Codex Beratinus — Phi / 043

Physical Description

Codex Beratinus is a Greek Gospel manuscript written on purple-dyed parchment with silver and gold ink. It preserves substantial portions of Matthew and Mark, arranged in two columns. The manuscript is notable for its luxurious materials and its long history of preservation in Albania.

Dating the Manuscript

Generally dated to the sixth century. It was probably produced in Constantinople or another eastern Mediterranean center, although the exact location is uncertain.

Discovery and Preservation

The manuscript was preserved in the city of Berat, Albania, for centuries. During the Communist period, it was concealed to protect it from destruction. It was rediscovered in the twentieth century and subsequently transferred to the Albanian national archives for preservation. It was included in the UNESCO Memory of the World Register together with Codex Aureus Anthimi.

Historical Context

Beratinus is an important example of the preservation of the Gospels in the eastern Mediterranean and Balkan Christian world. Its costly materials demonstrate the high value attached to the Gospel writings in late antiquity.

Textual Characteristics

The surviving Greek text of Matthew and Mark provides a sixth-century witness that can be compared with earlier papyri and major codices. Its textual characteristics also contribute to the study of related purple parchment manuscripts.

Significance for Gospel Preservation

Beratinus provides substantial sixth-century evidence for the continued preservation of Matthew and Mark. Its surviving wording can be compared with earlier witnesses, supporting the study of textual continuity. Its remarkable history also illustrates the determination of later communities to preserve ancient copies of the Gospels.

Sources and Further Reading

1. Center for the Study of New Testament Manuscripts Digital Collection
   Center for the Study of New Testament Manuscripts. Digital Manuscript Collection.
   CSNTM manuscript catalogue and digital research resources.
2. New Testament Virtual Manuscript Room
   Institute for New Testament Textual Research. New Testament Virtual Manuscript Room.
   INTF manuscript identification and catalogue evidence.