"An extensive, all in one guide to the key features of the most important text type of the Hebrew Bible, the Masoretic Text. The contributors examine all aspects of the Masoretic Text: its origins, transmission, history and textual forms. The handbook traces the development of the text type from ancient manuscripts found in the Judean Desert, through to the pointed medieval codices and the Second Rabbinic Bible. It outlines the main aspects of ancient and medieval scribal practice, including a brief history of the Tiberian School of scribes, the development of the vowel and cantillation system, introduction to the marginal Masorah notes, and provides descriptions of the major codices. The contributors examine the features of the Masoretic Text in the books of the bible. The volume also includes an extensive bibliography to enable further detailed study"-- Provided by publisher.