Introduction to the History of Hebrew Philosophy

A decorative woodcut headpiece consisting of a repeating pattern of floral and foliate motifs. Below the heading, a large historiated initial "E" decorated with elaborate floral engravings and foliage.

To the Benevolent Reader

There have indeed been many men, and those outstanding in both learning and talent, who have attempted to preserve the history of philosophy in written records. While I wish to take nothing away from their well-deserved praise, I believe no one would claim—unless they are a complete stranger to this field of learning—that this vast ocean of knowledge has been entirely drained by them, or that nothing remains for others to test the strength of their own minds. Nor am I so self-satisfied that I would dare to promise anything perfect or complete in every detail original: "omnibus numeris absolutum"; a classical Latin idiom for a work that is perfect or finished in all its parts. could come from me, especially since I know such perfection cannot even be expected from those who far surpass me in talent, diligence, and scholarship.

However, I realized that these sacred studies are best served when everyone contributes what they have achieved through their own labor to the common store. In this way, by combining the contributions original: "symbolis"; literally "tokens" or "contributions," often used to describe individual shares brought to a communal feast. of many, something truly refined and excellent may finally flourish. Therefore, I have easily allowed myself to be persuaded to publish my own reflections, such as they are, on the history of philosophy.

I believe I have several significant reasons for focusing my efforts specifically on this branch of study. For, to pass over the other reasons in silence, since from my early youth I have most highly [valued?] The sentence is interrupted by the page break; the author is beginning to explain how his interest in Church history led him to the history of philosophy. ecclesiastical history...