Code of Maimonides (Mishneh Torah): Book 6, the Book of Asservations

The imposing task of making available in English a reliable and fully annotated edition of Maimonides' codification of ancient Jewish laws and rituals continues with the publication of the Book in which he deals with oaths, vows, and consecrations, and with the rules of Naziriteship. Maimonides examines in detail a long series of formulae that were in common use during the existence of the Temple, and determines which do and do not have binding force as oaths or vows. He describes in detail the procedure of the oath in court, and the rules affecting litigants and witnesses. The obligations governing the Nazirite, his conduct during his period of Naziriteship, and the procedure marking the conclusion of his term and his return to lay life are all fully explored.