Is Paul's "mark" preserved in Scripture?

2 Thessalonians 3:17, I, Paul, write this greeting in my own hand, which is the distinguishing mark in all my letters. This is how I write.

In 2 Thessalonians 3:17, Paul emphasizes that his handwritten greeting serves as a "distinguishing mark" (Greek: σημεῖον, sēmeion) in all his letters. This practice was likely intended to authenticate his epistles and guard against forgeries, as false letters circulating in his name were a concern (2 Thessalonians 2:2). Here's a breakdown of its significance and preservation:

1. What was the "mark"?

   - Personal Handwriting: Paul typically dictated his letters to a scribe (amanuensis) but added a final greeting or closing in his own handwriting (cf. 1 Corinthians 16:21, Galatians 6:11, Colossians 4:18). This served as a "signature" to confirm authenticity.

   - Possible Features: In Galatians 6:11, Paul draws attention to writing "with such large letters," which some scholars interpret as a stylistic quirk (e.g., bold script, unpolished handwriting) or a deliberate emphasis to underscore his authority.

2. Purpose:

   - Anti-Forgery Measure: Early Christian communities faced challenges with counterfeit letters (2 Thessalonians 2:2). By adding a personal note, Paul ensured recipients could verify the letter’s legitimacy.

   - Pastoral Authority: It reinforced his apostolic role and personal connection to the churches, even when absent.

3. Is the "mark" preserved in Scripture?

   - Textually Yes, Physically No. Yes, in that we have Paul’s letters preserved in their entirety, including the handwritten closings (like 2 Thessalonians 3:17), which were considered part of inspired Scripture. No, in the sense that we do not have the original physical manuscripts that show Paul’s literal handwriting or his unique script (the actual ink and style).While the original autographs (Paul’s actual handwritten letters) are lost, the mention of this practice is preserved in the biblical text itself. For example:

     - 2 Thessalonians 3:17 explicitly states, "I, Paul, write this greeting in my own hand."*

     - Similar notes appear in other Pauline letters (e.g., 1 Corinthians 16:21, Philemon 1:19).

   - Symbolic Preservation: The "mark" endures in Scripture as a textual feature, reminding readers of Paul’s intentionality in authenticating his teachings.

4. Scholarly Insights:

   - Some suggest Paul’s handwriting may have been recognizable due to its informal style (he was not a professional scribe) or Aramaic influence (Hebrew/Aramaic letter forms in Greek script).

   - Others propose that the "mark" could include specific phrases or theological emphases unique to Paul, embedded in his personal additions.

Conclusion:

The "distinguishing mark" was Paul’s personal handwritten authentication, preserved not as a physical artifact but as a recurring textual practice within the New Testament. It underscores his concern for doctrinal integrity and relational accountability, ensuring his letters were received as genuine apostolic instruction. This practice also highlights the early church’s care in discerning authoritative writings, a precursor to later canonization processes.