What is the Talmud?

Answer

The term “Talmud” originates from Hebrew and means “learning, instruction.” It serves as a fundamental text in mainstream Judaism, primarily comprising discussions and interpretations of Jewish history, law (especially its practical application to life), customs, and culture. The Talmud is composed of the Gemara and the Mishnah.

Apart from the inspired written Hebrew scriptures, referred to as the Old Testament by Christians, Judaism includes an “Oral Torah,” which is a tradition explaining the meanings of these scriptures, as well as how to interpret and apply the laws. Orthodox Jews believe that God imparted this Oral Torah to Moses and subsequently to others, continuing to the present day. Initially preserved orally, this tradition was eventually compiled and transcribed in written form around the 2nd century A.D. in a document known as the Mishnah. Subsequent commentaries expanding on the Mishnah were recorded in Jerusalem and Babylon over the following centuries. These additional commentaries are collectively referred to as the Gemara. The Gemara and the Mishnah together form the Talmud, a process completed by the 5th century A.D.

There exist two primary versions of the Talmud: the Jerusalem Talmud and the Babylonian Talmud. The Babylonian Talmud is more extensive and is typically what people mean when they refer to “the Talmud” without specifying. The Talmud can be challenging to comprehend, often featuring gaps in reasoning assuming prior knowledge and expressing concepts in a condensed manner. References to biblical verses supporting a teaching are frequently brief, consisting of only a few words. The Talmud presents a range of perspectives on various issues without always clearly indicating the accepted viewpoint.

In contrast to the 66 books of the biblical canon considered “God-breathed,” Christianity does not view the Talmud as inspired in the same manner. «All scripture is given by inspiration of God, aAnd is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness: », (2 Timothy 3:16). While some of the teachings from the Talmud may be “compatible” with biblical teachings, the same can be said for many different writings from various religions. For the Christian, studying the Talmud can be an excellent way to gain insights into Jewish tradition, history, and interpretation. However, the Talmud should not be regarded as the authoritative Word of God.