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The Reading Culture of Early Christianity

In the gospel of Matthew, the 35th verse of chapter 13 presents a textual variant that has piqued scholarly interest, particularly regarding the phrase describing “things hidden from the foundation.” This analysis aims to uncover the original wording of Matthew 13:35b, applying a documentary method that emphasizes the value of manuscript evidence while also integrating internal textual considerations.

Main Reading (TR NU):

Text: κεκρυμμένα ἀπὸ καταβολῆς [κόσμου] (“things hidden from the world’s foundation”)
Support: Manuscripts א*, C, D, L, W, Θ, 0233, f13, Maj, and early church father Clement

Variant/WH:

Text: κεκρυμμενα απο καταβολης (“things hidden from the foundation”)
Support: Corrector of Codex Sinaiticus (א1), Codex Vaticanus (B), manuscript f, translations it,k, and early church father Origen

The variant centers on the presence or absence of the term κόσμου (“of the world”), with significant theological implications depending on the interpretation of “foundation.” The longer reading suggests a cosmological perspective, aligning “foundation” with the creation of the world. In contrast, the shorter reading, by omitting κόσμου, potentially narrows the scope to a more specific foundational event, such as the establishment of Israel, if one considers the Hebrew and Septuagint texts of Psalm 78:2, which Matthew cites.

The Hebrew text’s reference to “from of old” and the Septuagint’s “from the beginning” offer clues to Matthew’s source material. If Matthew adhered closely to the Hebrew text, the shorter reading without κόσμου might reflect his original wording, emphasizing themes hidden since Israel’s foundation. Conversely, if the Septuagint influenced Matthew, the inclusion of κόσμου would be justified, suggesting a broader, creation-wide scope of hidden things.

Turning to the external evidence, the manuscript support is split. The inclusion of κόσμου in manuscripts such as א* and the testimony of Clement suggest early support for the longer reading. However, the critical witness of Codex Vaticanus (B) alongside א1 and Origen favors the omission, suggesting an original, more concise phrase.

Given the complexity of the evidence, the original reading of Matthew 13:35b likely omits κόσμου, aligning with the variant supported by א1, B, and Origen. This conclusion is bolstered by considering the broader Matthean context, where precision in quoting scriptural references is paramount. The omission aligns with a tendency towards a more specific interpretation of foundational events, consistent with Matthew’s thematic focus and his use of Old Testament citations.

In conclusion, the textual analysis of Matthew 13:35b supports the original phrasing as “things hidden from the foundation,” omitting the reference to “the world.” This finding illuminates Matthew’s nuanced use of scripture and his theological emphasis, enriching our understanding of the gospel’s depth and the intricate process of biblical textual transmission. Through such scholarly inquiry, we gain insights into the early Christian community’s interpretative practices and the enduring legacy of these sacred texts.

About the author

EDWARD D. ANDREWS (AS in Criminal Justice, BS in Religion, MA in Biblical Studies, and MDiv in Theology) is the CEO and President of Christian Publishing House. He has authored more than 220 books and is the Chief Translator of the Updated American Standard Version (UASV).