The Graff-Rand Ramban Set: Viewing the Torah through the lens of Nachmanides

The Graff-Rand Ramban Set, known for its comprehensive approach to the Ramban's (Nachmanides) commentary on the Torah, is a significant contribution to Jewish scholarship. Named after its benefactors, the Graff and Rand families, this series by ArtScroll Mesorah Publications offers an in-depth exploration of one of the most profound and complex expositions of the Torah.

Ramban's Intellectual Legacy

Moshe ben Nachman, or Ramban, was a 13th-century Spanish philosopher, physician, and biblical commentator whose insights into the Torah have been studied for centuries. His commentary is renowned for its depth, addressing not only the literal meaning of the text but also its philosophical, mystical, and halachic dimensions.

Features of the Graff-Rand Edition

  • Comprehensive Coverage: The set spans all five books of the Torah—Genesis, Exodus, Leviticus, Numbers, and Deuteronomy—providing a complete translation and elucidation of Ramban's commentary.

  • Translation and Elucidation: Following the tradition of ArtScroll's elucidation style, each volume translates Ramban's Hebrew commentary into clear, accessible English. It then elucidates the translation, breaking down complex ideas into understandable segments, explaining obscure terms, and offering insights into the underlying logic of Ramban's interpretations.

  • Dual Language Presentation: The text of the Torah is presented alongside Ramban's commentary in Hebrew, with English translations and explanations. This layout allows for an integrated study experience where readers can compare the original text with its interpretation.

  • Enhanced Understanding: Beyond mere translation, the set includes thousands of explanatory footnotes that delve into historical context, linguistic nuances, and cross-references to other parts of Ramban's works or to other Jewish scholars' commentaries. This comprehensive annotation aids in understanding the sometimes dense and multifaceted nature of Ramban's thought.

  • User-Friendly Design: The books are designed for ease of use, with a readable typeface, clear distinctions between Torah text, commentary, and elucidation, and a layout that guides the reader through the material intuitively.

  • Introductory Notes: Each volume begins with introductory essays that set the stage for understanding Ramban's methodology, life, and the historical context in which he wrote, enhancing the reader's appreciation of his commentary.

Impact and Reception

  • Scholarly Recognition: The Graff-Rand Ramban Set has been celebrated for bringing Ramban's commentary to a broader audience with scholarly rigor and clarity. It's praised for making complex Torah study accessible to those who might not have the Hebrew proficiency or background knowledge to tackle Ramban in his original language.

  • Educational Value: Used in yeshivas, homes, and study groups, this set has become a valuable tool for understanding the commentary of Nachmanides, providing a deeper understanding to his view of the weekly Torah portions, philosophy, and mysticism.

  • Cultural Significance: By preserving and explaining Ramban's work, this edition contributes to the continuity of Jewish intellectual tradition, ensuring that Ramban's insights remain relevant for contemporary learners.

Conclusion

The Graff-Rand Ramban Set is more than just a publication; it's an educational journey through one of the Judaism’s most respected commentaries. With its meticulous translation, elucidation, and annotation, it helps those seeking to understand the Torah from the mind of Nachmanides. This set not only honors the intellectual legacy of Ramban but also exemplifies ArtScroll's commitment to making Jewish texts accessible and comprehensible to all levels of learners.