In a message dated 1/3/02 3:02:42 AM, [EMAIL PROTECTED] writes: << > If I may suggest, when you do get a copy, try to get one that is a
> direct translation from Hebrew into your native language. How many different translations are there? Given that the Bible comes in umpteen different translations, the Talmud has the same problem. Which translation would be the best one? >> It's hard for me to answer this. I'm neither a Talmudic scholar nor an Orthodox Jew. To point you in the right direction, however, go with a translation _from Hebrew_ that is approved by a board of organized Orthodox or Conservative Rabbis. (In New York, one would go to the Orthodox Union, or the Jewish Theological Seminary.) This gives you the best chance of getting an accurate translation. And, as I mentioned before, any Conservative synagogue's library should be able to give you one of these on loan. <<How many different translations are there? Given that the Bible comes in umpteen different translations, the Talmud has the same problem. Which translation would be the best one? >> A side note on this particular comment: Generally, Talmudic *translation* does not vary from copy to copy. Hebrew is not that complicated a language, and word meanings don't vary tremendously the way they might in English. However, Talmudic *interpretation* does vary. The stories told within the Talmud are usuallly interpreted as having meanings within meanings. That's is why I suggest first picking up a copy and reading it without additional explanations. You can easily read the straight translation and understand it without reading the 'Cliff's Notes' first. ;) Jon
