Selected religious poems of Solomon Ibn Gabirol
- 248 pages
- 9 hours of reading
Solomon ibn Gabirol was an 11th-century Andalusian poet and philosopher whose work embraced Neoplatonic thought. He penned over a hundred poems, alongside significant contributions to biblical exegesis, philosophy, ethics, and satire. Within the history of philosophy, he is recognized for his doctrine that all existence, encompassing soul and intellect, is constituted by matter and form—a concept known as "universal hylomorphism." Furthermore, his writings underscore the paramount importance of Divine Will.


Solomon Ibn Gabirol emerges as a complex figure in eleventh-century Andalusian-Jewish culture, contrasting sharply with his more worldly predecessor. A reclusive poet and philosopher, his work features a blend of mystical themes and sharp critiques of court life. His innovative poetry showcases a mastery of contemporary avant-garde styles, merging Arabic aesthetics with biblical language, resulting in a profound metaphysical and devotional depth that has influenced Hebrew poetry for centuries.