pilpul

[ pil-pool ]

noun

1. a method of disputation among rabbinical scholars regarding the interpretation of Talmudic rules and principles or Scripture that involves the development of careful and often excessively subtle distinctions.

Other Words From

• pilpul·ist noun
• pilpul·istic adjective

Word History and Origins

Origin of pilpul¹

1890–95; < Aramaic, Hebrew pilpūl, akin to pilpēl to search, debate

Example Sentences

Pilpul, these discussions are called—empty, nonsensical arguments over minute points of the Talmud that have no relation at all to the world.

From Literature

At least the scholar had his pilpul to keep him alive.

From Literature

This was almost like the pilpul my father had told me about except that it wasn’t really pilpul, they weren’t twisting the texts out of shape, they seemed more interested in b’kiut, in straightforward knowledge and simple explanations of the Talmudic passages and commentaries they were discussing.

From Literature

“Because it’s pilpul,” I heard myself say.

From Literature

I was suddenly a little frightened at the disparaging way I had uttered the word pilpul.

From Literature