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Speculations

Rashi's three daughters each married scholars, and many of Rashi's descendents continued his religious tradition following his death in 1105. Between 1070 and 1105, Rashi compiled a set of comprehensive commentaries that forms the basis of Talmudic study even today. In fact, the printed text of the Talmud is generally surrounded by three sets of commentaries:

1. Rashi's original compliation
2. the Kuntres Mainz, attributed to Rabbi Gershom, that Rashi would have become acquainted with prior to 1070
3. Tosafot, the scholastic school of Rashi's sons-in-law, grandchildren, and students.

Rashi's commentary became the world's first dated book printed in Hebrew and was widely distributed. The book inspired surrounding Jewish communities; thus, in the 12th and 13th centuries, Rashi had a strong continuing influence in France and Germany (see map).

Who paid for the publication of Rashi's work? And why?