What significant contribution did Maimonides make to Jewish theology?

Maimonides, also known as Rambam, made a significant contribution to Jewish theology through the development of the 13 Articles of Jewish Faith, which systematically outlined the fundamental beliefs in Judaism. This framework aimed to clarify Jewish doctrinal positions during a time of diverse interpretations and philosophical influences. The articles address key aspects of faith, including the existence of God, the oneness of God, the concept of prophecy, and the afterlife. Maimonides’ work helped establish a foundational understanding of Jewish belief that has had a lasting impact on Jewish thought throughout the centuries.

The other contributions mentioned, such as establishing the Talmud as the primary text or writing the Hebrew Bible, are historically inaccurate in relation to Maimonides, as these traditions were well-established prior to his time. Additionally, rather than prohibiting discussions of philosophy, Maimonides sought to integrate philosophical inquiry with Jewish thought, demonstrating how rational understanding could coexist with faith, which is particularly notable in his other major work, "The Guide for the Perplexed."