How Sifra Affirms Taxonomic Logic

We turn directly to the positive side to my argument. First, we will observe a sequence of cases in which Sifra's authorship demonstrates that Listenwissenschaft is a self-evidently valid mode of demonstrating the truth of propositions. Second, we will note, in the same cases, that the source of the correct classification of things is Scripture and only Scripture. Without Scripture's intervention into the taxonomy of the world, we should have no knowledge at all of which things fall into which classifications and, therefore, are governed by which rules. Let us begin with a sustained example of the right way of doing things. Appropriately, the opening composition of Sifra shows us the contrast between relying on Scripture's classification, and the traits imputed by Scripture to the taxa it identifies, and appealing to categories not defined and endowed with indicative traits by Scripture.

Parashat Vayyiqra Dibura Denedabah Parashah 1

1. I:I.1. A. “The Lord called [to Moses] and spoke [to him from the tent of meeting, saying, ‘Speak to the Israelite people and say to them’]” (Lev. 1:1):

2. B. He gave priority to the calling over the speaking.

3. C. That is in line with the usage of Scripture.

4. D. Here there is an act of speaking, and in connection with the encounter at the bush [Ex. 3:4: “God called to him out of the bush, ‘Moses, Moses’”], there is an act of speaking.

5. […]