Papyrus 66 (𝔓66) — One of the earliest & complete witnesses to the Gospel of John
Papyrus 66 (𝔓66)
Papyrus 66, commonly referred to as 𝔓66, is one of the earliest and most complete surviving witnesses to the Gospel of John. Dating to the early third century, this remarkable Greek papyrus codex preserves extensive portions of John’s Gospel, including the dialogue with Nicodemus in John 3:7–20—home to the famous declaration, “For God so loved the world…”
Unlike smaller fragments, 𝔓66 represents a substantial codex, offering scholars a broader window into how the Gospel of John was copied, structured, and transmitted in the early Church.
Historical Significance of Papyrus 66
Papyrus 66 matters because it answers critical historical questions:
- Demonstrates the early circulation of the Gospel of John
- Shows the codex format already in Christian use
- Preserves key theological passages central to Christian doctrine
- Provides strong textual support for the reliability of John’s Gospel
𝔓66 confirms that by the early third century, the Gospel of John was not only known but carefully copied and widely read.
The original manuscript (Bodmer II) is preserved in Switzerland and remains one of the most important early New Testament manuscripts in existence.
Museum-Quality Replica Craftsmanship
Each Papyrus 66 replica is created with precision and care, emphasizing historical fidelity rather than decorative interpretation.
Features include:
- Accurate manuscript dimensions
- Faithful Greek letterforms and line spacing
- Historically attentive layout and nomina sacra conventions
- Papyrus-style texture and coloration
- Archival presentation suitable for study or display
This is not a stylized reproduction—it is a scholarly facsimile designed to reflect the visual and material character of the original codex leaf.
Own a Witness to Early Christian Scripture
The Gospel of John has shaped Christian belief for centuries.
Papyrus 66 stands as powerful evidence that these words were preserved, copied, and read long before Christianity held cultural influence.
This replica allows you to engage with Scripture not only as sacred text—but as documented history.