Cultural Adaptation in Ancient Translations of Ben Sira

Aleksandr Sizikov

doi:10.36124/rt.2024.24

Published: 2024-12-301

Vol. 66 No. 4 (2024)

Cultural Adaptation in Ancient Translations of Ben Sira

Aleksandr Sizikov

https://orcid.org/0000-0001-5067-0676

https://doi.org/10.36124/rt.2024.24

Abstract

In this paper, the author provides an overview of two verses of Ben Sira which are problematic for textual criticism. The discussion around the difference between the Greek and the Hebrew versions of 16:7 is well known. Verse 9:9 is less discussed due to an emendation in popular reconstructions based on the extant Hebrew fragments. However, analysis of these two examples shows that the difference in Hebrew and Greek sources can be explained neither by lapsus calami, nor by translation techniques; rather, it should be explained by a deliberate editing adapting the texts to the cultural and religious needs of the target groups.

Keywords:

Ben Sira, Wisdom of Jesus son of Sirach, Joshua ben Sirach, Book of Sirach, Ecclesiasticus, textual criticism, book

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Sizikov, A. (2024). Cultural Adaptation in Ancient Translations of Ben Sira. Theological Yearbook, 66(4), 655–671. https://doi.org/10.36124/rt.2024.24

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