Defining the Talmud: text, tradition, civilization

The codifying of the Talmud marked a major turning point for Jewish life and law. As we dive into the topic, we'll explore the following questions:

1. What exactly is the Talmud?
2. How is the Talmud structured? Is the structure itself important to the content?
3. What drove Jewish passion for and attachment to the Talmud over the centuries?

Recommended Reading: Saiman, Chaim. Halakhah: The Rabbinic Idea of Law. New Jersey: Princeton University Press, 2018.