Perspicue et fideliter conversus: Johannes Buxtorf the Younger’s Translation of the Guide of the Perplexed

Abstract

Johannes Buxtorf the Younger’s Latin translation of the Guide of the Perplexed (1629) is studied in its bibliographical, linguistic and paratextual features. The translator’s preface is analyzed in detail highlighting the peculiar intentions of Buxtorf in editing this medieval philosophical work. Its main function is identified by the translator as a mean towards learning Hebrew, although he was well aware that the original language of the Guide was rather Arabic. A specific ideological bias as to the function of the Guide in designing and promoting a “rational” Judaism, compatible with Protestant ideals is detected among the most interesting motives of this translation, one which would be destined to a long fortune among Christian Hebraists of the subsequent epochs.

Keywords

• Hebrew‑Latin translations
• Johannes Buxtorf the Younger
• Maimonides’ Guide in the 17th century