The Guide for the Perplexed

by Moses Maimonides

Publishers:

George Routledge & Sons; E. P. Dutton & Co.

, 1919

Overview

Almost 900 years ago, Moses Maimonides wrote Guide for the Perplexed, addressing some of the most difficult theological and philosophical questions ever asked—questions the world is still asking. Likely written to help a student understand the Merkabah narrative, or the chariot of Ezekiel, Maimonides’ text pushed theology and philosophy to discuss the origins and timeline of the universe, the nature of evil, and intelligent design. The Guide for the Perplexed is divided into three books, examining the nature of God, natural philosophy, creation theories, angels and prophecy, the Merkabah narrative, and the 613 laws of the Pentateuch. Maimonides engaged with Jewish, Islamic, and ancient Greek philosophers to construct this highly influential text, challenging Aristotle and others with scriptural and physical evidence.

In the Logos edition, this volume is enhanced by amazing functionality. Important terms link to dictionaries, encyclopedias, and a wealth of other resources in your digital library. Perform powerful searches to find exactly what you’re looking for. Take the discussion with you using tablet and mobile apps. With Logos Bible Software, the most efficient and comprehensive research tools are in one place, so you get the most out of your study.

Contents

Top Highlights

“You appear to have studied the matter superficially, and nevertheless you imagine that you can understand a book which has been the guide of past and present generations, when you for a moment withdraw from your lusts and appetites, and glance over its contents as if you were reading a historical work or some poetical composition. Collect your thoughts and examine the matter carefully, for it is not to be understood as you at first sight think, but as you will find after due deliberation; namely, the intellect which was granted to man as the highest endowment, was bestowed on him before his disobedience. With reference to this gift the Bible states that ‘man was created in the form and likeness of God.” (Page 15)

“he was punished by the loss of part of that intellectual faculty which he had previously possessed” (Page 15)

“six hundred and thirteen precepts of the Pentateuch” (Page xxi)

“The key to the understanding and to the full comprehension of all that the Prophets have said is found in the knowledge of the figures, their general ideas, and the meaning of each word they contain.” (Page 5)

“Midrash says: ‘During the 130 years when Adam was under rebuke he begat spirits, i.e., demons; when, however, he was again restored to divine favour ‘he begat in his likeness, in his form.’” (Page 20)

Product Details

• Title: The Guide for the Perplexed
• Author: Moses Maimonides
• Edition: Second Edition, Revised
• Publishers: George Routledge & Sons, E. P. Dutton & Co.
• Print Publication Date: 1919
• Logos Release Date: 2014
• Pages: 414
• Language: English
• Resources: 1
• Format: Digital › Logos Research Edition
• Subjects: Jewish philosophy; Philosophy, Medieval; Judaism
• Resource ID: LLS:THGDFRPRPLDXD
• Resource Type: Monograph
• Metadata Last Updated: 2024-03-25T21:01:03Z

About Moses Maimonides

Moses Maimonides (1135–1204) was a rabbi, physician, and philosopher in Morocco and Egypt. His ethical writings on Jewish law establish him as one of the most influential rabbis and philosophers in Jewish history. Today, his writings are still widely regarded as authoritative texts. His other works include a number of medical treatises, Commentary on the Mishna, and the Mishneh Torah.