Maimonides
Al-Andalus and Egypt, twelfth century
He connected philosophy and Jewish law and examined limits on attributing properties to God.
Historical context
Maimonides wrote in the twelfth century in Jewish settings of the Mediterranean and Islamic world. His Guide of the Perplexed addresses readers trained in philosophy and religious tradition.
Overview
Applying a property to God in the same sense used for humans may suggest inappropriate limitations. Caution about attributes calls for distinguishing negation, action, and literal description.
Main claims
Language about God requires examining what can be asserted and in what sense.
Debates and nuances
The Guide of the Perplexed combines exegesis, philosophy, and caution about public teaching.
This entry provides educational context.