Septuagint

Pronunciation: /sɛpˈtuəd͡ʒənt/

Definitions

1. an ancient Greek version of the Hebrew scriptures translated for Hellenistic Jews who no longer spoke Hebrew fluently
2. the earliest known Greek translation of Jewish biblical writings, created in antiquity to serve Greek-speaking Jewish communities
3. a historical Greek translation of the Hebrew Bible, made to aid those Jews conversant in Greek but not in Hebrew, often utilized by early Christians

Etymology: The term "Septuagint" refers to the ancient Greek translation of the Hebrew Bible, traditionally attributed to the third and second centuries BCE. Its name derives from the Latin "Septuaginta," which means "seventy." This reference is linked to the tradition that seventy scholars worked on the translation, although the exact number of translators and the details surrounding the translation process are still a matter of historical debate. The roots of the word can be traced back to the Greek "ἡ Ἑβδομήκοντα," pronounced "hē Hebdomikonta," which directly translates to "the seventy." This phrase was used in the context of the translation work and was subsequently Latinized as "Septuaginta." The Greek term itself is constructed from "ἑβδομήκοντα," which means "seventy," a number that held significant importance in biblical tradition. The use of the number seventy is often interpreted as symbolically representing completeness or divine order, making the title particularly fitting for such a foundational religious text. The Septuagint was produced primarily for the Jewish community in Egypt, particularly those who spoke Greek and were less familiar with Hebrew. As such, this translation played a critical role in making the scriptures accessible to a wider audience and significantly influenced early Christianity. The earliest references to this term in the context of the translation date back to the first few centuries of the Common Era, with significant usage in Christian theological discourse starting from the second century CE. As the word entered English in the 16th century, it was adopted directly from Latin with an established theological context. The term was largely used by scholars and theologians discussing biblical texts, and it has retained this specialized focus throughout its history in the English language. Its adoption was part of a broader trend during the Renaissance when interest in classical texts and translations of biblical scriptures surged. Over time, the significance of the Septuagint has extended beyond mere translation; it has been a critical point of reference for understanding the textual history of the Bible and the development of early Christian doctrine. The translation itself contains many variations from the Hebrew originals, reflecting the linguistic and cultural milieu of the Hellenistic world. As a result, it serves not just as a document of religious importance but also as a window into the cultural exchanges of the period. Today, the term is essential in biblical studies, theology, and historical linguistics, symbolizing the complex interactions between language, culture, and religion. The legacy of this term, therefore, is not only tied to its roots but also to the extensive impact it has had on religious thought and scholarly work throughout the centuries.