Sages and Commoners in Late Antique 'Erez Israel

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Exploring the history of talmudic Palestine, the author challenges the notion of rabbis as a small, insular group, revealing their broader influence and the dynamics that facilitated the spread of their teachings. By examining overlooked terms in the Talmud Yerushalmi, the book delves into the identities of various rabbinic circles and their interactions with the wider community. It highlights the internal strength and purpose of these circles, suggesting that the success of rabbinic Judaism stemmed from their cohesive identity rather than sheer numbers.