The Perush Mishnayos (Commentary on the Mishnah) by Rambam (Maimonides) is one of his most significant works, written when he was still relatively young, around the age of 30. This commentary provides invaluable insights into the early development of Halakhic thought and Jewish law. One of its central components is its references to the Tannaim, the sages of the Mishnah era. These rabbis were responsible for transmitting and shaping the oral tradition from roughly 10 CE to 220 CE, culminating in the redaction of the Mishnah by Rabbi Yehuda HaNasi.
In this blog post, we will explore the list of Tannaim (Mishnaic sages) mentioned in Rambam’s Perush Mishnayos, their historical and religious significance, and the role they played in shaping Jewish law and thought.
Who Were the Tannaim?
The term Tannaim refers to a group of sages who were active during the period of the Mishnah, which roughly spanned the first and second centuries CE. These rabbis transmitted and codified the Oral Torah, which had been passed down from generation to generation. The word “Tanna” itself comes from the Aramaic word Tanna, meaning “to repeat” or “to teach,” reflecting their role in preserving and transmitting traditions.
Rambam’s Perush Mishnayos: An Overview
The Perush Mishnayos is a monumental commentary on the entire Mishnah. Rambam began this work in his youth and completed it over the course of several years. In this work, he provides explanations, Halakhic decisions, and philosophical insights into the Mishnah. Throughout his commentary, Rambam mentions and discusses various Tannaim, providing background information and highlighting their contributions to Jewish law.
List of Prominent Tannaim in Perush Mishnayos
Here is a list of some of the most notable Tannaim discussed by Rambam in his commentary, along with brief descriptions of their significance:
1. Rabbi Akiva
One of the most prominent figures in the Mishnah, Rabbi Akiva was a central Tanna whose teachings influenced numerous aspects of Jewish law. Rambam often refers to Rabbi Akiva’s methods of deriving laws from the Torah and his role in the development of the Oral Law. His philosophical outlook and Halakhic decisions are frequently mentioned in Perush Mishnayos, particularly in relation to laws of purity, festivals, and sacrificial offerings.
2. Rabbi Yishmael
Rabbi Yishmael was another key figure whose views sometimes contrasted with those of Rabbi Akiva. Rambam discusses Rabbi Yishmael’s hermeneutical principles (the 13 principles of exegesis), which were used to interpret the Torah. These principles laid the foundation for much of the Halakhic analysis in later rabbinic literature. Rambam frequently refers to disputes between Rabbi Yishmael and Rabbi Akiva, particularly in the area of Torah law interpretation.
3. Rabbi Yehuda HaNasi (Rabbeinu HaKadosh)
The editor of the Mishnah itself, Rabbi Yehuda HaNasi, known simply as “Rebbi,” holds a particularly revered place in the tradition. His monumental role in compiling the Mishnah cannot be overstated. Rambam frequently discusses his contributions to the organisation of Jewish law and his role in solidifying the oral tradition for future generations.
4. Rabbi Eliezer ben Hyrcanus
A student of Rabban Yochanan ben Zakkai, Rabbi Eliezer ben Hyrcanus is frequently cited in disputes with other sages, especially Rabbi Akiva. He is known for his strict interpretations of Halakhah and for adhering closely to tradition. Rambam refers to Rabbi Eliezer’s methods of interpretation and his importance in the transmission of Jewish legal thought.
5. Rabbi Tarfon
Another contemporary of Rabbi Akiva, Rabbi Tarfon is discussed in the context of various Halakhic debates, particularly those concerning ritual law and agricultural commandments. Rambam highlights Rabbi Tarfon’s positions on issues such as charity and civil law, showing his more lenient stance compared to Rabbi Akiva.
6. Rabbi Shimon bar Yochai
Famously associated with Jewish mysticism and the Zohar, Rabbi Shimon bar Yochai was also an important Halakhic authority. His legal opinions, particularly in the area of purity and Sabbath laws, are frequently cited by Rambam. Despite his later association with mysticism, Rabbi Shimon’s Halakhic authority remains central to discussions in the Mishnah and Rambam’s commentary.
7. Rabban Gamliel
Both Rabban Gamliel the Elder and Rabban Gamliel of Yavneh are mentioned throughout Rambam’s commentary. As Nasi (leader of the Sanhedrin), Rabban Gamliel played a pivotal role in preserving Jewish continuity after the destruction of the Second Temple. Rambam discusses Rabban Gamliel’s leadership and his efforts to unify Jewish law during turbulent times, particularly in relation to calendar issues and the establishment of religious authority.
8. Rabbi Meir
A student of Rabbi Akiva and a prominent Halakhic authority, Rabbi Meir is known for his many legal opinions and his distinctive style of reasoning. His teachings are often characterised by a focus on ethics and social justice, and Rambam frequently cites his views, especially in discussions of civil law.
Rambam’s Approach to the Tannaim
Rambam’s approach in his commentary is not merely to catalogue the opinions of the Tannaim but to offer a rational, philosophical interpretation of their views. He often synthesises the positions of various Tannaim to present a unified Halakhic framework. In areas of dispute, Rambam may side with one Tanna over another based on his own Halakhic reasoning or broader philosophical principles.
Rambam also emphasises the importance of the legal methodology of the Tannaim, particularly those like Rabbi Akiva and Rabbi Yishmael, whose interpretative principles shaped the future of Jewish legal exegesis.
Conclusion
The Tannaim mentioned in Rambam’s Perush Mishnayos were foundational figures in the development of Halakhah and Jewish thought. Through his commentary, Rambam not only preserved their teachings but also provided a framework for understanding their contributions to Jewish law in a rational, coherent manner. The sages listed above represent just a fraction of the Tannaim whose wisdom continues to influence Jewish life to this day. Their legal rulings, philosophical insights, and ethical teachings remain a vital part of the Jewish intellectual tradition.
