By: Nathan Chen

A manuscript dating back to the 5th century A.D. was found within the walls of Saint Catherine’s Monastery in Egypt’s Sinai Peninsula, giving information into the daily life and thinking of the first communities of Christians.

The ancient Greek manuscript was hidden within the monastery’s library. According to Dr. Sophia Anagnostou, it is a book written anonymously by a monk during the early years of the monastery.
Dr. Anagnostou said. “It is one in which the thoughts and struggles of a devout monk reveal themselves most emotionally, thus giving invaluable insights into spiritual life at the time.”

Father Michael could barely contain his excitement. “This manuscript has proved the perpetuation of the tradition of our monastery,” he said, alluding to the profound spiritual roots that had kept the community alive for so many centuries.

The manuscript itself is still under research and translation. Most analysis shows that the manuscript may talk about other lost texts or give clues regarding early Christian theology.

Dr. John Harrison thinks the discovery is great for history. “Any new manuscript can potentially alter our understanding of early Christianity,” he stated.

Interesting questions come up from its hiding place. Was it put away for safekeeping, or has it just been forgotten through time? More research may answer this question. It was a find that stood to evidence history waiting to be revealed.

Sources:
Archaeologists Find a 2,400-Year-Old ‘Pot of Gold’ in Turkey – The New York Times (nytimes.com)