Multi-source hypothesis
The Multi-source hypothesis is a proposed solution to the synoptic problem, holding that Matthew, Mark, and Luke are not directly interdependent but have each drawn from a distinct combination of earlier documents. It encompasses a family of theories differing in the particulars of the nature and relationships of these earlier documents.
| Theory Information | |
|---|---|
| Order | Proto, Q A, B Matt, Mark, Luke |
| Additional Sources | Q-source, Proto, A, B |
| Gospels' Sources | |
| Matthew | A, Q |
| Mark | A, B |
| Luke | B, Q |
| Theory History | |
| Originator | Herbert Marsh |
| Proponents |
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An early form of the theory was proposed by Herbert Marsh over two centuries ago. More recently, Marie-Émile Boismard proposed a structurally similar theory, which was further developed by Philippe Rolland and Delbert Burkett.
According to these theories, the common material among the three synoptic gospels ultimately derives from a proto-gospel somewhat like Mark. This proto-gospel underwent two independent revisions, A and B. Mark was formed by recombining these two revisions. Matthew built upon A and Luke upon B. Both Matthew and Luke also drew from a common source Q, as well as other sources for their unique material.