RaMBa”M). Moreh Nevuchim [“Guide for the Perplexed”] * With: Moses Provencal. Biur Inyan Shnei Kavim [dissertation on the Theorem of Apollonius]

MOSES BEN MAIMON (MAIMONIDES /

Cornelio Adelkind for Tobias Foa

Sabbioneta

1553

Third edition. With commentaries by Shem Tov, Ephodi and ibn Crescas. Title within garlanded architectural columns. Few marginal notes in Hebrew and in English.

Vinograd, Sabbioneta 8.

Exhibited by the Pierpont Morgan Library, see their catalogue: Hebraica from the Valmadonna Trust (1989) no. 33. The Guide for the Perplexed is undoubtedly the most celebrated Jewish philosophical text - and by far the most influential. The final work of Maimonides (1135-1204), it was completed c. 1185 and is the main source of the Rambam’s philosophical views. Due to its Aristotelian leanings, the Moreh Nevuchim had a turbulent history fraught with controversy, both within and beyond the Jewish community. Tragically - and obviously due to other motivations - the work was publicly burned by the Dominicans in Paris, 1232. It is said that R. Jonah Gerondi, one of those who agitated for the banning of Moreh Nevuchim, later journeyed to Maimonides’ tomb in Eretz Israel to beg forgiveness.