The Arabic Bible in Shared Spaces (SEM146)
This seminar explores the history of the earliest Arabic translations of the Bible through the study of ancient manuscripts and their historical, cultural, and religious contexts. It examines the role of the Scriptures within Arabic-speaking communities as well as the Islamic theological and cultural influences that shaped these translations. Particular attention will be given to the Greek and Syriac origins of the Arabic biblical texts and to the contemporary issues related to their interpretation.
This seminar will take place from March 1 to April 24, 2027.
Course code: SEM146
Professor: Dr. Srecko Koralija o.p.Description
The objective of this seminar is to help students understand how, when, and why the biblical texts were translated into Arabic. We examine early translations attested in manuscripts such as Saint Petersburg BN Ar. NS 327, Vat. Ar. 13, and Sin. Ar. 151, exploring their historical and cultural contexts and the role of scripture in Arabic-speaking communities. Particular attention is given to the Islamic theological and cultural influences that had an impact on these translations. Through historical and linguistic analysis, as well as interreligious perspectives, participants will also gain a deeper understanding of the Greek and Syriac origins of the biblical texts in Arabic. Finally, the seminar explores how these realities can help us engage with contemporary questions.