Book Review: Kiraz, George Anton. Comparative Edition of the Syriac Gospels: Aligning the Sinaiticus, Curetonianus, Peshitta and Harklean Versions. Vol. 1: Matthew; vol. 2: Mark; vol.3: Luke; vol. 4: John. Leiden: Brill, 1996. ISBN: 90-04-10419-4 (set). Pp. xciv+454+7 plates; ii+257; ii+514; ii+376. US $529.25 (set).

Abstract

"The versions of the New Testament are among the least understood, least used tools for studying the text of the NT. They are least understood because, in order to use a version correctly, one must immerse oneself in the peculiarities and particularities of that version: its manuscripts, syntax, vocabulary, and transmission history. They are least used because this immersion means not only learning the language of the version itself but also the languages in which the secondary literature about the version appears. While these obstacles have their positive side (one of the signal identifying marks of the novice is his or her ignorance concerning the versions and patristic material), it is also unfortunate, for the rich textual diversity of the first Christian centuries is made manifest in these sources."(pg 1)