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Preface

Any scholarly writing, despite the possible claims otherwise, always represents that particular scholar’s point of view. Even when one is recording something as benign as one’s biography, it is always based on that particular scholar’s reconstruction of that biographical data. Any reflections on such thoughts assume an even more complicated stance. Yet, neither the reconstruction of one’s biography nor the reflections on one’s thought should be confused with falsification. Rather, it is an acknowledgment of a selective focus based on the scholar’s interests. For instance, even recording data related to Shinran’s and Maimonides’ biography is to some degree an arbitrary process since emphasis can be placed on certain periods of their life to highlight and underscore specific elements in their thought. Keeping this in mind, my focus was on the issues that interest me the most, namely, Shinran’s and Maimonides’ conception of human nature in general, their views of good and evil, the role of the Law, and the impact of exile on their thought. Thus, when sifting through the biographical information, I was more attuned to noticing any moments in their biography and their writings that shed light on these particular notions.

Writing this work made me recognize how little I am in this vast sea of ignorance and how much is there to learn. My sense of gratitude is immense. I am infinitely grateful for the support I received from my friends and family. My heartfelt thank you goes to Frederick Brenion, and Dolores Ciardelli. Their selfless help kept me honest!

My thank you goes to Casey Dorman, Martin Zwick, and Jonathon Cassell for reading and commenting on my chapters.

None of this work would have ever happened without Thomas Kasulis and Tamar Rudavsky who started me on this path of recognizing again and again how much is there to learn and learn and learn again.

My deepest thank you goes to my family Michael, Alex, Allie, and Leo. Thank you for believing in me.

My mistakes are mine only. My path of learning will never end.

I dedicate my writing to Noa with the hope for the better future.