THE DINUR CENTER FOR RESEARCH IN JEWISH HISTORY
The Hebrew University of Jerusalem

Japhet, Sara - Emeritus

Personal:
Born 1934, Tel Aviv; Ph.D. 1973, Hebrew Univ.; Lect. 1973; Sen. Lect. 1977; Assoc. Prof. 1981; Prof. 1987; Director, Jewish National and University Library, since December 1997.

Research Interests:

Biblical religion and literature. Restoration period: literature, history and theology. Biblical law. The history of Jewish exegesis.

Research Projects:

Critical edition of Rabbi Samuel ben Meir's commentary on Job.

Abstracts of Current Research:

Commentary on the Book of Chronicles:

The literary works and religious world of the period of the Restoration was studied in light of its specific historical and sociological background. A new commentary on Chronicles was prepared for publication, and a commentary on Ezra-Nehemia is in progress.

Medieval Jewish exegesis:

The study of medieval Jewish exegesis is directed toward understanding the spiritual phenomena of Peshat-exegesis, the definition of the different literary products of this trend, and the establishment of the history of medieval exegesis in northern France.

Recent Publications:

Japhet, S., ed. (1994) The Bible in the Light of Its Interpreters - Sarah Kamin Memorial Volume. Jerusalem, Magnes Press, 724 pp.