For over eight centuries, Maimonides’ Guide for the Perplexed has stood as a cornerstone of Jewish philosophy, grappling with the complex intersection of faith and reason. This seminal text, however, often presents a formidable challenge to modern readers. Enter the groundbreaking new translation by Lenn Goodman and Phillip Lieberman, a work heralded as a definitive guide for both seasoned scholars and those newly approaching Maimonides’ profound ideas. This edition doesn’t just translate words; it unlocks understanding.
This masterful rendition has garnered widespread acclaim for its unique blend of accuracy, readability, and scholarly depth. Experts across the academic spectrum are celebrating Goodman and Lieberman’s achievement in making this culturally pivotal text truly accessible. Aaron W. Hughes of the University of Rochester notes the edition’s “full scholarly apparatus and a sensitivity to the beauty and nuances of the Arabic language,” emphasizing its value for everyone from “seasoned scholars and beginner readers alike.” This translation is more than just a textual update; it’s a key to unlocking centuries of philosophical discourse.
One of the standout features of this new translation is its commitment to clarity without sacrificing scholarly rigor. Hava Tirosh-Samuelson from Arizona State University describes it as a “magnificent scholarly achievement,” praising its synthesis of extensive research and profound knowledge of Western philosophy. Crucially, she highlights how this “highly readable translation enables contemporary readers to wrestle anew with the perplexity at the heart of Jewish philosophy: how to reconcile human reason and divine revelation.” The translation doesn’t shy away from the challenging nature of Maimonides’ project but instead provides a clear pathway through it.
Daniel J. Lasker of Ben-Gurion University of the Negev further emphasizes this balance, stating that the translation by these “two leading Arabists is not only highly accurate, but also clear, lively and instructive.” He points to the “rich notes” as particularly valuable, making “Maimonides’ philosophy, with its many secrets, accessible to a new generation of readers.” This edition serves as both a reliable translation and an insightful commentary, guiding readers through the intricacies of Maimonides’ thought.
The impact of Goodman and Lieberman’s work is expected to resonate for years to come within Maimonidean scholarship. Kenneth Seeskin of Northwestern University boldly declares, “No book presents his masterpiece in a clearer or more thorough manner. Scholarly discussions of Maimonides will be referring to Goodman and Lieberman’s contribution for years to come.” This speaks volumes about the lasting significance of this translation as a foundational resource for future study.
Aharon Maman from The Hebrew University of Jerusalem offers a particularly compelling endorsement, suggesting, “Had Maimonides himself composed his essay in modern English, he would probably have chosen the style of this version.” This high praise underscores the translation’s success in capturing not just the literal meaning but also the spirit and style of Maimonides’ original work.
Paul B. Fenton of Université Paris-Sorbonne highlights the translators’ expertise, noting their “mastery of Arabic and Hebrew” combined with “intimate knowledge of Medieval Jewish and Islamic philosophy.” This deep understanding has enabled them to produce a translation that is “fresh, accurate, and readable,” making it an “indispensable tool for students of the field.”
Josh Frankel from Lehrhaus draws attention to the translation’s stylistic choices, explaining that Goodman and Lieberman prioritized “preserving the fluidity and emotional register of the book.” The result, he observes, is “a text that is a pleasure to read,” while the accompanying “citations and commentary” ensure scholarly integrity. This blend of readability and scholarly support makes the Guide approachable without compromising its intellectual depth.
Menachem Kellner from Tradition offers a nuanced perspective, suggesting that “if someone wants to study Rambam the rabbi who was also a philosopher… Goodman and Lieberman are your best guides to the Guide.” This highlights the translation’s ability to illuminate the multifaceted nature of Maimonides’ identity and thought.
David Tesler, writing for Association of Jewish Libraries Reviews, concludes that this “modern and lucid translation with accompanying footnotes is sure to become the standard English translation for the next generation and beyond.” He recommends it for “every comprehensive Jewish library,” signifying its essential place in academic and personal collections alike.
Finally, J. J. Kimche in First Things captures the overall sentiment of relief and celebration, welcoming “a readable, enlightening version of Maimonides’s philosophical magnum opus.” He describes The Guide to the Perplexed: A New Translation as “little short of a revelation,” encapsulating the transformative impact this edition is poised to have on the study and understanding of Maimonides’ work. For anyone seeking to navigate the complexities of The Guide of the Perplexed, Goodman and Lieberman have provided an invaluable and illuminating resource.
