The Mishnah is a significant body of Jewish religious law and teachings that serves as the cornerstone of the oral tradition in Judaism. It is essentially a compilation of the rulings and interpretations of Jewish legal experts, known as rabbis, from the early centuries of the Common Era. The term "Mishnah" itself means "repetition" or "study" and reflects its purpose, as it presents a systematic and comprehensive summary of the teachings of the Torah, the written Jewish law.
Composed in Hebrew, the Mishnah is divided into six main sections, or orders, which cover various aspects of Jewish life, including agricultural laws, festivals, marriage and divorce regulations, and ethics. Each order is further subdivided into tractates and chapters, organizing the vast material thematically.
The Mishnah is considered an authoritative legal text, as it preserves the accumulated wisdom and interpretations of Jewish legal scholars from preceding generations. Moreover, it serves as a foundation for subsequent legal discussions and debates found in later Jewish works, such as the Talmud. As such, the Mishnah has profoundly influenced and shaped Jewish law, customs, and practices throughout history.
Its preservation and study remain of paramount importance in Jewish religious scholarship, as it provides insights into the legal principles, religious values, and cultural norms that underpin Judaism. The Mishnah stands as a testament to the enduring nature of Jewish tradition and has played a vital role in maintaining the continuity of Jewish practice and identity.
