Abraham Ibn Ezra

Avraham ben Meir ibn Ezra, better known simply as Ibn Ezra, was a medieval Spanish Torah commentator, poet, philosopher, and grammarian. A polymath, he wrote on grammar, philosophy, astronomy, medicine, and mathematics. He is most famous for his biblical commentaries, which, alongside those of Rashi, are ubiquitous and indispensable. His commentaries focus on rational, grammatical explanations and the peshat (plain sense) meaning of the text. He is often critical of other commentators and especially of Karaites, a group of Jews who rejected the Oral Torah and rabbinic teachings. He maintained a deep friendship with the contemporary Spanish philosopher, Judah Halevi, and quotes some of his interpretations in his commentaries. His poetry is still read and sung as part of the regular liturgy. Ibn Ezra knew great poverty and traveled widely, almost incessantly, teaching and making connections with fellow scholars, notably Rabbenu Tam in France.