Canon and the Ancient Christian Bible — Major Manuscripts

Codex Vaticanus

Fourth century

Codex Vaticanus is a major Greek parchment Bible containing most of the Septuagint and New Testament.

Full Account

Vaticanus was written in carefully executed majuscule script on parchment. Its New Testament now lacks portions after Hebrews 9:13, including the Pastoral Epistles, Philemon, and Revelation; whether all were originally present cannot always be determined.

Its readings, especially in the Gospels, frequently align with earlier P75. Textual critics value it highly while still weighing its evidence alongside other manuscript traditions.

Historical Significance

Vaticanus is one of the oldest and most important extensive witnesses to the Greek Christian Bible.

People, Places and Sources

Key people: Unknown scribes and correctors
Key places: Possibly Egypt or Caesarea; Vatican Library
Languages: Greek