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He is like animals that are silenced.

:ומדנ תומהבכ לשמנ

Rich and poor together. :ןויבאו רישע דחי persecutions can yet dream that “behold, the dwelling of God is with humans, and he shall tent dismissed as focus turned to moral obsessions on an isolated earth. Only one later story preserves sapiens began to appear about 300,000 years ago in Africa. The evolution was multidimensional
Who has been able to do that? Did not Martin Luther King inherit the apocalyptic imagination
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תומכח רבדי יפ

My mouth will speak wisdom
4 when he claimed, like Moses, to climb the mountain and see the promised land? Are some of his with them, and they shall be his people. And He, God, shall be with them” (Ἰδοὺ ἡ σκηνὴ τοῦ θεοῦ the “memory” of Akiba ben Yosef (c. 50 to 135 CE) and his three colleagues who ascended into and involved vast transformations and increased abilities. Just as humans once, almost
And the meditations of my heart, understanding. :תונובת יבל תוגהו The Text with Commentary the blessed heavens by intense focus on G-d’s Ineffable Name (Tosafot, Chagiga 14b, Zohar inadvertently, became extinct in the Pleistocene era, so humans may deliberately obliterate all
dreams now slowly becoming reality? Did not Jesus teach his followers to pray: “Thy kingdom
μετὰ τῶν ἀνθρώπων, καὶ σκηνώσει μετʼ αὐτῶν, καὶ αὐτοὶ λαοὶ αὐτοῦ ἔσονται, καὶ αὐτὸς ὁ θεὸς
5 come on earth”? And were King and Jesus not brutally murdered? How can we learn that such Psalm 49 1.26b, and Tikunei Zohar, Tikun 40). sapiens began to appear about 300,000 years ago in Africa. The evolution was multidimensional

I will tune my ear to metaphor,

ינזא לשמל הטא
μετʼ αὐτῶν ἔσται). Did the author not imagine the End would be a return to the blessed life of the
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earthly life.
I will present my conundrum with music. :יתד יח - רונכב Beginning? Was there a more promising future for early Jews than the time when all sickness and and involved vast transformations and increased abilities. Just as humans once, almost
deaths do not diminish hope?
:ומדנ תומהבכ לשמנ
He is like animals that are silenced.

Who has been able to do that? Did not Martin Luther King inherit the apocalyptic imagination
Is there also a blessed scenario? Yes, but it is preserved in ancient apocalypses, notably Daniel and
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A conundrum concerning death
when he claimed, like Moses, to climb the mountain and see the promised land? Are some of his 1 evil will cease and God will not need a Temple because, as in Eden, he dwells with his faithful Many of the books in the Hebrew Bible, apocalypses, Dead Sea Scrolls, the Pseudepigrapha, and inadvertently, became extinct in the Pleistocene era, so humans may deliberately obliterate all

6 Early Jewish descriptions of a celestial or promising place of peace and tranquility define people. most of the New Testament, bear witness to the former apocalyptic imaginations; the latter ethical Revelation.
Why should I be fearful in times of peril,
ער ימיב אריא המל
The Text with Commentary
dreams now slowly becoming reality? Did not Jesus teach his followers to pray: “Thy kingdom
earthly life.

Hear this, all peoples.
When sin entangles my feet? :ינבוסי יבקע ןוע 2 Psalm 49 masterpieces are preserved in the Mishnah and Rabbinic texts. Is there also a blessed scenario? Yes, but it is preserved in ancient apocalypses, notably Daniel and
come on earth”? And were King and Jesus not brutally murdered? How can we learn that such

apocalypses, testaments, and psalms. How can we stimulate others to not only read these accounts
What did the early optimistic apocalyptists imagine? They pondered a Creator that had promised
deaths do not diminish hope? Listen, all who dwell on earth -- Revelation.

but try to feel what the early Jews experienced when they imagined being present to view the
Perceiving a New Creation
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7 scene? are those who trust in their fortune, םליח-לע םיחטבה 1 3 A conundrum concerning death During Early Judaism – approximately 300 BCE to 150 CE – the great apocalypses, like Daniel, a marvelous world, evident now only in their ten or more heavens, and soon appearing on earth
There
Ordinary people and those who are privileged,

The early Jewish testaments are filled with apocalyptic expectations and occasionally receive
Early Jewish descriptions of a celestial or promising place of peace and tranquility define Rich and poor together. 1 Enoch, 2 Enoch, 4 Ezra, 2 Baruch, the History of the Rechabites, and the vast amounts of due to God’s continuing fidelity, love, and righteousness. Many Jews and Christians before about
Who boast of their great wealth.
וללהתי םרשע ברבו
4

What did the early optimistic apocalyptists imagine? They pondered a Creator that had promised

visions of a new creation. Note the following passage in the Testament of Naphtali:
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apocalypses, testaments, and psalms. How can we stimulate others to not only read these accounts 4 Hear this, all peoples. apocalyptic texts, like The Testaments of the Twelve Patriarchs, were composed. What was the 150 CE, imagined and expected “a New Jerusalem” descending to earth (Revelation 21:1-2).
a marvelous world, evident now only in their ten or more heavens, and soon appearing on earth
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My mouth will speak wisdom
שיא הדפי הדפ-אל חא
But, no man can save even his brother.
Let us recall that the apocalypses are defined with such vivid experiences as these:
but try to feel what the early Jews experienced when they imagined being present to view the Listen, all who dwell on earth -- due to God’s continuing fidelity, love, and righteousness. Many Jews and Christians before about
He cannot pay God for atonement for him. ורפכ םיהלאל ןתי - אל And the meditations of my heart, understanding. primary message of those who created the luminous apocalypses and apocalyptic compositions? The Jewish and Christian authors of the apocalyptic masterpieces and the modern astrophysicists
Command your children that they be in unity with Levi and Judah,
scene?
Ordinary people and those who are privileged,
3
I will tune my ear to metaphor,
Then I stood still, looking at that ancient house being transformed … I went on seeing until
for through Judah will salvation arise for Israel,
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9 Even if the redemption price for him be steep, ושפנ ןוידפ רקיו 5 Rich and poor together. These authors urged all to look up and into the vast heavens. They claimed some had been led into 150 CE, imagined and expected “a New Jerusalem” descending to earth (Revelation 21:1-2).
offer a perception of a universe full of wonder that excites beliefs about an incomprehensible
5
He will cease to exist forever. םלועל לדחו I will present my conundrum with music. other worlds above in which some were suffering and others were blessed enjoying a new life with Supreme Being or Mind. If all of us humans cease our hatred and fear and join together as creatures
the Lord of the sheep brought about a new house, greater and loftier than the first one, and
4
My mouth will speak wisdom
and in him will Jacob be blessed.
Let us recall that the apocalypses are defined with such vivid experiences as these:
The Jewish and Christian authors of the apocalyptic masterpieces and the modern astrophysicists
set it up in the first location which had been covered up – all its pillars were new, the And the meditations of my heart, understanding. all human hopes. of the One and Blessed God, then we still have time to experience a οὐρανὸν καινὸν καὶ γῆν
Through his kingly power God will appear …,

offer a perception of a universe full of wonder that excites beliefs about an incomprehensible
חצנל דוע-יחיו

10

Can one live forever?!
I will tune my ear to metaphor,
columns new; and the ornaments new as well as greater than those of the first … .
Then I stood still, looking at that ancient house being transformed … I went on seeing until 6 5 Why should I be fearful in times of peril, Supreme Being or Mind. If all of us humans cease our hatred and fear and join together as creatures
to save the race of Israel,
καινήν. Can any of us believe the ancient apocalyptist, noted at the beginning, who envisioned that
6

תחשה הארי אל
When sin entangles my feet?
And not see the grave?!
5
[1 En 90:28-29; Isaac in OTP 1.91]

the Lord of the sheep brought about a new house, greater and loftier than the first one, and I will present my conundrum with music. The authors of the first apocalypses could not see or imagine the expanding universe and awe- of the One and Blessed God, then we still have time to experience a οὐρανὸν καινὸν καὶ γῆν

and to assemble the righteous from among the nations.
“the angels of God dwell among us” (καὶ οἱ ἄγγϵλοι τοῦ θεοῦ οἰκοῦσιν μεθ᾽ ἡμῶν)?
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Indeed, any person will see that wise men die. ותומי םימכח הארי יכ

set it up in the first location which had been covered up – all its pillars were new, the 6 [TNaph 8:2-3; Kee in OTP 1.813] inspiring innumerable galaxies revealed by the Hubble eXtreme Deep Field (XDF) telescope. That καινήν. Can any of us believe the ancient apocalyptist, noted at the beginning, who envisioned that

columns new; and the ornaments new as well as greater than those of the first … .

Together, the fool and the ignorant, perish ודבאי רעבו ליסכ דחי
Most readers will comprehend that the New Temple in Jerusalem is being described. The author 7 Why should I be fearful in times of peril, methodology helps astronomers (notably Mario Livio) to estimate the presence of between 100 “the angels of God dwell among us” (καὶ οἱ ἄγγϵλοι τοῦ θεοῦ οἰκοῦσιν μεθ᾽ ἡμῶν)?
There are those who trust in their fortune,

6
of Revelation shared a similar vision some centuries later. A dream, shared by Jews and Christians When sin entangles my feet? billion and 200 billion galaxies. Some remarkably may be moving faster than the speed of light;
[1 En 90:28-29; Isaac in OTP 1.91]
Who boast of their great wealth.

And leave their wealth to others.
:םליח םירחאל ובזעו

8
The apocalyptic expectation also flows into Psalms and Odes. The author of the Odes of Solomon

But, no man can save even his brother.
in the late first century CE is preserved in Revelation 21: shares his visit into Paradise: and physicists, Günter Nimtz and Alfons Stahlhofen), conducted experiments in which photons
Most readers will comprehend that the New Temple in Jerusalem is being described. The author
There are those who trust in their fortune,
7
12
םלועל ומיתב םברק
were observed moving faster than the speed of light. The ancient visionaries could not contemplate
He cannot pay God for atonement for him.
They think that their houses will last forever,
of Revelation shared a similar vision some centuries later. A dream, shared by Jews and Christians
9
Even if the redemption price for him be steep,
That their dwelling places will endure for generations, רדו רודל םתונכ ש מ Who boast of their great wealth. black holes, but perhaps they could imagine what a friend and astronaut shared with me; he
Then I saw a new heaven and a new earth; for the first heaven and the first earth had passed
in the late first century CE is preserved in Revelation 21:
But, no man can save even his brother.
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And he took me into his Paradise,
away, and the sea was no more. ywhere תומדא ילע םתומשב וארק
That their names will be mentioned ever He will cease to exist forever. imagined that the inexplicable black holes may be entrances into another world. That is wise
He cannot pay God for atonement for him.

Wherein is the wealth of the Lord’s pleasure. …
13 But, humans cannot dwell in assets, ןילי-לב רקיב םדאו 9 Even if the redemption price for him be steep, speculation since all cosmic objects near a black hole speed into it and perhaps continue
And I saw the holy city, the new Jerusalem, coming down out of heaven from God,
Then I saw a new heaven and a new earth; for the first heaven and the first earth had passed

10
They are like animals that are silenced. He will cease to exist forever. somewhere as water in a bathtub flows out through a drain to many distant places.
Can one live forever?!
prepared as a bride adorned for her husband. :ומדנ תומהבכ לשמנ
away, and the sea was no more.
14 The path of these people is folly for them, ומל לסכ םכרד הז Then I adored the Lord because of his magnificence.
And not see the grave?!
And I saw the holy city, the new Jerusalem, coming down out of heaven from God,
And I heard a loud voice from the throne saying:
prepared as a bride adorned for her husband.
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Those who come after them explicitly wish denial. 10 Can one live forever?! Black holes seem to be everywhere and one large one is in the middle of our galaxy and moving
“Behold, the home of God is among mortals. לס וצרי םהיפב םהירחאוה
Indeed, any person will see that wise men die.
And not see the grave?!
And I heard a loud voice from the throne saying:
15 They have been herded to She’ol. ותש לואשל ןאצכ And I said, blessed, O Lord, are they towards us. At a future event, all in our solar system will vanish in a flash. When I was in
He will dwell with them as their God;
Together, the fool and the ignorant, perish
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Indeed, any person will see that wise men die.
“Behold, the home of God is among mortals.
they will be his peoples,
And leave their wealth to others.
Death is their shepherd. םערי תומ Who are planted in your land, 7 Yellowstone, I was informed that an apocalyptic denouement is expected; a specialist warned that
Together, the fool and the ignorant, perish
He will dwell with them as their God;
The righteous will drive them forth at dawn, רקבל םירשי םב ודריו And who have a place in your Paradise; the “Giant Yellowstone Supervolcano” beneath the park discloses an overdue explosion. It will
and God himself will be with them;
And leave their wealth to others.
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they will be his peoples,
And their Rock will be the terrors of She’ol, לואש תולבל םרוצו erupt and wipe out all life in the USA and perhaps on the earth. In the estimation of other
he will wipe every tear from their eyes.
and God himself will be with them;
And who grow in the growth of your trees,
3

Death will be no more;
and not a temple, for them. :ול לבזמ This psalm is a meditation on death. It is written in the style of wisdom literature; that is, as a conundrum or puzzle. specialists, the eruption is about a hundred millennia away. Finally, meteorologists warn that in

he will wipe every tear from their eyes.
And have passed from darkness into light
3
16 But God will redeem my soul from She’ol. לואש דימ ישפנ הדפי םיהלא-ךא It clearly has four parts: the introduction (2-5); the conundrum itself (6); the condemnation of those who think they the future, climate change will wipe out most of Florida and other low-lying areas on earth. Some
This psalm is a meditation on death. It is written in the style of wisdom literature; that is, as a conundrum or puzzle.
mourning and crying and pain will be no more,
Death will be no more;
can achieve immortality through wealth with a closing verse of affirmation (7-16); and an address to a third person
[OdesSol 11.16-19; Charlesworth in OTP 2.745]
Indeed, He will take me. Selah. It clearly has four parts: the introduction (2-5); the conundrum itself (6); the condemnation of those who think they experts have a different scenario; they are concerned that a “catastrophic cyber event” is
for the first things have passed away.” [Rev 21:1-4] הלס ינחקי יכ
mourning and crying and pain will be no more,
with the same theme (17-21). The verses on the outer margin are addressed to the general reader. The verses on the
can achieve immortality through wealth with a closing verse of affirmation (7-16); and an address to a third person

for the first things have passed away.” [Rev 21:1-4] first indented margin are an aside. And the verses on the second indented margin are addressed to a specific person; developing. Today we are sharing daunting futures with the ancient apocalyptists.
with the same theme (17-21). The verses on the outer margin are addressed to the general reader. The verses on the
or perhaps to the psalmist’s inner self. Note the revised ascription, the traditional ascriptions being notoriously
Is it not remarkable that the author claims to see “a new heaven and a new earth” (οὐρανὸν καινὸν The guide is the Lord, not a seer as in the apocalypses. He takes the Odist into Paradise so he can
Do not be afraid if you see a man become rich,
שיא רשעי-יכ ארית לא
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first indented margin are an aside. And the verses on the second indented margin are addressed to a specific person;
incomprehensible. psalmist’s inner self. Note the revised ascription, the traditional ascriptions being notoriously
or perhaps to the
Is it not remarkable that the author claims to see “a new heaven and a new earth” (οὐρανὸν καινὸν see the blessed ones who have a place in Paradise and are permanently planted like trees. Life on earth has been fragile. It is imperative that all of us comprehend how humans on earth
יכ
-

ותיב דובכ הברי

Who multiplies the capital of his estate.
καὶ γῆν καινήν). Why is there a need for a new heaven? Has it been polluted by the Nephilim, the

The invocation of heaven and earth as witnesses is widespread in Scripture, as is the invocation of all levels of
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καὶ γῆν καινήν). Why is there a need for a new heaven? Has it been polluted by the Nephilim, the incomprehensible. declined to a mere 1,280 people and almost became extinct between 930,000 and 813,000 years

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For, in his death, he cannot take everything with him, לכה חקי ותומב אל יכ
fallen angels, and the betrayal of Satan who was a superior angel serving previously in heaven
4
The invocation of heaven and earth as witnesses is widespread in Scripture, as is the invocation of all levels of
What good is a heaven or Paradise that is infinitely far away and closed to all, both the living and
fallen angels, and the betrayal of Satan who was a superior angel serving previously in heaven society. Note, too, the a-b-b-a structure in verse 3 (poor, rich, rich, poor). ago. Perhaps it was due to glacial events, declining temperatures, droughts, and the loss of animals

ודובכ וירחא דרי
His fortune does not go down after him.
אל
-
beside God? The exceptional apocalyptic vision describes how “I saw the Holy City, the new
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5 society. Note, too, the a-b-b-a structure in verse 3 (poor, rich, rich, poor).
Conundrum (Heb., hida). The invocation of metaphor (Heb., mashal) and music (Heb., kinnor, lit., a lyre) is also
16
beside God? The exceptional apocalyptic vision describes how “I saw the Holy City, the new the “apparently” dead? What good is a Paradise that is inaccessible to all who have lived (cf. LAE).
5
Conundrum (Heb., hida). The invocation of metaphor (Heb., mashal) and music (Heb., kinnor, lit., a lyre) is also
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ךרבי וייחב ושפנ-יכ

For one is praised only during one’s life –
common in wisdom literature.
Jerusalem, coming down out of heaven from God, prepared as a bride for her husband” (τὴν πόλιν
Jerusalem, coming down out of heaven from God, prepared as a bride for her husband” (τὴν πόλιν 6 common in wisdom literature. and vegetation that “humans” needed for survival. As a result, human diversity was diminished.
According to the author of 2 Baruch, Paradise was only shown to Adam, Abraham, and Moses
This is his conundrum: Why should he be afraid of death? His answer begins in the next verse with a denunciation
τὴν ἁγίαν Ἰερουσαλὴμ καινὴν εἶδον καταβαίνουσαν ἐκ τοῦ οὐρανοῦ ἀπὸ τοῦ θεοῦ ἡτοιμασμένην 6 This is his conundrum: Why should he be afraid of death? His answer begins in the next verse with a denunciation Then, there was an accelerated population boom, caused – perhaps – by the discovery of fire; the
You are praised only when things go well for you.

יכ ךד
:ךל ביטית

יו ו
τὴν ἁγίαν Ἰερουσαλὴμ καινὴν εἶδον καταβαίνουσαν ἐκ τοῦ οὐρανοῦ ἀπὸ τοῦ θεοῦ ἡτοιμασμένην

ויתובא רוד-דע אובת
One reaches the generation of the ancestors
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ὡς νύμφην κεκοσμημένην τῷ ἀνδρὶ αὐτῆς). Members of the covenant facing martyrdoms and of those who trust in their wealth to give them immortality. This is in vain because everyone dies and has no benefit earth’s warming climate; and some hominins became bipedal (the ability to walk). About 1.9
of those who trust in their wealth to give them immortality. This is in vain because everyone dies and has no benefit
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ὡς νύμφην κεκοσμημένην τῷ ἀνδρὶ αὐτῆς). Members of the covenant facing martyrdoms and
from his former wealth. The italics are used to highlight this verse because it is the lynchpin of the psalm. “My feet”
Who will never again see light. :רוא - וארי אל חצנ - דע from his former wealth. The italics are used to highlight this verse because it is the lynchpin of the psalm. “My feet” 40 I am indebted to the insights of scientists reported by Eric Ralls in “Humans Almost Went Extinct as Population
(Heb., `akeivai), literally “my ankles.” Alternate reading: “When the sin of those who deceive me encompasses me.”
Declined to only 1,280 People,” Earth (September 1, 2023). See also, Wangjie Hu, et al., “Genomic Inference of a
I am indebted to the insights of scientists reported by Eric Ralls in “Humans Almost Went Extinct as Population
21

A man of assets – he
does not understand (that). ןיבי אלו רקיב םדא (Heb., `akeivai), literally “my ankles.” Alternate reading: “When the sin of those who deceive me encompasses me.” million years ago, Homo erectus appeared with a larger brain and could use advanced tools. Severe Human Bottleneck During the Early to Middle Pleastocene Transition,” Science 381 (31 August 2023).

In this alternate reading, the following verses describe those who deceive him.
In this alternate reading, the following verses describe those who deceive him.
Declined to only 1,280 People,” Earth (September 1, 2023). See also, Wangjie Hu, et al., “Genomic Inference of a
16 Recall Ezekiel 28:11-17, and Isaiah 14:12-15, and Job 1:7. Satan was once a cherub and a part of the divine council. 7 7 An aside on the inevitability of death: One cannot avoid death and, one cannot avoid leaving one’s wealth to others. Neanderthals appeared about 400,000 years ago but became extinct about 40,000 years ago. Homo Severe Human Bottleneck During the Early to Middle Pleastocene Transition,” Science 381 (31 August 2023).
16
Recall Ezekiel 28:11-17, and Isaiah 14:12-15, and Job 1:7. Satan was once a cherub and a part of the divine council.
An aside on the inevitability of death: One cannot avoid death and, one cannot avoid leaving one’s wealth to others.
30 11 26

1
Is that not clear? Is that dream not uplifting? We do all see “the sinners waxing strong.” How do
(2Bar 4:2-7). Why? It is because the Lord God took Paradise away from Adam and all his we have heard”), for national rage. To be sure, there are many psalms where there is more than Personally, I follow most scholars who conclude that Josephus’ identity of the authors of some dwellings for a relatively long period. They were not seasonal workers, for if they were we
one emotion involved, such as Psalm 147 (“Hallelujah, for it is good to sing unto our God”) where
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descendants, even Noah (ܒܐܕ ܐܤܝܕܪܦ ܗܢܡ ܗܠ ܬܙܠܓܬܐ.ܟܝܐ 2Bar 4:3). we inculcate being partners with the “people of heaven”? Dead Sea Scrolls and the collectors of the “Qumran Library” were Essenes. Hippolytus of Rome would most probably find similar sites in other parts of the oasis as well. All features of the

PSALM 49: A MEDITATION ON DEATH calls to praise God are mixed helter-skelter with the motifs of God of Zion; God as healer; God as (c. 170 – c. 255 CE) adds credulity to Josephus’ report and corrects some of his evaluations: site its location above Ein Gedi, simplicity, and unique nature conform to Pliny the Elder’s
Is the Morality in the Apocalypses Focused Only on This Earth?
Our dream literature eventually describes Paradise as open and waiting for us. Recall this poignant creator; God as a just judge and protector of the weak; God as revealer; and God as the One Who (d. 79 A.D.) famous passage on the Essenes, which he describes as a celibate group of men,

chooses the Jewish people.
None among them [the Essenes] is richer than the other; for the law with them is that
(2Bar 4:2-7). Why? It is because the Lord God took Paradise away from Adam and all his
passage in the Testament of Levi: Some nations rise and fall because of their military might; those nations would include, at least, Personally, I follow most scholars who conclude that Josephus’ identity of the authors of some living on the western shore of the Dead Sea, who have no money only palm trees for
1
we have heard”), for national rage. To be sure, there are many psalms where there is more than
dwellings for a relatively long period. They were not seasonal workers, for if they were we
Is that not clear? Is that dream not uplifting? We do all see “the sinners waxing strong.” How do
David R. Blumenthal
How does one depict on a printed page the voices, the themes, the structure, and the
17
descendants, even Noah (ܒܐܕ ܐܤܝܕܪܦ ܗܢܡ ܗܠ ܬܙܠܓܬܐ.ܟܝܐ 2Bar 4:3). the early Egyptians, Assyrians, Babylonians, Persians, Greeks, Romans, Huns, Mongols, and well Dead Sea Scrolls and the collectors of the “Qumran Library” were Essenes. Hippolytus of Rome company. He concludes by saying that below them lies Ein Gedi, which in his times was
whosoever joins their order must sell his possessions and hand the proceeds over to the
would most probably find similar sites in other parts of the oasis as well. All features of the
one emotion involved, such as Psalm 147 (“Hallelujah, for it is good to sing unto our God”) where

we inculcate being partners with the “people of heaven”?
37
common stock; and the leader distributes it to all [other Essenes] according to their need.
as the more recent Nazis. The ancient “heroes” were renowned because of great warriors like
site its location above Ein Gedi, simplicity, and unique nature conform to Pliny the Elder’s
And he shall open the gates of Paradise, emotions that may have motivated a psalm? That is the question. Many years of studying, (c. 170 – c. 255 CE) adds credulity to Josephus’ report and corrects some of his evaluations: "a heap of ashes" (Pliny, Natural History, V, xv.73; trans. By H. Rackham).
calls to praise God are mixed helter-skelter with the motifs of God of Zion; God as healer; God as
Our dream literature eventually describes Paradise as open and waiting for us. Recall this poignant creator; God as a just judge and protector of the weak; God as revealer; and God as the One Who Hippolytus continues adding a comment important for us now: “They have no special city (d. 79 A.D.) famous passage on the Essenes, which he describes as a celibate group of men,
Introduction
translating, commenting upon, and teaching psalms have led me to think that the following is the
Alexander the Great, Julius Caesar, and Genghis Khan. These nations and warriors, once powerful,
Is the Morality in the Apocalypses Focused Only on This Earth?

And he shall remove the threatening sword since Adam.
passage in the Testament of Levi: chooses the Jewish people. None among them [the Essenes] is richer than the other; for the law with them is that Hirschfield showed me his discovery at Ein Gedi which he called the “Essene Village,” and I was
Some nations rise and fall because of their military might; those nations would include, at least,
living on the western shore of the Dead Sea, who have no money only palm trees for

are in our proverbial review mirrors and lost in the dust behind.
best method: give each verse a line; group the verses of each voice on a different margin; and
The problem with reading psalms is that in most editions, in all languages, the verses are
[or village] of their own, but live in large numbers in different cities [or villages] …
And he shall permit the Holy Ones to eat from the tree of life.

How does one depict on a printed page the voices, the themes, the structure, and the
company. He concludes by saying that below them lies Ein Gedi, which in his times was
published in one continuous form. The psalm thus appears to the eye as one paragraph. Some the early Egyptians, Assyrians, Babylonians, Persians, Greeks, Romans, Huns, Mongols, and well whosoever joins their order must sell his possessions and hand the proceeds over to the impressed with this brilliant man and enjoyed the years we shared together in many ancient sites
group the verses of each structural unit (theme) in a paragraph by skipping a line. In addition, one
Particularly firm is their doctrine of resurrection; they believe that the flesh will rise again
[TLevi 18:10-11; my new translation]

And he shall open the gates of Paradise,
37
"a heap of ashes" (Pliny, Natural History, V, xv.73; trans. By H. Rackham).
emotions that may have motivated a psalm? That is the question. Many years of studying,
as the more recent Nazis. The ancient “heroes” were renowned because of great warriors like
common stock; and the leader distributes it to all [other Essenes] according to their need.
The Jews and Christians share a different concept of greatness. They have survived for millennia
should write footnotes with linguistic and stylistic comments and endnotes with reflections and
editors publish psalms with each verse beginning on a new line, but that is just an elongated
and then be immortal like the soul.”

within modern Israel, but conceivably the huts may have belonged to Jewish simple farmers. He

And he shall remove the threatening sword since Adam.
Hippolytus continues adding a comment important for us now: “They have no special city
Alexander the Great, Julius Caesar, and Genghis Khan. These nations and warriors, once powerful,
2
fundamentally because of morality, human values, and expectations and dreams. Many who read
paragraph. Occasionally, an editor will realize that some psalms have groups of verses that belong
advice on how to pray the psalm.
The author of this pseudepigraphon, as with many Semites, occasionally fails to make it pellucidly

And he shall permit the Holy Ones to eat from the tree of life.

best method: give each verse a line; group the verses of each voice on a different margin; and
are in our proverbial review mirrors and lost in the dust behind.
Hirschfield showed me his discovery at Ein Gedi which he called the “Essene Village,” and I was
[or village] of their own, but live in large numbers in different cities [or villages] …
together and so the editor will skip a line to signal the change. Even psalms written by a scribe in translating, commenting upon, and teaching psalms have led me to think that the following is the In Quod Omnis Probus Liber Sit paragraph 12, Philo of Alexandria (c. 20 BCE to 50 CE), who and I would appreciate careful responses to his hypothesis.
With this in mind, I would like to dedicate my translation and commentary of Psalm 49 to

my words would add, by the continuing presence and unlimited power of the Creator. These rules
clear who is the speaker. Most likely, Levi is the intended speaker. He informs his sons that the

[TLevi 18:10-11; my new translation]
These diverse ancient and modern reports on the Essenes make it highly likely that Essenes could
group the verses of each structural unit (theme) in a paragraph by skipping a line. In addition, one
Particularly firm is their doctrine of resurrection; they believe that the flesh will rise again
and perspectives are taught notably in families from an early age. The Testaments of the Twelve
a megillah have no visual form connected to the meaning of the text. All these visual presentations Gabi Barkay. My wife and I have known Gabi for over 60 years, as a fellow academic, but mostly visited Palestine, adds more insight for us to contemplate the location of the Essenes: impressed with this brilliant man and enjoyed the years we shared together in many ancient sites
should write footnotes with linguistic and stylistic comments and endnotes with reflections and

“new priest” whom the Lord shall raise up “shall open” (ἀνοίξει) “the gates of Paradise” (τὰς θύρας
The Jews and Christians share a different concept of greatness. They have survived for millennia
and then be immortal like the soul.”
be found in many villages within ancient Palestine. We now know, perhaps too little, about Essenes
of psalms do not tell us who is speaking, or to whom the speaker is talking. Further, these visual as a friend. We have been on tours all over Israel with him. We have sat in on his classes. We have within modern Israel, but conceivably the huts may have belonged to Jewish simple farmers. He
Patriarchs preserves an early record of this custom:
The author of this pseudepigraphon, as with many Semites, occasionally fails to make it pellucidly
2
fundamentally because of morality, human values, and expectations and dreams. Many who read
advice on how to pray the psalm.
τοῦ παραδείσου). Among a people oppressed consistently by foreign powers this divine promise
at Qumran, Jericho, perhaps above Ein Gedi, southwest Jerusalem, and in the Galilee. In addition,
presentations do not tell us what the emotion that might have generated the verses is, or how we worked on the sifting project. We have hosted him and his partner, Esther, in America. We have In Quod Omnis Probus Liber Sit paragraph 12, Philo of Alexandria (c. 20 BCE to 50 CE), who and I would appreciate careful responses to his hypothesis.
[A] number of men living in Syria and Palestine, over 4,000 according to my judgment,
clear who is the speaker. Most likely, Levi is the intended speaker. He informs his sons that the
With this in mind, I would like to dedicate my translation and commentary of Psalm 49 to

my words would add, by the continuing presence and unlimited power of the Creator. These rules
removes anguish and brings forward everlasting hope. Human perception of weakness and finitude
with Magen Broshi (1929-2020), I examined possible Essene burials, perhaps one mile west of
38
Teach your children also, in which battles between the Jerusalem and the Tel Aviv schools
36
know when the psalmist’s feeling changes. “Reciting psalms,” especially in a liturgical context, is sat with him through conferences visited Palestine, adds more insight for us to contemplate the location of the Essenes: These diverse ancient and modern reports on the Essenes make it highly likely that Essenes could
called “Essæi” (ὅσιοι) from their saintliness (though not exactly after the meaning of the
“new priest” whom the Lord shall raise up “shall open” (ἀνοίξει) “the gates of Paradise” (τὰς θύρας
and perspectives are taught notably in families from an early age. The Testaments of the Twelve
Gabi Barkay. My wife and I have known Gabi for over 60 years, as a fellow academic, but mostly
is evident throughout history. The Jew feels God’s omniscient loving-kindness. The human cannot
39know, perhaps too little, about Essenes
Jerusalem’s old walls. With Bargil Pixner (1921-2002), I studied possible Essene cisterns in
so that they might have understanding throughout all their lives
usually done by one person or even a whole community saying the verses out loud without any
τοῦ παραδείσου). Among a people oppressed consistently by foreign powers this divine promise took place. And we have spent endless hours just talking with him about politics, academic affairs, Greek language), they being eminently worshipers of God (θεραπευταί Θεον) — in the sense be found in many villages within ancient Palestine. We now
as a friend. We have been on tours all over Israel with him. We have sat in on his classes. We have
Patriarchs preserves an early record of this custom:
survive or enjoy life without “hope.”
at Qumran, Jericho, perhaps above Ein Gedi, southwest Jerusalem, and in the Galilee. In addition,
and personal matters.
attention to the basic questions just raised. Reciting psalms by reading aloud on page so-and-so,
[A] number of men living in Syria and Palestine, over 4,000 according to my judgment,
as they ceaselessly read the Law of God.
removes anguish and brings forward everlasting hope. Human perception of weakness and finitude worked on the sifting project. We have hosted him and his partner, Esther, in America. We have … that they are anxious to keep their minds in a priestly state of holiness. They prefer to live Mount Zion within the present Jerusalem Walls.
38
with Magen Broshi (1929-2020), I examined possible Essene burials, perhaps one mile west of
is evident throughout history. The Jew feels God’s omniscient loving-kindness. The human cannot
sat with him through conferences in which battles between the Jerusalem and the Tel Aviv schools
Teach your children also,
36
As we conclude and peruse the lives of humans over the past four thousand years, and more,
called “Essæi” (ὅσιοι) from their saintliness (though not exactly after the meaning of the
[TLevi 13:1-2; Kee in OTP 1.792-93]
or by reading responsively on page so-and-so, or just running through the text as part of a larger
Anyone who has walked with Gabi anywhere recognizes the question, “Do you see that
39
According to the author of the Testament of Abraham, Paradise is open again and the Holy Ones took place. And we have spent endless hours just talking with him about politics, academic affairs, in villages and avoid cities on account of the habitual wickedness of those who inhabit them, Jerusalem’s old walls. With Bargil Pixner (1921-2002), I studied possible Essene cisterns in
survive or enjoy life without “hope.”
so that they might have understanding throughout all their lives
th
th
Greek language), they being eminently worshipers of God (θεραπευταί Θεον) — in the sense
nothing has or can drain the human’s ability to dream. While in the 16 and 17 centuries, the
liturgy tells us nothing about the voices, the content, or the structure of the psalm.
building there?” and has then listened to an extended historical talk about it and its place in Jewish
knowing, as they do, that just as foul air breeds disease, so there is danger of contracting an
are assembled there. Note TAb 20; the speaker is “the undefiled voice of the God and Father”:
Mount Zion within the present Jerusalem Walls.

as they ceaselessly read the Law of God.

and Zionist history. And who can forget the tour of the tomboli (royal burial mounds) outside
The first task in understanding (and then praying) a psalm is to determine the various voices
We all assume good parents want their “children” to “have understanding throughout all their
incurable disease of the soul from such bad associations.
As we conclude and peruse the lives of humans over the past four thousand years, and more,

According to the author of the Testament of Abraham, Paradise is open again and the Holy Ones and personal matters. … that they are anxious to keep their minds in a priestly state of holiness. They prefer to live exploration of the sea was merely speculative, in the last few decades humans have discovered that
Anyone who has walked with Gabi anywhere recognizes the question, “Do you see that
[TLevi 13:1-2; Kee in OTP 1.792-93]
in villages and avoid cities on account of the habitual wickedness of those who inhabit them,
Jerusalem?! Or the tour of David’s City which culminated with standing in front of what are,
in the psalm. Sometimes, the psalmist is talking to God, but sometimes, he is talking to his lives.” Pausing to comprehend each word, I ponder why the author added “all.” Was he thinking scientific focused explorations have led to massive discoveries th th
nothing has or can drain the human’s ability to dream. While in the 16 and 17 centuries, the
are assembled there. Note TAb 20; the speaker is “the undefiled voice of the God and Father”:
building there?” and has then listened to an extended historical talk about it and its place in Jewish
Take, then, my friend Abraham into Paradise, where there are the tents of my righteous
knowing, as they do, that just as foul air breeds disease, so there is danger of contracting an
audience, including ourselves; or, in an aside, to himself. Sometimes, the pronouns he uses give almost surely, the graves of Kings David and Solomon, plundered by many and obliterated by the Also, contemplate what Philo reported in Hypothetica 11.1-18, many of Philo’s comments are now exploration of the sea was merely speculative, in the last few decades humans have discovered that
about the past, present, and future? The work is an apocalyptic testament so maybe the future

and Zionist history. And who can forget the tour of the tomboli (royal burial mounds) outside
incurable disease of the soul from such bad associations.
We all assume good parents want their “children” to “have understanding throughout all their
ones and (where) the mansions of my holy ones, Isaac and Jacob, are in his bosom, where
us a clue about which voice he is using; sometimes, he is ambiguous. Similarly, the psalmist is not Romans?! Or, standing in the holy of holies at the altar to God (not an altar to a pagan god) in grounded in some Dead Sea Scrolls. Note Philo’s conclusion focused on the Essenes: Healthy lives demand lively dreams. All humanity must realize the dire consequences we are
sharpened his vision. Recall again his prophecy of a blessed future shared later:
scientific focused explorations have led to massive discoveries
Take, then, my friend Abraham into Paradise, where there are the tents of my righteous
Jerusalem?! Or the tour of David’s City which culminated with standing in front of what are,
lives.” Pausing to comprehend each word, I ponder why the author added “all.” Was he thinking

there is no toil, no grief, no moaning, but peace and exultation and endless life.
the only voice in many of these texts. Sometimes, the psalmist speaks. At other times, God or the Arad?! Or being with him at Ketef Hinnom and hearing the story of the discovery of the amulet Also, contemplate what Philo reported in Hypothetica 11.1-18, many of Philo’s comments are now spying and then endeavor to achieve the optimism that too many of us have lost.

ones and (where) the mansions of my holy ones, Isaac and Jacob, are in his bosom, where
almost surely, the graves of Kings David and Solomon, plundered by many and obliterated by the
about the past, present, and future? The work is an apocalyptic testament so maybe the future
bystander or, perhaps, a chorus, is the speaker. Determining the person(s) being addressed and the with the early version of the priestly blessing, the amulet that may have been the predecessor of Now, this is the enviable system of life of these Essenes, so that not only private individuals Healthy lives demand lively dreams. All humanity must realize the dire consequences we are
[TAb 20:14; E.P. Sanders in OTP 1.895]
And he will open the gates of Paradise,
there is no toil, no grief, no moaning, but peace and exultation and endless life.
Romans?! Or, standing in the holy of holies at the altar to God (not an altar to a pagan god) in
sharpened his vision. Recall again his prophecy of a blessed future shared later:
voice(s) that are speaking in any psalm is, therefore, often the first task. the tefillin (phylacteries)?! grounded in some Dead Sea Scrolls. Note Philo’s conclusion focused on the Essenes: spying and then endeavor to achieve the optimism that too many of us have lost.
[TAb 20:14; E.P. Sanders in OTP 1.895]
If we hear replies that categorize this hope as unrealistic and unperceptive, we might reply by
And he will remove the threatening sword since Adam.
Arad?! Or being with him at Ketef Hinnom and hearing the story of the discovery of the amulet
but even mighty kings, admiring the men, venerate their sect, and increase their dignity and

The author provides a clear description of the holy ones, here the patriarchs, who do not toil, grieve, with the early version of the priestly blessing, the amulet that may have been the predecessor of Now, this is the enviable system of life of these Essenes, so that not only private individuals observing the tectonic plates that separate the Americas from Europe and Africa are moving and

At other times, the first task is to determine the themes and structure of the psalm. In some

And he will open the gates of Paradise,
Gabi’s combination of great learning, on many levels, has daz
And he will permit the Holy Ones to eat from the tree of life. zled us over and over again.
majesty in a still higher degree by their approbation and by the honors which they confer on
or moan, but enjoy peace, exultation, and endless life. All the fears of humans are replaced by the tefillin (phylacteries)?! 18 but even mighty kings, admiring the men, venerate their sect, and increase their dignity and If we hear replies that categorize this hope as unrealistic and unperceptive, we might reply by
The author provides a clear description of the holy ones, here the patriarchs, who do not toil, grieve,
And he will remove the threatening sword since Adam.
increasing the size of the Atlantic Ocean by about 1.5 inches each year. That too is unexpected and
psalms, the structure is clear as, for example, in Psalm 19 (“The heavens declare the glory of God”)
[TLevi 18:10-11; my new translation]
My wife likes to tell Gabi that he should have his brain transferred to a computer to preserve all
them. [11.18]
exultation and life without end. It is clear that he knows. Our lives, indeed our connection to Israel and Zionism, have been deeply influenced majesty in a still higher degree by their approbation and by the honors which they confer on observing the tectonic plates that separate the Americas from Europe and Africa are moving and
or moan, but enjoy peace, exultation, and endless life. All the fears of humans are replaced by
Gabi’s combination of great learning, on many levels, has dazzled us over and over again.

And he will permit the Holy Ones to eat from the tree of life.
unperceived by human eyes.
in which the first section deals with God in nature; the second with God in revelation; and the third
18
exultation and life without end. It is clear My wife likes to tell Gabi that he should have his brain transferred to a computer to preserve all Perhaps, Philo may be remembering how King Herod seems to have admired the Essenes. Why? increasing the size of the Atlantic Ocean by about 1.5 inches each year. That too is unexpected and
[TLevi 18:10-11; my new translation]
them. [11.18]

What a spectacular promise: “a new priest” will arise and “open the gates of Paradise.” Then,
with God in relationship to humans. Or, Psalm 145 (“I will raise You up, my God, the king”),
by Gabi. We are grateful to him for his friendship and his willingness to share what he knows with
Do the Apocalyptists Urge us to Live Elsewhere? that he knows. Our lives, indeed our connection to Israel and Zionism, have been deeply influenced unperceived by human eyes.
amazingly, “the Holy Ones” will “eat from the tree of life.” Jews and Christians survived because
which is an acrostic, the structure of which is the alphabet. But in most psalms, the structure is us. It is an honor to dedicate this essay to him. It is perhaps, because Herod shared with the Essenes a common enemy: the Hasmoneans. Epilogue

Do the Apocalyptists Urge us to Live Elsewhere?
What a spectacular promise: “a new priest” will arise and “open the gates of Paradise.” Then,
Those who have not comprehended the apocalypses err by claiming the dreamy apocalyptists by Gabi. We are grateful to him for his friendship and his willingness to share what he knows with Perhaps, Philo may be remembering how King Herod seems to have admired the Essenes. Why? If the cultural achievements and dreams of the early Jews did not billow up in smoke in September
hard to discern because the voices and the themes overlap, and change often. Determining the

they believed – and lived – that expectation.
Epilogue
Those who have not comprehended the apocalypses err by claiming the dreamy apocalyptists
us. It is an honor to dedicate this essay to him.
amazingly, “the Holy Ones” will “eat from the tree of life.” Jews and Christians survived because
It is perhaps, because Herod shared with the Essenes a common enemy: the Hasmoneans.
mislead us, because we must not live as if the far-off-world is our only abode. Let us not forget
themes and their relationship to one another (the structure) is, then, the second task.
If the cultural achievements and dreams of the early Jews did not billow up in smoke in September
mislead us, because we must not live as if the far-off-world is our only abode. Let us not forget

they believed – and lived – that expectation.

that almost always, the apocalyptic seer returns to earth to instruct and fill the faithful with hope. Just the Text Most of the leading scholars today concur that the Essenes left the cities of Palestine and lived in 70 CE, they practically vanished by the middle of the second century CE. During the following
The rapidly changing voices and themes mean that the first and second tasks are not always
period, apocalyptic hopeful expectations and cosmological speculations were demoted then

Psalm 49
70 CE, they practically vanished by the middle of the second century CE. During the following
that almost always, the apocalyptic seer returns to earth to instruct and fill the faithful with hope.
Just the Text
villages. Pliny the Elder (Gaius Plinius Secundus lived from c. 23 to 79 CE) locates some of them
Recall 1 Enoch 104: 1 A conundrum concerning death Most of the leading scholars today concur that the Essenes left the cities of Palestine and lived in period, apocalyptic hopeful expectations and cosmological speculations were demoted then
What Significant Advances Have Been Made in the Study of Ancient Apocalypses?
“first”, and then “second.” Rather, the determination of voice, theme, and structure must evolve
Recall 1 Enoch 104:
Psalm 49
west of the Dead Sea and reports: “Below them was En-gedi” (Natural History 5.15.73). Pliny’s
villages. Pliny the Elder (Gaius Plinius Secundus lived from c. 23 to 79 CE) locates some of them
1
A conundrum concerning death
together. I remember the first PhD seminar I taught at Duke University in the early 1970s on the Old description lacks clarity. Did Pliny mean Ein Gedi (يدج نيع ,יִּדֶג ןי ע) was at a lower elevation or
What Significant Advances Have Been Made in the Study of Ancient Apocalypses?
37

west of the Dead Sea and reports: “Below them was En-gedi” (Natural History 5.15.73). Pliny’s
Now fear not, righteous ones, when you see the sinners waxing strong and
Now fear not, righteous ones, when you see the sinners waxing strong and
The next task in understanding (and then praying) a psalm is to determine the emotion that might I remember the first PhD seminar I taught at Duke University in the early 1970s on the Old description lacks clarity. Did Pliny mean Ein Gedi (يدج نيع ,יִּדֶג ןי ע) was at a lower elevation or 37 From Y. Aharoni, “Archaeological Survey of 'Ein Gedi,” Bulletin of the Israel Exploration Society 22 (1958) 27

2
Testament Pseudepigrapha. More than 50 books had to be placed on reserve so the students could

:םימעה-לכ תאז-ועמש
Hear this, all peoples.

From Y. Aharoni, “Archaeological Survey of 'Ein Gedi,” Bulletin of the Israel Exploration Society 22 (1958) 27
[in Hebrew]. See esp. Yizhar Hirschfeld, Ein-Gedi Excavations I: Final Report (Jerusalem; Israel Exploration Society,
Hear this, all peoples.
have generated such a psalm. There are times when that emotion is gratitude, such as Psalm 100 2 Testament Pseudepigrapha. More than 50 books had to be placed on reserve so the students could that it was to the south. Above Ein Gedi are huts that Yizhar Hirschfield (1950-2006) imagined [in Hebrew]. See esp. Yizhar Hirschfeld, Ein-Gedi Excavations I: Final Report (Jerusalem; Israel Exploration Society,
:םימעה-לכ תאז-ועמש
flourishing, do not be partners with them, but keep far away from those who

flourishing, do not be partners with them, but keep far away from those who

:דלח יבשי

Listen, all who dwell on earth –
לכ וניזאה
-
read translations of the works; there was no definition of this genre and no published collection
2007).
that it was to the south. Above Ein Gedi are huts that Yizhar Hirschfield (1950-2006) imagined
lean onto their own injustice; for you are to be partners with the good-hearted
(“A psalm of thanksgiving”), or Psalm 113 (“Hallelujah, sing praise, oh servants of the Lord”). 3 Listen, all who dwell on earth – :דלח יבשי - לכ וניזאה may have belonged to Essenes: 38 2007).
read translations of the works; there was no definition of this genre and no published collection
lean onto their own injustice; for you are to be partners with the good-hearted
except, perhaps, Johann Albert Fabricius’ collection in Latin, Codex pseudepigraphus Veteris
Ordinary people and those who are privileged, שיא-ינב-םג םדא ינב-םג
I have been influenced by M. Broshi and S. Gibson, “Excavations Along the Western and Southern Walls of the
We may assume that the inhabitants of these cells were Jews, since the site was part of the
people of heaven. [1En 104:6; Isaac in OTP 1.85] 3 except, perhaps, Johann Albert Fabricius’ collection in Latin, Codex pseudepigraphus Veteris may have belonged to Essenes: 38 I have been influenced by M. Broshi and S. Gibson, “Excavations Along the Western and Southern Walls of the
Ordinary people and those who are privileged, שיא-ינב-םג םדא ינב-םג
people of heaven. [1En 104:6; Isaac in OTP 1.85]
Testamenti in 1713 and Jacques-Paul Migne’s French collection in Dictionnaire des apocryphes
Old City of Jerusalem,” Ancient Jerusalem Revealed, edited by Hillel Geva (Jerusalem: Israel Exploration Society,
There are others where the emotion is danger, such as Psalm 30 (“I will raise you up, my
God, for You have saved me”), or Psalm 121 (“I lift up my eyes to the mountains from whence Testamenti in 1713 and Jacques-Paul Migne’s French collection in Dictionnaire des apocryphes We may assume that the inhabitants of these cells were Jews, since the site was part of the Old City of Jerusalem,” Ancient Jerusalem Revealed, edited by Hillel Geva (Jerusalem: Israel Exploration Society,
Ein Gedi oasis, which was situated nearby a Jewish village (mentioned by Josephus Flavius

1994) pp. 147-155.
in 1856. R.H. Charles’ monumental volumes in 1913, The Apocrypha and Pseudepigrapha of the
Ein Gedi oasis, which was situated nearby a Jewish village (mentioned by Josephus Flavius

1994) pp. 147-155.
If you doubt this, pick the person you are angriest at, take verses 6-19 of Psalm 109, and recite them out loud with
1
Old Testament were out-of-print and widely considered an abridged version of the ill-defined
in the first century and by Eusebius in the early fourth century). The installations and small
39
comes my help”). Psalms 38-39 (“Lord, do not rebuke me in Your anger”) provide examples of in 1856. R.H. Charles’ monumental volumes in 1913, The Apocrypha and Pseudepigrapha of the in the first century and by Eusebius in the early fourth century). The installations and small 39 B. Pixner, With Jesus In Jerusalem: His First and Last Days in Judea (Rosh Pina, Israel: Corazin Publishing, 1996).
B. Pixner, With Jesus In Jerusalem: His First and Last Days in Judea (Rosh Pina, Israel: Corazin Publishing, 1996).
1
If you doubt this, pick the person you are angriest at, take verses 6-19 of Psalm 109, and recite them out loud with
Old Testament were out-of-print and widely considered an abridged version of the ill-defined
artifacts found inside the cells indicate that the inhabitants lived in these as permanent
Esp. see, Pixner, “Jerusalem’s Essene Gateway: Where the Community Lived in Jesus’ Time," Biblical
outright despair, and there are yet others when it is anger, sometimes even rage, such as Psalm 109 him in mind. If that person is female, change the pronouns. And, if you are still doubtful, put a vision of the holocaust artifacts found inside the cells indicate that the inhabitants lived in these as permanent Esp. see, Pixner, “Jerusalem’s Essene Gateway: Where the Community Lived in Jesus’ Time," Biblical
him in mind. If that person is female, change the pronouns. And, if you are still doubtful, put a vision of the holocaust

in your mind and recite verses 19-27 of Psalm 44 out loud, being sure to raise your voice for verses 24-27.
Archaeological Review 23 (1997) 22–31. I relish the years shared with Bargil in Galilee and Jerusalem and the
(“Oh God of my praise, do not in your mind and recite verses 19-27 of Psalm 44 out loud, being sure to raise your voice for verses 24-27. Archaeological Review 23 (1997) 22–31. I relish the years shared with Bargil in Galilee and Jerusalem and the
be silent”) for personal rage, and Psalm 44 (“Oh God, with our ears

17

I hope, with the help of the Almighty, to publish a book of selected Psalms in this manner before my time in this

evenings with him and his colleagues in the Benedictine Dominion Abbey in Jerusalem. With him, I have endeavored
For the Syriac text, see S. Dedering, “Apocalypse of Baruch,” Vetus Testamentum Syriace (Leiden: Brill, 1973) p.
I hope, with the help of the Almighty, to publish a book of selected Psalms in this manner before my time in this
evenings with him and his colleagues in the Benedictine Dominion Abbey in Jerusalem. With him, I have endeavored
2 2
17 For the Syriac text, see S. Dedering, “Apocalypse of Baruch,” Vetus Testamentum Syriace (Leiden: Brill, 1973) p. 18 I endeavor to reserve “shall” for God’s actions. 36 I corrected the Greek. to stress the Jewishness of Jesus and commonality today between Jews and Christians.
18
36
[2].
world is over.
world is over.
I endeavor to reserve “shall” for God’s actions.
to stress the Jewishness of Jesus and commonality today between Jews and Christians.
I corrected the Greek.
[2].
28 13 24