On the Ancient Synagogue

DEDICATION.

...which indeed will not happen against my will; nevertheless, that public monument of my filial Filial: original "Filialis." Referring here to the respect a son-in-law owes to a father-figure. respect and gratitude toward you shall be preserved among men for as long as this book is handled by cultivators of literature Cultivators of literature: original "Literarum Cultoribus." In the 17th century, this referred to the international community of scholars and students.. Just as I earnestly ask that you hold this work as approved and accepted, so I would wish others to know that it was by no means done by me with the intention of drawing you into a shared responsibility for the opinions defended by me in these books, or to involve you in disputes which might occur (even if I would wish otherwise) as the learned Learned: original "Docti." debate them with me.

For even if I had intended to do that, your authority and erudition Erudition: original "eruditio." Deep, extensive scholarly knowledge. would be of the greatest benefit to me; and our judgments elsewhere in sacred matters easily align toward the same opinions—except that your judgment is much more refined and polished original: "limatius & politius." These terms come from metalworking and masonry, suggesting the father-in-law’s thoughts are more "filed down" and "smooth" than the author's rougher ideas. than mine. Yet I would not want this duty of honor of mine to be in any way troublesome to you, or to detract anything from your liberty.

Nay, I rather ask that, according to your expertise and your right over me, if you should feel differently from me anywhere, you share your reasons with me; and if I should seem to you to turn away from the truth, you might lead me, wandering, back to the path. For why should I blush to learn more from him from whom I have learned much, to whom I owe much, and through whose friendship and example I have been made more instructed in prudence Prudence: original "prudentia." In this context, it refers to practical wisdom and sound judgment. and virtue? Indeed, I acknowledge this of my own accord and...