Abba ben Joseph bar Ḥama

Background

Abba ben Joseph bar Hama was born c. 280.

Education

He studied at the Talmudical Academy at Pumbedita, site of modern-day Falluja, Iraq.

Career

He is closely associated in his studies with Abaye. The latter was head of the Academy at Pumbeditha. The development of Talmudic Law (or Halakhah) was much indebted to this rabbi, whose influence in all branches of Jewish learning was supreme. His friendship with the King Shapur II enabled Raba to secure a relaxation of the oppressive laws enacted against the Jews of Persia.

Achievements

• Raba founded a new school at Mahuza, which eventually became so long as Raba lived the only academy in Babylonia (Persia). His methodology greatly influenced not only his students, but the stammaim, as well.

Connections

Rava married the daughter of third-generation amora Rav Hisda.

Spouse:

Rav Hisda