Hexapla meaning

Hexapla definitions

What is Hexapla?

Hexapla is a critical edition of the Old Testament compiled by the scholar Origen in the 3rd century. The term "hexapla" means "sixfold" in Greek, referring to the six columns in which the text was presented. Origen's goal in creating the Hexapla was to provide a comprehensive comparison of different versions of the Old Testament, including the Hebrew text and several Greek translations.

Contents of the Hexapla

The Hexapla included the Hebrew text of the Old Testament, along with five different Greek translations. These translations were arranged in columns next to each other, allowing readers to compare the variations in wording and meaning between the different versions. The most significant of these translations was the Septuagint, a Greek translation of the Hebrew Scriptures that was widely used in the early Christian church.

Significance of the Hexapla

Origen's Hexapla was a groundbreaking work in biblical scholarship, as it provided a detailed comparison of different versions of the Old Testament. This allowed scholars to study the variations between the Hebrew and Greek texts, shedding light on the process of translation and transmission of the biblical text. The Hexapla also played a crucial role in the development of biblical criticism and interpretation.

While the complete text of Origen's Hexapla no longer exists, fragments and excerpts of the work have been preserved in later writings. Scholars continue to study these remnants to better understand the significance of the Hexapla and its impact on biblical studies.

Legacy of the Hexapla

The Hexapla remains an important milestone in the history of biblical scholarship and textual criticism. By providing a side-by-side comparison of different versions of the Old Testament, Origen's work paved the way for future generations of scholars to explore the complexities of the biblical text. The Hexapla's influence can still be seen in modern biblical translations and the study of ancient manuscripts.

Hexapla Examples

1. The scholar studied the ancient text using a hexapla to compare various translations.
2. During the lecture, the professor referenced the hexapla to illustrate different interpretations of the passage.
3. The library contained a rare copy of the hexapla, attracting many researchers and scholars.
4. The student wrote a thesis on the significance of the hexapla in biblical studies.
5. The hexapla provided valuable insights into the nuances of the original text.
6. Historians debated the influence of the hexapla on subsequent translations of the Bible.
7. The discovery of a new fragment of the hexapla generated excitement in academic circles.
8. The translator consulted the hexapla to ensure accuracy in rendering the text into English.
9. Students analyzed the hexapla in their research project on ancient manuscripts.
10. The professor's discussion of the hexapla shed light on the complexities of biblical translation.

Most accessed