The Spirits Behind the Law: The Talmudic Scholars

The scholars of the Talmud and Midrash had an immeasurable impact on Judaism. Throughout centuries of Jewish history, students of Jewish law have tried to understand the meaning and application of their words. It is important to know who these scholars were who made, and continue to make, such a significant impact on Jewish life. This work portrays fifteen of these scholars based on the stories of their lives that appear in the Talmudic and midrashic traditions. By weaving the original accounts together with insightful analysis, the writer provides a human portrait of these great masters while remaining faithful to the poetry of the original narratives.