The Fourth Gospel and the Scriptures: Illuminating the Form and Meaning of Scriptural Citation in John 19:37

Abstract

In "The Fourth Gospel and the Scriptures," new insights from 4QXII manuscripts and the Minor Prophets Scroll help unlock the mystery of John's unique form of scriptural citation. Focusing on 19:37, Bynum argues convincingly that John's citation from Zechariah is both accurate and historically reliable. Carefully considering the biblical textual milieu of the era brings to light John's concern for fidelity to the prominent Hebrew text of his day, and for the correctness of the Septuagint form of the citation. From this analysis new light is shed on the critical role the citation plays in the Johannine Passion Narrative, and its meaning within the theological development of the Fourth Gospel.