Canons of the Bible - Textual Criticism
Discover how the Bible you hold was faithfully preserved through centuries—and learn to defend Scripture's authority with confidence through textual criticism and translation principles.
CANONS OF THE BIBLE (TEXTUAL CRITICISM): The Texts of the Bible
The Word of God was originally written in Hebrew (Old Testament, with a small portion in Aramaic) and Greek (New Testament). Throughout the centuries, these inspired texts were copied and preserved by hand. For various reasons, textual variants emerged.
This course investigates the reasons for this, the choices made for the best (and most reliable) texts, and how these texts are reflected in the various translations that have appeared since the Reformation. Translation methods and the translation process are also covered.
Upon successful completion of this course, students will be equipped to engage in informed discussions concerning the origin, transmission, and development of the biblical text, from its earliest forms to the versions they hold in their hands.
Who will benefit from this?
Whether you are a minister, theological student, involved in Bible studies, Bible teacher or educator, or a serious student of the Bible, this course will provide you with a fundamental understanding of how the Bible has been handed down, written down, and compiled from various manuscripts and text fragments over centuries to be the Bible you hold in your hand.
You will learn:
- identify and explain the manuscripts of both Testaments
- to judge textual variants responsibly
- understand and defend the authority of Scripture
- to see and appreciate the special providence of God.
Presented by:
Prof Jorrie Jordaan
second semester roster
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