9: Law (Torah) and Its Interpretation in Jewish Culture

, ,

1. Term: Torah — תּוֹרָה

Meaning: Law, instruction, teaching; the divine guidance given to Israel.

2. Historical-Cultural Context:

  • Torah formed the foundation of Jewish religious, social, and ethical life.
  • It encompassed commandments, statutes, rituals, and moral laws.
  • During the Second Temple period, oral traditions (later the Mishnah) developed to interpret and apply Torah.
  • Different Jewish sects (Pharisees, Sadducees, Essenes) had varying interpretations and emphases.
  • Torah study and observance were central to identity, especially under foreign domination.

3. Literary Examples:

  • Pentateuch contains the original Torah texts (Genesis through Deuteronomy).
  • Mishnah and Talmud reflect evolving interpretations.
  • Dead Sea Scrolls provide insight into sectarian views on the law.

4. Cultural Significance:

  • Torah shaped daily life, worship, and community governance.
  • Its interpretation was dynamic, reflecting changing historical and social contexts.
  • New Testament discussions of law must be understood against this rich interpretive background.
Home