The Syriac Version of the Old Testament (University of Cambridge Oriental Publications) [Hardcover]

M. P. Weitzman (Author)

Book Description

Series: University of Cambridge Oriental Publications | Publication Date: May 13, 1999

While the Syriac version of the Old Testament, known as the Peshitta, was translated from a Hebrew text, it was, surprisingly, preserved by the eastern churches alone. In his book, M. W. Weitzman argues that the translation was put together in around 200 CE by a small Jewish community estranged from the Rabbinic majority. This community eventually embraced Christianity and brought the Peshitta with them. This remarkable theory is the prelude to a comprehensive analysis of the Peshitta itself, which covers all the books in the Bible, surveys the existing scholarship and explores the relationship between the translation and the original Hebrew text. Apart from the philological detail, the book also examines the translation's historical links with Judaism and early Christianity. As a wide-ranging introduction to the subject, the book will appeal to philologists and historical linguists, as well as to biblical studies scholars and theologians.

Editorial Reviews

Review

"Students of the Bible in its various versions, whether historic or contemporary, are deeply indebted to this author for this thorough introduction to an all-too-little-known version of the OT." Bible Editions and Versions

Book Description

In a wide-ranging introduction to the Syriac version of the Old Testament, the book explores the origins of the translation and surveys the text with reference to all the books in the Bible. It will appeal to philologists and historical linguists, as well as to students of Judaism and Christianity.

Product Details

• Hardcover: 374 pages
• Publisher: Cambridge University Press (May 13, 1999)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0521632889
• ISBN-13: 978-0521632881
• Product Dimensions: 9.9 x 6.7 x 1.2 inches
• Shipping Weight: 1.8 pounds
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #5,222,104 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)

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