RaLBa”G). Pirush al HaTorah [commentary to the Pentateuch]

LEVI BEN GERSHOM (GERSONIDES/

Daniel Bomberg

Venice

1547

Second edition. Title within architectural arch. Initial word of each Book within ornamental frame. On final page inscription by Church censor

Vinograd, Venice 327; Haberman, Bomberg 196; Adams L-603

In this voluminous commentary to the Pentateuch, the Author initially examines the literal meaning of the text before expounding upon philosophical and moral maxims. Gersonides (1288-1344), lived in Provence and represents the Rationalist School within medieval Bible exegesis: He provided important contributions in such diverse fields as philosophy, mathematics, and astronomy. It is known that Gersonides was an eminent halachist, however the bulk of his halachic writings have been lost. See D. Horowitz, "Ralbag's View of a Central Pragmatic Ethical Characteristic of Abraham," in: Hazon Nahum, Studies Presented to Norman Lamm (1997), pp. 265-309