Septuagint

Definition

The Septuagint is an ancient Greek translation of the Hebrew Bible, created in the 3rd to 2nd centuries BCE for the Jewish community in Egypt. It is significant not only for its role as a vital text for early Christians but also for how it shaped the understanding and interpretation of sacred literature through its translation process.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The name 'Septuagint' comes from the Latin word for 'seventy,' referencing the tradition that seventy or seventy-two Jewish scholars worked on the translation.
2. The Septuagint was widely used in early Christianity, as many early Christians were Greek-speaking and relied on this translation for their understanding of the Old Testament.
3. Significant theological differences can be found between the Septuagint and the Hebrew Bible, affecting interpretations of key biblical stories and prophecies.
4. The Septuagint includes additional books and passages not found in the Hebrew Bible, such as Tobit and Judith, influencing its reception in different religious traditions.
5. It has been a critical source for biblical scholars studying the history of text transmission and translation theory, showcasing how translations can impact sacred literature.

Review Questions

• How did the creation of the Septuagint reflect the cultural and religious dynamics of its time?
  • The Septuagint emerged during the Ptolemaic Period, when Greek culture was spreading through Egypt and influencing local populations. The need for a Greek translation of Jewish scriptures arose as many Jews living in Egypt spoke Greek rather than Hebrew. This translation not only facilitated access to sacred texts for these communities but also highlighted the interplay between Greek and Jewish cultures, showcasing how translation can bridge diverse linguistic and cultural worlds.
• What role did the Septuagint play in shaping early Christian theology and scripture interpretation?
  • The Septuagint significantly influenced early Christian thought as it became the primary Old Testament text used by early Christians. Its translations often shaped how key theological concepts were understood, such as messianic prophecies. This version also contributed to debates about scriptural authority, as some texts included in the Septuagint were later deemed apocryphal by certain Christian traditions, impacting how scripture was compiled and interpreted in developing Christian doctrine.
• Evaluate how the translation process involved in creating the Septuagint has influenced modern understandings of biblical texts and translation theories.
  • The translation of the Septuagint has had lasting effects on both biblical studies and translation theory. Its methods showcased how translators navigate cultural nuances, linguistic challenges, and theological implications when interpreting sacred texts. Modern translators often reference the Septuagint to understand textual variations and context within biblical narratives. Consequently, examining this ancient translation sheds light on how translations can shape religious thought and influence communities over time, illustrating that every translation carries its own interpretative weight.

Related terms

Ptolemaic Period: The historical era in which the Septuagint was translated, marked by Greek dominance in Egypt and the flourishing of Jewish scholarship.

Apocrypha: A collection of ancient texts that are included in some versions of the Septuagint but are not found in the Hebrew Bible, contributing to discussions on scriptural authority.

Vulgate: The Latin translation of the Bible by St. Jerome, which drew on the Septuagint among other texts, further influencing Christian thought and doctrine.