Synopses & Reviews
This book examines the cultural origins of Islamic law. Some authorities stress the importance of the contribution of Roman law; others that of Arabian law. Most are agreed that Jewish law contributed, but not explained further. Dr Crone tests the Roman hypothesis with reference to one institution, the patronate, which does indeed appear to owe something to Roman law. He concludes that Roman law contributed only in so far as it was part and parcel of the rather different legal practice of the Near Eastern provinces, and that provincial law would repay further consideration by legal historians.
Synopsis
This book examines the cultural origins of Islamic law. Some authorities credit Roman law with an important contribution, and Dr Crone tests this hypothesis with reference to one institution, the patronate, which does indeed appear to owe something to Roman law. He concludes that Roman law contributed only in so far as it was part and parcel of the rather different legal practice of the Near Eastern provinces, and that provincial law would repay further consideration by legal historians.
Synopsis
Through a study of the Islamic patronate, this book tests the hypothesis that Roman law was a formative influence on Islamic law. It concludes that Roman law contributed only in so far as it was part and parcel of the rather different legal practice of the Near Eastern provinces.
Table of Contents
Preface; 1. The state of the field; 2. A practical guide to the study of Islamic law; 3. The Islamic patronate; 4. The case against Arabia; 5. The case against the non-Roman Near East: paramone; 6. The case for the Roman Near East; 7. Conclusion; Appendices; Notes; Index.