Medieval Judaism

Medieval Judaism refers to the Jewish religious, cultural, and social life during roughly the 5th to 15th centuries across Europe, the Middle East, and North Africa. It was marked by the development of important legal texts like the Talmud, vibrant spiritual scholarship, and varying interactions with surrounding societies. Jews faced periods of coexistence, prosperity, and hardship, including restrictions and persecutions in some regions. Despite challenges, Jewish communities maintained their faith, rituals, and identity, contributing significantly to intellectual and religious life. Medieval Judaism laid much of the groundwork for modern Jewish thought and practice.