Halakkah in Light of Epigraphy

The proceedings from the conference Halakhah in Light of Epigraphy explore how ancient inscriptions challenge traditional understandings of halakhah in Judaism.

This volume presents the proceedings from the conference titled Halakhah in Light of Epigraphy, which took place on May 29, 2008, organized by the David and Jemima Jeselsohn Center for Epigraphy at Bar-Ilan University. The event focused on the intersection of epigraphy and halakhah, exploring how ancient inscriptions, papyri, and scrolls contribute to our understanding of the ancient Jewish world. These epigraphic finds have significantly enhanced our knowledge while simultaneously challenging scholars to reconcile traditional sources with new discoveries.

At the heart of the discussions was the recognition that Rabbinic texts serve as normative guidelines, outlining how their authors believed life ought to be lived. This raises important questions about the relevance of traditional halakhic texts when assessing the implications of newly unearthed artifacts. The conference aimed to foster dialogue on these complex issues and to delve into specific aspects of halakhah as reflected in epigraphic materials.

The papers compiled in this volume highlight the pivotal role that halakhah played in ancient Jewish society. By examining the insights offered by epigraphic sources, scholars can better understand the nuances of daily life in ancient times, as well as the ongoing relevance of halakhic principles. Halakhah in Light of Epigraphy thus serves as a vital resource for those interested in the dynamic relationship between ancient texts and contemporary scholarship.