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How did oral Torah differ from written Torah?

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Jerusalem: Western Wall, Temple Mount — Judaism The Western Wall, in the Old City of Jerusalem, all that remains of the retaining wall surrounding the Temple Mount.

In Judaism, the Torah is understood as the divine revelation to the Jewish people, encompassing both written and oral components.12

The written Torah typically refers to the first five books of the Hebrew Bible—the Pentateuch—traditionally ascribed to Moses. These texts are preserved on parchment scrolls and serve as the foundational written code of Jewish law.12

The oral Torah consists of unwritten laws, customs, and interpretations passed down through generations. It functions as a dynamic extension of the written code, allowing the tradition to adapt to changing social and political circumstances. Key characteristics of the oral Torah include:12

Interpretation and Supplementation: It interprets the written Torah and adds new legislation, ensuring the law remains a living process rather than a closed system.2
Core Documents: The Mishna serves as the first major document of the oral Torah, collecting these originally oral laws. The Talmud—comprising the Mishna and the Gemara—further elaborates on these traditions, providing a framework for Jewish life and governance.32

Together, these two forms constitute the complete body of Jewish law, reflecting the community's commitment to living according to divine will.12