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Is that not clear? Is that dream not uplifting? We do all see “the sinners waxing strong.” How do
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 (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
17
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 descendants, even Noah (ܒܐܕ ܐܤܝܕܪܦ ܗܢܡ ܗܠ ܬܙܠܓܬܐ.ܟܝܐ 2Bar 4:3). one emotion involved, such as Psalm 147 (“Hallelujah, for it is good to sing unto our God”) where

(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 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
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, Our dream literature eventually describes Paradise as open and waiting for us. Recall this poignant Is the Morality in the Apocalypses Focused Only on This Earth?

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
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
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 passage in the Testament of Levi: Some nations rise and fall because of their military might; those nations would include, at least,
David R. Blumenthal
How does one depict on a printed page the voices, the themes, the structure, and the
whosoever joins their order must sell his possessions and hand the proceeds over to the
17

one emotion involved, such as Psalm 147 (“Hallelujah, for it is good to sing unto our God”) where
would most probably find similar sites in other parts of the oasis as well. All features of the
we inculcate being partners with the “people of heaven”?
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 descendants, even Noah (ܒܐܕ ܐܤܝܕܪܦ ܗܢܡ ܗܠ ܬܙܠܓܬܐ.ܟܝܐ 2Bar 4:3). the early Egyptians, Assyrians, Babylonians, Persians, Greeks, Romans, Huns, Mongols, and well
emotions that may have motivated a psalm? That is the question. Many years of studying,
37
common stock; and the leader distributes it to all [other Essenes] according to their need.
calls to praise God are mixed helter-skelter with the motifs of God of Zion; God as healer; God as
site its location above Ein Gedi, simplicity, and unique nature conform to Pliny the Elder’s
(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). And he shall open the gates of Paradise, as the more recent Nazis. The ancient “heroes” were renowned because of great warriors like
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,
Our dream literature eventually describes Paradise as open and waiting for us. Recall this poignant
Is the Morality in the Apocalypses Focused Only on This Earth?
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 creator; God as a just judge and protector of the weak; God as revealer; and God as the One Who

And he shall remove the threatening sword since Adam.
living on the western shore of the Dead Sea, who have no money only palm trees for

Some nations rise and fall because of their military might; those nations would include, at least,
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
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 passage in the Testament of Levi: chooses the Jewish people.
[or village] of their own, but live in large numbers in different cities [or villages] …
are in our proverbial review mirrors and lost in the dust behind.

And he shall permit the Holy Ones to eat from the tree of life.
company. He concludes by saying that below them lies Ein Gedi, which in his times was
How does one depict on a printed page the voices, the themes, the structure, and the
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 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
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]
"a heap of ashes" (Pliny, Natural History, V, xv.73; trans. By H. Rackham).
And he shall open the gates of Paradise,
37
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. within modern Israel, but conceivably the huts may have belonged to Jewish simple farmers. He editors publish psalms with each verse beginning on a new line, but that is just an elongated emotions that may have motivated a psalm? That is the question. Many years of studying,
should write footnotes with linguistic and stylistic comments and endnotes with reflections and
The Jews and Christians share a different concept of greatness. They have survived for millennia
and then be immortal like the soul.”

And he shall remove the threatening sword since Adam.
translating, commenting upon, and teaching psalms have led me to think that the following is the
2
advice on how to pray the psalm.
Hippolytus continues adding a comment important for us now: “They have no special city and I would appreciate careful responses to his hypothesis. paragraph. Occasionally, an editor will realize that some psalms have groups of verses that belong Alexander the Great, Julius Caesar, and Genghis Khan. These nations and warriors, once powerful,
fundamentally because of morality, human values, and expectations and dreams. Many who read
The author of this pseudepigraphon, as with many Semites, occasionally fails to make it pellucidly
best method: give each verse a line; group the verses of each voice on a different margin; and
And he shall permit the Holy Ones to eat from the tree of life.

[or village] of their own, but live in large numbers in different cities [or villages] …
my words would add, by the continuing presence and unlimited power of the Creator. These rules

With this in mind, I would like to dedicate my translation and commentary of Psalm 49 to
In Quod Omnis Probus Liber Sit paragraph 12, Philo of Alexandria (c. 20 BCE to 50 CE), who Hirschfield showed me his discovery at Ein Gedi which he called the “Essene Village,” and I was together and so the editor will skip a line to signal the change. Even psalms written by a scribe in are in our proverbial review mirrors and lost in the dust behind.
clear who is the speaker. Most likely, Levi is the intended speaker. He informs his sons that the
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
[TLevi 18:10-11; my new translation]
Particularly firm is their doctrine of resurrection; they believe that the flesh will rise again
impressed with this brilliant man and enjoyed the years we shared together in many ancient sites
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: be found in many villages within ancient Palestine. We now know, perhaps too little, about Essenes a megillah have no visual form connected to the meaning of the text. All these visual presentations and perspectives are taught notably in families from an early age. The Testaments of the Twelve

“new priest” whom the Lord shall raise up “shall open” (ἀνοίξει) “the gates of Paradise” (τὰς θύρας
should write footnotes with linguistic and stylistic comments and endnotes with reflections and
The Jews and Christians share a different concept of greatness. They have survived for millennia
and then be immortal like the soul.”
Patriarchs preserves an early record of this custom:
within modern Israel, but conceivably the huts may have belonged to Jewish simple farmers. He 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
The author of this pseudepigraphon, as with many Semites, occasionally fails to make it pellucidly
2
advice on how to pray the psalm.
fundamentally because of morality, human values, and expectations and dreams. Many who read
τοῦ παραδείσου). Among a people oppressed consistently by foreign powers this divine promise
and I would appreciate careful responses to his hypothesis.
at Qumran, Jericho, perhaps above Ein Gedi, southwest Jerusalem, and in the Galilee. In addition,
[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
In Quod Omnis Probus Liber Sit paragraph 12, Philo of Alexandria (c. 20 BCE to 50 CE), who These diverse ancient and modern reports on the Essenes make it highly likely that Essenes could 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
removes anguish and brings forward everlasting hope. Human perception of weakness and finitude
38
with Magen Broshi (1929-2020), I examined possible Essene burials, perhaps one mile west of
36
Teach your children also, in which battles between the Jerusalem and the Tel Aviv schools
Gabi Barkay. My wife and I have known Gabi for over 60 years, as a fellow academic, but mostly
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
visited Palestine, adds more insight for us to contemplate the location of the Essenes: be found in many villages within ancient Palestine. We now know when the psalmist’s feeling changes. “Reciting psalms,” especially in a liturgical context, is sat with him through conferences
is evident throughout history. The Jew feels God’s omniscient loving-kindness. The human cannot
39know, perhaps too little, about Essenes
usually done by one person or even a whole community saying the verses out loud without any
Patriarchs preserves an early record of this custom:
as a friend. We have been on tours all over Israel with him. We have sat in on his classes. We have
so that they might have understanding throughout all their lives
Greek language), they being eminently worshipers of God (θεραπευταί Θεον) — in the sense Jerusalem’s old walls. With Bargil Pixner (1921-2002), I studied possible Essene cisterns in 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,
survive or enjoy life without “hope.”
at Qumran, Jericho, perhaps above Ein Gedi, southwest Jerusalem, and in the Galilee. In addition,
as they ceaselessly read the Law of God.
and personal matters.
[A] number of men living in Syria and Palestine, over 4,000 according to my judgment, Mount Zion within the present Jerusalem Walls. 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
attention to the basic questions just raised. Reciting psalms by reading aloud on page so-and-so,
… that they are anxious to keep their minds in a priestly state of holiness. They prefer to live

38
Teach your children also,
36
called “Essæi” (ὅσιοι) from their saintliness (though not exactly after the meaning of the 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
As we conclude and peruse the lives of humans over the past four thousand years, and more,
[TLevi 13:1-2; Kee in OTP 1.792-93]

Anyone who has walked with Gabi anywhere recognizes the question, “Do you see that
or by reading responsively on page so-and-so, or just running through the text as part of a larger
in villages and avoid cities on account of the habitual wickedness of those who inhabit them,
39
survive or enjoy life without “hope.”
Greek language), they being eminently worshipers of God (θεραπευταί Θεον) — in the sense Jerusalem’s old walls. With Bargil Pixner (1921-2002), I studied possible Essene cisterns in 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,
so that they might have understanding throughout all their lives
th
th
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

as they ceaselessly read the Law of God.
… 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. are assembled there. Note TAb 20; the speaker is “the undefiled voice of the God and Father”: and personal matters.
exploration of the sea was merely speculative, in the last few decades humans have discovered that

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
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.
[TLevi 13:1-2; Kee in OTP 1.792-93]
Anyone who has walked with Gabi anywhere recognizes the question, “Do you see that
scientific focused explorations have led to massive discoveries
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
in villages and avoid cities on account of the habitual wickedness of those who inhabit them, 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 lives.” Pausing to comprehend each word, I ponder why the author added “all.” Was he thinking
th
nothing has or can drain the human’s ability to dream. While in the 16 and 17 centuries, the
th
building there?” and has then listened to an extended historical talk about it and its place in Jewish
are assembled there. Note TAb 20; the speaker is “the undefiled voice of the God and Father”:
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
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 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
about the past, present, and future? The work is an apocalyptic testament so maybe the future

We all assume good parents want their “children” to “have understanding throughout all their
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.
ones and (where) the mansions of my holy ones, Isaac and Jacob, are in his bosom, where
sharpened his vision. Recall again his prophecy of a blessed future shared later:
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 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
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.
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. 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

almost surely, the graves of Kings David and Solomon, plundered by many and obliterated by the
ones and (where) the mansions of my holy ones, Isaac and Jacob, are in his bosom, where
about the past, present, and future? The work is an apocalyptic testament so maybe the future

[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.
Now, this is the enviable system of life of these Essenes, so that not only private individuals
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:
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 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

If we hear replies that categorize this hope as unrealistic and unperceptive, we might reply by
[TAb 20:14; E.P. Sanders in OTP 1.895]
the tefillin (phylacteries)?!
And he will remove the threatening sword since Adam.
but even mighty kings, admiring the men, venerate their sect, and increase their dignity and spying and then endeavor to achieve the optimism that too many of us have lost. voice(s) that are speaking in any psalm is, therefore, often the first task. Arad?! Or being with him at Ketef Hinnom and hearing the story of the discovery of the amulet

And he will open the gates of Paradise,

And he will permit the Holy Ones to eat from the tree of life. zled us over and over again.
Gabi’s combination of great learning, on many levels, has daz
At other times, the first task is to determine the themes and structure of the psalm. In some
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 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

majesty in a still higher degree by their approbation and by the honors which they confer on
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.
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 or moan, but enjoy peace, exultation, and endless life. All the fears of humans are replaced by the tefillin (phylacteries)?! 18
My wife likes to tell Gabi that he should have his brain transferred to a computer to preserve all
psalms, the structure is clear as, for example, in Psalm 19 (“The heavens declare the glory of God”)
increasing the size of the Atlantic Ocean by about 1.5 inches each year. That too is unexpected and
them. [11.18]
[TLevi 18:10-11; my new translation]
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
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 exultation and life without end. It is clear that he knows. Our lives, indeed our connection to Israel and Zionism, have been deeply influenced
increasing the size of the Atlantic Ocean by about 1.5 inches each year. That too is unexpected and
exultation and life without end. It is clear
18
[TLevi 18:10-11; my new translation]
them. [11.18]
by Gabi. We are grateful to him for his friendship and his willingness to share what he knows with
What a spectacular promise: “a new priest” will arise and “open the gates of Paradise.” Then,
Perhaps, Philo may be remembering how King Herod seems to have admired the Essenes. Why? with God in relationship to humans. Or, Psalm 145 (“I will raise You up, my God, the king”), My wife likes to tell Gabi that he should have his brain transferred to a computer to preserve all
It is perhaps, because Herod shared with the Essenes a common enemy: the Hasmoneans. unperceived by human eyes. which is an acrostic, the structure of which is the alphabet. But in most psalms, the structure is that he knows. Our lives, indeed our connection to Israel and Zionism, have been deeply influenced
Do the Apocalyptists Urge us to Live Elsewhere?
Epilogue
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
Do the Apocalyptists Urge us to Live Elsewhere?
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 Those who have not comprehended the apocalypses err by claiming the dreamy apocalyptists What a spectacular promise: “a new priest” will arise and “open the gates of Paradise.” Then,

they believed – and lived – that expectation.
hard to discern because the voices and the themes overlap, and change often. Determining the

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. 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.
mislead us, because we must not live as if the far-off-world is our only abode. Let us not forget
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 themes and their relationship to one another (the structure) is, then, the second task. Just the Text
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.

The rapidly changing voices and themes mean that the first and second tasks are not always
70 CE, they practically vanished by the middle of the second century CE. During the following
villages. Pliny the Elder (Gaius Plinius Secundus lived from c. 23 to 79 CE) locates some of them period, apocalyptic hopeful expectations and cosmological speculations were demoted then that almost always, the apocalyptic seer returns to earth to instruct and fill the faithful with hope. Psalm 49
Just the Text
that almost always, the apocalyptic seer returns to earth to instruct and fill the faithful with hope.
Most of the leading scholars today concur that the Essenes left the cities of Palestine and lived in
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
Psalm 49
Recall 1 Enoch 104:
west of the Dead Sea and reports: “Below them was En-gedi” (Natural History 5.15.73). Pliny’s period, apocalyptic hopeful expectations and cosmological speculations were demoted then Recall 1 Enoch 104: 1 A conundrum concerning death
villages. Pliny the Elder (Gaius Plinius Secundus lived from c. 23 to 79 CE) locates some of them

What Significant Advances Have Been Made in the Study of Ancient Apocalypses?
I remember the first PhD seminar I taught at Duke University in the early 1970s on the Old
west of the Dead Sea and reports: “Below them was En-gedi” (Natural History 5.15.73). Pliny’s together. 1 A conundrum concerning death
37
description lacks clarity. Did Pliny mean Ein Gedi (يدج نيع ,יִּדֶג ןי ע) was at a lower elevation or
From Y. Aharoni, “Archaeological Survey of 'Ein Gedi,” Bulletin of the Israel Exploration Society 22 (1958) 27
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

:םימעה-לכ תאז-ועמש

Hear this, all peoples.
Testament Pseudepigrapha. More than 50 books had to be placed on reserve so the students could
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 The next task in understanding (and then praying) a psalm is to determine the emotion that might 2 I remember the first PhD seminar I taught at Duke University in the early 1970s on the Old
[in Hebrew]. See esp. Yizhar Hirschfeld, Ein-Gedi Excavations I: Final Report (Jerusalem; Israel Exploration Society,
that it was to the south. Above Ein Gedi are huts that Yizhar Hirschfield (1950-2006) imagined
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
2

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

read translations of the works; there was no definition of this genre and no published collection
:דלח יבשי
לכ וניזאה
Listen, all who dwell on earth –
-

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, have generated such a psalm. There are times when that emotion is gratitude, such as Psalm 100 Testament Pseudepigrapha. More than 50 books had to be placed on reserve so the students could
2007).
may have belonged to Essenes:
lean onto their own injustice; for you are to be partners with the good-hearted
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
Ordinary people and those who are privileged, שיא-ינב-םג םדא ינב-םג
except, perhaps, Johann Albert Fabricius’ collection in Latin, Codex pseudepigraphus Veteris
I have been influenced by M. Broshi and S. Gibson, “Excavations Along the Western and Southern Walls of the
may have belonged to Essenes: 38 2007). (“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
We may assume that the inhabitants of these cells were Jews, since the site was part of the
38
3
people of heaven. [1En 104:6; Isaac in OTP 1.85]

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
There are others where the emotion is danger, such as Psalm 30 (“I will raise you up, my
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, 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
Ein Gedi oasis, which was situated nearby a Jewish village (mentioned by Josephus Flavius
Old City of Jerusalem,” Ancient Jerusalem Revealed, edited by Hillel Geva (Jerusalem: Israel Exploration Society,
Testamenti in 1713 and Jacques-Paul Migne’s French collection in Dictionnaire des apocryphes
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. God, for You have saved me”), or Psalm 121 (“I lift up my eyes to the mountains from whence

1994) pp. 147-155.
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). in 1856. R.H. Charles’ monumental volumes in 1913, The Apocrypha and Pseudepigrapha of the
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
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). comes my help”). Psalms 38-39 (“Lord, do not rebuke me in Your anger”) provide examples of Old Testament were out-of-print and widely considered an abridged version of the ill-defined
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
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 Old Testament were out-of-print and widely considered an abridged version of the ill-defined
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
him in mind. If that person is female, change the pronouns. And, if you are still doubtful, put a vision of the holocaust
Esp. see, Pixner, “Jerusalem’s Essene Gateway: Where the Community Lived in Jesus’ Time," Biblical

Archaeological Review 23 (1997) 22–31. I relish the years shared with Bargil in Galilee and Jerusalem and the
in your mind and recite verses 19-27 of Psalm 44 out loud, being sure to raise your voice for verses 24-27.

(“Oh God of my praise, do not
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 in your mind and recite verses 19-27 of Psalm 44 out loud, being sure to raise your voice for verses 24-27.
17

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

For the Syriac text, see S. Dedering, “Apocalypse of Baruch,” Vetus Testamentum Syriace (Leiden: Brill, 1973) p.
evenings with him and his colleagues in the Benedictine Dominion Abbey in Jerusalem. With him, I have endeavored
evenings with him and his colleagues in the Benedictine Dominion Abbey in Jerusalem. With him, I have endeavored
2 2
I hope, with the help of the Almighty, to publish a book of selected Psalms in this manner before my time in this
36 I corrected the Greek. to stress the Jewishness of Jesus and commonality today between Jews and Christians. 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.
[2].
36
18
world is over.
to stress the Jewishness of Jesus and commonality today between Jews and Christians.
world is over.
I endeavor to reserve “shall” for God’s actions.
I corrected the Greek.
[2].
25 12 29

mistakes. What wisdom disappeared in smoke when the great libraries, like the one in Alexandria, trusted. When he declared creation “good” and “very good” God knew, according to the priestly dismissed as focus turned to moral obsessions on an isolated earth. Only one later story preserves who dismiss the description of the serpent in Genesis as fictious need to continue reading and
corpus. I discovered that the lead plates of Charles’ volumes had been melted down to make bullets
40
sapiens began to appear about 300,000 years ago in Africa. The evolution was multidimensional
were burned? scribes, that human destiny would be beatific. in the Great War. All students preferred translations in English; moreover, virtually no reliable text studying.
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
the blessed heavens by intense focus on G-d’s Ineffable Name (Tosafot, Chagiga 14b, Zohar who dismiss the description of the serpent in Genesis as fictious need to continue reading and
editions were published for many of the documents I was convinced should be included in the
inadvertently, became extinct in the Pleistocene era, so humans may deliberately obliterate all
3. Are the Apocalypses the Dream Literature of Antiquity? Yes, that is characteristic of the I have heard the tale of an old native American who, centuries ago, was leading his tribe from cold 1.26b, and Tikunei Zohar, Tikun 40). studying. 40
corpus we all called “the Old Testament Pseudepigrapha.”
earthly life.
sapiens began to appear about 300,000 years ago in Africa. The evolution was multidimensional
major apocalypses. But we should also add that the apocalypses ultimately revealed the importance Montana to warm Texas, an ideal land in the south that is free of snow. He was stopped on the way corpus. I discovered that the lead plates of Charles’ volumes had been melted down to make bullets and involved vast transformations and increased abilities. Just as humans once, almost
mistakes. What wisdom disappeared in smoke when the great libraries, like the one in Alexandria,
trusted. When he declared creation “good” and “very good” God knew, according to the priestly
Is there also a blessed scenario? Yes, but it is preserved in ancient apocalypses, notably Daniel and
Many of the books in the Hebrew Bible, apocalypses, Dead Sea Scrolls, the Pseudepigrapha, and
and fragility of life on earth and enriched speculations and provided in-depth moral insights. with this warning: “Sir, do you not know there are deadly snakes, deserts, and horrible heat where in the Great War. All students preferred translations in English; moreover, virtually no reliable text inadvertently, became extinct in the Pleistocene era, so humans may deliberately obliterate all
Since the 1970s, gifted men and women have provided texts, translations, and studies focused on
were burned?
scribes, that human destiny would be beatific.
Revelation.
most of the New Testament, bear witness to the former apocalyptic imaginations; the latter ethical
one of the documents in the OTP. Now we have a known corpus that is increasing. At that time,

you are leading your people?” He replied: “We are moving because we spy a blessed place and editions were published for many of the documents I was convinced should be included in the earthly life.

focus was almost always on philology and history. Now, we have a vineyard of ancient apocalyptic
3. Are the Apocalypses the Dream Literature of Antiquity? Yes, that is characteristic of the I have heard the tale of an old native American who, centuries ago, was leading his tribe from cold corpus we all called “the Old Testament Pseudepigrapha.” Is there also a blessed scenario? Yes, but it is preserved in ancient apocalypses, notably Daniel and
masterpieces are preserved in the Mishnah and Rabbinic texts.
4. Do we Become Present when We Imagine a Place Phenomenologically? Absolutely, that
dream of it. We all must dream.” Perception and understanding may be found in stories.
What did the early optimistic apocalyptists imagine? They pondered a Creator that had promised
major apocalypses. But we should also add that the apocalypses ultimately revealed the importance Montana to warm Texas, an ideal land in the south that is free of snow. He was stopped on the way creations, so to speak, and we may enjoy its fruits by exploring the eternal questions and asking in Revelation.
is pellucidly obvious thanks to the publications of Maurice Merleau-Ponty. When we imagine a

and fragility of life on earth and enriched speculations and provided in-depth moral insights. with this warning: “Sir, do you not know there are deadly snakes, deserts, and horrible heat where Since the 1970s, gifted men and women have provided texts, translations, and studies focused on a marvelous world, evident now only in their ten or more heavens, and soon appearing on earth
During Early Judaism – approximately 300 BCE to 150 CE – the great apocalypses, like Daniel,
distant location, we also imagine that somehow and in some way, we are present entering that

what ways, if at all, these complex ancient compositions help us draw closer to possibly reliable
I am reminded of the description of the land of “the Blessed Ones” in the History of the Rechabites,
due to God’s continuing fidelity, love, and righteousness. Many Jews and Christians before about

place to describe it. Those who enter the heavens, according to the authors of the Apocalypses and you are leading your people?” He replied: “We are moving because we spy a blessed place and one of the documents in the OTP. Now we have a known corpus that is increasing. At that time, What did the early optimistic apocalyptists imagine? They pondered a Creator that had promised
1 Enoch, 2 Enoch, 4 Ezra, 2 Baruch, the History of the Rechabites, and the vast amounts
(perhaps revealed) perceptions and answers. Here are some areas we may all continue to explore: of
a document in the Pseudepigrapha. Recall how after God had brought the seer among “the Blessed
150 CE, imagined and expected “a New Jerusalem” descending to earth (Revelation 21:1-2).
focus was almost always on philology and history. Now, we have a vineyard of ancient apocalyptic
4. Do we Become Present when We Imagine a Place Phenomenologically? Absolutely, that
apocalyptic literature, imagine that visionary men like Enoch and Ezra, who visit the heavens dream of it. We all must dream.” Perception and understanding may be found in stories. apocalyptic texts, like The Testaments of the Twelve Patriarchs, were composed. What was the a marvelous world, evident now only in their ten or more heavens, and soon appearing on earth
Ones” on a paradisaic island, he shares their report about their life:
is pellucidly obvious thanks to the publications of Maurice Merleau-Ponty. When we imagine a creations, so to speak, and we may enjoy its fruits by exploring the eternal questions and asking in
above, or Zosimos, who is guided to the mysterious islands, are depicted present in such places to I am reminded of the description of the land of “the Blessed Ones” in the History of the Rechabites, primary message of those who created the luminous apocalypses and apocalyptic compositions? due to God’s continuing fidelity, love, and righteousness. Many Jews and Christians before about
First, how is the Creator perceived? Are we wise to ask about monotheism or henotheism? To what
what ways, if at all, these complex ancient compositions help us draw closer to possibly reliable
The Jewish and Christian authors of the apocalyptic masterpieces and the modern astrophysicists
distant location, we also imagine that somehow and in some way, we are present entering that
describe the mysteries of our universe. a document in the Pseudepigrapha. Recall how after God had brought the seer among “the Blessed 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).
extent is the Eternal One represented by “the Lord Our God”? Is this Being powerful or has he
(perhaps revealed) perceptions and answers. Here are some areas we may all continue to explore:
And God commanded and this land brought forth for us pleasant and splendid trees which
offer a perception of a universe full of wonder that excites beliefs about an incomprehensible
place to describe it. Those who enter the heavens, according to the authors of the Apocalypses and

delimited his might by creating Adam, in his image, and with the freedom to reject the good and
apocalyptic literature, imagine that visionary men like Enoch and Ezra, who visit the heavens Ones” on a paradisaic island, he shares their report about their life: 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
are filled (with) lovely, marvelous, and abundant fruits. And again, from the roots of the
The Jewish and Christian authors of the apocalyptic masterpieces and the modern astrophysicists
5. How May we Perceive a New Creation? We can focus on the improvements in human
First, how is the Creator perceived? Are we wise to ask about monotheism or henotheism? To what
even the Creator? How and in what ways can the Creator effect history; is this One incapable, by
above, or Zosimos, who is guided to the mysterious islands, are depicted present in such places to trees flows sweet and delightful water; and from these fruits and water we take delight and all human hopes. of the One and Blessed God, then we still have time to experience a οὐρανὸν καινὸν καὶ γῆν
offer a perception of a universe full of wonder that excites beliefs about an incomprehensible
self-limitations, to never intervene but only to supervene? And how may we make such

culture over the past three centuries and recognize that we all share the same dream: peace and And God commanded and this land brought forth for us pleasant and splendid trees which extent is the Eternal One represented by “the Lord Our God”? Is this Being powerful or has he Supreme Being or Mind. If all of us humans cease our hatred and fear and join together as creatures
describe the mysteries of our universe.
rest and are sustained.”
καινήν. Can any of us believe the ancient apocalyptist, noted at the beginning, who envisioned that
The authors of the first apocalypses could not see or imagine the expanding universe and awe-
harmony on this fragile earth. If relatively recently humans have “created” rapid means of effective are filled (with) lovely, marvelous, and abundant fruits. And again, from the roots of the delimited his might by creating Adam, in his image, and with the freedom to reject the good and of the One and Blessed God, then we still have time to experience a οὐρανὸν καινὸν καὶ γῆν
distinctions?

(HistRech 11:3-4; Charlesworth in OTP 2.456].
“the angels of God dwell among us” (καὶ οἱ ἄγγϵλοι τοῦ θεοῦ οἰκοῦσιν μεθ᾽ ἡμῶν)?
5. How May we Perceive a New Creation? We can focus on the improvements in human
inspiring innumerable galaxies revealed by the Hubble eXtreme Deep Field (XDF) telescope. That
communication, the railroads, planes, rockets, medicines, and life-saving alterations to our trees flows sweet and delightful water; and from these fruits and water we take delight and even the Creator? How and in what ways can the Creator effect history; is this One incapable, by καινήν. Can any of us believe the ancient apocalyptist, noted at the beginning, who envisioned that
culture over the past three centuries and recognize that we all share the same dream: peace and rest and are sustained.” self-limitations, to never intervene but only to supervene? And how may we make such “the angels of God dwell among us” (καὶ οἱ ἄγγϵλοι τοῦ θεοῦ οἰκοῦσιν μεθ᾽ ἡμῶν)?
precious earth, then they can recognize the impending disasters to all, and accordingly, make
19
Second, the Bible is the “Crucible of the Pseudepigrapha.” Those who wrote these cultural
methodology helps astronomers (notably Mario Livio) to estimate the presence of between 100
harmony on this fragile earth. If relatively recently humans have “created” rapid means of effective The author, like some Essenes, perceived that οἱ ἄγγϵλοι τοῦ θεοῦ dwell with them: καὶ οἱ ἄγγϵλοι distinctions?
(HistRech 11:3-4; Charlesworth in OTP 2.456].

preparations to share a common destiny.

billion and 200 billion galaxies. Some remarkably may be moving faster than the speed of light;
shaping apocalyptic masterpieces intimate and even anticipate a beatific future since God claimed
32
communication, the railroads, planes, rockets, medicines, and life-saving alterations to our τοῦ θεοῦ οἰκοῦσιν μεθ᾽ ἡμῶν [HistRech 12:8]. Most likely, the author is imagining the recreation and physicists, Günter Nimtz and Alfons Stahlhofen), conducted experiments in which photons

the “End” of creation would be glorious. They also knew that the future, for God, is also the
19
precious earth, then they can recognize the impending disasters to all, and accordingly, make (perhaps at the end of time) of the blessed life that Adam and Eve had enjoyed in the Garden of Second, the Bible is the “Crucible of the Pseudepigrapha.” Those who wrote these cultural
The author, like some Essenes, perceived that οἱ ἄγγϵλοι τοῦ θεοῦ dwell with them: καὶ οἱ ἄγγϵλοι
were observed moving faster than the speed of light. The ancient visionaries could not contemplate
present, since God by definition transcends categories like “time.” If so, then God saw and
6. Is the Morality in the Apocalypses Focused Only on This Earth? Moral imperatives are
33
32
τοῦ θεοῦ οἰκοῦσιν μεθ᾽ ἡμῶν [HistRech 12:8]. Most li
preparations to share a common destiny. Eden (at the beginning of time): Endzeit wird Urzeit. kely, the author is imagining the recreation shaping apocalyptic masterpieces intimate and even anticipate a beatific future since God claimed
present in the earliest times in Eden (and Jews placed the present blessed abode in many different (perhaps at the end of time) of the blessed life that Adam and Eve had enjoyed in the Garden of black holes, but perhaps they could imagine what a friend and astronaut shared with me; he
pronounced the beginning and end of creation “good” [׃בוַֹֽט־יִּכּ םיִָּּ֖הלֱֹא א ְרֵַּּ֥יַּו]. Almost always, Jews
the “End” of creation would be glorious. They also knew that the future, for God, is also the

cosmological locations). Paradise is in the third heaven, according to Paul in 2 Corinthians 12 and Eden (at the beginning of time): Endzeit wird Urzeit. imagined that the inexplicable black holes may be entrances into another world. That is wise
who left us apocalypses foresaw a blessed future for those faithful to the Creator; their life would
present, since God by definition transcends categories like “time.” If so, then God saw and
33
6. Is the Morality in the Apocalypses Focused Only on This Earth? Moral imperatives are
Continuing our perusal of the Essenes, some of the most gifted intellectuals within early Jewish
pronounced the beginning and end of creation “good” [׃בוַֹֽט־יִּכּ םיִָּּ֖הלֱֹא א ְרֵַּּ֥יַּו]. Almost always, Jews
be similar to those enjoying the Abode of the Rechabites – perhaps only after we stop breathing.
the author of 2 Enoch 8 in Recension A: “And the men took me from there. They brought me to apocalypticism, we now should ask: Did the Essenes establish dwellings only at Qumran? speculation since all cosmic objects near a black hole speed into it and perhaps continue
present in the earliest times in Eden (and Jews placed the present blessed abode in many different
30
somewhere as water in a bathtub flows out through a drain to many distant places.
the third heaven. And they placed me in the midst of Paradise.” [OTP 1.115F.I. Andersen] The Continuing our perusal of the Essenes, some of the most gifted intellectuals within early Jewish who left us apocalypses foresaw a blessed future for those faithful to the Creator; their life would
cosmological locations). Paradise is in the third heaven, according to Paul in 2 Corinthians 12 and
Obviously not. Josephus (37-100 CE), who knew the culture of first-century Palestine intimately

the author of 2 Enoch 8 in Recension A: “And the men took me from there. They brought me to
ancient Jews and Christian imagined a blessed place, sometimes in an unknown place, in which apocalypticism, we now should ask: Did the Essenes establish dwellings only at Qumran? be similar to those enjoying the Abode of the Rechabites – perhaps only after we stop breathing.
Third, how and in what ways are “humans” similar to animals and also different from other
30
Obviously not. Josephus (37-100 CE), who knew the culture of first-century Palestine intimately
the third heaven. And they placed me in the midst of Paradise.” [OTP 1.115F.I. Andersen] The and observed the Roman conquest of Galilee and then the burning of Jerusalem, reported that Black holes seem to be everywhere and one large one is in the middle of our galaxy and moving
creatures? A few animals, like the octopi, chimpanzees, and especially bottlenose dolphins seem
God’s will was obeyed joyously.
34
ancient Jews and Christian imagined a blessed place, sometimes in an unknown place, in which Essenes lived in many areas of the country: Third, how and in what ways are “humans” similar to animals and also different from other
and observed the Roman conquest of Galilee and then the burning of Jerusalem, reported that
20

towards us. At a future event, all in our solar system will vanish in a flash. When I was in
to possess cognitive abilities equal to humans. And tortoises may live over 150 years while
34
God’s will was obeyed joyously. Essenes lived in many areas of the country: creatures? A few animals, like the octopi, chimpanzees, and especially bottlenose dolphins seem
7. What Significant Advances Have Been Made in the Study of Ancient Apocalypses? The
Yellowstone, I was informed that an apocalyptic denouement is expected; a specialist warned that
humans often pass away before 80. Some apes and monkeys can use their hands. How intelligent
20
preoccupation with ideas has been replaced in most recent endeavors by contextualization, thanks They [the Essenes; Ἐσσηνοὶ καλοῦνται] are not only in one town but many of them dwell to possess cognitive abilities equal to humans. And tortoises may live over 150 years while
the “Giant Yellowstone Supervolcano” beneath the park discloses an overdue explosion. It will
is the octopus; is this creature’s strategies due only to ecological intelligence (that is, the ability to
humans often pass away before 80. Some apes and monkeys can use their hands. How intelligent
7. What Significant Advances Have Been Made in the Study of Ancient Apocalypses? The
35
in every town [Μία δ' οὐκ ἔστιν αὐτῶν πόλις ἀλλ' ἐν ἑκάστῃ μετοικοῦσιν πολλοί]. And
to fabulous archaeological discoveries, epigraphy, enriched Hebrew, Aramaic, Syriac, and Greek They [the Essenes; Ἐσσηνοὶ καλοῦνται] are not only in one town but many of them dwell erupt and wipe out all life in the USA and perhaps on the earth. In the estimation of other
secure food) or is it capable of planning (as Piero Amodio of the University of Padua observed)?
35
preoccupation with ideas has been replaced in most recent endeavors by contextualization, thanks in every town [Μία δ' οὐκ ἔστιν αὐτῶν πόλις ἀλλ' ἐν ἑκάστῃ μετοικοῦσιν πολλοί]. And is the octopus; is this creature’s strategies due only to ecological intelligence (that is, the ability to
if any of their sect comes from other locales, their resources are available to them, just as
philology - as well as a focused phenomenology on past lives, their opportunities, perceptions, if any of their sect comes from other locales, their resources are available to them, just as specialists, the eruption is about a hundred millennia away. Finally, meteorologists warn that in
21
How have the 3,400 species of serpents (reptiles, snakes) existed 20 times longer than humans
secure food) or is it capable of planning (as Piero Amodio of the University of Padua observed)?
to fabulous archaeological discoveries, epigraphy, enriched Hebrew, Aramaic, Syriac, and Greek
misunderstandings, and reality. Apocalypses are certainly grounded in reality on earth, in which if it were their own, and they go into the homes of those whom they had never known the future, climate change will wipe out most of Florida and other low-lying areas on earth. Some
and yet cannot blink, and most move without hands or legs and can disarticulate their jaws so they
21
How have the 3,400 species of serpents (reptiles, snakes) existed 20 times longer than humans
if it were their own, and they go into the homes of those whom they had never known
philology - as well as a focused phenomenology on past lives, their opportunities, perceptions,
culture has developed for more than 200,000 years. For example, ornate jewelry about 150,000 before as if they had been long acquainted with them” (Josephus, War 2.124; my idiomatic experts have a different scenario; they are concerned that a “catastrophic cyber event” [Ancient Egyptian Art often Shows a Serpent with Feet. Above is a depiction of
and yet cannot blink, and most move without hands or legs and can disarticulate their jaws so they
can swallow others whole? I should add that the Tetrapodophis specimen from the Cretaceous is
before as if they had been long acquainted with them” (Josephus, War 2.124; my idiomatic
misunderstandings, and reality. Apocalypses are certainly grounded in reality on earth, in which
31
developing. Today we are sharing daunting futures with the ancient apocalyptists.
years old has been recovered from Morocco’s Bizmoune Cave. translation). can swallow others whole? I should add that the Tetrapodophis specimen from 22 the Cretaceous Nehebkau, the Snake God. Egyptian Book of the Dead.]
translation).
Period has two feet and tiny front legs (or hands). It also has five fingers or toes. Certainly, all
culture has developed for more than 200,000 years. For example, ornate jewelry about 150,000

22

31

years old has been recovered from Morocco’s Bizmoune Cave. Period has two feet and tiny front legs (or hands). It also has five fingers or toes. Certainly, all [Ancient Egyptian Art often Shows a Serpent with Feet. Above is a depiction of

Our study helps us bring into focus the heart of early Jewish and Christian reflections on life and Life on earth has been fragile. It is imperative that all of us comprehend how humans on earth Nehebkau, the Snake God. Egyptian Book of the Dead.]
Our study helps us bring into focus the heart of early Jewish and Christian reflections on life and
destiny. The horrors they suffered could not diminish the light even though it may have been
declined to a mere 1,280 people and almost became extinct between 930,000 and 813,000 years

destiny. The horrors they suffered could not diminish the light even though it may have been 19 See Charlesworth, “Biblical Stories and Quotations Reflected and Even Adumbrated in the Old Testament
caused by the flames. We are apocalyptically given the assurance that God is good and to be
19
ago. Perhaps it was due to glacial events, declining temperatures, droughts, and the loss of animals

See Charlesworth, “Biblical Stories and Quotations Reflected and Even Adumbrated in the Old Testament
caused by the flames. We are apocalyptically given the assurance that God is good and to be 32 Charlesworth, ed., The History of the Rechabites: Volume I: The Greek Recension. SBL T&T 17, Pseud Series 10. Pseudepigrapha,” in S. Delamarter, A Scripture Index to Charlesworth’s The Old Testament Pseudepigrapha (London,
Pseudepigrapha,” in S. Delamarter, A Scripture Index to Charlesworth’s The Old Testament Pseudepigrapha (London,
32 Charlesworth, ed., The History of the Rechabites: Volume I: The Greek Recension. SBL T&T 17, Pseud Series 10.
and vegetation that “humans” needed for survival. As a result, human diversity was diminished.
New York: Sheffield, 2002) p. 1-6.
(Chico, Calif.: Scholars Press, 1982); for this citation see p. 72.
See esp. J. R. Learn, “Just How Intelligent Are Dolphins?” Discover (March 26 2021)). discovery of fire; the
(Chico, Calif.: Scholars Press, 1982); for this citation see p. 72. New York: Sheffield, 2002) p. 1-6.
Then, there was an accelerated population boom, caused – perhaps – by the
20
20
33
See esp. J. R. Learn, “Just How Intelligent Are Dolphins?” Discover (March 26 2021)).
33 See H. Gunkel, Schöpfung und Chaos in Urzeit und Endzeit: Eine religionsgeschichtliche Untersuchung über Gen.
See H. Gunkel, Schöpfung und Chaos in Urzeit und Endzeit: Eine religionsgeschichtliche Untersuchung über Gen.
30
21
earth’s warming climate; and some hominins became
The number “3,400” is from the Encyclopedia Britanica (2023).
30 The redactor of Recension J adds “Then I looked downward” and so places Paradise on the earth. In 2En 42, I und Apoc. Joh. XII (Göttingen: Vandenhoeck und Ruprecht, 1895). 21 The number “3,400” is from the Encyclopedia Britanica (2023). bipedal (the ability to walk). About 1.9 40
The redactor of Recension J adds “Then I looked downward” and so places Paradise on the earth. In 2En 42,
I am indebted to the insights of scientists reported by Eric Ralls in “Humans Almost Went Extinct as Population
Paradise is in the East, as in the Bible. I und Apoc. Joh. XII (Göttingen: Vandenhoeck und Ruprecht, 1895). 22 Today, pythons have a pair of little spurs that have evolved from earlier feet. Lizards still have something like feet. 40 I am indebted to the insights of scientists reported by Eric Ralls in “Humans Almost Went Extinct as Population
34
22
Today, pythons have a pair of little spurs that have evolved from earlier feet. Lizards still have something like feet.
million years ago, Homo erectus appeared with a larger brain and could use advanced tools.
I concur with those who agree that the etymology of the word “Essene” remains doubtful.
Declined to only 1,280 People,” Earth (September 1, 2023). See also, Wangjie Hu, et al., “Genomic Inference of a
Paradise is in the East, as in the Bible.
31 Notably, see Sarah Kuta, “This 9,000-year-old Necklace is Remarkable. Who wore it is even more surprising,” 34 I concur with those who agree that the etymology of the word “Essene” remains doubtful. See the illustrated and highly informative “A Fossil Snake With Four Legs” by Ed Young in National Geographic Severe Human Bottleneck During the Early to Middle Pleastocene Transition,” Science 381 (31 August 2023).
35
31
See the illustrated and highly informative “A Fossil Snake With Four Legs” by Ed Young in National Geographic
See Philo’s comment that they dwell only in villages. The Greek noun πόλις is too often in Josephus’ description
Declined to only 1,280 People,” Earth (September 1, 2023). See also, Wangjie Hu, et al., “Genomic Inference of a
Notably, see Sarah Kuta, “This 9,000-year-old Necklace is Remarkable. Who wore it is even more surprising,”
(July 23 2015).
National Geographic (August 25, 2023). 35 See Philo’s comment that they dwell only in villages. The Greek noun πόλις is too often in Josephus’ description 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).
(July 23 2015).
of the Essenes understood to denote a city; here it means a town or village.
National Geographic (August 25, 2023).
of the Essenes understood to denote a city; here it means a town or village.
23 14 27
22
22