Second Temple Jewish Scriptures — Translations

Aramaic Explanation and Early Targum Tradition

Second century BC-first century AD
A Visit With Jesus

Aramaic-speaking Jews heard Scripture explained and translated into the common language, contributing to the tradition later represented by written Targums.

Full Account

Hebrew remained the language of Scripture, but Aramaic was widely spoken by Jewish communities. Public reading could therefore be accompanied by interpretation or translation so hearers could understand the passage.

Fragments among the Dead Sea Scrolls, including Aramaic versions of Job and Leviticus, show that written translation existed during the Second Temple period. The major named Targums survive in later forms and should not simply be projected unchanged back into the time of Jesus.

Historical Significance

The Targum tradition shows how Jewish communities preserved the Hebrew text while making its meaning accessible to Aramaic speakers.

People, Places and Sources