The text discusses the crucial role of ancient scribal schools in preserving Old Testament texts, explaining their origin, training methods, techniques for error minimization, and their broader impact on society. Scribal schools started in the pre-monarchic period in Israel, not only serving religious functions but also assisting state operations. Emphasizing precision, scribes successfully minimized transmission errors and were integral to safeguarding religious texts. Furthermore, these schools served as cultural centers, and their works held societal significance. The work of scribes was regarded as both scholarly and sacred.
NEW TESTAMENT TEXTUAL STUDIES: Scribal-Introduced Textual Variants Or Reader-Introduced Textual Variants?
This article explores the ongoing debate over the origin of textual variants in the Greek New Testament manuscripts, examining the evidence for and against the idea that some variants were intentionally introduced by readers. The implications for textual criticism and interpretation are discussed, as well as the views of scholars on both sides of the debate.