Samuel ibn Tibbon (c.1150–c.1230) was a Jewish philosopher, translator, and physician known for his Hebrew translations of Arabic philosophical texts, particularly Maimonides’ works.
Born in Lunel, France, he was educated in rabbinic literature, medicine, and Arabic by his father, Judah ibn Tibbon, a renowned translator. He traveled extensively—visiting Béziers, Arles, Barcelona, Toledo, and Alexandria—before settling in Marseille.
His most significant work was the Hebrew translation of Maimonides’Guide for the Perplexed (c.1190,) a cornerstone of Jewish philosophy. He also translated Maimonides’ treatise on resurrection and his commentary on Pirqe Avot (Sayings of the Fathers.)
Beyond translation, ibn Tibbon authored philosophical and linguistic works, including Biur meha-Millot ha-Zarot (1213,) a glossary of philosophical terms used in Guide for the Perplexed. His writings helped introduce Aristotelian concepts to Jewish thought, influencing later scholars.
More: Wikipedia • READ: Works by Samuel ibn Tibbon
Make books your companions; let your bookshelves be your gardens; bask in their beauty, gather their fruit, pluck their roses, take their spices and myrrh.
—Samuel ibn Tibbon
Topics: Friendship
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