Definition

Noun: 1. The Synoptic Gospels: A term used in Biblical studies to refer collectively to the first three books of the New Testament—Matthew, Mark, and Luke. These gospels are grouped together because they share a similar narrative structure, content, and point of view in recounting the life and teachings of Jesus Christ, allowing them to be "seen together" (which is the meaning of the Greek root).

Usage

• The term is used almost exclusively in academic, theological, or historical discussions about the Bible.
• It is typically treated as a plural noun (e.g., ) when referring to the gospels themselves.
• It can function attributively as an adjective (e.g., , ).

Examples

• Noun:
  • Scholars study the Synoptics to understand the similarities and differences in their accounts of Jesus's parables.
  • A central question in New Testament scholarship is the Synoptic Problem, which investigates the literary relationship between Matthew, Mark, and Luke.

Advanced Usage

• "The Synoptic Problem": This is a key term in Biblical scholarship. It refers to the question of the specific literary sources and dependencies that explain the extensive agreements and disagreements in wording and order among the three Synoptic Gospels.
• "Synoptic tradition": Refers to the shared body of stories and sayings found within the Gospels of Matthew, Mark, and Luke.

Variants and Related Words

• Synoptic (adjective): Pertaining to or having the nature of a synopsis; presenting a summary or common view. In theology, it specifically relates to the first three Gospels.
  • The synoptic perspective of these three texts allows for detailed comparison.
• Synopsis (noun): A brief summary or general survey of something.
  • The professor provided a synopsis of the article's main arguments.

Synonyms

• The Synoptic Gospels (formal equivalent)
• Matthew, Mark, and Luke (explicit listing)

Notes on Meaning

• The term "synoptics" is highly specialized. In general English, the word "synoptic" (adjective) is rarely used outside of this specific theological context or in technical writing to mean "affording a general view."
• It is distinct from the Gospel of John, which has a significantly different narrative style, chronology, and theological emphasis.

Noun

1. the first three Gospels which describe events in Christ's life from a similar point of view