From Scripture to Speculation: Theological and Philosophical Evolution of Divine Attributes in Rabbinic Literature and Medieval Jewish Thought

Abstract

This study examines the evolution of the understanding of God’s nature and attributes in Jewish thought, focusing on the Rabbinic and Medieval periods. Following the canonization of the Hebrew Bible, Jewish theological reflection deepened through Rabbinic literature, including the Talmud and Midrash, which expanded and nuanced foundational scriptural teachings. These works offered dynamic interpretations of divine omnipotence, omniscience, justice, and mercy, embedding them within evolving legal, ethical, and narrative frameworks. The study further explores the transformative contributions of medieval Jewish philosophers, particularly Maimonides, whose synthesis of Aristotelian philosophy and Jewish theology reshaped the intellectual discourse on God’s nature. Maimonides' rationalist approach, as outlined in The Guide for the Perplexed, emphasized divine incorporeality, unity, and transcendence while maintaining fidelity to Jewish tradition. This research highlights the interplay between scriptural exegesis, Rabbinic interpretation, and medieval philosophical inquiry in shaping a sophisticated and enduring framework of Jewish theology. The chapter provides a comprehensive analysis of key texts and intellectual trends, offering insights into how these periods collectively refined and advanced the understanding of divine attributes. This work contributes to the broader study of Abrahamic theology, providing a critical lens on the historical and intellectual evolution of Jewish thought.