Q&A: Studying Talmud for a Beginner
Studying Talmud for a Beginner
Question
With God's help,
Hello Rabbi,
How would you recommend beginning to get into studying Talmud for someone with very little background in learning?
I know how to learn a bit on my own (just Talmud with Rashi’s commentary), my Aramaic is okay, but I really don’t know the methods of study used in Talmud ("analysis" and "conceptual inquiry" don’t mean anything to me).
How can I make progress in independent study without relying on a study partner? (Maybe you could recommend introductory books of various kinds, or alternatively reference books.)
In general I’d be happy for recommendations of books and articles about the Talmud—about the logic, the narrative, and so on. (And of course preferably books that are not “contemporary readings” of the Talmud.)
Thank you very much.
Answer
I don’t think the right way is through books about it. The most correct approach is to begin learning the Talmud itself, not books about it. It’s quite hard to get into in-depth analytical study on your own, but you can try going through later conceptual authorities. Study a tractate with the commentators, and go through Kehillot Yaakov in order. It’s recommended because he explains excellently, and it’s classic, high-quality conceptual learning. There are also introductory books you can try, such as Introduction to Talmudic Conceptual Analysis, the books of Rabbi Amiel (The Principles for the Study of Jewish Law and Methods of Moses), and others.
Usually the best thing is to join a class, and only after a few years set out independently.
Discussion on Answer
Unfortunately not. There are Zoom classes open to everyone, and you can join them. These days the geography that matters is in cyberspace. See details here on the left side of the page. You can meet me in my humble home here. 🙂
If that’s what you meant, then I’d definitely be happy if the Rabbi is available and willing to devote a little of his time to me. I think it could be helpful, especially considering that I’m young and new to the world of Torah and commandments.
If you agree, write to me here and we’ll be in touch.
Thank you,
Harel
Unfortunately I don’t have time for that. That’s not what I meant. I meet with people who have questions, but not for ongoing study.
No, no, certainly not for study. I have substantial and important questions, which I’d be happy to lay out for you in a letter if you’d like.
The general background is that I’m a newly religious Jew. I studied in a Chabad yeshiva, with all the bonuses that implies; recently I left Chabad, almost became completely nonreligious, and I’m trying to find a path that fits me within Judaism. Basically, I’d be glad to hear your opinion and consult with you, since you speak in the voice of reason and good sense. That’s the story.
052-3320543
Thank you very much for the response.
By the way, since we live in the same city, I thought it might make sense to ask: does the Rabbi give classes here in town?
Is it possible to meet you somewhere around here?