The best among the physicians to Gehinom (to hell) ?
Gesundheit, B.
Harefuah 143(8): 598-604; 621
2004
ISSN/ISBN: 0017-7768 PMID: 15523814 Document Number: 580721
At first glance, the well-known Mishnaic dictum, "The best among the physicians to Gehinom" (Kiddushin 4:14), is a harsh and sweeping denunciation of doctors and medicine. It is contrary to the respect and regard for physicians and medicine shown by the Talmud and Jewish tradition across the generations. This article explains the statement in its original context in the Mishnah and its parallels. We shall examine how the dictum was understood in both Jewish and non-Jewish literature in order to trace the new meanings that were attached to it over the course of history in both traditions. The article examines the Mishnaic source and its parallels in light of early manuscripts. Furthermore, it investigates the historical background and biographies of the many commentators on this dictum in order to account for the diverse explanations offered by those authors. An examination of the manuscripts demonstrates that this passage did not appear in the original Mishnah, but was added during a later period. The parallel texts imply that condemnation is limited to those physicians who treat their patients using heretical and idolatrous methods. Jewish commentators utilized this exceptional dictum as a means to teach important moral lessons, each author in accordance with his own viewpoint and the needs of the hour. Non-Jewish authors also exploited the passage, supporting their anti-Semitic ideology with Talmudic sources. No conclusions regarding the Jewish attitude toward medicine and doctors may be derived from the dictum: "The best of the physicians to Gehinom." The statement probably relates solely to doctors of that period who employed heretical and idolatrous practices in the treatment of their patients. The Talmud expresses its respect and appreciation for medicine and doctors. Jewish commentators across the generations continued to derive important moral lessons from this exceptional statement in order to enhance the professional and moral responsibility of Jewish physicians.