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‘UNEDUCATED’, ‘IGNORANT’, OR EVEN ‘ILLITERATE’? ASPECTS AND BACKGROUND FOR AN UNDERSTANDING OF AΓPAMMATOI (AND IΔIΩTAI) IN ACTS 4.13

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  04 April 2001

THOMAS J. KRAUS
THOMAS J. KRAUS
Affiliation:
Katholisch-Theologische Fakultaät, Universität Regensburg, Universitätsstraße 31, 93053 Regensburg, Germany
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Abstract

In Acts 4.13 Peter and John are designated as αγραμματoι... και ιδιωται. Is that phrase meant as a harsh disparagement of the two apostles by the members of the Sanhedrin? On the basis of lexical, contextual, and social-historical evidence this study argues against an evaluation of the double qualification through the eyes of modern people with their usual disregard for illiterates (and non-specialists). The documentary papyri especially present a different, unbiased picture without any social or negative impact of illiteracy and non-specialism. They help to clarify Acts 4.13 and make the terms ‘illiterate people’ and ‘laymen’ acceptable.

Type
Research Article
Information
New Testament Studies , Volume 45 , Issue 3 , July 1999 , pp. 434 - 449
Copyright
© 1999 Cambridge University Press

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