Skrifterna

Skrifterna is a Swedish term for sacred writings regarded as authoritative within a religious tradition. The word is commonly used to refer to texts that form the basis of belief, law, and practice. The exact scope of Skrifterna varies by tradition and historical period, and the phrase is often used in contrast to commentaries, traditions, or other non-scriptural writings.

In Judaism, Skrifterna typically denotes the Tanakh, the Hebrew Bible. In some contexts it is used specifically for Ketuvim, the Writings, one of the three major divisions of the Tanakh that includes books such as Psalms, Proverbs and Daniel. In Christianity, Skrifterna usually refers to the Bible, comprising the Old and New Testaments, though the designation and the exact contents can differ among denominations.

Canon and variation: Different religious communities establish canons in distinct ways, and the set of books considered Skrifterna may differ between traditions. For example, Catholic, Orthodox, and Protestant communities may include or exclude certain books (such as the deuterocanonical books) as part of Skrifterna, auxiliary to what some traditions classify as apocrypha or pseudepigrapha. The interpretation of what counts as authoritative Skrifterna has historically evolved through councils, scholars, and liturgical practice.

Textual transmission and translation: Skrifterna have been transmitted through manuscript traditions and later printed editions. Numerous translations into Swedish and other languages have influenced how the texts are read and used in worship, education, and daily life. Translation work often aims to balance literal accuracy with readability for contemporary readers.

Contemporary use: Skrifterna continue to guide theology, ethics, ritual, and personal practice. They are central to academic study, interfaith dialogue, and debates about interpretation, historicity, and relevance in modern society.