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Loading... A dictionary of the Targumim, the Talmud Babli and Yerushalmi, and the Midrashic literature (edition 1903)by Markus Jastrow
Work InformationDictionary of the Targumim, Talmud Bavli, Talmud Yerushalmi and Midrashic Literature by Marcus Jastrow
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A classic and still standard resource, Marcus Jastrow's monumental dictionary remains unique in that it covers both the Hebrew and the Aramaic languages used in the literature of the rabbinic period. This indispensable dictionary of targumic and rabbinic literature includes thousands of entries in fully vocalized Hebrew and Aramaic, with references to the original texts, clear English definitions, and the full range of meanings and usages in the sources. It is organized alphabetically by actual form but also includes references to the root of words and abundant cross-references. Complete in one volume, in a reader friendly format and page size, with a sturdy binding and an index of Scriptural quotations, it is the most comprehensive single-volume dictionary available for reading early Jewish texts. No library descriptions found. |
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1) It's dated: The dictionary was originally published around the turn of the 20th century, and predictably does not reflect subsequent research.
2) Jastrow's etymologies can be wonky: Be careful, keep you eyes open, and it you find yourself forced into an odd reading or an unbelievable root is suggested, double check against another source.
3) Entries are listed left to right: This might not be so bad if you don't have much experience with Hebrew books, but it can be quite disorienting otherwise.
4) Avoid the single-volume reprints: Yes, I know, the two-volumes-in-one reprints are cheap and everywhere, but the quality of the print can be quite low in these things, as well as reduced in size. If one plans to do extensive work with Jastrow ready at hand, consider forking out the extra cash for a used copy in two volumes. I acquired mine in the 90's very cheaply because it thrashed. I had it rebound for about the price of a new scholarly book, and it has served me faithfully since. ( )