Ramban (Nachmanides)

Ramban, known as Nachmanides, was born Moses ben Nahman in Girona, Catalonia, Spain in 1194. He was a leading medieval Jewish scholar, Sephardic rabbi, philosopher, physician, kabbalist, and biblical commentator. He is often considered one of the most important figures in the Jewish intellectual history of the Middle Ages.

Nachmanides is perhaps best known for his commentary on the Torah, which has been highly influential in the development of Jewish thought and exegesis. His works blend peshat (literal or plain meaning) and derash (midrashic or homiletic interpretation), incorporating mystical insights from Kabbalah. This approach provided a deeper, more holistic understanding of the Torah texts, making his commentaries a staple in Jewish studies.

In addition to his Torah commentary, Nachmanides was also famous for his participation in the Disputation of Barcelona in 1263, where he defended the Jewish faith against Christian critiques in a public debate. After the disputation, he moved to the Land of Israel, where he spent the last years of his life, passing away in 1270. His grave is located in Safed, Israel, and remains a site of pilgrimage.

Books

Ramban (Nachmanides): Commentary on the Torah (5 Vol. Set)