Rambam (Maimonides), 800 Years

Moses Maimonides ("The Rambam") State Medal, 2004/5764

Moses Maimonides, Rabenu Moses Ben Maimon (1135-1204) is known by the acronym "Rambam", formed by the Hebrew initials of his name. He is recognized as the greatest Jewish scholar from Talmudic times until today. Maimonides was one of the leading thinkers in all realms of Judaism and one of the greatest philosophers of the Middle Age. He was also a doctor, scientist and researcher.
The "Mishneh Torah", a clear, systematic code of Jewish Law compiled by Maimonides is a monumental work in Judaism. His "Guide to the Perplexed" is a major philosophical work in Jewish Law.
Born in Cordova, Spain, he fled Islamic persecutions and arrived with his family in Fez, Morocco. From there, he moved on to the Land of Israel and later, to Egypt.
Maimonides' teacher was his father, Rabbi Maimon Hadayan. Despite his migrations and numerous occupations, Maimonides found time to write many important works, among them, interpretations on the Mishneh (the Oral Law) and Talmud, philosophic and medical works, and responsa.
He was known as the "Great Eagle" which aptly described his ability to "spread his wings" over the whole of Jewish Law, people and Land. The expression "From Moses to Moses, none arose as Moses" also symbolizes the immense life-work of Maimonides, both written and oral. After his burial in Tiberias there was heavy mourning throughout the Diaspora. The impact of the "Rambam", today, over 800 years since his death, is still significant throughout the Jewish World. His public leadership and personal conduct were exemplary for all and enriched the spirituality of Jewish homes all over the world.

Face:
Maimonides is depicted as the "Great Eagle" with his wings spread out over the world. Stars indicate the regions where he lived and was active.

In the center are the Hebrew letters forming the acronym "Rambam" and beneath it, his name in Hebrew, Rabbi Moses, son of Maimon, and the years of his life, 4895 - 4965, in Hebrew letters (corresponding to 1135 - 1204). Around the lower border, inscriptions "Maimonides 800th Anniversary" in English and "From Moses to Moses, none arose as Moses", in Hebrew.

Reverse:
Hebrew inscription "Accept the truth from the one who says it", Maimonides' signature, beneath it, Maimonides seated, writing with his right hand and feeling the pulse of a sick child with his left . Beside him, an astrolabe (astronomical instrument) and a mortar and pestle, alluding to his work as a physician. The left-hand side design is composed of the names of Maimonides' great works in Judaism, in stylized Hebrew letters.

Edge: Israel State Emblem, "State of Israel" in Hebrew and English, Metal and Serial Number

Designer: Aharon Shevo

Mint: Bronze Medal Mint of Romania, Gold and Silver Medals: Israel Coins and Medals Corp. / The Holy Land Mint