ΒΑΛΑΑΚ in the ⁷²Text of Jude 11: A Proposal

Abstract

This article proposes that the variant Βαλαάκ in the   text of Jude  be read in light of theological tendency in the Bodmer codex, especially as evidenced in the christological variants of   . Initially, scholarly opinion dismissed the 'Balaak' reading as nothing more than an inexperienced copyist's careless mistake. Though recognizing the older view to be unsatisfactory, recent explanations are also inadequate. Given neutral or positive traditions about Balaam in Judaism, and in the context of the early Christian belief that the Spirit of Christ inspired the OT Prophets (including Balaam), the article makes a case for reevaluation of the variant.

Marking Scriptural Figures as Sacred Names

“…The text of Jude in the Bodmer Composite Codex (P.Bodmer VII) presents a curious variant: Balaak (Bαλαακ) instead of Balaam (Bαλλααµ) as in 2 Peter 2:14; see Caulley (2009).…”