"I argue that the Talmud is about the constant struggle to understand"
- Arthur Hertzberg
About this Quote
This quote by Arthur Hertzberg talks to the importance of the Talmud in Jewish life. The Talmud is a collection of rabbinic writings that supply guidance on Jewish law, ethics, custom-mades, and history. Hertzberg argues that the Talmud is not simply a source of understanding, however a tool for understanding. He recommends that the Talmud is a living document, continuously developing as new interpretations are made. This is due to the fact that the Talmud is not a static set of rules, however a vibrant set of ideas that can be interpreted in various ways. By studying the Talmud, one can gain insight into the complexities of Jewish life and the ever-changing nature of Jewish thought. Hertzberg's quote stresses the significance of the Talmud in Jewish life and the need to continuously strive to comprehend it.
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