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Derech Hashem
1740s text by Moshe Chaim Luzzatto / From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
Derech HaShem (The "Way of the Name") is a philosophical text written around 1736 by Rabbi Moshe Chaim Luzzatto. It is considered one of the quintessential handbooks of Jewish thought. It's of note that that would make the author around 29 or 30 when it was written.
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The text covers a vast gamut of philosophical topics in the vast spectrum of classical Judaism's outlook on the world. These topics include the purpose of creation, the Creator, human responsibility, the spiritual realms, providence, Israel and the nations, astrology, the human soul, theurgy, prophecy, the study of Torah, prayer, and the function of mitzvah observance. All these are brought in a clear flowing structure that builds on previous topics.