The Journal of the Institute for Biblical Aramaic Studies (JIBAS) is a peer-reviewed, open-access journal focused on scholarly research in Biblical Aramaic and related fields. The journal publishes original research articles, critical essays, and reviews spanning theology, biblical studies, linguistics, and ancient Near Eastern history. JIBAS seeks to bridge interdisciplinary studies by inviting contributions that examine the linguistic, historical, and theological dimensions of Biblical Aramaic, with particular emphasis on how these studies enrich understanding of the biblical text and its cultural context. The journal is committed to maintaining high academic standards and providing a platform for both established and emerging voices in academia. Published biannually in March and October, JIBAS contributes to ongoing discourse in theological and biblical scholarship, offering a vital resource for researchers, scholars, and students.
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A hermeneutical approach to the Syriac Bible: Enhancing understanding and theological depth in biblical translation
Section: Articles Keywords: Biblical Translation, Hermeneutical Approach, Peshitta, Syriac Bible, Theological Depth Subjects: Biblical Translation, Hermeneutical Approach, Peshitta, Syriac Bible, Theological Depth Disciplines: Syriac Studies, Theology This paper explores the significance of a hermeneutical approach to the Syriac Bible, particularly focusing on its impact on biblical translation and theological depth. The study examines how Syriac-Aramaic plays a crucial role in transmitting and interpreting biblical texts, highlighting its unique contribution to understanding key theological concepts, especially in comparison to Greek and Hebrew texts. The paper discusses how the Syriac tradition emphasizes communal salvation, Christology, and the Kingdom through a detailed analysis of the Peshitta and its translation methods. God. It offers richer theological insights that often remain hidden in more traditional translations. Methodologically, the paper employs a comparative analysis of Syriac-Aramaic texts, particularly the Peshitta, with Greek and Hebrew translations, emphasizing how linguistic and cultural nuances shape theological interpretations. The conclusion underscores the potential of Syriac-Aramaic hermeneutics to fill gaps in modern biblical scholarship, promoting a more holistic and inclusive approach to scriptural interpretation. This hermeneutical framework enriches our understanding of early Christian thought and enhances the depth and relevance of contemporary biblical translations.
Copyright (c) 2025 Syriac and Aramaic Studies Review https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
The Evolution of Syriac Poetry: A Structural Analysis of Madrasha and Memra
Section: Articles Keywords: Cultural Influence, Madrasha, Memra, Syriac Poetry, Theological Evolution, Liturgical Tradition Subjects: Cultural Influence, Madrasha, Memra, Syriac Poetry, Theological Evolution, Liturgical Tradition Disciplines: Syriac Studies, Theology This study explores the structural evolution of Syriac poetry, focusing on two primary poetic forms: madrasha (stanzaic hymns) and memra (verse homilies). These forms have played significant roles within the Syriac Christian tradition, serving as expressions of devotion and tools for theological instruction. Through structural literary analysis, this research highlights how madrasha, with its intricate stanzaic patterns and refrains, fosters emotional engagement in communal worship, while memra, composed of isosyllabic couplets, serves as a clear and effective medium for didactic teachings. The study examines the impact of theological themes, such as Christology and eschatology, on the structural development of these forms, noting the integration of complex religious concepts that deepen the spiritual experience of the faithful. Regional variations within Syriac poetry are also explored, emphasizing differences between the West Syrian and East Syrian traditions. West Syrian poetry, influenced by Hellenistic culture, features more elaborate forms, while East Syrian poetry prioritizes clarity and accessibility. These regional distinctions reflect the varying liturgical and theological needs of their respective communities. The study also investigates how these poetic forms have influenced later Christian traditions, including Byzantine and Arabic hymnography, demonstrating their enduring legacy in shaping Christian worship and theological discourse. In conclusion, the evolution of Syriac poetry underscores the intricate relationship between form, content, and cultural context. This study enriches our understanding of early Christian literary traditions and highlights the continuing relevance of these poetic forms in contemporary Christian literature and worship practices. Further research is encouraged to explore the ongoing influence of Syriac poetry on modern faith expressions.
Copyright (c) 2025 Journal of the Institute for Biblical Aramaic Studies https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
Exploring Theological Diversity: The Impact of Alexandrian and Antiochian Schools on Early Christian Doctrine
Section: Articles Keywords: Alexandrian School, Antiochian School, Early Christian, Theological Diversity, Theological Thought Subjects: Alexandrian School, Antiochian School, Early Christian, Theological Diversity, Theological Thought Disciplines: Theology This study explores the theological diversity of early Christianity through an investigation of the hermeneutics of the Alexandrian and Antiochian schools, and those of lesser-better-known traditions. Using a qualitative research design, analysis is carried out with a comparative design to examine how these schools helped establish central Christian doctrines. Primary sources, including the writings of such figures as Origen, Clement of Alexandria, and John Chrysostom, are analyzed to identify their theological perspectives. The study shows that these schools' distinctive methods not only defined early theological debates but continue to thrive today in Christian practice. The Alexandrian school's focus on allegorical exegesis led to a mystical interpretation of Scripture, while the Antiochian school's focus on historical-grammatical analysis maintained a more literal interpretation of biblical texts. The research also highlights the need to note the socio-political circumstances underpinning these theological innovations, demonstrating how outside pressures influenced the development of doctrine. Through these historical contrasts, the study emphasizes the importance of embracing a more expansive conversation between different Christian traditions in the contemporary era. By and large, this research supports a better understanding of the nuances of early Christian thought and their application to contemporary theological debates, calling for further research into minor theological traditions to enhance an understanding of their contribution towards the historic development of Christian doctrine.
Christology in Syriac Orthodox theology: Ecumenical dialogues and modern challenges
Section: Articles Keywords: Syriac Orthodox, Miaphysitism, Ecumenical Dialogues, Comparative Theology, Christian Unity, Interfaith Engagement Subjects: Syriac Orthodox, Miaphysitism, Ecumenical Dialogues, Comparative Theology, Christian Unity, Interfaith Engagement Disciplines: Syriac Studies' , Theology, Biblical Studies, Christian Studies, Christology Syriac Orthodox Christology is pivotal in ecumenical dialogues and modern theological discourse, bridging Christian traditions while addressing contemporary doctrinal challenges. This study examines the historical development, theological depth, and modern relevance of Syriac Christology, particularly in the context of its Miaphysite stance and its contributions to global Christian theology. Despite its doctrinal distinctiveness, Syriac Christology aligns with key theological principles in Eastern and Western Christian traditions, making it an essential component of theological reconciliation and inter-denominational unity. This research employs a qualitative approach, integrating historical analysis and comparative theological methods to trace the evolution of Syriac Orthodox Christology. Primary Syriac theological texts, including the writings of Jacob of Sarug and Severus of Antioch, are examined alongside modern ecumenical agreements to assess Syriac Christology's contributions to theological discourse, liturgical dialogue, and interfaith engagement. Thematic and hermeneutical analyses are applied to evaluate the doctrinal intersections between Miaphysitism, Chalcedonian Christology, and Western theological traditions. The findings confirm that Syriac Orthodox Christology serves as a unifying theological framework in ecumenical discussions, demonstrating that many historical Christological disputes were rooted in terminological ambiguities rather than fundamental theological contradictions. Additionally, this study highlights Syriac Christology's relevance in addressing modern theological concerns, including Secularism, religious pluralism, and Christian identity in a globalized world. The research underscores the significance of Syriac's mystical and incarnational theology, emphasizing its potential contributions to contemporary ethical, interreligious, and theological discourse. Moving forward, further research is needed to deepen the integration of Syriac Orthodox theology into global Christian thought, ensuring that its historical wisdom and theological richness continue to shape Christian identity, foster inter-denominational unity, and inform contemporary theological discourse in the 21st century and beyond.
Reconstructing the semantic and cultural origins of qnuma: A historical-linguistic study in the Aramaic-Syriac tradition
Section: Articles Keywords: Qnuma, Historical linguistics, Semitic languages, Aramaic-Syriac studies, Akkadian influence, Theological evolution, Legal identity, Christology Subjects: Qnuma, Historical linguistics, Semitic languages, Aramaic-Syriac studies, Akkadian influence, Theological evolution, Legal identity, Christology Disciplines: Theology, Biblical Studies, Christology , Syriac Studies' This study reconstructs the semantic and cultural origins of Qnuma, examining its transformation from a legal and philosophical concept into a theological construct within Syriac Christianity. Through historical-linguistic, philological, and semantic analysis, this research explores how Qnuma was initially utilized in legal, administrative, and existential discourse before being incorporated into Christian theological debates. The study draws from Aramaic and Syriac manuscripts, legal documents, and comparative linguistic analysis, particularly about Akkadian and Hebrew influences. Methodologically, this research employs historical-linguistic tracing, philological studies, and semantic comparisons, analyzing ancient legal and philosophical texts to reveal how Qnuma evolved. The study highlights how Qnuma, tied initially to personal identity and social hierarchy in early Semitic traditions, later became integral to Trinitarian and Christological debates in Syriac Christianity. Findings indicate that Qnuma played a crucial role in shaping identity within legal and religious traditions, reinforcing its significance across multiple domains of ancient thought. The study's interdisciplinary approach contributes to historical linguistics, Semitic studies, and theological research, offering a clearer perspective on the linguistic transformation of existential terminology. Future research should explore comparative linguistic influences between Semitic and Indo-European traditions, expanding our understanding of identity and existence across ancient civilizations.
Qnoma and Hypostasis: A Comparative Study of Aramaic and Greek Christological Terminology
Section: Articles Keywords: Qnoma, Hypostasis, Christology, Syriac, Orthodox, Nestorianism, Ecumenical Dialogue Subjects: Qnoma, Hypostasis, Christology, Syriac, Orthodox, Nestorianism, Ecumenical Dialogue Disciplines: Theology, Comparative Theology, Biblical Studies, Philosophy of Religion, Christology Abstract: This study offers a comparative analysis of Qnoma and Hypostasis, two crucial terms in early Christian Christology, exploring their theological, linguistic, and philosophical implications within the Syriac and Greek traditions. Qnoma, rooted in the Syriac tradition, refers to the personal subsistence and unity of Christ's dual nature. At the same time, Hypostasis, derived from Greek philosophical thought, on Christ's essence and individual personhood. This research investigates the distinct theo focuses logical roles of these terms in explaining the relationship between Christ's humanity and divinity, particularly within the Nestorian and Chalcedonian frameworks. Using a comparative methodological approach, the study examines historical texts, theological writings, and ecumenical discussions to distinguish the nuances between Qnoma and Hypostasis. This approach clarifies how these terms were employed to articulate the Incarnation and resolve complex theological issues surrounding the union of Christ's two natures. The findings demonstrate that while both terms aim to preserve the integrity of Christ's humanity and divinity, they arise from distinct cultural and philosophical contexts, leading to different Christological interpretations. The study concludes that the distinction between Qnoma and Hypostasis is essential for understanding the development of Christological thought and resolving the theological tensions between Eastern and Western Christian traditions. By filling the gaps in previous scholarship, the research fosters a clearer path for ecumenical dialogue and contributes to a more nuanced understanding of early Christian theology. The comparative Analysis enriches our comprehension of the historical development of these terms and provides a framework for theological reconciliation and unity within the broader Christian community.
The influence of the incarnation of Jesus on the study of early church christology: a theological-historical analysis
Section: Articles Keywords: Doctrine of Incarnation, Early Christian Christology, Nicene Creed, Arianism, Christian Orthodoxy, Hellenistic Influence Subjects: Doctrine of Incarnation, Early Christian Christology, Nicene Creed, Arianism, Christian Orthodoxy, Hellenistic Influence Disciplines: Theology, Church History, Christian Studies, Historical Theology, Religious Studies This research examines the pivotal significance of the doctrine of the Incarnation in the evolution of early Christian Christology, with emphasis on its impact upon theological and doctrinal formulations concerning the essence of Christ. The present study will seek to fill a void in contemporary scholarship regarding the influence of the Incarnation on Christological discussions within the early Church, especially in the dual nature of Jesus Christ as human and divine. Using a historical-theological approach, this study examines key texts written by early Christian theologians and explores the contextual influences arising from Hellenistic culture that shaped the development of Christological doctrine. It proves that the Incarnation was important not only to the early Christian intellectual tradition but also in the formation of the Nicene Creed as a response to heretical positions such as Arianism and as the foundation for orthodox Christian doctrine. This dissertation shows that the concept of the Incarnation was crucial in formulating theological responses to the first challenges that Christianity faced and, as such, connected ancient philosophical debates with the nascent Christian teachings. What is more, it points out the strategic use of the Incarnation to defend the full divinity and humanity of Christ, which would later become foundational to Christian orthodoxy. This research affords a full understanding of the Incarnation, considered the basis of early Christian Christology and dogma, highlighting its crucial role in defining the nature of Christ. The study fills a gap in historical and theological scholarship, bringing forth the perennial significance of the Incarnation in shaping Christian doctrine and its continued importance in contemporary theological discussions.
Copyright (c) 2024 Journal of the Institute for Biblical Aramaic Studies https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/4.0
The impact of Paul’s mission to Philippi on the global spread of Christianity
Section: Articles Keywords: Paul's Mission, Philippi, Christian Expansion, Divine Guidance, Salvation by Faith, Urban Church This study explores the importance of the missionary journey of the Apostle Paul to the city of Philippi and the impact it had on the spread of Christianity worldwide. Focusing on the evangelistic activities of Paul in Philippi, the study seeks to look at the historical and theological implications of this mission about the expansion of Christianity throughout Europe and beyond. The point of departure for this study is the concept of Missio Dei, emphasizing God's initiative to guide and enable Paul in his missionary work. This study will use a qualitative research approach, utilizing a descriptive and analytical framework to evaluate relevant biblical texts, mainly Acts 16 and the Pauline Epistles, in light of secondary literature dealing with historical and theological aspects of Paul's journey. By utilizing a systematic methodology that includes biblical exegesis, a comprehensive review of relevant literature, and historical comparative analysis, this research defines the strategic focus of the Apostle Paul in urban evangelism, together with his theological claims of salvation by faith, grace, and the inclusion of Gentiles. The research further explores the lasting theological and practical implications of Paul's efforts in Philippi, showing how his contributions were instrumental in forming Christian communities throughout Europe and in shaping the trajectory of Christian doctrine. This study also underlines the continuing relevance of Paul's model of missionary work for contemporary practice in Christian evangelism and church planting efforts. The mission of Paul to Philippi was a milestone in the historical development of Christianity, establishing the foundational event in which the Gospel spread throughout Europe. This analysis demonstrates the extent to which Paul's explicit evangelistic efforts, facilitated through divine guidance, were quintessential in laying the theological and social foundation for the Christian faith. The perpetual influence of Paul's works is still active in modern-day Christian missionary work, supplying a perpetual structural framework through which strategic mission ventures, theological reflection, and divine guidance are combined into the continuing worldwide expansion of Christianity.
Comparative exegesis of the lord's prayer in the peshitta and greek texts: A hermeneutical analysis of semantic variations
Section: Articles Keywords: Peshitta, Greek Text, Lord’s Prayer, Linguistic Analysis, Theological Differences This study thus highlights the theological and linguistic differences between the Peshitta and the Greek versions of the Lord's Prayer, particularly as these differences demonstrate an alternative interpretation of theological and liturgical practice between Eastern and Western Christian traditions. The chosen key phrases such as "daily bread" and "forgiveness" would, therefore, form the basis from where the research would look into the linguistics of both texts and how, through usage, said elements shape Christian theology, with emphasis on sustenance, forgiveness, and community identity. This study employs the qualitative descriptive approach, framing the data from textual analysis, theological exploration, and interviews with theologians from both traditions. Findings show that spiritual nourishment and communal forgiveness come into particular prominence in the Peshitta. At the same time, in the Greek text, they view individual accountability regarding more expansive interpretations of physical and eschatological sustenance. These differences reinforce the cultural, theological, and liturgical uniqueness of the traditions such that richer meanings can be accrued through this work in understanding Christian doctrine and worship practices. This research further shows how ecumenical dialogue can inform differences, offering insights on how such linguistic differences impact theological reflection and pastoral care in building and promoting unity and understanding across Christian communities.
Obstacles to carrying out the missio dei
Section: Articles Keywords: Missio Dei, Evangelism, Contextual Theology, Preaching, Outreach This study identifies the obstacles churches and Christians experience in carrying out Missio Dei, God's purpose to protect humanity. Although Missio Dei is a public calling, many churches experience shrinking congregational participation due to a lack of theological explanation, little support from spiritual superiors, and a limited energy base. This research used a qualitative method with a problem research approach through monitoring services and analyzing church certificates. The results prove that important obstacles include the lack of lectures on Missio Dei, the lack of exploitation of digital technology, and the church's excessive focus on internal services. The findings suggest that churches adopt a more holistic approach by emphasizing nursery training, congregational participation, and the use of technology to support Missio Dei. With this shift, Missio Dei can again become an important focus of the church in reaching souls for Christ.
Syriac philology: Uncovering linguistic shifts, cultural influences, and theological contributions
Section: Articles Keywords: Syriac, Philology, Linguistic, Cultural Influences, Theological Contributions, Semitic, Early Christian, Manuscripts, Digitization, Theological Studies This study examines the linguistic shifts, cultural effects, and theological contributions of Syriac, which had an important role in the development of early Christian views and cultural interactions in the Middle East region. Like one of the dialects of Aramaic, Syriac faced syntactic advances that reflected the external, pivotal effects of Greek and Arabic, which enriched the language's form and consumption in theological and customary conditions. Through philological analysis of Syriac manuscripts, this study identifies syntactic alternations and linguistic insights relevant to understanding the impact and acculturation of Syriac to the surrounding languages. The results of this study show that the syntactic turn in Syriac not only played a role in the development of the language but also in the spread of Christian theological designs. This shift provides insight into the interplay of indigenous and religious routes that operated in the early Christian era. Not only that, the study illuminates the significance of digitization of Syriac documents in effect as a preservation and accessibility effort for future studies. In conclusion, this study contributes in important ways to Syriac philology, enriches the study of Semitic linguistics and dogma, and offers current perspectives that have the potential to impact the application of preservation and the development of the study of Semitic languages in academic and theological settings.
Exegesis of the word parthenos in Isaiah 7:14 a theological analysis of the Indonesian bible translation
Section: Articles Keywords: Septuagint, Indonesian Bible, Hebrew Bible, Exegesis, Isaiah, Parthenos, Virgin, Young Woman, Theological Analysis Abstract: This study analyzes the translation of the word parthenos in Isaiah 7:14, focusing on the differences between the Septuagint and the Indonesian Bible Society (LAI) translation. In the Septuagint, parthenos is translated as "virgin," which has influenced Christian understanding of the Virgin Birth, while the LAI translation uses the phrase "young woman," which is closer to the original Hebrew meaning of almah. These translation differences potentially lead to significant theological implications, particularly in the context of church teachings in Indonesia, where religious pluralism plays a significant role. This research employs a qualitative approach using exegetical and theological methods to understand the theological impact of these translation differences. The data used includes Isaiah 7:14 in its Hebrew, Septuagint, and LAI versions, as well as relevant theological literature. A comparison of translations was conducted to identify differences in meaning, followed by a critical analysis of the theological and cultural implications. The results show that the more neutral LAI translation can lead congregations to a more historical-contextual interpretation, although it may weaken the connection to the traditional doctrine of the Virgin Birth. This study opens further discussion on the impact of Bible translations on the development of local theology in Indonesia and encourages churches to be more critical in t eaching doctrines based on translated texts.