Christian Publishing House Blog
Apologetic Defense of the faith, the Bible, and Christianity
The article explores the impact of scribal variants on the transmission of the New Testament text. Delving into the origin, types, and consequences of these variants, it sheds light on intentional and unintentional changes, various manuscripts, and the documentary approach to textual criticism. The analysis emphasizes the substantial integrity of the New Testament despite the centuries-long transmission process.
Discover the role of professional scribes in preserving New Testament manuscripts from 2nd and 3rd century Egypt. Explore the features of Alexandrian manuscripts, textual criticism, and the work of scribes in producing important texts like Papyrus 75. Unlock the secrets of ancient scribes who meticulously preserved the New Testament manuscripts! Delve into the fascinating world of 2nd and 3rd century Egypt and learn about the intricate craftsmanship behind these treasured texts. Explore the accuracy and skill of professional scribes, and uncover the hidden story of Papyrus 75. Get ready to embark on a journey through history that will ignite your curiosity and deepen your appreciation for these priceless manuscripts. Don't miss out – start reading now!
P75 contains most of Luke and John, known as Bodmer 14, 15 (P75), dates from 175 C.E. to 225 C.E. It is textually very close to Codex Vaticanus. A handful from the 19th and early 20th centuries argued that Codex Vaticanus and Sinaiticus manuscripts removed the Byzantine text readings. However, if this were true and the corrupt Byzantine readings were early as some claim, we would have those readings in P75 to prove it, as well as the other 60+ papyrus manuscripts dating from 100-300 A.D.
The discovery of P75 proved to be the catalyst for correcting the misconception that early copyists were predominately unskilled. As we elsewhere on our blog earlier, either literate or semi-professional copyist produced the vast majority of the early papyri, and some copied by professionals.
Codex Vaticanus (03, B) contains the Gospels, Acts, the General Epistles, the Pauline Epistles, the Epistle to the Hebrews (up to Hebrews 9:14, καθα[ριει); it lacks 1 and 2 Timothy, Titus, Philemon, and Revelation. It is written on 759 leaves of vellum and is dated to c. 300–325 C.E.