What Bible Do Orthodox Christians Use?
Orthodox Christianity, one of the oldest branches of Christianity, has a rich tradition and a diverse following across the globe. Central to the faith is the Bible, which serves as the sacred text for guiding spiritual beliefs and practices. However, Orthodox Christians use a specific version of the Bible that may differ from other Christian denominations. In this article, we will explore the Bible that Orthodox Christians use and its significance in their faith.
The Bible used by Orthodox Christians is known as the Greek Orthodox Bible, also referred to as the Septuagint. The Septuagint is a translation of the Hebrew Bible into Greek, which was completed around the 3rd century BCE. This translation played a crucial role in the development of the New Testament and has been the standard version used by Orthodox Christians for centuries.
The Greek Orthodox Bible includes the Old Testament, which consists of 39 books, and the New Testament, which contains 27 books. The Old Testament in the Greek Orthodox Bible is similar to the Hebrew Bible, but there are some differences in the number of books and the arrangement of the texts. The New Testament in the Greek Orthodox Bible is the same as the New Testament in other Christian denominations.
One of the key differences between the Greek Orthodox Bible and other versions is the inclusion of additional books in the Old Testament. These books are known as the deuterocanonical books or the Apocrypha. The Apocrypha includes texts such as 1 and 2 Maccabees, Tobit, Judith, Wisdom of Solomon, Ecclesiasticus, Baruch, and the Letter of Jeremiah. While these books are not considered canonical in the Protestant and Catholic Bibles, Orthodox Christians hold them in high regard and consider them part of the divine revelation.
The Greek Orthodox Bible is essential for Orthodox Christians as it provides the foundation for their faith and spiritual practices. The texts within the Bible are used for worship, prayer, and theological study. The Septuagint’s influence can be seen in the liturgical traditions, hymns, and theological writings of the Orthodox Church.
Orthodox Christians also use various translations of the Greek Orthodox Bible in their native languages. These translations aim to make the sacred texts accessible to a broader audience. However, the original Greek text remains the authoritative source for theological discussions and interpretations.
In conclusion, Orthodox Christians use the Greek Orthodox Bible, also known as the Septuagint, as their primary sacred text. This version includes the Old Testament with the deuterocanonical books and the New Testament. The Greek Orthodox Bible is integral to the faith and spiritual life of Orthodox Christians, providing guidance and inspiration for their worship and theological reflections.
