Join us in a fascinating exploration of the variant readings of Matthew 5:25. Our textual investigation seeks to uncover the original wording of this significant verse, offering insights into the teachings of Jesus and the authenticity of biblical manuscripts.

Introduction

In the study of Matthew 5:25, we are presented with a textual variation that bears significance for the interpretation of Jesus’ teachings. Employing the Documentary Method, this analysis aims to determine the original wording of the verse, emphasizing the weight of documentary evidence while also considering internal evidence, with a preference for the Alexandrian manuscripts.

Manuscript Evidence and Analysis

Textual Variants Overview

1. Westcott-Hort (WH) and Nestle-Aland/United Bible Societies (NU) Reading:

   • Greek: καὶ ὁ κριτὴς τῷ ὑπηρέτῃ (kai ho kritēs tō hypēretē)
   • Translation: “and the judge to the officer”
   • Manuscript Support: 𝔓64+67, Codex Sinaiticus (א), B, 0275, Family 1, Old Latin

2. Variant/Textus Receptus (TR):

   • Greek: και ο κριτης σε παραδω τω υπηρετη (kai ho kritēs se paradō tō hypēretē)
   • Translation: “and the judge hand you over to the officer”
   • Manuscript Support: (D), L, W, Θ, 0233, 33, Majority Text, Old Syriac, Coptic

External Evidence

The WH/NU reading is supported by early and significant manuscripts, including 𝔓64+67, Codex Sinaiticus, and Codex Vaticanus. These manuscripts are pivotal in the Alexandrian text-type and provide a robust basis for the original text.

The variant found in the TR and supported by later manuscripts like (D), L, and W, includes the additional phrase σε παραδω (“hand you over”). This repetition from the previous clause appears in the Majority Text and several versions, but its absence in the earliest manuscripts is notable.

Internal Evidence and Contextual Consideration

The variant’s repetition of σε παραδω might have been a stylistic choice by certain scribes for emphasis or clarification. However, it is more likely that this repetition is a scribal addition, as it is common for copyists to inadvertently repeat phrases. The absence of this repetition in the earliest and most reliable manuscripts suggests it was not part of the original text.

Conclusion

Considering the weight of the documentary evidence, particularly the early and authoritative manuscripts, the original reading of Matthew 5:25 is likely “καὶ ὁ κριτὴς τῷ ὑπηρέτῃ,” “and the judge to the officer.” The variant reading with σε παραδω (“hand you over”) seems to be a later addition by scribes, possibly for emphasis or clarification, but not reflective of the original text as penned by the Gospel author. This conclusion aligns with the documentary approach’s emphasis on the earliest and most reliable manuscript evidence, providing a clearer understanding of Jesus’ teachings in this passage.

About the Author

SCROLL THROUGH THE DIFFERENT CATEGORIES BELOW

BIBLE TRANSLATION AND TEXTUAL CRITICISM

BIBLE TRANSLATION AND TEXTUAL CRITICISM

BIBLICAL STUDIES / BIBLE BACKGROUND / HISTORY OF THE BIBLE/ INTERPRETATION

EARLY CHRISTIANITY

HISTORY OF CHRISTIANITY

CHRISTIAN APOLOGETIC EVANGELISM

TECHNOLOGY AND THE CHRISTIAN

CHRISTIAN THEOLOGY

CHRISTIAN DEVOTIONALS

CHRISTIAN FICTION