The Hebrew Physiologus: Animals and Creatures in Tsemah Tsaddik by Leon Modena

An annotated edition of Leon Modena’s Hebrew Musar book Tsema? Tsaddik (‘Pious Plant’), originally published in Venice in 1600. Tsema? Tsaddik follows the format of a medieval Physiologus, where each chapter corresponds to a specific animal and addresses various human behaviors, traits, vices or virtues. Additionally, each chapter features an explanation of its theme, evidenced by quotes from the Old Testament, Greek and Roman philosophers, Rabbinic Sages and fathers of the Church – along with at least one folktale. The translation is accompanied by a thorough and comprehensive introduction to describe the world of Musar pre-modern books, and offers insights into Modena’s cultural context.