The Transmission of Scientific Knowledge in the Poetry of Abraham Ibn Ezra - Acta Universitatis Sapientiae

Acta Universitatis Sapientiae, Philologica, 17, 3 (2025) 46–60

DOI: 10.47745/ausp-2025-0030

Abstract. Abraham Ibn Ezra, astronomer, grammarian, poet, and biblical exegete played a central role in the transmission of knowledge during the Middle Ages, particularly through his efforts in translating and synthesising fundamental works from Arabic into Hebrew. He was born in Tudela and is well known for his expeditions in both Muslim and Christian areas of Spain (Cordoba, Lucena, Granada), as well as in other parts of Europe (Italy, France, Provence, and England) and North Africa (Tunisia). His opera omnia can be divided into several types of works, namely: exegesis, grammar (contributing significantly to the development of Hebrew grammar), and scientific works. Despite his reputation as the author of numerous treatises on astronomy and astrology, his work as a Hebrew poet should not be overlooked.The aim of the current paper is to analyse a “medical poem” of Ibn Ezra, titled “Listen, please, to the words of the physician”, which distinguishes itself through the close connection between poetry, astronomy, and medicine. As announced in the opening lines of the poem, Ibn Ezra offers monthly medical recommendations, within the framework of the Greek tradition still influential in the Middle Ages.

Keywords: medieval Jewish poetry, Abraham Ibn Ezra, four humours, Jewish diaspora