The Preservation of Youth

Based on his Jewish faith, Maimonides fused neo-Aristotelian philosophy with the Jewish legal tradition into a systemic whole. In his main philosophic work, The Guide for the Perplexed , he attempted to appeal to rationalists troubled by the personal embodiment of God in the biblical accounts. It is in that rational spirit that he provided a strikingly modern work to be used by patients and practicing physicians alike.

Capitalizing on his vast practical experience as a physician, combined with his knowledge of classical and medieval principles of healing, Maimonides was able to provide a comprehensive theory for the therapy of body and mind. In this work he describes many conditions including asthma, diabetes, hepatitis and pneumonia. He includes recommendations on many aspects for a healthy life which are still applicable today. Included are suggestions on diet and exercise, sex life and the underlying psychological causes of illness.