Masora is the technical term for the notes on the traditional Scripture text by the Fathers of the Synagogue. The original text has been thus preserved intact in these scrupulous and reverent hands. See article, "Masora," Isidore Harris, Jewish Quarterly Review, Vol. i.
Akiba:
The blessing that charity brings to the giver was a favorite idea of Akiba—a Mitzvah!
Simon b. Shetach was called the "Restorer of the Law"; Hillel the "Regenerator of the Law"; Akiba the "Father of Rabbinic Judaism."
In deciding the Canon of Scripture (p. 22), Akiba's influence kept Song of Songs and Esther in the Bible, but unfortunately kept Ecclesiasticus out of it.
Theme for discussion:
Should Akiba's method of law deduction be called casuistic?