Rebellious Vinedressers Wicked Tenants in the Gospel of Thomas: A Comparison with Synoptic Parallels

The present study is concerned with the parable about rebellious vinedressers in the Coptic Gospel of Thomas (logion 65) which has parallels in all three synoptic gospels. We tried to compare them and to interpret their mutual relationship which can be formulated as follows: author (or redactor) of the Gospel of Thomas shows a knowledge of versions of this parable in the Gospel of Matthew and of Luke. He utilized their terminology, retained the elementary narrative structure of the story, which he adapted in accordance with his theological purpose and view as it is presented in the Gospel of Thomas as whole.

Keywords: The Coptic Gospel of Thomas [logion 65]; Synoptic Gospels; Parables of Jesus; Rebellious Vinedressers; Wicked Tenants