E-Seminar - The Arabic Bible in Shared Spaces

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.

This seminar will take place from March 1 to April 25, 2027.

Steps

• Step 1: Introducing the Historical, Cultural, and Religious Context
• Step 2: Examining Translation Techniques and Theological Implications
• Step 3: Exploring Islamic and Christian Views of Early Encounters
• Step 4: Connecting Historical Dialogue to Contemporary Realities

Learning Objectives

• Understand the historical, cultural, and religious context in which the earliest Arabic translations of the Bible were produced and transmitted.
• Analyze the translation techniques used in the earliest Arabic biblical manuscripts and assess their linguistic and theological implications.
• Identify the reciprocal influences between Christian traditions and the Islamic intellectual and religious context in the development of Arabic biblical texts.
• Relate the history of the Arabic translations of the Bible to contemporary issues in biblical interpretation and Christian-Muslim dialogue.

Knowledge and Skills Targeted upon Completion of the Seminar

Upon successful completion of this seminar, participants will be able to:

• Analyze early Arabic biblical manuscripts and translations by taking into account their historical, linguistic, and theological contexts.
• Identify the major Greek, Syriac, and Arabic textual traditions and evaluate their contribution to the transmission of the biblical text.
• Assess the influence of cultural and religious contexts on translation choices and their reception within Arabic-speaking Christian communities.
• Apply historical, philological, and interreligious approaches to the interpretation of biblical texts and to informed reflection on contemporary issues in Christian-Muslim dialogue.

Assessment Methods

The seminar assessment will be based on two main components:

• Individual analytical assignment: Students will write a one-page paper in response to a given question. This assignment will assess their ability to analyze an issue, develop a personal insight, and support their reflection with relevant theological and bibliographical references. 
• Forum participation: Students' engagement in the group discussions will be evaluated, with particular attention to their ability to listen to others, relate faith to different contexts, share personal insights, and enrich theological dialogue through thoughtful, well-supported contributions.