2 Corinthians 1-7: Sidestepping the Division Hypothesis Dilemma

Since the end of the 18th century, scholars have recognized that 2 Corinthians is a composite letter. Nevertheless, there is still no consensus on the proper division of the document. Chapters 1-7 of the letter present the most difficulty. In Part 1 of this study I suggest a scenario which could account for the present shape of these chapters. I also acknowledge, however, the fact that my production of this scenario creates a "Catch-22" type dilemma, for any scenario that justifies a redactor putting several letters together in a particular way can also be viewed as a rationale for Paul giving 2 Corinthians 1-7 its present shape. Consequently, in Part 2 of this study I suggest an approach which focuses on the text of these chapters as they stand regardless of who is responsible for their arrangement.