This episode focuses on Rashi (1040 - 1105, Rabbi Solomon ben Isaac) and his intellectual (and genetic) heirs. We start by exploring the significant differences between French rabbinic culture and that of North Africa and Muslim Spain. As opposed to summarizing the law as presented in the Talmud which was the central aim of scholars like the RIF, Rashi embarked on a broader interpretative process which led his predecessors to the mammoth task of harmonizing conflicting and contradictory Talmudic discussion. Hosted by: Rabbi Mordecai Marcus Schwartz Produced by Ellie Gettinger Edited by Sarah Brown Cover art: Lee Willet Theme music: Stock media provided by u19_studios / Pond5