To counter a depression such as this, Maimonides recommended tending to the five senses “for the purpose of quickening the soul.” Hearing was to be nourished “by listening to stringed and reed-pipe music,” seeing “by gazing at beautiful pictures,” smelling “by strolling through beautiful gardens,” feeling “by wearing fine raiment,” and tasting “by eating highly seasoned delicacies.” Such things, Maimonides judged, “are not to be considered immoral nor unnecessary.”7
