Unusual Readings in the Work of ‘Abd al-Jawad al-Tuhayri

Abstract

This study examines variant readings and authentic readings, and provides an introduction to the Orientalist Goldziher, his methodology in presenting these readings, the reasons for his focus on them, and a discussion of some of the similarities he highlighted. The study responds to the Orientalist Goldziher and discusses his claim that the variant readings are the correct ones, as stated in his book: *Schools of Islamic Exegesis*. It is noteworthy that Goldziher holds a general stance on the chain of transmission (isnad), similar to that of other Orientalists; this is evident from the remarks of the Orientalist Ather Jeffery, who refers to them as the ‘people of textual criticism’ as opposed to the ‘people of reason’. Among the conclusions reached by this study is that most of the evidence he cited in support of these claims is weak, and some of it is fabricated. I recommend that researchers who consider themselves capable of analysing and refuting the views of Orientalists should address these claims.