A few years ago, you wrote in your online series about the use of the OT in the NT ("The Bible on Trial," at www.Acesonline.org [old website]) "... remember that often when the New Testament quotes the Old Testament, it is making use of the LXX -- which accounts for small differences in wording." What is the LXX he is referring to? I don't think I've ever been familiar with this. -- Lisa Burtan
In Roman numerals, I = 1, V = 5, X = 10, L = 50, C = 100, D = 500, M = 1000, etc. The symbol LXX, Roman numerals for 70, refers to the ancient Greek translation of the Bible by the Jews. LXX in Latin is septuaginta; hence it is written LXX, but read "Septuagint." Tradition held that seventy translators came up with this translation of the Old Testament, which was originally approximately 99% Hebrew, 1% in Aramaic, into Greek. The translation was carried out a couple of centuries before Christ.
A note for our linguists or Greek readers: It is possible to purchase the Septuagint, with or without English translation. In 2007 an excellent version was published. Most Christians affirm that only the original Hebrew books of the Bible are inspired.
This article is copyrighted and is for private use and study only. © 2003. Reprints or public distribution is prohibited without the express consent of Douglas Jacoby.
