The Prince and the Emperors: The Life and Times of Rabbi Judah the Prince

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The numerous anecdotes about R. Judah encompass his childhood, education, family life, leadership in the Jewish community, and his halakhic rulings, providing a detailed account of his life. This study aims to construct a biographical narrative from this extensive material, focusing on R. Judah as well as his colleagues, students, and discussions, while integrating the debates and halakhic decisions central to the Talmud. Readers will gain a comprehensive view of Rabbi Judah the Prince and insight into the historical context that influenced the Mishna and its interpretations in the Babylonian and Jerusalem Talmuds. Additionally, the study pays significant attention to the careers of two emperors, who serve as models for the stories of Rebbe and "Antonius" found in rabbinic literature. This outline of their careers provides a backdrop for several Talmudic tales illustrating Rebbe's interactions with these influential figures, highlighting his significance in both the secular world and among the Jewish communities in Judaea and the Diaspora.