Language:
English
Year of publication:
1999
Titel der Quelle:
Judaism; a Journal of Jewish Life & Thought
Angaben zur Quelle:
48,2 (1999) 181-197
Keywords:
Rashi,
;
Crusades
;
Jews
;
Judaism Relations
;
Christianity
;
Christianity and other religions Judaism
;
Jews Folklore
Abstract:
Demonstrates that Rashi (1040-1106), the great Jewish Bible and Talmud commentator, referred, albeit indirectly, to the contemporary Jewish tragedy, the massacres of the First Crusade. Rashi's selection of midrash for his commentary on Genesis 1 was probably intended to refute the papal claims to the Holy Land that launched the First Crusade. Rashi's choice of verses from Isaiah in his penitential poems also refer to Christian imagery and Crusader behavior. His use of metaphor was understood by Jews; it kept him safe from Christian reprisal. A legend that links Rashi with Godfrey of Bouillon, the Crusader conquerer of Jerusalem, may reflect historical events. An English translation of the Godfrey legend as found in the Guenzburg ms. 652 is appended (pp. 193-194).
Note:
With reference to a folktale about Rashi. Pp. 193-194: English translation of the Godfrey legend.
,
Appeared also in "Likute Zvi" (2013) 41-65.
URL:
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