How do the languages of the Jerusalem Talmud and Babylonian Talmud differ?

The primary linguistic difference between the two Talmuds lies in the specific dialect of Aramaic used in each text. The Jerusalem Talmud is written in the Western Aramaic dialect, whereas the Babylonian Talmud is composed in the Eastern Aramaic dialect.12

Beyond this fundamental distinction, the two works differ in their overall structure and approach to legal analysis:

• Completeness: The Jerusalem Talmud is generally shorter and, having not undergone a final redaction, often contains incomplete discussions.12
• Methodology: The Jerusalem Talmud tends to remain closer to the literal meaning of the Mishna, often favoring textual emendation. In contrast, the Babylonian Talmud is characterized by a more theoretical and abstract investigation of the law, frequently exploring the principles behind the laws rather than focusing solely on the specific case at hand.12
• External Influence: Some legal concepts within the Babylonian Talmud reflect the influence of Persian law, a result of the region being under Persian rule during the time of its compilation.12