Skeireins

The Skeireins is the common name for the only surviving substantial fragment of a Gothic biblical commentary. Its full title, as deduced from the extant text, is believed to be Þis skeireins aiwaggeljons þairh Iohannen, meaning "Explanation of the Gospel according to John."

The fragment consists of eight leaves (folio sheets), written in Gothic script. These leaves contain commentary on select verses from chapters 11-15 of the Gospel of John. The manuscript is believed to have originated in Italy during the 5th or 6th century CE.

The Skeireins is significant for several reasons. First, it provides valuable insight into the Gothic language. As one of the longest surviving texts in Gothic (after the Codex Argenteus, which contains most of the Gothic Bible translation), it offers crucial linguistic data for understanding the phonology, morphology, and syntax of the language.

Second, it sheds light on the interpretation and understanding of the Gospel of John within the Gothic Christian community. The commentary provides evidence of theological perspectives and approaches to biblical exegesis prevalent at the time. While the author is unknown, the text reveals an engagement with the biblical text and its implications for faith and practice.

Third, the Skeireins offers clues about the cultural and intellectual context of the Goths in Italy after their conversion to Christianity. The survival of this manuscript, albeit fragmentary, demonstrates the existence of a literate class within the Gothic community and their engagement with Christian scripture and theological reflection.

The original manuscript is held in the Biblioteca Apostolica Vaticana in Vatican City (Vat. Lat. 5750). Modern editions and translations are available to scholars and students of Gothic language and early Christian history.