1135-1204

Spanish Philosopher and Physician

Moses ben Maimon, also known as Maimonides (or by the acronym RaM-BaM), had a tremendous impact on Judaism and philosophy, as well as medicine. His most significant contribution, however, is arguably in the realm of Jewish law.

Maimonides was born to a prominent family in Cordoba, Spain. He spent much of his time studying with learned masters, including his father, Maimon. However, before turning 13, Maimonides was forced to live in the midst of war and persecution.

Cordoba, as part of Islamic Spain, enjoyed full religious freedom until a revolutionary Islamic sect known as the Almohads, or "the Unitarians," captured the city. At that time, the Maimons, along with many other Jewish families, were forced to practice their religion in secret while appearing as Muslims when in public. Maimonides continued his studies while he and his family remained in Cordoba...