Rabbi Dr. Martin Lockshin

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1. Peshat and Midrash Halakha

   Rabbi Dr. Martin Lockshin

   תאריך פרסום: תשע"ד | | Hour

   What are students of “pshat” (the “simple” reading of Tanakh) to do when one’s “pshat” reading of the Torah contradicts the “reading” of halakha? With examples from Parashat Emor and elsewhere, we explore the nature of pshat, and truth. We consider the potential for multiple levels of meaning. We find different views of the commentators on these issues, and various attempts of commentators to deal with the problem of halakha contradicting the “pshat.” 

2. Shmuel David Luzzatto (Shadal) as a Bible Commentator

   Rabbi Dr. Martin Lockshin |

   In this class, we will examine the unique approach of Shadal (Shmuel David Luzzato) in his Bible commentary. We will look at different texts that highlight interesting features in his commentary to them. He does not hold back from interpreting the pshat (plain meaning of the text) in a way that contradicts traditional Rabbinic interpretations. Occasionally, he strongly voices his opposition to Rambam (Maimonides) and the apparent influence of Greek philosophers such as Aristotle on Rambam’s comments. Luzzato’s comments also reveal ideas about equality, sexual ethics, and the conviction that the purpose of the Torah(including mitzvoth such as Loving God, is not philosophy, but action: for furthering the goal of doing and spreading justice and righteousness.

3. Rashbam and Ibn Ezra

   Rabbi Dr. Martin Lockshin

   תאריך פרסום: 5777 | | Hour

   Beginning with biographical sketches, we compare and contrast, Ibn Ezra and Rashbam, two Torah commentators who claim to look for the plain meaning of the text.  Both are interested peshat at a time when others aren’t, but they are two very different people from different contexts and milieus. Their methods and comments can often be remarkably similar, but the differences are telling. We delve into the question of what peshat is. Do they both see "peshat" as the highest value in their Torah commentary, or is something else going on? We will look at some fascinating examples that highlight their respective methodologies.

4. And There was Evening and There was Morning- The dispute between Rashbam and ibn Ezra about Shabbat

   Rabbi Dr. Martin Lockshin | Hour and 3 minutes

   This lecture discusses Rashbam’s controversial comment on the phrase “vayehi erev vayehi boker” [“and there was evening, and there was morning”] and Ibn Ezra’s vehement opposition to this commentary. Through a close textual analysis we explore the concept of a day in the Bible and in Judaism, and also reach a deeper perspective of the significance of interpreting a biblical text.

   Click here for a downloadable audio version of this lecture