Topical Encyclopedia The Book of Enoch, also known as 1 Enoch, is an ancient Jewish text attributed to Enoch, the great-grandfather of Noah. Although not included in the canonical Bible for most Christian traditions, it holds significant historical and theological interest, particularly within certain branches of Christianity and Judaism. The book is considered canonical by the Ethiopian Orthodox Tewahedo Church and the Eritrean Orthodox Tewahedo Church.Authorship and Composition Traditionally attributed to Enoch, the seventh generation from Adam, the Book of Enoch is believed to have been composed between the 3rd century BC and the 1st century AD. The text is a composite work, consisting of several sections, including the Book of the Watchers, the Book of Parables, the Astronomical Book, the Dream Visions, and the Epistle of Enoch. These sections reflect a variety of themes and literary styles, suggesting multiple authorship over time. Content and Themes The Book of Enoch is primarily known for its elaborate descriptions of the fall of the Watchers, a group of angels who descended to earth and took human wives, leading to the birth of the Nephilim. This narrative expands upon the brief mention in Genesis 6:1-4, providing a detailed account of the angels' transgressions and the subsequent judgment pronounced by God. The text also explores themes of divine judgment, the nature of the cosmos, and the coming of a messianic figure. Enoch is portrayed as a righteous man who receives visions and revelations from God, including insights into the workings of the heavenly realm and the fate of the wicked and the righteous. Influence and Reception The Book of Enoch has had a profound influence on Jewish and Christian thought, particularly in the development of angelology and demonology. Its vivid imagery and apocalyptic themes have resonated with various religious movements throughout history. In the New Testament, the Book of Enoch is alluded to in the Epistle of Jude. Jude 1:14-15 states, "Enoch, the seventh from Adam, also prophesied about them: 'Behold, the Lord is coming with myriads of His holy ones to execute judgment on everyone, and to convict all the ungodly of every ungodly act of wickedness and every harsh word spoken against Him by ungodly sinners.'" This citation suggests that the early Christian community was familiar with the text and regarded it with a degree of authority. Canonical Status The Book of Enoch is not included in the canonical scriptures of most Christian denominations. The reasons for its exclusion vary, but they often center on questions of authorship, theological content, and historical authenticity. Despite its non-canonical status, the book remains a valuable resource for understanding the religious and cultural milieu of the Second Temple period. Modern Interest In recent years, the Book of Enoch has garnered renewed interest among scholars and lay readers alike. Its apocalyptic visions and esoteric teachings continue to captivate those interested in biblical history, theology, and the development of early Jewish and Christian thought. The text is often studied alongside other apocryphal and pseudepigraphal works to gain a fuller understanding of the religious landscape during the time of its composition. International Standard Bible Encyclopedia Book of EnochBOOK OF ENOCH See ENOCH, BOOK OF. Library The Book of Enoch Appendix i. Pseudepigraphic Writings The General Epistle of Jude In the Next Place, He Proceeds to Answer Himself as He Thinks Fit ... Introduction The Epistle of Judas Introduction. The Book of Jubilees Use of the Old Testament by the First Christian Writers, and by ... Note by the American Editor. Resources What is the Book of the Wars of the Lord? | GotQuestions.orgIs it possible for a person's name to be erased from the Book of Life? | GotQuestions.org Who was John Foxe? What is Foxe's Book of Martyrs? | GotQuestions.org Book: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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