Preliminary Questions concerning Greek—Hebrew Comparisons

Abstract

Abstract This chapter considers the relationship between verbal forms in the Greek Pentateuch and the underlying Hebrew text components, so as to establish degrees of independence in the Greek usage. In approaching the Greek-Hebrew formal comparisons, three issues must be addressed: the necessity for a methodology different from conventional translation-technical analysis; questions regarding the Hebrew text to be used as the basis for comparison; and complications concerning classification of Hebrew forms. It is apparent from this chapter that classification of Hebrew formal matches involves numerous difficulties. Nevertheless, consistent application of the method described provides a model for their resolution. The vast bulk of Greek-Hebrew formal matches in the Pentateuch are clear-cut.