Maimonides’ Introduction to the Mishnah: what it is and key facts
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Maimonides’ Introduction to the Mishnah (הקדמת הרמב“ם למשנה) is a survey of the chronology of the Oral Law that sets forth the basic principles of Jewish law. Although it was written as an introduction to the Mishnah, according to Sefaria it stands alone and was printed as its own work. Its author is Maimonides.
Quick facts
| Title | Hakdamat HaRambam laMishnah (Rambam’s Introduction to the Mishnah) |
| Author | Rabbi Moshe ben Maimon (Rambam) |
| Composition | Between 1160 and 1168 (according to Sefaria) |
| Associated places | Spain, Fez, Acre and Fustat (according to Sefaria) |
| First printing | Naples, 1492 (according to Sefaria) |
Its place in Maimonides’ work
It is the introduction to his commentary on the Mishnah, which he wrote before his great code, the Mishneh Torah. It is related to Shemonah Perakim; we have not verified the details of its internal structure.
Frequently asked questions
What is this introduction for?
To place the Mishnah in the chronology of the Oral Law and to set forth the basic principles of Jewish law.
Was it printed separately?
Yes; according to Sefaria it circulated as an independent work.
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Sources
- Rambam Introduction to the Mishnah, entry on Sefaria