Philoxenian Bible

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July 1, 2026

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The Philoxenian Bible refers to a Syriac translation of the New Testament, undertaken around 508 CE by Philoxenus, bishop of Mabbug, and Polycarp of Hierapolis. This translation was based on the original Greek text and served as a significant scriptural source for Syriac Christianity for approximately two centuries, alongside the Peshitta. Philoxenus was a prominent leader of the Jacobite miaphysite church, which emphasized a single subject in Christ. His theological stance rejected Nestorian doctrines and highlighted the dominance of Christ's divinity over his humanity. Due to his miaphysite advocacy, Philoxenus faced persecution and exile, but he continued his theological and literary work during his captivity.12

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Philoxenus of Mabbug
…literary heritage, particularly with the Philoxenian New Testament based on the original Greek text.
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…literary heritage, particularly with the Philoxenian New Testament based on the original Greek text.
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patristic literature
The schools of Edessa and Nisibis
…of the Bible (the so-called Philoxenian version) for which he was responsible and which was used by Syriac miaphysites in the 6th century.
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…of the Bible (the so-called Philoxenian version) for which he was responsible and which was used by Syriac miaphysites in the 6th century.
Read More