The Egyptian National Translation Center, led by Dr. Muhammad Nsr Eddin El-Gabali, has recently published a new book titled "شرح التوراة" (Explanation of the Torah). The book, written by Rabbi Samuel ben Hufni Gaon, also known as Samuel ben Hufni the Priest, and translated by Said Attia Ali Matawe and Suhair Sayed Ahmed Dowini, with review by Ahmed Mahmoud Atwa Howidi, marks a significant addition to the Arabic library. This release aligns with the center's mission to make intellectual and heritage works available to the Arabic-speaking audience.
The publication of "شرح التوراة" is part of the National Translation Center's efforts to introduce Arab readers to valuable sources of knowledge from diverse cultures and languages. This initiative aims to foster broader dialogue among civilizations and equip Arabic studies with new tools for understanding human heritage within its historical and intellectual contexts. The book is considered a crucial interpretive source for the Torah from the Middle Ages, building on the rational approach of Rabbi Saadia Al-Fayumi.
The book employs a systematic interpretive approach based on linguistic and semantic analysis. Its author derived rules for lexicography and principles of grammar and rhetoric directly from Muslim sciences and interpretations, including the use of rhetorical devices and figurative language. This methodological approach highlights the intellectual exchange and interaction between different cultural and scholarly environments.
"شرح التوراة" addresses Torah texts in a detailed and explanatory style, comparing the Old Testament with the Talmud and engaging in legal discussions influenced by Islamic judicial literature. This interaction underscores the significant cultural and intellectual exchange during that era, making the work particularly valuable for studying the history of ideas and the intersection of scientific and linguistic methodologies across civilizations.
A key aspect of the book's interpretation is its rejection of divine anthropomorphism and certain superstitious beliefs, such as magic and astrology. Instead, it emphasizes a rational and logical approach, asserting that miracles occur only through prophets. This rational methodology in interpreting texts reveals a clear presence of intellectual reasoning in understanding religious and historical narratives.
The scientific value of "شرح التوراة" is amplified by its relevance to researchers in fields such as Old Testament studies, interfaith dialogue, and the history of the Arabic language during the medieval period. The book demonstrates a profound interaction between interpretive methodologies, language, rhetoric, and jurisprudence in both Islamic and Jewish traditions.
The release of "شرح التوراة" by the National Translation Center not only enriches the Arabic library but also contributes to a deeper understanding of shared intellectual heritage among different cultures. By making such works available, the center supports academic research and fosters cultural dialogue and exchange.
Key points
- The book "شرح التوراة" represents a significant scholarly contribution by providing an Arabic translation of a crucial Torah interpretation from the Middle Ages.
- The publication is part of the National Translation Center's efforts to promote cultural and intellectual exchange through translation.
- The book's rational approach to interpreting religious texts highlights the shared intellectual heritage and methodologies across different religious and cultural traditions.
