This study shows how, in its overall ability to shed light on the vexing complexity of human being, Maimonides' discourse on matter - treated via metaphors or seen as itself a metaphor - emerges as a venerable guide, pointing the careful reader to the most important truths about perfected humanity within the 'Guide of the Perplexed'. After examining and harmonizing Maimonides' dual metaphors of matter (matter as the married harlot and as the woman of valor) in this way, the author shows how metaphor as a literary form is itself an illustration of matter's positive role in the life of the soul. (Sarah Pessin)