A Greek inscription dating back to the 17th century has quietly adorned the entrance of Oxford University’s historic Divinity School for centuries—largely unnoticed even by those who pass by it daily.
Carved into a stone “open book” above the school’s ceremonial gate, the inscription reads: “Εὗρον αὐτὸν καθεζόμενον ἐν μέσῳ τῶν διδασκάλων”—“I found him sitting among the teachers,” a verse from the Gospel of Luke referring to the twelve-year-old Jesus in the temple.
The gate itself was designed by renowned architect Sir Christopher Wren. Yet despite the prominence of both its structure and the ancient text, the origins of the inscription remain obscure. There are no definitive records of who selected the passage or when it was added.
The Greek text reflects Oxford’s long-standing traditions in theology and classical education. It is believed to have held symbolic significance in the University’s academic processions and ceremonies, representing the presence of learning and divine wisdom.
While the carving has physically endured, it has remained effectively “invisible” for over three centuries—its meaning, origin, and visibility lost in the fabric of daily life at the university.
The rediscovery and contextualization of the inscription were recently brought to public attention by Greek journalist Christos Hatzis, writing in Demokratia newspaper (issue no. 4296, July 14, 2025). His article has rekindled interest in Oxford’s historical ties to Greek language and theology.
