Nine Talmudic Readings by Emmanuel Levinas

The Talmud is the transcription of the oral traditions of Judaism – established rituals, conducts of behavior, discussions of interpretations, etc. The lessons of the Talmud disclose themselves through direct rules but also through moral tales and discussions. It was recorded in two components, the Mishna and the Gemara, in 200 CE and 500 CE, respectively. Although the Talmud was transcribed a long time ago, its tradition of revisiting Judaic thoughts has remained a constant presence in Jewish culture. This book focuses on the interpretations of French philosopher and Talmud commentator, Emmanuel Levinas. These “Nine Talmudic Readings” include passages from the Talmud and Levinas’ hermeneutic concerning them.

I found these readings very fascinating and surprisingly accessible. Levinas’ writing/speaking style is wonderful, constantly and eloquently capturing your attention. His interpretations (not just in Judaic terms, but also concerning religion at large) are refreshing (at least to me with little previous knowledge on the topics). A good example is his insistence on reinterpreting “God” in its written contexts in terms of a greater universality. For example: “this secularization, this brining into the world, into the times, is by no means intended as an elimination of transcendence. Rather, it aims at its relocation in the midst of interpersonal exchange. ‘God’ disappears as a reality one can have access to outside human activity. However, human activity reveals itself as pointing beyond itself.”

Needless to say, I learned a lot from this book, and I managed to enjoy it at the same time, so I would recommend it to anyone with even a small interest in Judaism and/or the construction of religion in general.