Introduction to the textual criticism of the Greek New Testament

This listening guide opens a clear roadmap to the world of Greek New Testament manuscripts. It walks the audience through the chief families of ancient copies, explains how scholars compare readings, and shows why choosing the most reliable text matters for both theology and history. The early chapters lay out the basic tools—such as the classification of codices, the role of early translations, and the principles of internal and external evidence—so listeners gain a solid foundation before tackling more complex debates.

The presenter draws on the extensive career of a nineteenth‑century German philologist who taught at several universities and contributed to major critical editions. His practical experience in museum research and classroom teaching shines through, making the material feel like a guided workshop rather than a dry catalogue. The translation preserves the original’s scholarly precision while remaining approachable for anyone curious about how the New Testament text has been transmitted.