Abstract

For many years, Karaite exegesis had been relatively unknown to numerous
Biblical scholars. This situation has been changing with an increasing
access to source materials. As a result, more and more Karaite exegetical
treasures representing the trends of Karaite Judaism have come to the fore.
One of them is the Commentary to the Book of Hosea by Yefet ben Eli, one
of Karaism’s tenth century most significant representatives. Yefet ben Eli
exhibits a remarkable knowledge of Hebrew etymology which enables him
to provide unique answers to interpretative problems in the Masoretic Text.
His apologetic concern for prospective Muslim readers of his commentary is also noteworthy. Although, in general, Karaism sought to concentrate on
the literal sense of Scripture, Yefet ben Eli does not shy away from recourse
to rabbinic oral tradition. Still, his exegetical contribution remains unique,
as selected examples from his Commentary clearly show.