FABRICATIONS · TEXTUAL VARIANTS
The Omission of "Father, Forgive Them"
Then said Jesus, Father, forgive them; for they know not what they do. And they parted his raiment, and cast lots.
Some early manuscripts omit this statement, suggesting it may have been added later to emphasize Jesus' forgiveness. Its inconsistent presence raises concerns about the reliability of the transmission process. This Shows that human influence has altered the Bible.
THE CHRISTIAN RESPONSE
These words reflect Jesus' forgiveness and align with his teachings, even if absent in some early manuscripts. They highlight Jesus’ compassionate nature, consistent with the Gospels. A scribe may have included an oral tradition to emphasize this, viewing it as supportive commentary rather than a harmful addition.
THE ISLAMIC POSITION
Did Jesus really say this or not? The absence of this statement in earlier manuscripts suggests it may have been added to shape a specific theological image of Jesus, raising doubts about the Scripture’s authenticity. If such a central statement can appear or disappear, it questions the text’s reliability. If scribes can add sentiments freely, then the text’s integrity is compromised and there is no uniform preservation of the original.
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The Omission of "Father, Forgive Them"