noun
- Plural of midrash; Jewish interpretive texts and commentaries on the Hebrew Bible, developed from the Second Temple period onward.
Usage: Religious/academic term; Plural form; singular is 'midrash'; Often used in Jewish studies and religious education
Examples
- The midrashim offer creative interpretations of biblical stories that go beyond the literal text.
- Scholars study the midrashim to understand how ancient rabbis understood Torah.
- The midrashim contain parables, legal discussions, and ethical teachings.
- Many midrashim were compiled during the medieval period, though their origins are much older.
- Students of Jewish tradition learn from the midrashim to deepen their understanding of scripture.