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:ןויבאו רישע דחי

He is like animals that are silenced.

Rich and poor together.
:ומדנ תומהבכ לשמנ
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Who has been able to do that? Did not Martin Luther King inherit the apocalyptic imagination
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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
תומכח רבדי יפ
My mouth will speak wisdom

when he claimed, like Moses, to climb the mountain and see the promised land? Are some of his
and involved vast transformations and increased abilities. Just as humans once, almost
μετὰ τῶν ἀνθρώπων, καὶ σκηνώσει μετʼ αὐτῶν, καὶ αὐτοὶ λαοὶ αὐτοῦ ἔσονται, καὶ αὐτὸς ὁ θεὸς
The Text with Commentary
the blessed heavens by intense focus on G-d’s Ineffable Name (Tosafot, Chagiga 14b, Zohar
And the meditations of my heart, understanding.
:תונובת יבל תוגהו
dreams now slowly becoming reality? Did not Jesus teach his followers to pray: “Thy kingdom
inadvertently, became extinct in the Pleistocene era, so humans may deliberately obliterate all
ינזא לשמל הטא
I will tune my ear to metaphor,

1.26b, and Tikunei Zohar, Tikun 40).
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Psalm 49
μετʼ αὐτῶν ἔσται). Did the author not imagine the End would be a return to the blessed life of the
come on earth”? And were King and Jesus not brutally murdered? How can we learn that such
sapiens began to appear about 300,000 years ago in Africa. The evolution was multidimensional
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earthly life.
יח
-

:יתד

I will present my conundrum with music.
רונכב
deaths do not diminish hope?
Beginning? Was there a more promising future for early Jews than the time when all sickness and
: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

and involved vast transformations and increased abilities. Just as humans once, almost
Is there also a blessed scenario? Yes, but it is preserved in ancient apocalypses, notably Daniel and
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3

Many of the books in the Hebrew Bible, apocalypses, Dead Sea Scrolls, the Pseudepigrapha, and
A conundrum concerning death
evil will cease and God will not need a Temple because, as in Eden, he dwells with his faithful

when he claimed, like Moses, to climb the mountain and see the promised land? Are some of his
inadvertently, became extinct in the Pleistocene era, so humans may deliberately obliterate all
Revelation.
Why should I be fearful in times of peril,
ער ימיב אריא המל
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most of the New Testament, bear witness to the former apocalyptic imaginations; the latter ethical
The Text with Commentary
people.
Early Jewish descriptions of a celestial or promising place of peace and tranquility define
dreams now slowly becoming reality? Did not Jesus teach his followers to pray: “Thy kingdom
earthly life.

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Psalm 49

masterpieces are preserved in the Mishnah and Rabbinic texts.
Hear this, all peoples.
:ינבוסי יבקע ןוע

come on earth”? And were King and Jesus not brutally murdered? How can we learn that such
When sin entangles my feet?
apocalypses, testaments, and psalms. How can we stimulate others to not only read these accounts

Is there also a blessed scenario? Yes, but it is preserved in ancient apocalypses, notably Daniel and
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 --

but try to feel what the early Jews experienced when they imagined being present to view the
Revelation.
Perceiving a New Creation
a marvelous world, evident now only in their ten or more heavens, and soon appearing on earth
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3 A conundrum concerning death
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םליח-לע םיחטבה
During Early Judaism – approximately 300 BCE to 150 CE – the great apocalypses, like Daniel,
There
Ordinary people and those who are privileged,
scene? are those who trust in their fortune,
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The early Jewish testaments are filled with apocalyptic expectations and occasionally receive
due to God’s continuing fidelity, love, and righteousness. Many Jews and Christians before about
Early Jewish descriptions of a celestial or promising place of peace and tranquility define

4
What did the early optimistic apocalyptists imagine? They pondered a Creator that had promised

Rich and poor together.
Who boast of their great wealth.
וללהתי םרשע ברבו
1 Enoch, 2 Enoch, 4 Ezra, 2 Baruch, the History of the Rechabites, and the vast amounts of

visions of a new creation. Note the following passage in the Testament of Naphtali:
150 CE, imagined and expected “a New Jerusalem” descending to earth (Revelation 21:1-2).
2
4 Hear this, all peoples.
apocalypses, testaments, and psalms. How can we stimulate others to not only read these accounts
a marvelous world, evident now only in their ten or more heavens, and soon appearing on earth
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שיא הדפי הדפ-אל חא
My mouth will speak wisdom
apocalyptic texts, like The Testaments of the Twelve Patriarchs, were composed. What was the
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
אל
-
ורפכ םיהלאל ןתי
And the meditations of my heart, understanding.
primary message of those who created the luminous apocalypses and apocalyptic compositions?
He cannot pay God for atonement for him.
Command your children that they be in unity with Levi and Judah,
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The Jewish and Christian authors of the apocalyptic masterpieces and the modern astrophysicists
scene?
Ordinary people and those who are privileged,
150 CE, imagined and expected “a New Jerusalem” descending to earth (Revelation 21:1-2).
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9
ושפנ ןוידפ רקיו
Even if the redemption price for him be steep,
These authors urged all to look up and into the vast heavens. They claimed some had been led into
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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Rich and poor together.
offer a perception of a universe full of wonder that excites beliefs about an incomprehensible
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other worlds above in which some were suffering and others were blessed enjoying a new life with

I will present my conundrum with music.
He will cease to exist forever.

םלועל לדחו
the Lord of the sheep brought about a new house, greater and loftier than the first one, and
and in him will Jacob be blessed.
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My mouth will speak wisdom
Let us recall that the apocalypses are defined with such vivid experiences as these:
Supreme Being or Mind. If all of us humans cease our hatred and fear and join together as creatures
The Jewish and Christian authors of the apocalyptic masterpieces and the modern astrophysicists

all human hopes.
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.

Through his kingly power God will appear …,
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
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Can one live forever?!
חצנל דוע-יחיו

Why should I be fearful in times of peril,
columns new; and the ornaments new as well as greater than those of the first … .
6 5
Then I stood still, looking at that ancient house being transformed … I went on seeing until
I will tune my ear to metaphor,

to save the race of Israel,
Supreme Being or Mind. If all of us humans cease our hatred and fear and join together as creatures
καινήν. Can any of us believe the ancient apocalyptist, noted at the beginning, who envisioned that
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When sin entangles my feet?
I will present my conundrum with music.
תחשה הארי אל

The authors of the first apocalypses could not see or imagine the expanding universe and awe-

And not see the grave?!
[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

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)?

set it up in the first location which had been covered up – all its pillars were new, the
inspiring innumerable galaxies revealed by the Hubble eXtreme Deep Field (XDF) telescope. That

Indeed, any person will see that wise men die. ותומי םימכח הארי יכ
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καινήν. Can any of us believe the ancient apocalyptist, noted at the beginning, who envisioned that
[TNaph 8:2-3; Kee in OTP 1.813]

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columns new; and the ornaments new as well as greater than those of the first … .
7 Why should I be fearful in times of peril,

Most readers will comprehend that the New Temple in Jerusalem is being described. The author

There are those who trust in their fortune,
Together, the fool and the ignorant, perish ודבאי רעבו ליסכ דחי
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)?

[1 En 90:28-29; Isaac in OTP 1.91]

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When sin entangles my feet?
And leave their wealth to others.

:םליח םירחאל ובזעו

billion and 200 billion galaxies. Some remarkably may be moving faster than the speed of light;
Who boast of their great wealth.
of Revelation shared a similar vision some centuries later. A dream, shared by Jews and Christians
The apocalyptic expectation also flows into Psalms and Odes. The author of the Odes of Solomon

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and physicists, Günter Nimtz and Alfons Stahlhofen), conducted experiments in which photons
But, no man can save even his brother.

in the late first century CE is preserved in Revelation 21:
shares his visit into Paradise:

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Most readers will comprehend that the New Temple in Jerusalem is being described. The author
There are those who trust in their fortune,

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They think that their houses will last forever,
were observed moving faster than the speed of light. The ancient visionaries could not contemplate
םלועל ומיתב םברק
He cannot pay God for atonement for him.
of Revelation shared a similar vision some centuries later. A dream, shared by Jews and Christians

Who boast of their great wealth.

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ש
םתונכ
That their dwelling places will endure for generations, רדו רודל
מ

Even if the redemption price for him be steep,
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
8
And he took me into his Paradise,
But, no man can save even his brother.
in the late first century CE is preserved in Revelation 21:

imagined that the inexplicable black holes may be entrances into another world. That is wise
That their names will be mentioned ever
away, and the sea was no more. ywhere תומדא ילע םתומשב וארק
He will cease to exist forever.
He cannot pay God for atonement for him.

Wherein is the wealth of the Lord’s pleasure. …

13
ןילי-לב רקיב םדאו
But, humans cannot dwell in assets,
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,
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Even if the redemption price for him be steep,
Then I saw a new heaven and a new earth; for the first heaven and the first earth had passed

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Can one live forever?!
prepared as a bride adorned for her husband. :ומדנ תומהבכ לשמנ

somewhere as water in a bathtub flows out through a drain to many distant places.
They are like animals that are silenced.
He will cease to exist forever.
away, and the sea was no more.
Then I adored the Lord because of his magnificence.

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The path of these people is folly for them, ומל לסכ םכרד הז
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:

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prepared as a bride adorned for her husband.
Can one live forever?!
Black holes seem to be everywhere and one large one is in the middle of our galaxy and moving
Indeed, any person will see that wise men die.

“Behold, the home of God is among mortals. לס וצרי םהיפב םהירחאוה
Those who come after them explicitly wish denial.
And I said, blessed, O Lord, are they

And not see the grave?!
And I heard a loud voice from the throne saying:
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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
They have been herded to She’ol.
ותש לואשל ןאצכ
Who are planted in your land,

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“Behold, the home of God is among mortals.
Indeed, any person will see that wise men die.
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Yellowstone, I was informed that an apocalyptic denouement is expected; a specialist warned that
םערי תומ
they will be his peoples,
Death is their shepherd.
And leave their wealth to others.

And who have a place in your Paradise;
He will dwell with them as their God;
Together, the fool and the ignorant, perish
The righteous will drive them forth at dawn, רקבל םירשי םב ודריו
the “Giant Yellowstone Supervolcano” beneath the park discloses an overdue explosion. It will
and God himself will be with them;
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they will be his peoples,
And leave their wealth to others.

םרוצו
And their Rock will be the terrors of She’ol, לואש תולבל
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,
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This psalm is a meditation on death. It is written in the style of wisdom literature; that is, as a conundrum or puzzle.
:ול לבזמ
Death will be no more;

specialists, the eruption is about a hundred millennia away. Finally, meteorologists warn that in
and not a temple, for them.

he will wipe every tear from their eyes.

It clearly has four parts: the introduction (2-5); the conundrum itself (6); the condemnation of those who think they
And have passed from darkness into light
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the future, climate change will wipe out most of Florida and other low-lying areas on earth. Some
3
But God will redeem my soul from She’ol. לואש דימ ישפנ הדפי םיהלא-ךא
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]
It clearly has four parts: the introduction (2-5); the conundrum itself (6); the condemnation of those who think they

for the first things have passed away.” [Rev 21:1-4] הלס ינחקי יכ
experts have a different scenario; they are concerned that a “catastrophic cyber event” is
Indeed, He will take me. Selah.

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

developing. Today we are sharing daunting futures with the ancient apocalyptists.
first indented margin are an aside. And the verses on the second indented margin are addressed to a specific person;
for the first things have passed away.” [Rev 21:1-4]
with the same theme (17-21). The verses on the outer margin are addressed to the general reader. The verses on the
The guide is the Lord, not a seer as in the apocalypses. He takes the Odist into Paradise so he can
or perhaps to the psalmist’s inner self. Note the revised ascription, the traditional ascriptions being notoriously
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שיא רשעי-יכ ארית לא
Do not be afraid if you see a man become rich,

first indented margin are an aside. And the verses on the second indented margin are addressed to a specific person;
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.
or perhaps to the
incomprehensible. 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
Life on earth has been fragile. It is imperative that all of us comprehend how humans on earth
יכ
Who multiplies the capital of his estate.

-

ותיב דובכ הברי

καὶ γῆν καινήν). Why is there a need for a new heaven? Has it been polluted by the Nephilim, the
4
The invocation of heaven and earth as witnesses is widespread in Scripture, as is the invocation of all levels of
incomprehensible.

καὶ γῆν καινήν). Why is there a need for a new heaven? Has it been polluted by the Nephilim, the

For, in his death, he cannot take everything with him, לכה חקי ותומב אל יכ
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fallen angels, and the betrayal of Satan who was a superior angel serving previously in heaven
declined to a mere 1,280 people and almost became extinct between 930,000 and 813,000 years
The invocation of heaven and earth as witnesses is widespread in Scripture, as is the invocation of all levels of
4
society. Note, too, the a-b-b-a structure in verse 3 (poor, rich, rich, poor).
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

ודובכ וירחא דרי
אל
-
His fortune does not go down after him.
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beside God? The exceptional apocalyptic vision describes how “I saw the Holy City, the new
5 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
Conundrum (Heb., hida). The invocation of metaphor (Heb., mashal) and music (Heb., kinnor, lit., a lyre) is also
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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).
Conundrum (Heb., hida). The invocation of metaphor (Heb., mashal) and music (Heb., kinnor, lit., a lyre) is also
5
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common in wisdom literature.

For one is praised only during one’s life –
ךרבי וייחב ושפנ-יכ

Jerusalem, coming down out of heaven from God, prepared as a bride for her husband” (τὴν πόλιν
and vegetation that “humans” needed for survival. As a result, human diversity was diminished.
Jerusalem, coming down out of heaven from God, prepared as a bride for her husband” (τὴν πόλιν
6 common in wisdom literature.
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
You are praised only when things go well for you.

:ךל ביטית
יו ו
יכ ךד
τὴν ἁγίαν Ἰερουσαλὴμ καινὴν εἶδον καταβαίνουσαν ἐκ τοῦ οὐρανοῦ ἀπὸ τοῦ θεοῦ ἡτοιμασμένην
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
6
τὴν ἁγίαν Ἰερουσαλὴμ καινὴν εἶδον καταβαίνουσαν ἐκ τοῦ οὐρανοῦ ἀπὸ τοῦ θεοῦ ἡτοιμασμένην

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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ויתובא רוד-דע אובת
One reaches the generation of the ancestors

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
ὡς νύμφην κεκοσμημένην τῷ ἀνδρὶ αὐτῆς). Members of the covenant facing martyrdoms and
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from his former wealth. The italics are used to highlight this verse because it is the lynchpin of the psalm. “My feet”
I am indebted to the insights of scientists reported by Eric Ralls in “Humans Almost Went Extinct as Population
from his former wealth. The italics are used to highlight this verse because it is the lynchpin of the psalm. “My feet”
וארי אל חצנ
:רוא
-
Who will never again see light.

-

דע
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(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.
I am indebted to the insights of scientists reported by Eric Ralls in “Humans Almost Went Extinct as Population
Declined to only 1,280 People,” Earth (September 1, 2023). See also, Wangjie Hu, et al., “Genomic Inference of a
(Heb., `akeivai), literally “my ankles.” Alternate reading: “When the sin of those who deceive me encompasses me.”
21

ןיבי אלו רקיב םדא
A man of assets – he
does not understand (that).
In this alternate reading, the following verses describe those who deceive him.

Severe Human Bottleneck During the Early to Middle Pleastocene Transition,” Science 381 (31 August 2023).
Declined to only 1,280 People,” Earth (September 1, 2023). See also, Wangjie Hu, et al., “Genomic Inference of a
In this alternate reading, the following verses describe those who deceive him.
Neanderthals appeared about 400,000 years ago but became extinct about 40,000 years ago. Homo
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An aside on the inevitability of death: One cannot avoid death and, one cannot avoid leaving one’s wealth to others.
An aside on the inevitability of death: One cannot avoid death and, one cannot avoid leaving one’s wealth to others.
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.
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.
Severe Human Bottleneck During the Early to Middle Pleastocene Transition,” Science 381 (31 August 2023).
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26
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1
(2Bar 4:2-7). Why? It is because the Lord God took Paradise away from Adam and all his 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
Is that not clear? Is that dream not uplifting? We do all see “the sinners waxing strong.” How do
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
Personally, I follow most scholars who conclude that Josephus’ identity of the authors of some
we inculcate being partners with the “people of heaven”?
17
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 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
Is that not clear? Is that dream not uplifting? We do all see “the sinners waxing strong.” How do
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
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
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

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”?
emotions that may have motivated a psalm? That is the question. Many years of studying,
37
And he shall open the gates of Paradise, as the more recent Nazis. The ancient “heroes” were renowned because of great warriors like (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).
common stock; and the leader distributes it to all [other Essenes] according to their need.
site its location above Ein Gedi, simplicity, and unique nature conform to Pliny the Elder’s
calls to praise God are mixed helter-skelter with the motifs of God of Zion; God as healer; God as
Alexander the Great, Julius Caesar, and Genghis Khan. These nations and warriors, once powerful,
creator; God as a just judge and protector of the weak; God as revealer; and God as the One Who
translating, commenting upon, and teaching psalms have led me to think that the following is the
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
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
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
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
Some nations rise and fall because of their military might; those nations would include, at least,
are in our proverbial review mirrors and lost in the dust behind.
[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.

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
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
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]
emotions that may have motivated a psalm? That is the question. Many years of studying,

37
"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
common stock; and the leader distributes it to all [other Essenes] according to their need.
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
The Jews and Christians share a different concept of greatness. They have survived for millennia
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.
translating, commenting upon, and teaching psalms have led me to think that the following is the
Hippolytus continues adding a comment important for us now: “They have no special city
advice on how to pray the psalm.
2
paragraph. Occasionally, an editor will realize that some psalms have groups of verses that belong
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
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
[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.
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 Alexander the Great, Julius Caesar, and Genghis Khan. These nations and warriors, once powerful, 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.
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
clear who is the speaker. Most likely, Levi is the intended speaker. He informs his sons that the

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]
These diverse ancient and modern reports on the Essenes make it highly likely that Essenes could
Particularly firm is their doctrine of resurrection; they believe that the flesh will rise again
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 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
Gabi Barkay. My wife and I have known Gabi for over 60 years, as a fellow academic, but mostly
“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

and then be immortal like the soul.”
The Jews and Christians share a different concept of greatness. They have survived for millennia
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 be found in many villages within ancient Palestine. We now know, perhaps too little, about Essenes
Patriarchs preserves an early record of this custom:
advice on how to pray the psalm.
2
The author of this pseudepigraphon, as with many Semites, occasionally fails to make it pellucidly
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
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
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
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
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
Gabi Barkay. My wife and I have known Gabi for over 60 years, as a fellow academic, but mostly
“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
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
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
usually done by one person or even a whole community saying the verses out loud without any
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:
so that they might have understanding throughout all their lives
survive or enjoy life without “hope.”
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 [A] number of men living in Syria and Palestine, over 4,000 according to my judgment, at Qumran, Jericho, perhaps above Ein Gedi, southwest Jerusalem, and in the Galilee. In addition,
attention to the basic questions just raised. Reciting psalms by reading aloud on page so-and-so,
as they ceaselessly read the Law of God.
and personal matters.
… that they are anxious to keep their minds in a priestly state of holiness. They prefer to live
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
Teach your children also,
36

[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,
According to the author of the Testament of Abraham, Paradise is open again and the Holy Ones sat with him through conferences in which battles between the Jerusalem and the Tel Aviv schools called “Essæi” (ὅσιοι) from their saintliness (though not exactly after the meaning of the As we conclude and peruse the lives of humans over the past four thousand years, and more,
Jerusalem’s old walls. With Bargil Pixner (1921-2002), I studied possible Essene cisterns in
39
took place. And we have spent endless hours just talking with him about politics, academic affairs,
survive or enjoy life without “hope.”
so that they might have understanding throughout all their lives
Greek language), they being eminently worshipers of God (θεραπευταί Θεον) — in the sense
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
are assembled there. Note TAb 20; the speaker is “the undefiled voice of the God and Father”: and personal matters. knowing, as they do, that just as foul air breeds disease, so there is danger of contracting an Mount Zion within the present Jerusalem Walls.

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
exploration of the sea was merely speculative, in the last few decades humans have discovered that
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

The first task in understanding (and then praying) a psalm is to determine the various voices
According to the author of the Testament of Abraham, Paradise is open again and the Holy Ones [TLevi 13:1-2; Kee in OTP 1.792-93] 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,
Anyone who has walked with Gabi anywhere recognizes the question, “Do you see that
in villages and avoid cities on account of the habitual wickedness of those who inhabit them,
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
Jerusalem?! Or the tour of David’s City which culminated with standing in front of what are,
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 knowing, as they do, that just as foul air breeds disease, so there is danger of contracting an nothing has or can drain the human’s ability to dream. While in the 16 and 17 centuries, the
Take, then, my friend Abraham into Paradise, where there are the tents of my righteous
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

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:
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
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,
Take, then, my friend Abraham into Paradise, where there are the tents of my righteous
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 spying and then endeavor to achieve the optimism that too many of us have lost.

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]
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 Also, contemplate what Philo reported in Hypothetica 11.1-18, many of Philo’s comments are now Healthy lives demand lively dreams. All humanity must realize the dire consequences we are
And he will open the gates of Paradise,
Now, this is the enviable system of life of these Essenes, so that not only private individuals
there is no toil, no grief, no moaning, but peace and exultation and endless life.
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. 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: If we hear replies that categorize this hope as unrealistic and unperceptive, we might reply by
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]
Arad?! Or being with him at Ketef Hinnom and hearing the story of the discovery of the amulet
And he will remove the threatening sword since Adam.
the tefillin (phylacteries)?!
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

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

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
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”)
[TLevi 18:10-11; my new translation]
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
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 them. [11.18] increasing the size of the Atlantic Ocean by about 1.5 inches each year. That too is unexpected and
18
[TLevi 18:10-11; my new translation]

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
What a spectacular promise: “a new priest” will arise and “open the gates of Paradise.” Then,
Do the Apocalyptists Urge us to Live Elsewhere? that he knows. Our lives, indeed our connection to Israel and Zionism, have been deeply influenced Perhaps, Philo may be remembering how King Herod seems to have admired the Essenes. Why? unperceived by human eyes.

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
amazingly, “the Holy Ones” will “eat from the tree of life.” Jews and Christians survived because

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

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

Epilogue
us. It is an honor to dedicate this essay to him.
Those who have not comprehended the apocalypses err by claiming the dreamy apocalyptists
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
period, apocalyptic hopeful expectations and cosmological speculations were demoted then
Psalm 49
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
Just the Text
that almost always, the apocalyptic seer returns to earth to instruct and fill the faithful with hope.
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
together. 1 A conundrum concerning death west of the Dead Sea and reports: “Below them was En-gedi” (Natural History 5.15.73). Pliny’s
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

description lacks clarity. Did Pliny mean Ein Gedi (يدج نيع ,יִּדֶג ןי ע) was at a lower elevation or
37
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 2 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
Now fear not, righteous ones, when you see the sinners waxing strong and
Hear this, all peoples.

:םימעה-לכ תאז-ועמש

Testament Pseudepigrapha. More than 50 books had to be placed on reserve so the students could
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,
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,
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
:םימעה-לכ תאז-ועמש

Hear this, all peoples.

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

:דלח יבשי
-
2007).
that it was to the south. Above Ein Gedi are huts that Yizhar Hirschfield (1950-2006) imagined
(“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).
lean onto their own injustice; for you are to be partners with the good-hearted
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
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
may have belonged to Essenes:
people of heaven. [1En 104:6; Isaac in OTP 1.85] 3 except, perhaps, Johann Albert Fabricius’ collection in Latin, Codex pseudepigraphus Veteris We may assume that the inhabitants of these cells were Jews, since the site was part of the 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]
There are others where the emotion is danger, such as Psalm 30 (“I will raise you up, my
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,
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
God, for You have saved me”), or Psalm 121 (“I lift up my eyes to the mountains from whence 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
1994) pp. 147-155.

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
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).
39
in the first century and by Eusebius in the early fourth century). The installations and small
Old Testament were out-of-print and widely considered an abridged version of the ill-defined
1
B. Pixner, With Jesus In Jerusalem: His First and Last Days in Judea (Rosh Pina, Israel: Corazin Publishing, 1996).
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
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
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.
2 2
evenings with him and his colleagues in the Benedictine Dominion Abbey in Jerusalem. With him, I have endeavored
I hope, with the help of the Almighty, to publish a book of selected Psalms in this manner before my time in this
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
[2].
36
world is over.
to stress the Jewishness of Jesus and commonality today between Jews and Christians.
I endeavor to reserve “shall” for God’s actions.
world is over.
I corrected the Greek.
[2].
28 13 24