The New Testament was primarily written in Koine Greek.
This form of Greek, also known as Alexandrian dialect, Hellenistic Greek, or Biblical Greek, was the common vernacular used throughout the Roman Empire during the 1st to 4th centuries AD. It was a widely understood language, making it an effective medium for the dissemination of early Christian teachings and accounts across various regions and cultures.
While Koine Greek was the original language for the vast majority of the New Testament texts, some authors did incorporate translations from older Hebrew and Aramaic texts. This reflects the linguistic landscape of the time, where Aramaic was commonly spoken in Judea and Galilee, and Hebrew was the sacred language of Jewish scripture. However, the finished works that form the Christian New Testament as we know it today were compiled and written in Koine Greek.
Understanding the original language provides valuable insight into the nuances, literary styles, and historical context of these foundational texts.
Language Overview of the New Testament
The table below summarizes the key languages associated with the original New Testament writings:
| Aspect | Detail |
|---|---|
| Primary Original Language | Koine Greek |
| Influencing Languages | Hebrew, Aramaic (for translated source material) |
This linguistic foundation ensured that the New Testament was accessible to a broad audience across the Hellenistic world, facilitating the growth and spread of Christianity.
