The Translators and Timeline of the Septuagint

The translation of the Hebrew Old Testament into Greek, known as the Septuagint, was a significant moment in ancient biblical scholarship. This article explores the historical context, the translators, and the timeline of this monumental task, providing insight into why and how this translation came to be.

A Historical Context

In 280 BCE, Ptolemy II Philadelphus, the King of Egypt and a great patron of learning, sought to expand the library of Alexandria to include all the books of the world. This ambitious project required the translation of the Hebrew scrolls into Koine Greek. This initiative not only expanded the literary collection within the library but also played a crucial role in the evolution of biblical text and the spread of Jewish and Christian thought.

The Translators

The task of translating the Old Testament into Greek was entrusted to 70 Jewish scholars, or more accurately, 72, as the legend suggests. These translators were knowledgeable in both Hebrew and Greek, and their work resulted in the Septuagint, which means "seventy" in Latin. According to tradition, these scholars were chosen to represent the twelve tribes of Israel, with six scholars from each tribe. They were housed on a nearby island, where they dedicated themselves to the task of translation. The legend has it that they completed their work in 72 days, though this timeline may be a myth.

The Timeline

The process of translation began during the reign of Ptolemy II Philadelphus, who lived from 285 to 246 BCE. This period was characterized by the widespread use of the Greek language and culture, thanks to the conquests of Alexander the Great. The translation of the Old Testament into Greek was a natural outcome of the growing influence and dissemination of the Greek language.

The Impact of the Septuagint

The Septuagint had a profound impact on both Jewish and Christian traditions. It became the primary version of the Old Testament used by many early Christians, including the apostles, who often quoted from it in their writings. The New Testament authors frequently referenced the LXX, which often provided a different or more nuanced translation compared to the Masoretic Text (the standard Hebrew version).

The Septuagint also played a crucial role in the religious and intellectual life of the Hellenistic world. It was used as a reference by scholars and was instrumental in the formation of early Christian theology. The interplay between the Old and New Testaments was greatly facilitated by this Greek translation, which was acknowledged as a legitimate and authoritative Christian text.

For a more in-depth examination of the Septuagint, including its historical context, the identity of the translators, and its impact on subsequent religious and intellectual traditions, interested readers are encouraged to explore the available resources and scholarly works on this fascinating subject.