BIBL3257D: Textual Analysis of the Book of Mishlei

Abstract

This course is an analysis of the book of Mishlei (Proverbs) based on classic commentators on Tanach. The approaches of these commentators vary in their styles and interests, highlighting the fact that Mishlei (like all other biblical texts) may be analyzed and understood at many levels beyond the literal. We will be studying the unique approaches of these great biblical exegeses, such as Meiri, Ralbag, Rashi, Alsheich, Malbim, Rabeinu Yona, Gr”a and others in their historical contexts. Through comparing and contrasting their styles of interpretation, we will be able to demonstrate how their interpretations are consistent with worlds in which they lived, written in order to inspire their students and address the challenges of their generations. We will focus on selections from Mishlei that are relevant to daily prayers, character development, and how to enhance the quality of one’s life while dealing with the challenges of our society, so that the students will find the ideas and lessons timely, and will be able to derive useful life lessons.