Translations are intriguing. To translate a text - especially a large and complex one - is no small undertaking. A translation project originates as a potentially idiosyncratic perception by somebody (or a group) that their target … [Continue reading] about Mishnah in the mama lashon?
In-Law Troubles?
Think you have trouble? (Let me add, for the benefit of my wonderful wife and mother-in-law, that I do not!) In-law relations were just as complex and occasionally fraught in antiquity. Here is a recently published essay of mine (in … [Continue reading] about In-Law Troubles?
Rabbinics Must Die
I recently wrote a reaction to two essays on the contemporary state of "rabbinics" for The Talmud Blog that can be found here. Below is a copy, although I urge readers to carry on any discussion at The Talmud Blog. In our line of work, the word … [Continue reading] about Rabbinics Must Die
On Buying a Sukkah in Israel
The last time I bought a sukkah in the U.S., I went online, selected my model, and clicked the button. UPS brought it the next week. It was a snap-together model, and while not very difficult to figure out how to put together, the … [Continue reading] about On Buying a Sukkah in Israel
On the “Gospel of Jesus’ Wife,” and a Word to Prospective Forgers
The new “Gospel of Jesus’ Wife” fragment has captured the imagination of scholars and the news media alike. How weird. For those of you who are gainfully employed and have a rich enough life that you have not wasted your time following this … [Continue reading] about On the “Gospel of Jesus’ Wife,” and a Word to Prospective Forgers