When and by Whom Did the Torah Change According to Non-Jews?

Introduction

The concept of the Torah's absolute integrity and permanence is deeply rooted in non-Jewish beliefs, especially among Christians and secular scholars. This article explores the perspectives of non-Jewish communities on the origin and stability of the Torah, focusing on the perspectives of Christians, Muslims, and secular Bible critics.

Christian Perspective on the Torah

For Christians, the Torah holds immense significance as the first five books of the Hebrew Bible, also known as the Pentateuch. According to the Christian narrative, the entirety of the Torah was originally authored and compiled by Moses, who instructed the Israelites in the Law of God.

The Christians adopted these books into their own canon of scripture, valuing the historical and theological accuracy of the text. The emphasis here is on the biblical integrity, understood to mean the concept that the Torah has remained unchanged from its original form.

However, following the life of Jesus, there were changes in the practical application of the Torah. According to Christian tradition, Jesus and the early Church leaders addressed specific doctrinal and ethical questions through their teachings and practices, leading to a reevaluation of some aspects of the Torah. Nevertheless, the foundational texts themselves remained the same.

Islamic Perspective on the Torah

Muslims maintain a different view, asserting that the Torah has been distorted or falsified during its transmission through history. This claim is made without specific historical details, making it challenging to substantiate. Muslims believe that the original and accurate version of the Torah can be found in the Quran, which they consider as the final and most complete revelation from God.

Despite the belief in the corruption of the Torah, Muslims rarely provide concrete evidence or historical context to support these claims. This inconsistency often leaves their arguments open to skepticism and questioning.

Secular Bible Critics and Their Claims

Secular Bible critics, including scholars from non-Jewish backgrounds, sometimes argue that the Torah underwent changes through various historical periods. They cite examples such as the reforms initiated by King Josiah and the work of unproven editors. However, these claims are often met with criticism and controversy.

For instance, critics like Forgery suggest that sections of the Torah might have been added or modified, but this view lacks robust historical evidence. These scholars are often compelled to continually update their theories, acknowledging the limitations of their findings.

Conclusion

The perspectives of non-Jews on the Torah, whether from a Christian, Muslim, or secular standpoint, greatly differ. Christians and secular scholars generally adhere to the idea of the Torah's immutability, while Muslims propose a different version of events that lacks historical support. The question of when and by whom the Torah changed remains contentious, with each belief system providing its own narrative without escaping scrutiny.

Understanding the diverse perspectives on the Torah's origin and stability can provide valuable insights into historical and religious debates. It is essential to approach such topics with an open mind and a rigorous examination of the supporting evidence.