Understanding New Testament Variants
Understanding New Testament Variants

Understanding New Testament Variants

Recommended Resource: The Comprehensive New Testament

Clontz, T. E., and J. Clontz, eds.

https://amzn.to/2Rcl1vE

GPT.Bible Publications available on Amazon (commissions earned, affiliate partner)

 

Created especially for Bible studies. One of the key features is that footnotes are provided at the bottom of each page in reference to variants of the Greek texts generally classified into two groups: The “Alexandrian” group represents the oldest surviving manuscripts. The “Byzantine” group represents the majority of manuscripts. It also shows minor variants as well. Also at the bottom of each page is a parallel textual apparatus that presents the textual choices of 20 Bible versions for each verse of the New Testament. Although translated from a Trinitarian perspective, this translation uses the Critical Text (NA-27) as the source text 100% of the time and is also highly readable. (c) Cornerstone Publishing, 2008, ISBN 9780977873715

Variant Nomenclature

“Although the Nestle-Aland 27th edition Novum Testamentum Graece 1993 is not entirely an “Alexandrian” text, it is the most respected edition in general agreement with that textual family, and” Alx” is a convenient abbreviation to use for this edition. 

The Patriarchal Text of 1904, on the other hand; is the most respected edition in the “Byzantine” tradition, and is noted with the abbreviation “Byz.” 

Neither the Nestle-Aland nor the Patriarchal Text can represent the full spectrum of readings available in these two textual families and other minority groups. Majority readings that differ from the Patriarchal Text are listed under the abbreviation “Major.” Minority readings from all textual groups – Alexandrian, Byzantine, “Western,” F1, F13, and more – are listed under the abbreviation “Minor.” 

Readings not originating from Greek sources are listed under the abbreviation “Alt.” These readings could come from Latin, Syriac, coptic, or other ancient sources.” (ii)

  • Alx – Nestle-Aland 27th edition Latin, Syriac, coptic, or other ancient sources in general agreement with the earliest “Alexandrian” manuscripts (but not entirely so). The “Alexandrian” group represents the oldest surviving manuscripts.
  • Byz – The Patriarchal Text of 1904, respected edition in the “Byzantine” tradition. The “Byzantine” group represents the majority of manuscripts from all centuries.
  • Major – Majority readings that differ from the Patriarchal Text
  • Minor – Minority readings from all textual groups – Alexandrian, Byzantine, “Western,” F1, F13, and more
  • Alt – Latin, Syriac, coptic, or other ancient sources