Abstract

This note highlights a previously unseen paleographical error in one of H. J. M. Milne and T. C. Skeat’s arguments for the dictation theory of Codex Sinaiticus ([inline-graphic 01] 01). In addition to their primary argument based on the orthographic peculiarities of the three scribes, the two scholars inferred from a curious string of seemingly meaningless characters found in 1 Macc 5:20 that א was copied aurally rather than visually. Although the dictation theory is not widely held today among textual scholars, this particular explanation of the strange reading in 1 Macc 5:20 for all practical purposes remains unanswered. An error in Milne and Skeat’s identification of one of the letters complicates the theory and all but extinguishes its explanatory force.

Talk to us

Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have

Schedule a call

Disclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.