Ben Soma
Shim'on ben Soma , mostly just Ben Soma ( Hebrew בן זומא) called, was a Jewish scholar of antiquity and belonged to the so-called 2nd generation of the Tannaites (second century AD).
His full name was Simon Ben Soma; however, since he had not yet received the title "Rabbi", he was only called "Son of Soma" after the famous name of his father.
He was a disciple of Yehoshua ben Hananiah ; The reputation of his erudition was so widespread that it was said that anyone who had seen him in a dream was certain of erudition (bBer 57b). When he died at a young age, it was said that "the last Bible exegete died" (Sota 9:15). He also dealt with mystical questions, but subsequently lost the clarity of thought that had previously distinguished him.
In the sayings of the fathers (IV., 1) the following sayings are handed down from him:
- Who is wise Who learns from everyone ...
- Who is a hero He who overcomes his passion ... Better a patient than a hero and one who rules his will than a conqueror of cities.
- Who is rich He who is satisfied with his part ... [also attributed to Meir , cf. babSabb. 25 b]
- Who is honored Who honors people; for it is said ... I honor those who honor me, and those who despise me are despised.
Web links
- Ben Soma in the Jewish Encyclopedia , accessed September 23, 2012
| personal data | |
|---|---|
| SURNAME | Ben Soma |
| ALTERNATIVE NAMES | Shim'on ben Zoma; Simon Ben Soma |
| BRIEF DESCRIPTION | Jewish scholar |
| DATE OF BIRTH | 1st century or 2nd century |
| DATE OF DEATH | 2nd century |