What Bible Does The Eastern Orthodox Church Use

What Bible Does the Eastern Orthodox Church Use?

The Eastern Orthodox Church uses the Septuagint as its primary Old Testament, along with various versions of the New Testament that trace their lineage back to early Byzantine texts. Understanding the nuances of their biblical tradition reveals a rich history and a commitment to preserving ancient liturgical practices. This article will delve into the specifics of the Orthodox approach to scripture, clarifying common misconceptions and highlighting the significance of their chosen texts.

The Septuagint: The Cornerstone of the Orthodox Old Testament

Unlike many Protestant denominations that primarily rely on the Masoretic Text for the Old Testament, the Eastern Orthodox Church places significant emphasis on the Septuagint (LXX). The Septuagint, a Greek translation of the Hebrew Bible, predates the Masoretic Text and holds a unique position in Orthodox tradition. It's believed to have been translated over several centuries beginning around the 3rd century BC, and it was the Bible used by early Christians and the Church Fathers.

The Orthodox Church values the Septuagint for several reasons:

• Historical Significance: It's the Bible Jesus and the Apostles likely knew and used. Many quotations in the New Testament directly reflect the Septuagint's wording.
• Theological Implications: The Septuagint includes additional books and passages not found in the Hebrew Bible, known as the Deuterocanonical books (or Apocrypha in Protestant Bibles). These books, such as Tobit, Judith, and Wisdom, hold significant theological weight within the Orthodox tradition, enriching their understanding of scripture and their spiritual life.
• Liturgical Importance: Extensive passages from the Septuagint are used in Orthodox liturgical services and prayers, forming an integral part of their worship.

The New Testament in the Orthodox Church

While the Septuagint dominates their Old Testament usage, the Orthodox Church also employs various versions of the New Testament. These versions are rooted in the Byzantine textual tradition, which represents a significant branch of New Testament manuscripts. The Byzantine text differs slightly from other textual traditions (like the Alexandrian), primarily in minor variations of wording and some minor additions or omissions. However, these variations rarely affect core theological doctrines.

The Orthodox Church doesn't use a single, unified New Testament text across all its jurisdictions, but the underlying textual tradition remains consistent. They prioritize versions that reflect the long-standing liturgical practices and textual history of the Church.

Beyond the Text: Interpretation and Tradition

It's crucial to understand that for the Orthodox Church, the Bible is not simply a collection of individual texts to be interpreted independently. It's viewed as part of a larger context—a living tradition passed down through the centuries. This tradition includes:

• The Church Fathers: The writings and interpretations of early Church Fathers like St. Basil, St. Gregory Nazianzus, and St. John Chrysostom hold immense weight in understanding and applying the scriptures.
• Sacred Tradition: Orthodox Christianity emphasizes the importance of Sacred Tradition, the unbroken line of teaching and practice that stretches back to the Apostles. This tradition guides the interpretation and application of scripture.
• Liturgical Context: The Bible is not merely read privately but actively lived out and experienced through the liturgical life of the Church. This liturgical context shapes the understanding and application of biblical texts.

In conclusion, the Eastern Orthodox Church's use of the Septuagint and the Byzantine textual tradition for the New Testament reflects a deeply rooted commitment to its historical and liturgical heritage. Their approach emphasizes the interconnectedness of scripture, tradition, and the living experience of faith within the community of the Church. Understanding this context provides a richer appreciation for the Orthodox perspective on the Bible and its role in their spiritual life.