Comparative Theology · Textual History & Manuscripts
The Interpolated Ending of Mark (Mark 16:9-20)
In short
- 1.The earliest reliable manuscripts — **Codex Sinaiticus** and **Codex Vaticanus** — end abruptly at **Mark 16:8**.
- 2.Verses **9-20** (resurrection appearances, snake handling, baptismal salvation) were added later by unknown scribes.
- 3.The **earliest Gospel** therefore contained **no resurrection appearances**.
The claim being examined
The view that Mark 16:9-20 preserves an original resurrection appearance narrative.
The Islamic position
Our earliest complete manuscripts of Mark end at 16:8 — with an empty tomb and no appearance at all.
Analysis
The longer ending differs from Mark in vocabulary and style, is absent from the two great fourth-century uncials, and is marked as doubtful in many later manuscripts. Its content — drinking poison unharmed, handling serpents — reflects a later community's concerns, not Mark's narrative.
From the Qur'an
Qur'an 4:158
بَل رَّفَعَهُ اللَّهُ إِلَيْهِ ۚ وَكَانَ اللَّهُ عَزِيزًا حَكِيمًا
Rather, Allah raised him to Himself. And ever is Allah Exalted in Might and Wise.
From the Bible
Mark 16:8
ἐφοβοῦντο γάρ
...and they said nothing to anyone, because they were afraid.
Read it in their BibleMark 16:9-20 (footnote)
The earliest manuscripts and other ancient witnesses do not have Mark 16:9-20.
Read it in their BibleSources
Bart Ehrman · Bruce Metzger
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