ABSTRACT

"The relation between hadith and Quran is similar to that between Jewish oral and written traditions". This analogy, which would appear to suggest itself, was formulated in this way by Josef Horovitz. It has not, however, been universally recognised among scholars of Islamic studies. It is certain that during the whole Amorean period, the oral doctrine was taught as well as transmitted there without any written notes. This chapter focuses on the way in which the "oral teachings" of Jews and Muslims were transmitted. It will become clear that on closer inspection there are not only exact parallels in individual aspects, but that much of the knowledge gained concerning the ways of transmission of oral Torah can be helpful in research into corresponding aspects of adzth. Thus the prohibition to put the oral Torah into writing has never been formally revoked.