Was the Bible Written by Barbarians?
The term 'barbarians' often conjures images of 'uncivilized' or 'savage' peoples. However, the application of this term to the authors of the Bible, particularly the Torah or Pentateuch, requires careful consideration. Let's explore the historical context and the implications of this question.
The Meaning of Barbarian
The term bárbaros was initially used by the ancient Greeks to describe anyone who did not speak their language. In essence, a 'barbarian' was anyone who sounded like a 'bar bar bar' rather than a 'civilized' speech.
The Hebrews or Israelites who wrote the books of the Old Testament would have been considered 'savages' or 'barbarians' by the Greeks during the early stages, but by around 200 BCE, they had developed enough to translate their works into Greek, the language of the time, which is known as the Septuagint. This translation is significant, as it suggests that the Hebrews were not entirely devoid of literary and intellectual capabilities.
The Writing Process of the Bible
It is important to note that the Bible was not written as a single book. Its composition spans centuries and includes a variety of authors and writing styles. Some books within the Bible, such as parts of the Torah, were indeed written in Hebrew, reflecting the language of the original authors. However, other parts, particularly the Septuagint, were translated into Greek, indicating a certain level of sophistication in the use of the writing medium of their time.
Some portions of the New Testament may have been written in Greek by individuals whose command of the language was not perfect, while others, such as the letters of Paul, demonstrate a more refined use of Greek. The Acts of the Apostles, for example, is noted for its stylistic similarities to Greek historical and philosophical writings of the time, suggesting a degree of literary skill.
Oral Tradition vs. Written Text
Another perspective to consider is the possibility that some stories within the Bible were passed down orally by non-literate societies and then written down when literacy emerged. While this is a valid hypothesis, it does not negate the literary achievements of the authors who did write the texts. The Bible is a complex collection of texts with varying origins, authorship, and purposes, making it challenging to apply a uniform label to all its components.
It is not accurate to assume that all parts of the Bible were written by 'barbarians' simply because some stories might have been originally told orally. The Bible reflects the diverse and evolving nature of literate and non-literate societies throughout its history.
Conclusion
While the term 'barbarian' can be misleading, it is not safe to assume that the Bible was written by individuals who were simply 'savages' or 'uncivilized.' The complexity and richness of the Bible's origins, including both oral and written traditions, point to a broad spectrum of authors and sources. Understanding the Bible requires acknowledging its diverse history and the varying contexts in which its texts were created.