The Talmudic Formula for a Prolonged Life

Abstract

The Talmud is one of the most influential books of Late Antiquity. Numerous passages in the Talmud promise longevity for various behaviors. Thus, Benjamin the Righteous had 22 years added to his life for providing a woman with charity and thereby saving her life and the lives of her seven children. Rabbi Pereda had an enormous number of years added to his life for a preternatural amount of patience when teaching a student. The author examines these passages and provides an overview of what deeds were considered important by the sages. The Talmudic recommendations for long life are categorized into five general groupings.

Keywords: Talmud, Talmudic stories, longevity, compassion, ethics, benevolence, Benjamin the Righteous, Rabbi Pereda

JEL Classification: B11, M14