Multi-source hypothesis

The Multi-source hypothesis is a proposed solution to the synoptic problem, holding that Matthew, Mark, and Luke are not directly interdependent but have each drawn from a distinct combination of earlier documents. It encompasses a family of theories differing in the particulars of the nature and relationships of these earlier documents.

An early form of the theory was proposed by Marsh over two centuries ago.^[1] More recently, Boismard proposed a structurally similar theory,^[2] which was further developed by Rolland^[3] and Burkett.^[4]

According to these theories, the common material among the three synoptic gospels ultimately derives from a proto-gospel somewhat like Mark. This proto-gospel underwent two independent revisions, A and B. Mark was formed by recombining these two revisions. Matthew built upon A and Luke upon B. Both Matthew and Luke also drew from a common source Q, as well as other source sources for their unique material.

See also

• Two-source hypothesis
• Source criticism

Notes

1. Marsh 1823, pp. 167-409.
2. Boismard 1979, pp. 1-17.
3. Rolland 1984, p. 136 Rolland hypothesizes a proto-Matthew source originally composed in Hebrew
4. Burkett 2004, pp. 141-2 Burkett hypothesizes a proto-Mark source originally composed in Greek

References

• Boismard, Marie-Émile (1979). "The Two-Source Theory at an Impasse". New Testament Studies. 26: 1–17. doi:10.1017/s002868850000864x. (translated by Lorraine Caza, Robert Beck and Francis Martin)
• Burkett, Delbert (2004). Rethinking the Gospel Sources: From Proto-Mark to Mark. Continuum. ISBN 978-0-567-02550-0.
• Marsh, Herbert (1823) [1801]. "Dissertation on the Origin of our Three First Canonical Gospels". In Michaelis, John David. Introduction to the New Testament. vol. 3, pt. 2 (2 ed.). F. & C. Rivington. pp. 167–409. OCLC 9174154.
• Rolland, Philippe (1984). Les Premiers Évangiles, un nouveau regard sur le problème synoptique (in French). Les Éditions du Cerf. ISBN 978-2-204-02118-0.