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In what type of Hebrew did Rambam write the Mishneh Torah?

I just started to learn Biblical Hebrew and when I have learned basics I will start to read Pentateuch in Hebrew with some help The next step will be Rambam. Now, should I also learn Mishnaic Hebrew or Modern Hebrew in order to understand Mishneh Torah?

Background: I'm not a Jew but I'm interested in Judaism. I'm pondering on conversion in the future.

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2 Answers 2

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Like Tamir Evan said in his comments

In his introduction to Sefer ha-Mitzvot, the Rambam claimed he wrote the Mishneh Torah in the language of the Mishnah( Leshon ha-Mishnah), to ease the readers' understanding.

So the answer would be Mishnaic Hebrew

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  • I have no idea why this answer was downvoted.
    – Seth J
    Aug 11, 2014 at 15:41
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Rambam wrote Mishnheh Torah in a Hebrew that is not far off of modern Hebrew, and a good modern dictionary will be invaluable.

It is heavily influenced by Mishnaic Hebrew, and it might be classified by some as "Rabbinic Hebrew", although I'm not sure that's a standard description of his writing.

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    There's also a noticeable Arabic influence.
    – Seth J
    Mar 31, 2013 at 1:20
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    In his introduction to Sefer ha-Mitzvot, the Rambam claimed he wrote the Mishneh Torah in the language of the Mishnah( Leshon ha-Mishnah), to ease the readers' understanding.
    – Tamir Evan
    Mar 31, 2013 at 6:50
  • @Tamir Evan, good call. Sounds like an answer. :-)
    – Seth J
    Mar 31, 2013 at 18:22
  • Weird about the commentless downvotes.
    – Seth J
    Feb 1, 2015 at 17:14

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