RaMBa”M). Moreh Nevuchim [“Guide to the Perplexed”]

MOSES BEN MAIMON (MAIMONIDES/.

Cornilio Adel-kind for Tobias Foa

Sabbionetta

1553

Third edition. With commentaries by Shem-Tov, Ephodi and ibn Crescas. Title within historiated border. Printer’s device on title (cf. Yaari no. 20). * With: Provencal, Moses. Biur Inyan Shenei Kavim [dissertation on the Theorem of Apollonius] following the title. These rare two leaves lacking from most copies

Vinograd, Sabbionetta 8; Haberman, Adel-kind 113; not in Adams

The Guide to the Perplexed, the final work of Moses Maimonides (1135-1204), was completed in 1185 or 1190. It had a troubled history, sparking centuries of Maimonidean controversies. Heavily influenced as it was by Greek - specifically Aristotelian philosophy, the work was thought by some to conflict with Judaic tradition. Tragically, and for different motivations, it was publicly burned by the Dominicans in Paris in 1232. It is said that R. Jonah Gerondi, one of those who agitated for the destruction of the text, later journeyed to Maimonides’ tomb in Eretz Israel to beg forgiveness. See: C. Roth, Jews in the Renaissance (1959), pp. 28-29, 236, 266; D. J. Silver, Maimonidean Criticism and the Maimonidean Controversy 1180-1240; and EJ, Vol. III, cols. 229-31