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Maimonides: Faith in Reason

Book by Alberto Manguel · 3 quotes · Books, Depression, Five Senses

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Maimonides: Faith in Reason Quotes

“Hesse wrote an essay on what he saw as the world's publishing crisis and the fate of the book. Hesse concluded his talk with these words: 'Only a few sacred books that humankind treasures hold the regenerating power and survive throughout the millennia and the world crises. It is reassuring to see that the situation does not depend on the distribution of these works. It is not necessary for millions, even hundreds of thousands of readers to have appropriated for themselves this or that sacred book. It is enough that a few people should have been touched by them.”

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“Everything that can be put into words lies within the scope of reason. But then again, not everything can be put into words. ### Out of the experience bequeathed in the words of others the recipient refashions and subsumes whatever his or her intellect deems important or inspiring. There is no dogmatic obligation in matters of intellectual education, and no arranged marriage of minds produces healthy offspring. Only sufficient intelligence is required; poor judgment will lead to making the wrong choice.”

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“To counter a depression such as this, Maimonides recommended tending to the five senses 'for the purpose of quickening the soul.' Hearing was to be nourished 'by listening to stringed and reed-pipe music,' seeing 'by gazing at beautiful pictures,' smelling 'by strolling through beautiful gardens,' feeling 'by wearing fine raiment,' and tasting 'by eating highly seasoned delicacies.' Such things, Maimonides judged, 'are not to be considered immoral nor unnecessary,' These recommendations give us a rare glimpse into the private man and allow the question of whether, under the stern guise of his role as adviser and legislator, Maimonides could enjoy good food and the smell of jasmine in a garden for their own sake. Cairo was not Córdoba, but it would do. Intellectual pursuits, both religious and scientific, he tells us, were of help to lift a little the dark clouds.”

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