How to Read the Mishnah and Midrash: An Introduction to Early Rabbinic Literature

The early rabbinic period produced two major literary formations--the Mishnah and Midrash--which have since remained central pillars of Jewish textual tradition. How to Read the Mishnah and Midrash is the first comprehensive introduction to these two foundational works of Jewish thought in English.

In many ways, all subsequent rabbinic literature emerged from the framework established by these two genres. The Mishnah presented a comprehensive legal system independent of the Bible, encompassing a remarkably broad spectrum of legal topics--from ritual law to civil disputes, capital legislation, marital status, and beyond--woven into a coherent and autonomous legal corpus. The Midrash is the first comprehensive running commentary of the Pentateuch, marked by its interpretive freedom and creative playfulness.

This hands-on companion provides an intimate understanding of how the two texts function and essential tools for engaging with them in depth. With translations, close readings, and analyses of hundreds of primary source materials, this book offers readers a deeper appreciation of the structure, methodology, and enduring impact of the Mishnah and Midrash.

Ishay Rosen-Zvi is Professor of Jewish Philosophy and Talmud at Tel-Aviv University. He is author of Demonic Desires: ＂Yetzer Hara＂ and the Problem of Evil in Late Antiquity and coauthor, with Adi Ophir, of Goy: Israel’s Others and the Birth of the Gentile.