Comments by "S D" (@shlogoff) on "UsefulCharts"
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It’s a really common misconception to think the Talmud is “just people arguing,” but that’s actually a pretty reductive way to look at it. What the Talmud really is, at its core, is a deep and rigorous analysis of the Mishnah — an earlier compilation of Jewish laws. The Talmud explores where each law comes from, tracing them back to verses in the Torah (because ultimately, all Jewish law is rooted in the Torah).
Yes, there are arguments — different rabbis often debate how to interpret the law or how to apply it in specific cases. But that’s just one aspect. These discussions are incredibly detailed and logically structured, almost like legal reasoning in a supreme court case.
What the video covered only scratches the surface. The Talmud also contains a massive amount of moral teachings, life advice, and stories (some of which are surprisingly funny or touching). It delves into biblical verses, offering background stories, context, and insights into the lives of biblical figures.
So no — it’s not “just arguing.” It’s one of the most sophisticated and wide-ranging bodies of thought ever produced, with legal, ethical, spiritual, and even philosophical depth.
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