Tractate Sanhedrin, Mishnah and Tosefta

Tractate Sanhedrin, Mishnah and Tosefta is a scholarly work by Herbert Danby, first published in 1919. This book offers an English translation of the Talmudic tractate Sanhedrin, focusing on Jewish judicial procedures, particularly those related to capital punishment.

The text is divided into two parts: the Mishnah, a foundational compilation of Jewish oral traditions codified in the 2nd century CE, and the Tosefta, a supplementary collection that provides additional insights and elaborations on the Mishnah.

The Mishnah presents a structured overview of the legal system, detailing the composition and jurisdiction of various courts, including the Sanhedrin, and outlining procedures for trials and punishments. The Tosefta complements this by offering expanded discussions, alternative opinions, and additional legal material, reflecting the dynamic nature of Jewish legal discourse during the late Roman period.

Together, these texts provide a comprehensive view of ancient Jewish law, emphasizing themes of justice, responsibility, and community governance. Danby's translation is notable for its scholarly approach, providing readers with access to these critical texts in a language that is accessible to those interested in the development of Jewish legal traditions.