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.

Multi-source hypothesis

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	Marie-Émile Boismard, Philippe Rolland, Delbert Burkett

An early form of the theory was proposed by Herbert Marsh over two centuries ago.^[1] More recently, Marie-Émile Boismard proposed a structurally similar theory,^[2] which was further developed by Philippe Rolland^[3] and Delbert Burkett. Alan Kirk and Christopher Skinner have critiqued Burkett’s model for the Synoptic Problem.^[4][5][6]

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.

See also

• Two-source hypothesis
• Source criticism