Topical Encyclopedia The Aramaic Versions of the Bible, often referred to as the Targums, are ancient translations and paraphrases of the Hebrew Scriptures into Aramaic. Aramaic was the lingua franca of the Near East during the time of the Second Temple and was widely spoken among the Jewish people. As a result, the need arose for the Hebrew Scriptures to be accessible to those who were more familiar with Aramaic than Hebrew.Historical Context The Targums originated during the post-exilic period when Aramaic had become the dominant language among the Jewish communities in Babylon and later in Palestine. The practice of orally translating the Hebrew Scriptures into Aramaic during synagogue services likely began during this time. These translations were eventually written down, forming the basis of what we now know as the Targums. Major Targums 1. Targum Onkelos: This is the most famous and widely used Targum, primarily covering the Torah (the first five books of the Bible). It is known for its relatively literal translation, closely adhering to the Hebrew text while providing necessary clarifications and explanations. 2. Targum Jonathan: Attributed to Jonathan ben Uzziel, this Targum covers the Nevi'im (Prophets). It is more expansive than Targum Onkelos, often including additional interpretative material. 3. Targum Pseudo-Jonathan: Also known as Targum Yerushalmi, this version covers the Torah and is more paraphrastic, including many expansions and additions that reflect Jewish traditions and interpretations. 4. Targum Neofiti: A complete Targum of the Torah discovered in the Vatican Library in the 20th century. It provides valuable insights into early Jewish exegesis and theology. Theological and Exegetical Significance The Targums are not mere translations; they are interpretative works that reflect the theological and cultural milieu of the Jewish communities that produced them. They often include expansions, explanations, and interpretations that illuminate how ancient Jews understood their Scriptures. For example, the Targums frequently emphasize monotheism, the role of angels, and the coming of the Messiah. Use in the New Testament Era Aramaic was the language spoken by Jesus and His disciples, and some scholars suggest that certain phrases and teachings of Jesus recorded in the New Testament may have been originally spoken in Aramaic. The influence of Aramaic thought and language is evident in the New Testament, and understanding the Targums can provide deeper insights into the context of the New Testament writings. Biblical Quotations and Allusions While the New Testament does not directly quote the Targums, there are instances where the interpretative traditions found in the Targums parallel the teachings of Jesus and the apostles. For example, the concept of the "Word" (Memra) in the Targums resonates with the prologue of the Gospel of John: "In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God" (John 1:1). Preservation and Influence The Targums have been preserved primarily within Jewish tradition, but they have also been of interest to Christian scholars seeking to understand the Jewish context of the Bible. They provide a window into the interpretative practices of ancient Judaism and have been used in biblical studies to shed light on the historical and cultural background of the Scriptures. Conclusion The Aramaic Versions, or Targums, are invaluable resources for understanding the Jewish interpretation of the Hebrew Scriptures during the Second Temple period. They offer insights into the language, theology, and culture of the time and continue to be a significant area of study for both Jewish and Christian scholars. International Standard Bible Encyclopedia Aramaic VersionsARAMAIC VERSIONS See TARGUM. Library The New Testament Language and Style. Ancient Versions Based Upon the Septuagint. Language and Style. Later Greek Versions. The Greek Versions as Aids to Biblical Study. Integrity and State of the Text. The Gospel According to St. Matthew Daniel Religious and Social State. Resources What is the Table of Nations? | GotQuestions.orgWhat does INRI stand for? What was written on the sign nailed to the cross above Jesus' head? | GotQuestions.org Where/what is Golgotha/Calvary? | GotQuestions.org Aramaic: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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