Unraveling the Manuscript: The Significance of νοί in Determining Authenticity

The Inquiry into νοί

The journey to uncover the truth behind the controversial Letter to Theodore led me to delve deeply into the paleographic characteristics of specific letter combinations. Among the key elements scrutinized were the forms of "νοι" and "νος." By compiling a detailed graphic (Figure 1) of these combinations, I aimed to uncover patterns that could provide crucial insights into the manuscript's authenticity. This post will explore the significance of these findings and their implications for the interpretation of the phrase "γυμνοὶ γυμνῷ."

Understanding the Characteristics of Iotas and Sigmas

To accurately analyze the word "γυμνοὶ" versus "γυμνὸς," I compiled comprehensive graphics of all iotas (Figure 2) and all terminal sigmas (Figure 3) from the manuscript. The variability in the shape and formation of iotas is notable—they can be straight, curved, or even attached to the previous letter. In contrast, terminal sigmas exhibit a more uniform "lightning bolt" form, starting at the top right, angling downward at 45 degrees, then moving horizontally, and finally angling down again.

Consistency in Handwriting

Returning to Figure 1, which embeds examples of "νος" and "νοι" within all instances of "ος" and "οι," a pattern emerges. Handwriting, while not identical, shows consistency when produced by the same hand. This consistency is key in determining the likelihood of the phrase being "γυμνοὶ γυμνῷ" rather than "γυμνὸς γυμνῷ."

The Case for γυμνοὶ

In the Letter to Theodore, three words end in "-νος": "ἐκλεγόμενος" (line 17), "χρησάμενος" (line 32), and "περιβεβλημένος" (line 62). Each uses a special ligature for "ος," a common practice seen in words ending in "-κος" as well, except for the name "Μάρκος." The frequent use of this ligature suggests it is highly probable the scribe would have employed it for "γυμνὸς" as well. However, the absence of such a ligature in "γυμνοὶ" strengthens the case for the latter reading.

On the other hand, the formation of "νοι" consistently features a freestanding iota following the omicron, often starting at an obtuse angle due to the pen's previous motion. This pattern is evident in all occurrences of "νοι" within the manuscript.

Comparing with συμφωνοίη

Experts I consulted pointed out the striking similarity between the "νοι" in "συμφωνοίη" (line 9) and "γυμνοὶ." In "συμφωνοίη," the top stroke of the iota starts at an obtuse angle and then straightens sharply, mirroring the formation seen in "γυμνοὶ." This consistency across examples supports the reading of "γυμνοὶ" over "γυμνὸς."

Conclusion

Based on the detailed paleographic analysis and the consistent habits of the scribe, it is more likely and highly probable that the phrase in question is "γυμνοὶ γυμνῷ" rather than "γυμνὸς γυμνῷ." This conclusion not only adds to the authenticity of the manuscript but also shifts the narrative away from many forgery theories centered around Morton Smith.

The methodical approach to examining these letter combinations underscores the importance of paleographic consistency in determining the authenticity of historical manuscripts. As we continue to unravel the complexities of such texts, the insights gained from these analyses bring us closer to understanding their true origins and significance.

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