Description

In this book Kadushin examines each rabbinic text or sequence of homilies in order to uncover specific value concepts which are reflected in them either explicitly or implicitly. After skillfully revealing these value concepts, he proceeds to elucidate them in light of the midrashic context under consideration, and then discusses their meanings and significance within the entire rabbinic value complex. These explications, based upon Kadushin's conceptual approach, clarify the frequently obscure nexus between the biblical citations, which initially served as verbal stimuli, and the rabbinic comments, which appear to be so far removed from them. Furthermore, Kadushin adroitly demonstrates the similarities and differences in meaning and nuance between the distinctive levels of usage, particularly when analyzing rabbinic texts in which conceptual terms are employed. In addition, Kadushin's notes underscore the organismic relationship and interdependence of all rabbinic value concepts, highlight the indeterminacy of belief and the genuine emphatic trends that distinguish rabbinic Judaism. His notes also call attention to the special character of the rabbinic religious experience which he had earlier described as normal mysticism.