Canon and the Ancient Christian Bible — Ancient Translations

Coptic Bible Translations

Third-fourth centuries
A Visit With Jesus

Egyptian Christians translated Scripture into Coptic dialects, especially Sahidic and Bohairic.

Full Account

Coptic used the Greek alphabet supplemented with additional signs and represented the later stages of the Egyptian language. Translation probably began in Upper Egypt and expanded into multiple dialects.

Because these translations were made from Greek manuscripts, their readings help scholars trace the text used in Egyptian churches. Reconstruction must remain cautious because manuscripts differ in age, dialect, and completeness.

Historical Significance

Coptic versions made Scripture accessible to Egyptian believers and preserve early evidence for both Testaments.

People, Places and Sources