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Boa quidem serpens quem tellus Itala nutrit
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
24
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
Hunc bubulum plures lac enutrire docent.
(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
(d. 79 A.D.) famous passage on the Essenes, which he describes as a celibate group of men,
Ashton also quoted Pliny: “The blood of a serpent is more precious than Balsamum, and if you

None among them [the Essenes] is richer than the other; for the law with them is that
living on the western shore of the Dead Sea, who have no money only palm trees for
Boa quidem serpens quem tellus Itala nutrit
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 annoynt your lips with a little of it, they will looke passing redde: and, if the face be annoynted
company. He concludes by saying that below them lies Ein Gedi, which in his times was
whosoever joins their order must sell his possessions and hand the proceeds over to the
Hunc bubulum plures lac enutrire docent.
would most probably find similar sites in other parts of the oasis as well. All features of the

24
Dead Sea Scrolls and the collectors of the “Qumran Library” were Essenes. Hippolytus of Rome therewith, it will receive no spot or fleck, but causeth it to have an orient and beautiful hue.” Ashton
37
common stock; and the leader distributes it to all [other Essenes] according to their need.
"a heap of ashes" (Pliny, Natural History, V, xv.73; trans. By H. Rackham).
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: apparently accepted these wild myths as truthful: “Hitherto we have only seen that side of a
(d. 79 A.D.) famous passage on the Essenes, which he describes as a celibate group of men,
Hippolytus continues adding a comment important for us now: “They have no special city Ashton also quoted Pliny: “The blood of a serpent is more precious than Balsamum, and if you
Dragon’s temperament that is inimical to man, but there are stories, equally veracious, of their

living on the western shore of the Dead Sea, who have no money only palm trees for
[or village] of their own, but live in large numbers in different cities [or villages] …
None among them [the Essenes] is richer than the other; for the law with them is that annoynt your lips with a little of it, they will looke passing redde: and, if the face be annoynted
affection and love for men, women, and children: How they, by kindness, may be tamed, and
Hirschfield showed me his discovery at Ein Gedi which he called the “Essene Village,” and I was
company. He concludes by saying that below them lies Ein Gedi, which in his times was
whosoever joins their order must sell his possessions and hand the proceeds over to the therewith, it will receive no spot or fleck, but causeth it to have an orient and beautiful hue.” Ashton
Particularly firm is their doctrine of resurrection; they believe that the flesh will rise again
brought into kindly relations with the human species.” These claims, barely a century old (from
impressed with this brilliant man and enjoyed the years we shared together in many ancient sites
"a heap of ashes" (Pliny, Natural History, V, xv.73; trans. By H. Rackham).
37
common stock; and the leader distributes it to all [other Essenes] according to their need. apparently accepted these wild myths as truthful: “Hitherto we have only seen that side of a
1890 until today), have continued to shape the minds of too many today.
and then be immortal like the soul.”
within modern Israel, but conceivably the huts may have belonged to Jewish simple farmers. He

Hippolytus continues adding a comment important for us now: “They have no special city Dragon’s temperament that is inimical to man, but there are stories, equally veracious, of their

and I would appreciate careful responses to his hypothesis.
affection and love for men, women, and children: How they, by kindness, may be tamed, and
[or village] of their own, but live in large numbers in different cities [or villages] …
Such unfounded claims from ancient mythology and Victorian Cryptozoology are enriched and
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
These diverse ancient and modern reports on the Essenes make it highly likely that Essenes could
brought into kindly relations with the human species.” These claims, barely a century old (from
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
visited Palestine, adds more insight for us to contemplate the location of the Essenes: enlivened by more recent claims. Examples would include Christopher Columbus’s report in his
1890 until today), have continued to shape the minds of too many today.
and then be immortal like the soul.”
be found in many villages within ancient Palestine. We now know, perhaps too little, about Essenes
within modern Israel, but conceivably the huts may have belonged to Jewish simple farmers. He
journal of seeing “mermaids,” and an authority in Florida in 1954 who supported the accounts of

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,
Such unfounded claims from ancient mythology and Victorian Cryptozoology are enriched and
In Quod Omnis Probus Liber Sit paragraph 12, Philo of Alexandria (c. 20 BCE to 50 CE), who the St John’s River Serpent that he would not be “surprised at all” if in “the wilds of Florida” there
These diverse ancient and modern reports on the Essenes make it highly likely that Essenes could
38
with Magen Broshi (1929-2020), I examine
25d possible Essene burials, perhaps one mile west of
36
called “Essæi” (ὅσιοι) from their saintliness (though not exactly after the meaning of the
enlivened by more recent claims. Examples would include Christopher Columbus’s report in his
visited Palestine, adds more insight for us to contemplate the location of the Essenes: would be “some creature like that monster.” 39know, perhaps too little, about Essenes
be found in many villages within ancient Palestine. We now
journal of seeing “mermaids,” and an authority in Florida in 1954 who supported the accounts of
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
at Qumran, Jericho, perhaps above Ein Gedi, southwest Jerusalem, and in the Galilee. In addition,
the St John’s River Serpent that he would not be “surprised at all” if in “the wilds of Florida” there
[A] number of men living in Syria and Palestine, over 4,000 according to my judgment, Mount Zion within the present Jerusalem Walls.
… that they are anxious to keep their minds in a priestly state of holiness. They prefer to live
With this aside, which may have been unconsciously stimulated when I suddenly was face to face
38
25d possible Essene burials, perhaps one mile west of
would be “some creature like that monster.”
36
called “Essæi” (ὅσιοι) from their saintliness (though not exactly after the meaning of the with Magen Broshi (1929-2020), I examine 26 39
As we conclude and peruse the lives of humans over the past four thousand years, and more,
in villages and avoid cities on account of the habitual wickedness of those who inhabit them,
with a cobra that was the largest in captivity, we may continue with our questions. How can

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
th
th
nothing has or can drain the human’s ability to dream. While in the 16 and 17 centuries, the
knowing, as they do, that just as foul air breeds disease, so there is danger of contracting an
storks fly from Amsterdam or Beijing to Australia, often stopping on the way in the Hula Valley
With this aside, which may have been unconsciously stimulated when I suddenly was face to face
… 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.
exploration of the sea was merely speculative, in the last few decades humans have discovered that
incurable disease of the soul from such bad associations.
in Galilee; and how do they know the way without compasses? How are humans similar to animals
26
with a cobra that was the largest in captivity, we may continue with our questions. How can
scientific focused explorations have led to massive discoveries
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,
and also different from them? When we are living during the centuries in which we have proven
th
nothing has or can drain the human’s ability to dream. While in the 16 and 17 centuries, the
th
storks fly from Amsterdam or Beijing to Australia, often stopping on the way in the Hula Valley
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 the ability to annihilate all life and buildings, what advantage then do humans have? Are we
exploration of the sea was merely speculative, in the last few decades humans have discovered that
in Galilee; and how do they know the way without compasses? How are humans similar to animals
incurable disease of the soul from such bad associations.
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
humans obliterating the life-giving dimensions of our fragile earth? Did not the ancient
scientific focused explorations have led to massive discoveries
and also different from them? When we are living during the centuries in which we have proven

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.

apocalyptists envision such a possible scenario? what advantage then do humans have? Are we
the ability to annihilate all life and buildings,
Now, this is the enviable system of life of these Essenes, so that not only private individuals
humans obliterating the life-giving dimensions of our fragile earth? Did not the ancient
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
apocalyptists envision such a possible scenario? unrealistic and unperceptive, we might reply by
spying and then endeavor to achieve the optimism that too many of us have lost.

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
in our sacra scriptura imply that the patriarchs knew the time of their deaths. And is Death
majesty in a still higher degree by their approbation and by the honors which they confer on
[Two Anguiped Serpents pulling a chariot. Courtesy: Sienna Museum]

Fourth, the OTP is full of death bed scenes and reflections on finality. It seems that some passages
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
increasing the size of the Atlantic Ocean by about 1.5 inches each year. That too is unexpected and
them. [11.18]
imagined to visit humans to take souls to heaven? In one pseudepigraphon, Abraham refuses to
observing the tectonic plates that separate the Americas from Europe and Africa are moving and
in our sacra scriptura imply that the patriarchs knew the time of their deaths. And is Death
majesty in a still higher degree by their approbation and by the honors which they confer on
In our culture, many are confused by the account in Genesis in which the serpent is cursed and unperceived by human eyes.
allow his soul to be taken. Is it a gift to know when we are about to die? Is it a gift not to know the
[Two Anguiped Serpents pulling a chariot. Courtesy: Sienna Museum]
increasing the size of the Atlantic Ocean by about 1.5 inches each year. That too is unexpected and
imagined to visit humans to take souls to heaven? In one pseudepigraphon, Abraham refuses to
them. [11.18]

specific day and hour when one will die?
Perhaps, Philo may be remembering how King Herod seems to have admired the Essenes. Why?
ֹ

ְ
must now “walk on his belly” [ךְ ָ֔ל ת ֣ךנחְג־לַּע]. Distant mythology and ancient art, see above, often
allow his soul to be taken. Is it a gift to know when we are about to die? Is it a gift not to know the

Epilogue
In our culture, many are confused by the account in Genesis in which the serpent is cursed and
It is perhaps, because Herod shared with the Essenes a common enemy: the Hasmoneans.

specific day and hour when one will die?
imagine a serpent with feet. He lost it in the Fall: ֙הָתַּא רוּ ָ֤ ראָ ֒תאֹ ז ָתי ִּ֣שָׂע יִּ֣כּ ׁ֮שָחָנַּה־לַֽ ֶא ׀םיִֵּּ֥הלֱֹא הָ֨וֹ הְי ֩רֶמאֹ יַּו unperceived by human eyes.
Perhaps, Philo may be remembering how King Herod seems to have admired the Essenes. Why?

must now “walk on his belly” [ךְ ָ֔ל ת ֣ ךנחְג־לַּע]. Distant mythology and ancient art, see above, often
ֹ
ְ
If the cultural achievements and dreams of the early Jews did not billow up in smoke in September

ְ
It is perhaps, because Herod shared with the Essenes a common enemy: the Hasmoneans. Epilogue
ֹ
ֹ

׃ךיֶיַּח יֵּ֥ מי־לָכּ לַָּּ֖כאת רֵָּ֥פָעְו ךְ ָ֔ל ת ֣ךנחְג־לַּע הֶּ֑דָשַּה תַּ֣יַּח ל ָּ֖ ֹ כִּּמוּ ה ָ֔מ הְבַּה־לָכִּּמ. καὶ εἶπεν κύριος ὁ θεὸς τῷ ὄφει Ὅτι יַּו
ַֽ imagine a serpent with feet. He lost it in the Fall: ֙הָתַּא רוּ ָ֤ ראָ ֒תאֹ ז ָתי ִּ֣שָׂע יִּ֣כּ ׁ֮שָחָנַּה־לַֽ ֶא ׀םיִֵּּ֥הלֱֹא הָ֨וֹ הְי ֩רֶמאֹ
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
If the cultural achievements and dreams of the early Jews did not billow up in smoke in September

ἐποίησας τοῦτο, ἐπικατάρατος σὺ ἀπὸ πάντων τῶν κτηνῶν καὶ ἀπὸ πάντων τῶν θηρίων τῆς γῆς,
ְ
ֹ
׃ךיֶיַּח יֵּ֥ מי־לָכּ לַָּּ֖כאת רֵָּ֥פָעְו ךְ ָ֔ל ת ֣ ךנחְג־לַּע ה ֶּ֑דָשַּה תַּ֣יַּח ל ָּ֖ ֹ כִּּמוּ ה ָ֔מ הְבַּה־לָכִּּמ. καὶ εἶπεν κύριος ὁ θεὸς τῷ ὄφει Ὅτι
ַֽ
ָ
ֹ

ְ
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
Most of the leading scholars today concur that the Essenes left the cities of Palestine and lived in
24
ἐποίησας τοῦτο, ἐπικατάρατος σὺ ἀπὸ πάντων τῶν κτηνῶν καὶ ἀπὸ πάντων τῶν θηρίων τῆς γῆς,
ἐπὶ τῷ στήθει σου καὶ τῇ κοιλίᾳ πορεύσῃ [Gen 3:14]. The ancient artists and the author of Genesis

John Ashton, Curious Creatures in Zoology (London: John C. Nimmo, 1890). He began his book as follows:
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
villages. Pliny the Elder (Gaius Plinius Secundus lived from c. 23 to 79 CE) locates some of them

ἐπὶ τῷ στήθει σου καὶ τῇ κοιλίᾳ πορεύσῃ [Gen 3:14]. The ancient artists and the author of Genesis
3 assume that the serpent once had feet but it must now crawl “on its breast” ἐπὶ τῷ στήθει (cf. 2
24
“TRAVELLERS see strange things.” He added that their claims were not “put under the microscope of modern
John Ashton, Curious Creatures in Zoology (London: John C. Nimmo, 1890). He began his book as follows:
west of the Dead Sea and reports: “Below them was En-gedi” (Natural History 5.15.73). Pliny’s
37
description lacks clarity. Did Pliny mean Ein Gedi (يدج نيع ,יִּדֶג ןי ע) was at a lower elevation or
3 assume that the serpent once had feet but it must now crawl “on its breast” ἐπὶ τῷ στήθει (cf. 2
“TRAVELLERS see str
scientific examination.” ange things.” He added that their claims were not “put under the microscope of modern
23
Enoch, History of the Rechabites).
From Y. Aharoni, “Archaeological Survey of 'Ein Gedi,” Bulletin of the Israel Exploration Society 22 (1958) 27
23
25 scientific examination.”
Enoch, History of the Rechabites).
description lacks clarity. Did Pliny mean Ein Gedi (يدج نيع ,יִּדֶג ןי ע) was at a lower elevation or 37 “Big Dough Offered For the Monster,” Orlando Sentinel (October 22, 1953). From 1954 to 1960, I explored the
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,
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,
Everglades and I was often fueled by apparently wise counsel.
that it was to the south. Above Ein Gedi are huts that Yizhar Hirschfield (1950-2006) imagined 25 “Big Dough Offered For the Monster,” Orlando Sentinel (October 22, 1953). From 1954 to 1960, I explored the
2007).
may have belonged to Essenes:
Ancient mythology is sometimes not so ancient. In 1890 John Ashton’s Curious Creatures in
26 Everglades and I was often fueled by apparently wise counsel.
Ancient mythology is sometimes not so ancient. In 1890 John Ashton’s Curious Creatures in 38 2007).
See the opening of and the information in Charlesworth, “Phenomenology, Symbology, and Lexicography: The
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
Zoology imagined that:
We may assume that the inhabitants of these cells were Jews, since the site was part of the
26
See the opening of and the information in Charlesworth, “Phenomenology, Symbology, and Lexicography: The
I have been influenced by M. Broshi and S. Gibson, “Excavations Along the Western and Southern Walls of the
Old City of Jerusalem,” Ancient Jerusalem Revealed, edited by Hillel Geva (Jerusalem: Israel Exploration Society,
We may assume that the inhabitants of these cells were Jews, since the site was part of the
Amazingly Rich Vocabulary for ‘Serpent’ in Ancient Greek,” Revue biblique 111 (2004) 499-515. Also see,
Zoology imagined that: Amazingly Rich Vocabulary for ‘Serpent’ in Ancient Greek,” Revue biblique 111 (2004) 499-515. Also see,
Old City of Jerusalem,” Ancient Jerusalem Revealed, edited by Hillel Geva (Jerusalem: Israel Exploration Society,
Ein Gedi oasis, which was situated nearby a Jewish village (mentioned by Josephus Flavius
1994) pp. 147-155.

Charlesworth, The Good and Evil Serpent: How a Universal Symbol Became Christianized. The Anchor Yale Bible
Charlesworth, The Good and Evil Serpent: How a Universal Symbol Became Christianized. The Anchor Yale Bible
in the first century and by Eusebius in the early fourth century). The installations and small
The Boas Serpent which Italy doth breede,
Ein Gedi oasis, which was situated nearby a Jewish village (mentioned by Josephus Flavius 1994) pp. 147-155.
39
Reference Library. (New Haven: Yale University Press, 2010) and Charlesworth, “Teologia biblica e simbolismo del
The Boas Serpent which Italy doth breede,
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
Reference Library. (New Haven: Yale University Press, 2010) and Charlesworth, “Teologia biblica e simbolismo del
B. Pixner, With Jesus In Jerusalem: His First and Last Days in Judea (Rosh Pina, Israel: Corazin Publishing, 1996).
Men say, upon the milke of Cowes doth feede. inhabitants lived in these as permanent
Men say, upon the milke of Cowes doth feede.
Esp. see, Pixner, “Jerusalem’s Essene Gateway: Where the Community Lived in Jesus’ Time," Biblical
artifacts found inside the cells indicate that the serpente,” in Voci dall’area santuariale di Lanuvium: Un percorso storico- religioso con ricadute nel presente, edited
serpente,” in Voci dall’area santuariale di Lanuvium: Un percorso storico- religioso con ricadute nel presente, edited
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
by Marcello Del Verme. (Bornato in Franciacorta: Sardini Editrice, 2013) pp. 81-114 with illustrations. [= Biblia e
Archaeological Review 23 (1997) 22–31. I relish the years shared with Bargil in Galilee and Jerusalem and the
Archaeological Review 23 (1997) 22–31. I relish the years shared with Bargil in Galilee and Jerusalem and the
by Marcello Del Verme. (Bornato in Franciacorta: Sardini Editrice, 2013) pp. 81-114 with illustrations. [= Biblia e
Oriente 55, 255-256].

Oriente 55, 255-256].
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
23 36 I corrected the Greek. to stress the Jewishness of Jesus and commonality today between Jews and Christians.
36
23
to stress the Jewishness of Jesus and commonality today between Jews and Christians.
Often, I cite the Septuagint because its text is often older and better than the Masoretic Text.
I corrected the Greek.
Often, I cite the Septuagint because its text is often older and better than the Masoretic Text.
16 25

Constantinopolitan Creed those confessing belief in Jesus did not want simply to equate Jesus with
Fifth, are there other worlds? When I began in astrophysics, we knew about only seven planets.
banished from schools? In which universities or seminaries are professors teaching that the The key confession is that the God of the Jews is not to be worshipped for his generous beneficence 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
All were in our solar system. Now, today, we know about millions of planets. Are not some of
scribes, that human destiny would be beatific.
foundations of all cultures are grounded in apocalyptic imaginations and compositions? but because He is the only God and cannot be manipulated: were burned? God. Did not the earliest Christians affirm that Jesus was “crucified, dead and buried” and

them inhabited by beings somewhat like us? If UFO’s are real and represent life from elsewhere, represented God on earth. The highest Christology in the New Testament is in the Gospel of Saint
3. Are the Apocalypses the Dream Literature of Antiquity? Yes, that is characteristic of the
During the sixties, too many of my students and close friends returned from afar in black bags or For God who is in the heavens is our only Lord, whom we fear, who is able to deliver us did any who composed the Bible or the pseudepigraphical and apocryphal books intimate such John; and in this masterpiece, Jesus is celebrated with the asyndetic affirmation? Two nouns are
I have heard the tale of an old native American who, centuries ago, was leading his tribe from cold
knowledge? What about Ezekiel’s ascent in a chariot that resembles a flying saucer? Is the biblical
Montana to warm Texas, an ideal land in the south that is free of snow. He was stopped on the way
wooden boxes. Their former fellow students might have obtained more wisdom from these from the burning fiery furnace, and from your hands, O king, he will rescue us. And then, major apocalypses. But we should also add that the apocalypses ultimately revealed the importance not separated but side by side: “the Logos Word became flesh”; subsequently, Jesus collapsed,
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Constantinopolitan Creed those confessing belief in Jesus did not want simply to equate Jesus with
he
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Fifth, are there other worlds? When I began in astrophysics, we knew about only seven planets.
report possibly a garbled account of something else? Are we allowed to learn from areas too often
perpetual occurrences than the insulated contemporary students. Maybe some students today be it known to you, that we will neither serve your idol nor worship the golden image which and fragility of life on earth and enriched speculations and provided in-depth moral insights. exhausted and thirsty, by the well in Samaria and stood weeping outside Lazarus’s tomb. Jesus’
with this warning: “Sir, do you not know there are deadly snakes, deserts, and horrible heat where
s, that hum
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All were in our solar system. Now, today, we know about millions of planets. Are not some of
would be
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God. Did not the earliest Christians affirm that Jesus was “crucified, dead and buried” and
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were burned?
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would understand that becoming wealthy is not bad but it demands peace and a culture defined by you have set up. considered fantastic? Is it not possible that weird accounts and apocalyptic visions may have early followers experienced him as a man who transcended human abilities; but, in my opinion, he
represented God on earth. The highest Christology in the New Testament is in the Gospel of Saint
them inhabited by beings somewhat like us? If UFO’s are real and represent life from elsewhere,
you are leading your people?” He replied: “We are moving because we spy a blessed place and

o, c
wh
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did any who composed the Bible or the pseudepigraphical and apocryphal books intimate such
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3. Are the Apocalypses the Dream Literature of Antiquity? Yes, that is characteristic of the
4. Do we Become Present when We Imagine a Place Phenomenologically? Absolutely, that
I

sought to point them to God, the Father: “It is not possible that I do anything on my own. As I
tale
n
old
a
o
f
dream of it. We all must dream.” Perception and understanding may be found in stories.
qualifying values. Perception and prosperity should always be married. ἔστι γὰρ θεὸς ἐν οὐρανοῖς εἷς κύριος ἡμῶν, ὃν φοβούμεθα, ὅς ἐστι δυνατὸς ἐξελέσθαι hidden experiences? Do we have access to our subliminal consciousness? What has shaped our John; and in this masterpiece, Jesus is celebrated with the asyndetic affirmation? Two nouns are ld
not separated but side by side: “the Logos Word became flesh”; subsequently, Jesus collapsed,
major apocalypses. But we should also add that the apocalypses ultimately revealed the importance
hear, I judge; and my judgment is just, because I do not seek my own will but the will of him who
is pellucidly obvious thanks to the publications of Maurice Merleau-Ponty. When we imagine a
mind?
ἡμᾶς ἐκ τῆς καμίνου τοῦ πυρός, καὶ ἐκ τῶν χειρῶν σου, βασιλεῦ, ἐξελεῖται ἡμᾶς, καὶ knowledge? What about Ezekiel’s ascent in a chariot that resembles a flying saucer? Is the biblical Mont a na to wa rm Te x a s, a n idea l land in the sout h that is fr e e of snow. He w a s stopp e d on the wa y

report possibly a garbled account of something else? Are we allowed to learn from areas too often
exhausted and thirsty, by the well in Samaria and stood weeping outside Lazarus’s tomb. Jesus’
distant location, we also imagine that somehow and in some way, we are present entering that
sent me;” Οὐ δύναμαι ἐγὼ ποιεῖν ἀπʼ ἐμαυτοῦ οὐδέν· καθὼς ἀκούω κρίνω, καὶ ἡ κρίσις ἡ ἐμὴ
In the forties, the USA armies defeated both the Nazis and the Japanese almost as soon as they τότε φανερόν σοι ἔσται, ὅτι οὔτε τῷ εἰδώλῳ σου λατρεύομεν οὔτε τῇ εἰκόνι σου τῇ and fragility of life on earth and enriched speculations and provided in-depth moral insights. with thi s wa rning : “ S ir, do y ou not know ther e a re de a dl y sn a ke s, de s e rts, a nd horr ibl e he a t whe re
I am reminded of the description of the land of “the Blessed Ones” in the History of the Rechabites,
e
W
r
a
d:
e
y
“
c
be
use
a
movi
e

ng
pli
ding
a
y

u a
o
le
re
”
ple?
re
He
r
ou
o
pe
y

plac
e
sp

e
bl
ssed
a
we
nd

a
place to describe it. Those who enter the heavens, according to the authors of the Apocalypses and
If the answer to all these questions is “no,” then why are we so fascinated by stories and accounts
δικαία ἐστίν, ὅτι οὐ ζητῶ τὸ θέλημα τὸ ἐμὸν ἀλλὰ τὸ θέλημα τοῦ πέμψαντός με. (John 5:30). Did
began to fight. Since then, many around the world contemplate that Americans have lost every χρυσῇ, ἣν ἔστησας, προσκυνοῦμεν. considered fantastic? Is it not possible that weird accounts and apocalyptic visions may have early followers experienced him as a man who transcended human abilities; but, in my opinion, he
a document in the Pseudepigrapha. Recall how after God had brought the seer among “the Blessed
e
4. Do we Become Present when We Imagine a Place Phenomenologically? Absolutely, that
m of it
pti
on a
torie
a
rc
. W
a
dre

e
must
a
ll
m.” Pe
s.
fou
be
ma
nd u
nd in s
rsta
y
nde
ndin
dre
g
found in the biblical and related books? If many are too fanciful for modern science is that not also
apocalyptic literature, imagine that visionary men like Enoch and Ezra, who visit the heavens
Jesus not emphasize that he sought to share what he heard ὁ πατήρ (the Father) instructing him?
conflict or war - the Korea Conflict or War, the Vietnam War, and the wars in Afghanistan. Why? [Daniel 3:17-18; my translation is under the influence of Brenton’s LXX]. hidden experiences? Do we have access to our subliminal consciousness? What has shaped our sought to point them to God, the Father: “It is not possible that I do anything on my own. As I
Ones” on a paradisaic island, he shares their report about their life:
hear, I judge; and my judgment is just, because I do not seek my own will but the will of him who
is pellucidly obvious thanks to the publications of Maurice Merleau-Ponty. When we imagine a

mind?
above, or Zosimos, who is guided to the mysterious islands, are depicted present in such places to
true of many recent discoveries and inventions? My grandfather took a steamer to Palestine before Did this confession and understanding create the Nicene Creed that stipulated that Jesus was fully

e
s
the R
Hist
of

c
e
ory
habit
d of
s”
a
m

the
r
mi
nde
in
e
n of
the

e
th
f
o
“
land
B
de
distant location, we also imagine that somehow and in some way, we are present entering that
the
One
s
lesse
riptio
d
c
sent me;” Οὐ δύναμαι ἐγὼ ποιεῖν ἀπʼ ἐμαυτοῦ οὐδέν· καθὼς ἀκούω κρίνω, καὶ ἡ κρίσις ἡ ἐμὴ ,
I
1913 and was on board for almost two weeks; what would be his response to my claim that I took
Is it not partially because the humanities are no longer the primary purpose of our distinguished Other texts and translations of Daniel 3:17-18 (16-18 in Hebrew) differ; for example, note the describe the mysteries of our universe. human and fully divine? Confessions must not be reduced to simplistic Umgangsprache
And God commanded and this land brought forth for us pleasant and splendid trees which
P
a
fte
the
ll
δικαία ἐστίν, ὅτι οὐ ζητῶ τὸ θέλημα τὸ ἐμὸν ἀλλὰ τὸ θέλημα τοῦ πέμψαντός με. (John 5:30). Did d
how
d b
rou
g
ha
ument in
r
God
pig
ra
ph
e
place to describe it. Those who enter the heavens, according to the authors of the Apocalypses and
If the answer to all these questions is “no,” then why are we so fascinated by stories and accounts
ud
se
a
a
c
a
. R
e
g
e
less
e
se
mon
doc
B
r
a
the
the
ht
“

institutions of higher learning? If so, why do they continue to placard moving mottos such as BHS: the same journey but I needed only about ten hours? (colloquial speech). ic isl a nd, he sha r e s their r e por t about their li fe :
Jesus not emphasize that he sought to share what he heard ὁ πατήρ (the Father) instructing him?
on a
ra
p
a
dis
s”
apocalyptic literature, imagine that visionary men like Enoch and Ezra, who visit the heavens
are filled (with) lovely, marvelous, and abundant fruits. And again, from the roots of the
One
a
found in the biblical and related books? If many are too fanciful for modern science is that not also
5. How May we Perceive a New Creation? We can focus on the improvements in human
eruditio et religio, dei sub numine viget, dominus illuminatio mea, lux et veritas, in deo speramus, above, or Zosimos, who is guided to the mysterious islands, are depicted present in such places to Did this confession and understanding create the Nicene Creed that stipulated that Jesus was fully trees flows sweet and delightful water; and from these fruits and water we take delight and
true of many recent discoveries and inventions? My grandfather took a steamer to Palestine before
ְ
ַֽ
ַּ
ָ
ִּ
ֶ
ַֽ
ְ
culture over the past three centuries and recognize that we all share the same dream: peace and
a
d
h
d thi
n
re
and Die Luft der Freiheit weht, or simply Veritas? Now, too many perceive that Deus, Dominus, ׃ךְ ָתוּבָתֲהַּל םָָּ֖גְתִּפ הִָ֛נְד־לַּע הנְחַָּ֧נֲא ןי ֨חְשַּח־אָל ר ָ֔צנְדַּכוַּֽבנ אָּ֑כְּלַּמְל ןי ִָּּ֖רְמאְָו וֹ ָ֔גנ ד֣ בֲעַּו ֙ךְַּשי מ ךְ ַָּ֤רְדַּש וֹ ָ֗נֲע Who made science superior and the only source of knowledge? Albert Einstein warned us not to In seeking understanding about our nature, our origins, and the universe, let us not be misled by
1913 and was on board for almost two weeks; what would be his response to my claim that I took
a
describe the mysteries of our universe.
s whic
omm
nde
od c
e
n
oug
ht fo
human and fully divine? Confessions must not be reduced to simplistic Umgangsprache
And G
did t
a
s
a
nt and sple
rth f
or us ple
s land br
rest and are sustained.”
harmony on this fragile earth. If relatively recently humans have “created” rapid means of effective
filled
Religio are expunged, lux is dimmed, and et veritas is too often lost in a fog of agendas seen in the ׃בִּזי שי אָָּ֖כְּלַּמ ךְֵָּ֥די־ןִּמוּ אִָ֛תְדַֽ ִּקי א ָָ֧רוּנ ןוּ ֨תַּא־ןִּמ אנַּּ֑תוּבזי שְל לִָּּ֖כי ןי ָ֔חְל ָפ אנְחַּ֣נֲא־י ִּד ֙אנ ֨הָלֱא י ָ֗תיִּא ן֣ ה make such absurd errors. He eschewed “the religious paradise” which was “dominated by wishes, those who claim myopically to have the proper theology or Christology. Did not the early
(colloquial speech). ith) lovely, marvelous, and abundant fruits. And again, from the roots of the
re

a
(w

the same journey but I needed only about ten hours?
ָ
ַּ
ָ
ָ
ַֽ
ְ
ְ
ַֽ
ַּ
ִּ
ַֽ
ָ
ָ
ָ
(HistRech 11:3-4; Charlesworth in OTP 2.456].

trees flows sweet and delightful water; and from these fruits and water we take delight and
5. How May we Perceive a New Creation? We can focus on the improvements in human
hopes, and primitive feelings.” He chose another path: “The road to this paradise was not as
light of a computer. More and more of us see the need for the restoration of “learning” – the search communication, the railroads, planes, rockets, medicines, and life-saving alterations to our reflections about Jesus warn that definitions should be clear but also open ended? Are all the so-

culture over the past three centuries and recognize that we all share the same dream: peace and
ined.”
a
st and a
ָ
re
ִּ
ַֽ
ַֽ
ְמי
ִּ
ַֽ
ָ
ְ
r
e
sust
comfortable and alluring as the road to the religious paradise; but it has proved itself as trustworthy,
called Gnostic Gospels heretical? Why were only “Jews” at Jamnia and only “Christians” at
precious earth, then they can recognize the impending disasters to all, and accordingly, make
for Wisdom – and not just “training” for a lucrative job. ְ ׃ד גְְִּנ אֵָּ֥ל ָת ָּ֖ קֲה יִֵּּ֥ד אִָ֛בֲהַּד םֶלֶָ֧צְלוּ ןי ָ֔חְל ָפ אניַּתיִּא־אָל ֙ךְיָהָלא ל יִָּ֤ד אָּ֑כְּלַּמ ךְָָּ֖ל־א וֱהֶל ַּעיִֵּּ֥די א ָ֔ל ן֣ הְו Who made science superior and the only source of knowledge? Albert Einstein warned us not to In seeking understanding about our nature, our origins, and the universe, let us not be misled by
The author, like some Essenes, perceived that οἱ ἄγγϵλοι τοῦ θεοῦ dwell with them: καὶ οἱ ἄγγϵλοι
rle
(H
2.456]
n
h 11:3
OTP
harmony on this fragile earth. If relatively recently humans have “created” rapid means of effective
ha
ist
R

c
e
swor
.
th i
4; C
-

preparations to share a common destiny.
27
Nicaea? How has our theology been contaminated by endeavors and predilection for too precise
and I have never regretted having chosen it.” Einstein continued to believe in God and in an
make such absurd errors. He eschewed “the religious paradise” which was “dominated by wishes, those who claim myopically to have the proper theology or Christology. Did not the early
32
τοῦ θεοῦ οἰκοῦσιν μεθ᾽ ἡμῶν [HistRech 12:8]. Most likely, the author is imagining the recreation

communication, the railroads, planes, rockets, medicines, and life-saving alterations to our
impersonal supreme Being and was captivatingly “enthralled by the luminous figure of the
definitions? “Either-or” is blind sometimes; “both-and” may offer a world in which harmony is

As we all can see now, hopefully, more clearly and as I began: Life is improved if we know the Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego answered and said to the king, “O Nebuchadnezzar, we hopes, and primitive feelings.” He chose another path: “The road to this paradise was not as reflections about Jesus warn that definitions should be clear but also open ended? Are all the so-
(perhaps at the end of time) of the blessed life that Adam and Eve had enjoyed in the Garden of
a
ived
τοῦ
α
ὶ
them:
γγ

e
θεοῦ
with
κ
a
some
t
th
ἄ
comfortable and alluring as the road to the religious paradise; but it has proved itself as trustworthy,
οι

ἄ
precious earth, then they can recognize the impending disasters to all, and accordingly, make
οἱ
uthor,
οἱ
λ
ϵ
γγ
Es
s,
οι
pe

li
dwe
se
The
ne
called Gnostic Gospels heretical? Why were only “Jews” at Jamnia and only “Christians” at
λ
ke
ll
r
ϵ
28
6. Is the Morality in the Apocalypses Focused Only on This Earth? Moral imperatives are
past and appreciate the encouraging visions of those who composed the masterpieces in the Bible, have no need to present a defense to you in this matter. If our God whom we serve is able Nazarene,” Jesus. 27 perceived, promised, and experienced because no option is excluded for human speculation and
33
εθ᾽
preparations to share a common destiny.
ῶν
Nicaea? How has our theology been contaminated by endeavors and predilection for too precise
R
32
θεοῦ
τοῦ
μ
and I have never regretted having chosen it.” Einstein continued to believe in God and in an
. Most li
οῦ
h
Hist
c

οἰκ
[
e
ἡ
12:8]
σιν
μ
Eden (at the beginning of time): Endzeit wird Urzeit. kely, the author is imagining the recreation
the Apocrypha, and the Pseudepigrapha. Let us celebrate all our colleagues who devote their lives to deliver us from the furnace of blazing fire and out of your hand, O king, let him deliver present in the earliest times in Eden (and Jews placed the present blessed abode in many different contemplation. As we seek for an improved theology should we not also learn from the concept of
(perhaps at the end of time) of the blessed life that Adam and Eve had enjoyed in the Garden of

impersonal supreme Being and was captivatingly “enthralled by the luminous figure of the
definitions? “Either-or” is blind sometimes; “both-and” may offer a world in which harmony is
Sixth, is there life after death? Is that not a focus of many apocryphal works? Do not the
28ons). Paradise is in the third heaven, according to Paul in 2 Corinthians 12 and
to learning, sharing it with all students, and to improving our world – and I add, preserving freedom [us]. But if not, be it known to you, O king, that we will not serve your gods and we will cosmological locati Logos according to Heraclitus (c. 535- c. 475 BCE), from so-called Lao-Tzu (c. 500 BCE) who
33
6. Is the Morality in the Apocalypses Focused Only on This Earth? Moral imperatives are
Nazarene,” Jesus.
Eden (at the beginning of time): Endzeit wird Urzeit.
perceived, promised, and experienced because no option is excluded for human speculation and
Continuing our perusal of the Essenes, some of the most gifted intellectuals within early Jewish
apocalypses contain descriptions of postmortem life? Of course, they do. And it is possible to note
of expression and a better life. From the ancient Jewish and Christian apocalypses, we comprehend not worship the golden statue that you have set up.” the author of 2 Enoch 8 in Recension A: “And the men took me from there. They brought me to according to old Chinese traditions composed the Tao-Te-Ching urging that we live and act
contemplation. As we seek for an improved theology should we not also learn from the concept of
present in the earliest times in Eden (and Jews placed the present blessed abode in many different

apocalypticism, we now should ask: Did the Essenes establish dwellings only at Qumran?
30
the third heaven. And they placed me in the midst of Paradise.” [OTP 1.115F.I. Andersen] The
the origins of the dreams that excite each of us. [JHC] that the emphasis shifted from suffering for the unrighteous, and blessedness for the righteous - to according to the energetic force that unites the universe, and from the Upanishads, the great
Continuing our perusal of the Essenes, some of the most gifted intellectuals within early Jewish
Logos according to Heraclitus (c. 535- c. 475 BCE), from so-called Lao-Tzu (c. 500 BCE) who
Sixth, is there life after death? Is that not a focus of many apocryphal works? Do not the
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
treasury of wisdom in India that took shape from about 500 BCE to the Middle Ages, and tried to
apocalypticism, we now should ask: Did the Essenes establish dwellings only at Qumran?
ancient Jews and Christian imagined a blessed place, sometimes in an unknown place, in which
the author of 2 Enoch 8 in Recension A: “And the men took me from there. They brought me to
annihilation of the wicked, and eternal blessed and unimaginable glory and happiness for those
apocalypses contain descriptions of postmortem life? Of course, they do. And it is possible to note according to old Chinese traditions composed the Tao-Te-Ching urging that we live and act
and observed the Roman conquest of Galilee and then the burning of Jerusalem, reported that
30
the third heaven. And they placed me in the midst of Paradise.” [OTP 1.115F.I. Andersen] The
Obviously not. Josephus (37-100 CE), who knew the culture of first-century Palestine intimately
God’s will was obeyed joyously.
faithful to God and the Torah.
demonstrate the human’s universal oneness. Is not the goal of world-wide theological speculations
What do we see? We perceive that our dreams are ageless. All of us dream for hope, peace, The purpose of the pseudepigraphon is clear: that the emphasis shifted from suffering for the unrighteous, and blessedness for the righteous - to according to the energetic force that unites the universe, and from the Upanishads, the great
34
Essenes lived in many areas of the country:
and observed the Roman conquest of Galilee and then the burning of Jerusalem, reported that
annihilation of the wicked, and eternal blessed and unimaginable glory and happiness for those
basically human endeavors, guided by the spirit (variously defined), to arrive at a sense of Awe?

appreciation, and love. ancient Jews and Christian imagined a blessed place, sometimes in an unknown place, in which treasury of wisdom in India that took shape from about 500 BCE to the Middle Ages, and tried to
34
demonstrate the human’s universal oneness. Is not the goal of world-wide theological speculations
faithful to God and the Torah.
7. What Significant Advances Have Been Made in the Study of Ancient Apocalypses? The
Seventh, why do too many claim or assume an absolute dichotomy between Jewish thoughts and

“Nebuchadnezzar answered and said: ‘Blessed be the God of Shadrach, Meshach, and God’s will was obeyed joyously. Essenes lived in many areas of the country:
They [the Essenes; Ἐσσηνοὶ καλοῦνται] are not only in one town but many of them dwell

Today, too much has changed. Religion and philosophy have been too often abandoned and even
preoccupation with ideas has been replaced in most recent endeavors by contextualization, thanks
Conclusion Abednego, who sent his angel and delivered his servants who trusted in him.’” Christian reflections in the first century CE? Were Jesus and all his disciples not Jewish? Were not basically human endeavors, guided by the spirit (variously defined), to arrive at a sense of Awe?
35

7. What Significant Advances Have Been Made in the Study of Ancient Apocalypses? The
They [the Essenes; Ἐσσηνοὶ καλοῦνται] are not only in one town but many of them dwell
Seventh, why do too many claim or assume an absolute dichotomy between Jewish thoughts and
in every town [Μία δ' οὐκ ἔστιν αὐτῶν πόλις ἀλλ' ἐν ἑκάστῃ μετοικοῦσιν πολλοί]. And
29
the books in the Christian Bible all composed by Jews, with maybe a few exceptions: the so-called
We have completed our seven explorations. Here are my summarized and succinct reflections on to fabulous archaeological discoveries, epigraphy, enriched Hebrew, Aramaic, Syriac, and Greek dismissed from too many curricula. In the late 1960s, when I began to teach at Duke, students
35
Today, too much has changed. Religion and philosophy have been too often abandoned and even
in every town [Μία δ' οὐκ ἔστιν αὐτῶν πόλις ἀλλ' ἐν ἑκάστῃ μετοικοῦσιν πολλοί]. And
preoccupation with ideas has been replaced in most recent endeavors by contextualization, thanks
Christian reflections in the first century CE? Were Jesus and all his disciples not Jewish? Were not
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,
these questions: Catholic Epistles, 1 and 2 Timothy and Titus. If “the Messiah,” “the Savior,” “the Christ,” and knew they needed courses in physical education, languages, religion, and history. Why? The
to fabulous archaeological discoveries, epigraphy, enriched Hebrew, Aramaic, Syriac, and Greek
dismissed from too many curricula. In the late 1960s, when I began to teach at Duke, students if any of their sect comes from other locales, their resources are available to them, just as
29
the books in the Christian Bible all composed by Jews, with maybe a few exceptions: the so-called
if it were their own, and they go into the homes of those whom they had never known
ַֽ
ֶ
ַּ
ְ

ְ
ַּ
“the Son of Man,” are originally Jewish neologisms, why do their appearances mislead so many
וֹ ָ֔גנ ד֣ בֲעַּו ֙ךְַּשי מ ךְ ַָּ֤רְדַּש־י ִּד ֙ןוֹהֲהָלֱא ךְי ִָּ֤רְב ר ָ֗מאְָו ר ַּ֜צנְדַּכוַּֽבנ ה ֨נָע misunderstandings, and reality. Apocalypses are certainly grounded in reality on earth, in which Vietnam War brought home a recognition of human limitation, the importance of values and
philology - as well as a focused phenomenology on past lives, their opportunities, perceptions,
knew they needed courses in physical education, languages, religion, and history. Why? The
Catholic Epistles, 1 and 2 Timothy and Titus. If “the Messiah,” “the Savior,” “the Christ,” and
if it were their own, and they go into the homes of those whom they had never known
before as if they had been long acquainted with them” (Josephus, War 2.124; my idiomatic
culture has developed for more than 200,000 years. For example, ornate jewelry about 150,000
1.What are the Most Important Insights from Research into Apocalypticism? The faithful יִּה ּ֑ וֹלֲע וּצִָּּ֖ח ְרְתִּה יִֵּּ֥ד יִּהוֹ ָ֔דְבַּעְל בִּ֣זי שְו ֙ה כֲאְלַּמ חַָּ֤לְש־י ִּד scholars into assuming the work is composed by “a Christian”? sacrifices – and a view that extended beyond our nation’s borders. Now, too many students want
Vietnam War brought home a recognition of human limitation, the importance of values and
misunderstandings, and reality. Apocalypses are certainly grounded in reality on earth, in which
“the Son of Man,” are originally Jewish neologisms, why do their appearances mislead so many
before as if they had been long acquainted with them” (Josephus, War 2.124; my idiomatic
ַֽ
translation).
scholars into assuming the work is composed by “a Christian”?
culture has developed for more than 200,000 years. For example, ornate jewelry about 150,000
sacrifices – and a view that extended beyond our nation’s borders. Now, too many students want
translation).
know that in the worst of times, the Creator has not abandoned them. God should not be defined years old has been recovered from Morocco’s Bizmoune Cave. 31 to ignore these disciplines and prepare for a lucrative job. Why? Have they concluded that the
31
to ignore these disciplines and prepare for a lucrative job. Why? Have they concluded that the
When can we distinguish between “Judaism” and “Christianity”? And, is it not true that today
as a deus ex machina (ἀπὸ μηχανῆς θεός) in which you insert a prayer and God obeys you. As we (Daniel 3:28). years old has been recovered from Morocco’s Bizmoune Cave. humanities in which values and peace are cherished are no longer valuable or worth the sacrifice?
Where are young people to learn values and transfer apocalyptic hopes when the church has
Our study helps us bring into focus the heart of early Jewish and Christian reflections on life and
some great minds, like David Flusser and Geza Vermes, showed that they are not only “Jewish”
learn from the author of Daniel, God will be God and cannot be influenced or controlled: When can we distinguish between “Judaism” and “Christianity”? And, is it not true that today humanities in which values and peace are cherished are no longer valuable or worth the sacrifice?
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
become passé, the family no longer enjoys dinners in which morality is taught, and religion is
but also deeply “Christian”? Each shared many hours with me, over decades, and I remember each
Clearly, the attentive Jew who read the message knew the blessing is upon all וּצִָּּ֖ח ְרְתִּה יִֵּּ֥ד יִּהוֹ ָ֔דְבַּעְל some great minds, like David Flusser and Geza Vermes, showed that they are not only “Jewish” Where are young people to learn values and transfer apocalyptic hopes when the church has
but also deeply “Christian”? Each shared many hours with me, over decades, and I remember each
Shadrach, Meshach, and Abednego answered the king, “O Nebuchadnezzar, we – we – יִּה ּ֑ וֹלֲע. destiny. The horrors they suffered could not diminish the light even though it may have been become passé, the family no longer enjoys dinners in which morality is taught, and religion is
saying something like: “Jim I believe in one supreme Being, YHWH, and the divinity of Jesus but
caused by the flames. We are apocalyptically given the assurance that God is good and to be

saying something like: “Jim I believe in one supreme Being, YHWH, and the divinity of Jesus but
never will I imagine Jesus was God.” Contemplating, that statement, I imagine before the Nicene-
have no need to reply to you in this command (οὐ χρείαν ἔχομεν ἡμεῖς ἐπὶ τῇ ἐπιταγῇ ταύτῃ 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.
32 Charlesworth, ed., The History of the Rechabites: Volume I: The Greek Recension. SBL T&T 17, Pseud Series 10.
never will I imagine Jesus was God.” Contemplating, that statement, I imagine before the Nicene-
(Chico, Calif.: Scholars Press, 1982); for this citation see p. 72.
ἀποκριθῆναί σοι). If our God whom we serve is able to deliver us from the furnace of 2. Do We Learn from Our Mistakes? Scholars devoted to historical research prove that
; for this citation see p. 72.
(Chico, Calif.: Scholars Press, 1982)

29
33
They would do well to ponder the insights in Yaron Z. Eliav, A Jew in the Roman Bathhouse: Cultural Interaction

blazing fire and out of your hand, O king, let him deliver us. But if not, be it known to you, humans tend to repeat themselves and their errors; humans apparently fail to learn from their own 29 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.
They would do well to ponder the insights in Yaron Z. Eliav, A Jew in the Roman Bathhouse: Cultural Interaction
27 30
27 The redactor of Recension J adds “Then I looked downward” and so places Paradise on the earth. In 2En 42,
Albert Einstein, “Autobiographical Notes,” in Albert Einstein: Philosopher-Scientist, edited by Paul Arthur Schilpp.
in the Ancient Mediterranean (in press) and his “Bathhouses as Places of Social and Cultural Interactions,” in The
30
I und Apoc. Joh. XII (Göttingen: Vandenhoeck und Ruprecht, 1895).
Albert Einstein, “Autobiographical Notes,” in Albert Einstein: Philosopher-Scientist, edited by Paul Arthur Schilpp.
The redactor of Recension J adds “Then I looked downward” and so places Paradise on the earth. In 2En 42,
O king, that we will not serve your gods and we will not worship the golden statue that you Paradise is in the East, as in the Bible. in the Ancient Mediterranean (in press) and his “Bathhouses as Places of Social and Cultural Interactions,” in The
I und Apoc. Joh. XII (Göttingen: Vandenhoeck und Ruprecht, 1895).
Library of Living Philosophers. (Evanston, 1949) p. 5. Einstein’s quotation as assed by Max Jammer, Einstein and
34
Oxford Handbook of Jewish Daily Life in Roman Palestine, edited by Catherine Hezser (Oxford: Oxford University
I concur with those who agree that the etymology of the word “Essene” remains doubtful.
Library of Living Philosophers. (Evanston, 1949) p. 5. Einstein’s quotation as assed by Max Jammer, Einstein and
Paradise is in the East, as in the Bible.
Oxford Handbook of Jewish Daily Life in Roman Palestine, edited by Catherine Hezser (Oxford: Oxford University
have set up.” [Daniel 3:16-18] 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.
Religion (Princeton: PUP, 1999) p. 28.
31
Press, 2010) pp. 605-22. Among his many publications, see Anita Norich and Yaron Z. Eliav, editors, Jewish
35
Religion (Princeton: PUP, 1999) p. 28.
See Philo’s comment that they dwell only in villages. The Greek noun πόλις is too often in Josephus’ description
Press, 2010) pp. 605-22. Among his many publications, see Anita Norich and Yaron Z. Eliav, editors, Jewish
Notably, see Sarah Kuta, “This 9,000-year-old Necklace is Remarkable. Who wore it is even more surprising,”
28 See Jammer, Einstein and Religion, respectively pp. 264 and 22. 35 See Philo’s comment that they dwell only in villages. The Greek noun πόλις is too often in Josephus’ description
28
National Geographic (August 25, 2023).
Literatures and Cultures: Context and Intertext. Brown Judaic Studies 349. (Providence RI, 2008).
See Jammer, Einstein and Religion, respectively pp. 264 and 22.
National Geographic (August 25, 2023).
of the Essenes understood to denote a city; here it means a town or village.
Literatures and Cultures: Context and Intertext. Brown Judaic Studies 349. (Providence RI, 2008).
of the Essenes understood to denote a city; here it means a town or village.
21 18 23
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