We believe that the Holy Scripture represents the divinely inspired Word of God (2 Timothy 3:16). It tells the story of God revealing His love for humanity throughout mankind’s history.
Old Testament
The Old Testament documents this revelation from Creation through the Age of the Prophets. It contains 39 books organized into five categories:
- Books of History
- Book of the Law
- Books of Poetry and Wisdom
- Books of Prophecy
New Testament
The New Testament records Jesus Christ’s birth and life, presents the writings and works of His Apostles, and documents early Church history. It comprises 27 main books written between approximately 50 and 95 A.D.
Translation Preferences
The Coptic Orthodox Church prefers the Septuagint (LXX) for Old Testament texts and a literal translation of the Greek Textus Receptus—such as the New King James Version—for New Testament works.
Canonization of Scripture
The earliest writings of New Testament books appear in the 33rd Canon from a local council at Carthage in 318 A.D. and in the Paschal Letter of St. Athanasius of Alexandria in 367 A.D. A local council, probably held in Rome around 382 A.D., established a complete canonical list for both Old and New Testament books.
Role in Orthodox Life
“The Scriptures are at the very heart of Orthodox worship and devotion.” Their verses appear throughout sacraments, and believers memorize and inscribe them upon their hearts.