Discover how a medieval Hebrew commentator approached the Psalms with grammar, logic, and a passion for deeper meaning.
This edition presents Kimhi’s exegesis and places it in the long tradition of rabbinic interpretation.
The book introduces the reader to R. David Kimhi’s method as a grammarian and exegete. It discusses the historical development of Biblical exegesis, from Midrashic roots to Halakic and Haggadic traditions, and explains how Kimhi cites the opening of the Midrash on Psalms. Readers will see how the Peshat (the literal sense) sits alongside abundant Haggadic interpretation and how later scholars valued textual nuance and linguistic detail.
Expect clear guidance on how to read Kimhi’s commentary, with emphasis on the relationship between plain meaning and broader interpretive aims. The discussion also situates this Psalms commentary within the wider Rabbinic tradition and notes the manuscript history behind the edition.
- Learn how Midrash, Peshat, and Halakic/Haggadic approaches interact in biblical commentary.
- See how textual features and linguistic insight shape interpretation.
- Understand the historical context of exegesis in Palestinian and Babylonian traditions.
Ideal for readers of biblical studies, medieval Jewish exegesis, and those curious about how classic commentaries shaped Psalm interpretation.