How to Read A Page of Talmud

If you are interested in learning Talmud, you need to know how a page of Talmud is designed. The centuries old layout is complex, but intelligently designed.

Difficulty:

Moderately Challenging

Instructions

Things You'll Need

• Basic Hebrew knowledge
• Rashi script knowledge
• A book of Talmud

1. Gain access to a book of Talmud. You can purchase a volume or visit a local synagogue or Jewish Community Center for access.

2. Decide where to start. The first book in the Talmud is Berachos, with a focus on the many prayers said in Judaism. Talmud is not written chronologically, like the Torah, and you can start anywhere. Open to that page.

3. Layout of a Talmud Page

   Start by reading the Mishna. That is the center section of the page. The Mishna, while available separately, is explained by the Gemara. Each section of Mishna is marked by the Hebrew word Mishna.

4. The beginning of a new section of Talmud

   Read the Gemara. The Gemara is the explanation and discussion of the Mishna. Each comment is attributed to a Rabbi. The commentary often explains multiple views of the section from the Mishna.

5. From Tractate Shabbos. Note the Rashi commentary on the inside of the page.

   Read the commentary. Each Gemara is further explained by Rashi and Tosfos. The Rashi commentary is always on the inside of the page, or the side closest to the center of the book. The Tosfos is on the outside. Additionally, the outside columns provide further commentary and sources from the Torah, Mishna, and other sources.

6. Artscroll offers side by side translation to English.

   Read Artscroll Talmud to make it easier. Feel overwhelmed by the Hebrew and Aramaic? Artscroll sells an integrated English version of Talmud Bavli, and many books from Talmud Yerushalayim. These make learning a page of Talmud much easier.

Tips & Warnings

• Find a study partner. Learning Talmud alone is not nearly as engaging as learning with a Chevrusa (study partner.)

• Take a class. If you have limited knowledge of Hebrew or Jewish tradition, take a class from a local Rabbi or scholar.

• Don't be discouraged if you are having trouble, find help. Many friendly people would love a new partner.

Resources

• WikiTalmud
• Aish HaTorah
• Bevery Hills Chabad