The Sisters of Sinai

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In 1892, two identical twin sisters from Scotland made a groundbreaking scriptural discovery at St. Catherine’s Monastery in Mount Sinai. They uncovered a neglected palimpsest that contained one of the earliest known copies of the Gospels in ancient Syriac, the language spoken by Jesus. This account chronicles how Agnes and Margaret Smith, middle-aged women without formal degrees, translated this significant text, bringing it to global attention. Janet Soskice narrates their Victorian adventure, which involved a physical journey through the Middle East during a time when many Westerners feared the region. The sisters faced challenges such as sleeping in tents, dealing with difficult camels, and navigating the suspicions of monks misled by previous travelers. Their journey also reflects a mental quest, as they contributed to knowledge during an era when religious faith was being challenged by scientific and archaeological discoveries. Despite lacking formal training and facing skepticism from male scholars, Agnes and Margaret became respected authorities in scripture, driven by their passion for adventure and learning. This inspiring story highlights the remarkable achievements of two unsung heroines in the ongoing exploration of the Bible's origins.