Canon and the Ancient Christian Bible — Book Form and Production

Christians Adopt the Codex

Second-third centuries
A Visit With Jesus

Christians commonly copied Scripture in the codex, a book of leaves bound along one edge, rather than in the traditional scroll.

Full Account

The codex allowed readers to move readily between passages, write on both sides of a leaf, and combine multiple texts within one physical volume. Early Christian papyri overwhelmingly favor this form.

No single reason fully explains the preference. Practical advantages, the desire to group writings, and a distinct Christian book culture may all have contributed. Early codices were often modest working books rather than luxurious objects.

Historical Significance

The codex made collections such as the four Gospels or Paul's letters practical and shaped the physical form still associated with the Bible.

People, Places and Sources