Did Justinian Allow Aquila's Greek Translation Even Though It Differed from the Septuagint?

Novella 146, Ch. 1 · Translation: Aquila

What the ancient record says

Yes, another important complication. He strongly praises the Septuagint but also explicitly permits another Greek translation, Aquila, and the law acknowledges Aquila differs from the Septuagint.

Prevents the inaccurate claim "Justinian forced every synagogue to use only the Septuagint", not supported: the Septuagint receives explicit preference, but Aquila is also permitted. Aquila is associated with an ancient Greek translation closely tied to the Lashon Qanaʿan (Hebrew) textual tradition, known for representing the underlying source very closely; only portions survive today.

Does Justinian explain every reason he allowed Aquila? No, scholars can propose explanations, but unless he states a reason or evidence demonstrates it, his private motive remains unknown.

Provable: Septuagint preferred, Aquila permitted.