T&T Clark Handbook to the Masoretic Text - (T&t Clark Handbooks) by George Athas & David Davage (Hardcover)

About the Book

Provides a sophisticated orientation to the Masoretic Text, the most important manuscript tradition for understanding the textual history of the Hebrew Bible/Old Testament.

Book Synopsis

An extensive, all in one guide to the key features of the most important text type of the Hebrew Bible, the Masoretic Text.The contributors examine all aspects of the Masoretic Text: its origins, transmission, history and textual forms.

The handbook traces the development of the text type from ancient manuscripts found in the Judean Desert, through to the pointed medieval codices and the Second Rabbinic Bible. It outlines the main aspects of ancient and medieval scribal practice, including a brief history of the Tiberian School of scribes, the development of the vowel and cantillation system, introduction to the marginal Masorah notes, and provides descriptions of the major codices. The contributors examine the features of the Masoretic Text in the books of the bible. The volume also includes an extensive bibliography to enable further detailed study.

Review Quotes

A state-of-the art compendium of recent research on the Masoretic text, from its precursors at Qumran to the great medieval codices to studies of each biblical book. A treasure trove for scholars and students of the Hebrew Bible, its manuscript history, and the work of the medieval masters of tradition
Ronald S. Hendel, UC Berkeley, USA

This book offers a clear and accessible exploration of the historical, textual, and literary dimensions of the Masoretic Text. It offers clear and balanced syntheses that reflect the current state of research. A must-read for scholars and students of the Hebrew Bible. Through its high-quality contributions, this book brings together essential knowledge about the Masoretic Text, its identification, history, and literary significance.
Innocent Himbaza, University of Fribourg, Switzerland

What an absolute joy-this Handbook to the Masoretic Text! Given the superb general introductions to the history of the Masora, the resources, the vocalization and accentuation, the Masora, and many other important topics, as well as the outstanding specific contributions produced by top scholars on all the Biblical books, this Handbook will truly be the Handbook for decades to come.
Kristin De Troyer, University of Salzburg, Austria

About the Author

George Athas is Director of Postgraduate Studies and Lecturer in Old Testament, Hebrew, and Church History at Moore College, in Sydney, Australia.

David Davage is Reader in Old Testament Exegesis at Örebro School of Theology, Sweden.