Discussion Jumpstarter
Study leader reference - not a definitive answer
Question 8
Adam repeatedly expresses frustration that the Orthodox Study Bible—promoted by some as a good LXX English Bible—often follows the Masoretic text even when the LXX seems clearer (Genesis 4:8; 21:16–17); what does this reveal about how modern Bible publishers and traditions actually function, and how might that unsettle “trust the experts” instincts?
Another way to ask: Adam is upset that the Orthodox Study Bible often follows the Masoretic text even when the Septuagint seems clearer. What does this show about how Bible publishers and traditions make choices today, and how might it challenge a simple “just trust the experts” mindset?
Discussion Jumpstarter
Direct Answer
Adam’s frustration suggests that modern “Septuagint Bibles” may be hybrid products shaped by editorial choices, inconsistency, and perhaps oversight—so labels and reputations don’t guarantee a pure text base. That should humble “trust the experts” instincts and push readers to verify claims by comparison.
- He says the Orthodox Study Bible (OSB) is “an adaptation of the new King James Version,” and “surprising[ly]… actually follows the Masoretic text in many places.”
- He emphasizes it is “not a pure translation of the Septuagint,” and says, “I don’t quite understand that… intentional or… errors.”
- Genesis 4:8: LXX has Cain’s words “Let us go out to the field,” which makes the story flow; MT/OSB omit it. He says, “I can’t for the life of me figure out why the Orthodox Study Bible went with the Masoretic text.”
- Genesis 21:16–17: LXX makes the boy weep; MT/OSB make Hagar weep but God hears the boy—he calls MT “very confusing” and again can’t understand why OSB follows it.
- He also notes the OSB sometimes uses “dynamic translation to hide the difficulty” (Genesis 4:26), showing editorial smoothing.