Q&A: The Book The Doctrine of Divinity of Joseph Ben-Shlomo
The Book The Doctrine of Divinity of Joseph Ben-Shlomo
Question
Hello Rabbi. I wanted to ask whether you know the book The Doctrine of Divinity of the Ramak by Dr. Joseph Ben-Shlomo. I’m looking for a relatively simple, understandable overview of divinity according to the Ramak. And I’m concerned that because Dr. Joseph Ben-Shlomo was not religious, his understanding of the Ramak may not be accurate.
Actually, the question is about that specific book, and also more generally about relying on secular people in matters of holiness.
Thanks in advance.
Answer
Hello.
I don’t know it, but I’ve never understood these concerns. Examine the arguments and claims on their own merits, and if you found what you were looking for, all the better. If not, then not. What difference does it make from whose womb these pearls emerged (whether it really reflects the Ramak or whether it is Ben-Shlomo’s own idea)? If your interest is academic (that is, to know what the Ramak thought, and not to clarify the topic for yourself), then I can only say that there are also quite a few religious people who do not understand the texts they interpret, so I do not think there is any general a priori criterion regarding the identity of the reliable interpreter.