making him a key figure in the development of Jewish biblical commentary.
Kabbalah: Kabbalah is a mystical and esoteric interpretation of Judaism that seeks to understand the nature of God, the universe, and the soul through symbolic teachings and spiritual practices. It emphasizes a direct, personal relationship with the divine and explores complex concepts such as the nature of creation, the ten sefirot (divine attributes), and the importance of inner spiritual growth.
Mechilta: Mechilta is an ancient Jewish text that serves as a collection of rabbinic interpretations and commentary on the Torah, specifically focusing on the Book of Exodus. This work highlights various methods of exegesis used by rabbis to derive legal and ethical teachings from the biblical text, showcasing how these interpretations have shaped Jewish thought and practice over time. Mechilta represents an important aspect of Torah interpretation, illustrating the dynamic dialogue between the sacred text and its interpreters.
Midrash: Midrash refers to a method of interpreting biblical texts in Judaism, primarily the Torah, that goes beyond the literal meaning to extract deeper insights and lessons. This interpretive approach allows for a rich exploration of the text's significance, filling in gaps and addressing unanswered questions while providing moral and theological teachings. Through midrash, ancient scholars engaged with the Torah, enriching Jewish thought and practice across generations.
Midrash Tanhuma: Midrash Tanhuma is an important collection of Jewish biblical exegesis that focuses on the Torah, specifically designed to provide deeper interpretations and moral lessons derived from the text. It is a type of midrash that draws on a variety of sources, including stories, legal discussions, and ethical teachings, making it significant in the tradition of Torah interpretation and commentary.
Mitzvah: A mitzvah is a commandment or a good deed in Judaism, which plays a vital role in the religious and ethical life of the Jewish people. Traditionally, there are 613 commandments in the Torah that guide various aspects of life, from moral conduct to ritual practices. Mitzvot, the plural form, are not only about adherence to rules but also encompass a broader sense of moral obligation and community responsibility, reflecting the relationship between individuals and God.
Oral Torah: The Oral Torah refers to the body of Jewish law, ethics, and teachings that were transmitted orally alongside the written texts of the Torah. This collection includes interpretations, legal rulings, and traditions that complement and expand upon the Written Torah, shaping Jewish religious practice and belief over centuries.
Pardes: Pardes is a Hebrew term that refers to a method of interpreting the scriptures, emphasizing four distinct levels of meaning: Peshat (literal), Remez (hint), Derash (homiletical), and Sod (mystical). This multi-layered approach allows scholars and students to extract deeper insights from the text, reflecting a rich tradition of commentary and interpretation in Jewish study.
Peshat: Peshat is a Hebrew term meaning 'simple' or 'plain,' referring to the straightforward, literal interpretation of biblical texts. This method emphasizes understanding the text in its most direct sense, serving as a foundation for deeper interpretations and commentaries that follow. It's one of the key approaches in Jewish exegesis, allowing readers to grasp the essential meaning before exploring other layers of interpretation.
Rabbinic Period: The Rabbinic Period refers to a significant era in Jewish history that began after the destruction of the Second Temple in 70 CE and continued until about 600 CE. This period was marked by the emergence of rabbinic Judaism, which focused on the interpretation of Jewish texts, the development of the Talmud, and the establishment of legal and ethical guidelines for Jewish life, shifting from temple-centered worship to community and scholarly practices.
Ramban: Ramban, also known as Nachmanides, was a prominent medieval Jewish scholar, philosopher, and commentator who lived in the 13th century. He is well-known for his influential interpretations of the Torah, which blend traditional Jewish thought with deep mystical insights, particularly in Kabbalah. His commentaries are celebrated for their depth and creativity, offering new perspectives on biblical texts and often addressing philosophical and theological questions.
Rashi: Rashi, an acronym for Rabbi Shlomo Yitzhaki, was a medieval French rabbi and commentator whose works are foundational in Jewish scholarship. His commentaries on the Hebrew Bible and Talmud are essential for understanding Jewish texts, offering insights that have shaped Torah interpretation and rabbinic literature across generations.
Redemption: Redemption in Judaism refers to the process of deliverance and restoration, often associated with the freeing of individuals or the community from bondage or sin. This concept is deeply rooted in narratives and laws within sacred texts, signifying a transformative journey from suffering towards liberation, particularly seen in events like the Exodus and during significant religious observances.
Sifrei: Sifrei refers to a collection of ancient Jewish texts that serve as commentaries on the Torah, particularly focusing on its laws and teachings. These texts provide interpretations and insights that have shaped Jewish thought and practice, connecting the foundational narratives of the Torah to real-life applications and ethical considerations. Sifrei is part of the broader tradition of Torah interpretation and commentary, which includes various methods and genres used to engage with sacred texts.
Sod: Sod refers to the mystical or hidden meaning within Jewish texts, particularly in the context of Torah interpretation. It is part of a broader framework that includes different methods of interpreting sacred writings, allowing scholars and practitioners to uncover deeper spiritual truths and insights that may not be immediately apparent from the literal text.
Talmud: The Talmud is a central text in Rabbinic Judaism, consisting of a compilation of teachings, discussions, and interpretations of the Torah, along with Jewish law and ethics. It serves as a foundational document that guides Jewish life, culture, and religious practice, influencing various aspects of Judaism and Jewish identity.