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dismissed as focus turned to moral obsessions on an isolated earth. Only one later story preserves
40
corpus. I discovered that the lead plates of Charles’ volumes had been melted down to make bullets
sapiens began to appear about 300,000 years ago in Africa. The evolution was multidimensional
studying.
the “memory” of Akiba ben Yosef (c. 50 to 135 CE) and his three colleagues who ascended into
in the Great War. All students preferred translations in English; moreover, virtually no reliable text
and involved vast transformations and increased abilities. Just as humans once, almost

the blessed heavens by intense focus on G-d’s Ineffable Name (Tosafot, Chagiga 14b, Zohar
editions were published for many of the documents I was convinced should be included in the
who dismiss the description of the serpent in Genesis as fictious need to continue reading and
inadvertently, became extinct in the Pleistocene era, so humans may deliberately obliterate all

1.26b, and Tikunei Zohar, Tikun 40).
corpus we all called “the Old Testament Pseudepigrapha.”
studying.
sapiens began to appear about 300,000 years ago in Africa. The evolution was multidimensional
earthly life.
40

corpus. I discovered that the lead plates of Charles’ volumes had been melted down to make bullets
and involved vast transformations and increased abilities. Just as humans once, almost
Is there also a blessed scenario? Yes, but it is preserved in ancient apocalypses, notably Daniel and

Since the 1970s, gifted men and women have provided texts, translations, and studies focused on
in the Great War. All students preferred translations in English; moreover, virtually no reliable text
Many of the books in the Hebrew Bible, apocalypses, Dead Sea Scrolls, the Pseudepigrapha, and
inadvertently, became extinct in the Pleistocene era, so humans may deliberately obliterate all
Revelation.

editions were published for many of the documents I was convinced should be included in the
most of the New Testament, bear witness to the former apocalyptic imaginations; the latter ethical
one of the documents in the OTP. Now we have a known corpus that is increasing. At that time,
earthly life.

corpus we all called “the Old Testament Pseudepigrapha.”
masterpieces are preserved in the Mishnah and Rabbinic texts.
focus was almost always on philology and history. Now, we have a vineyard of ancient apocalyptic
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

creations, so to speak, and we may enjoy its fruits by exploring the eternal questions and asking in

Revelation.
a marvelous world, evident now only in their ten or more heavens, and soon appearing on earth
Since the 1970s, gifted men and women have provided texts, translations, and studies focused on
During Early Judaism – approximately 300 BCE to 150 CE – the great apocalypses, like Daniel,
what ways, if at all, these complex ancient compositions help us draw closer to possibly reliable

due to God’s continuing fidelity, love, and righteousness. Many Jews and Christians before about
one of the documents in the OTP. Now we have a known corpus that is increasing. At that time,
What did the early optimistic apocalyptists imagine? They pondered a Creator that had promised
(perhaps revealed) perceptions and answers. Here are some areas we may all continue to explore: of
1 Enoch, 2 Enoch, 4 Ezra, 2 Baruch, the History of the Rechabites, and the vast amounts
focus was almost always on philology and history. Now, we have a vineyard of ancient apocalyptic
150 CE, imagined and expected “a New Jerusalem” descending to earth (Revelation 21:1-2).
a marvelous world, evident now only in their ten or more heavens, and soon appearing on earth
apocalyptic texts, like The Testaments of the Twelve Patriarchs, were composed. What was the

creations, so to speak, and we may enjoy its fruits by exploring the eternal questions and asking in
due to God’s continuing fidelity, love, and righteousness. Many Jews and Christians before about
primary message of those who created the luminous apocalypses and apocalyptic compositions?
First, how is the Creator perceived? Are we wise to ask about monotheism or henotheism? To what
what ways, if at all, these complex ancient compositions help us draw closer to possibly reliable
The Jewish and Christian authors of the apocalyptic masterpieces and the modern astrophysicists
150 CE, imagined and expected “a New Jerusalem” descending to earth (Revelation 21:1-2).
These authors urged all to look up and into the vast heavens. They claimed some had been led into
extent is the Eternal One represented by “the Lord Our God”? Is this Being powerful or has he
(perhaps revealed) perceptions and answers. Here are some areas we may all continue to explore:
offer a perception of a universe full of wonder that excites beliefs about an incomprehensible
delimited his might by creating Adam, in his image, and with the freedom to reject the good and
other worlds above in which some were suffering and others were blessed enjoying a new life with
Supreme Being or Mind. If all of us humans cease our hatred and fear and join together as creatures
The Jewish and Christian authors of the apocalyptic masterpieces and the modern astrophysicists
all human hopes.
First, how is the Creator perceived? Are we wise to ask about monotheism or henotheism? To what
even the Creator? How and in what ways can the Creator effect history; is this One incapable, by
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
extent is the Eternal One represented by “the Lord Our God”? Is this Being powerful or has he

self-limitations, to never intervene but only to supervene? And how may we make such
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
delimited his might by creating Adam, in his image, and with the freedom to reject the good and
The authors of the first apocalypses could not see or imagine the expanding universe and awe-
distinctions?
of the One and Blessed God, then we still have time to experience a οὐρανὸν καινὸν καὶ γῆν
“the angels of God dwell among us” (καὶ οἱ ἄγγϵλοι τοῦ θεοῦ οἰκοῦσιν μεθ᾽ ἡμῶν)?
even the Creator? How and in what ways can the Creator effect history; is this One incapable, by
inspiring innumerable galaxies revealed by the Hubble eXtreme Deep Field (XDF) telescope. That
καινήν. Can any of us believe the ancient apocalyptist, noted at the beginning, who envisioned that

self-limitations, to never intervene but only to supervene? And how may we make such
19
methodology helps astronomers (notably Mario Livio) to estimate the presence of between 100
Second, the Bible is the “Crucible of the Pseudepigrapha.” Those who wrote these cultural
“the angels of God dwell among us” (καὶ οἱ ἄγγϵλοι τοῦ θεοῦ οἰκοῦσιν μεθ᾽ ἡμῶν)?

distinctions?
shaping apocalyptic masterpieces intimate and even anticipate a beatific future since God claimed
billion and 200 billion galaxies. Some remarkably may be moving faster than the speed of light;

and physicists, Günter Nimtz and Alfons Stahlhofen), conducted experiments in which photons
the “End” of creation would be glorious. They also knew that the future, for God, is also the
19
Second, the Bible is the “Crucible of the Pseudepigrapha.” Those who wrote these cultural

were observed moving faster than the speed of light. The ancient visionaries could not contemplate
present, since God by definition transcends categories like “time.” If so, then God saw and
shaping apocalyptic masterpieces intimate and even anticipate a beatific future since God claimed

pronounced the beginning and end of creation “good” [׃בוַֹֽט־יִּכּ םיִָּּ֖הלֱֹא א ְרֵַּּ֥יַּו]. Almost always, Jews
black holes, but perhaps they could imagine what a friend and astronaut shared with me; he
the “End” of creation would be glorious. They also knew that the future, for God, is also the

imagined that the inexplicable black holes may be entrances into another world. That is wise
who left us apocalypses foresaw a blessed future for those faithful to the Creator; their life would
present, since God by definition transcends categories like “time.” If so, then God saw and
speculation since all cosmic objects near a black hole speed into it and perhaps continue
pronounced the beginning and end of creation “good” [׃בוַֹֽט־יִּכּ םיִָּּ֖הלֱֹא א ְרֵַּּ֥יַּו]. Almost always, Jews
be similar to those enjoying the Abode of the Rechabites – perhaps only after we stop breathing.
who left us apocalypses foresaw a blessed future for those faithful to the Creator; their life would
somewhere as water in a bathtub flows out through a drain to many distant places.
be similar to those enjoying the Abode of the Rechabites – perhaps only after we stop breathing.

Third, how and in what ways are “humans” similar to animals and also different from other

Black holes seem to be everywhere and one large one is in the middle of our galaxy and moving
creatures? A few animals, like the octopi, chimpanzees, and especially bottlenose dolphins seem
Third, how and in what ways are “humans” similar to animals and also different from other
20
towards us. At a future event, all in our solar system will vanish in a flash. When I was in
to possess cognitive abilities equal to humans. And tortoises may live over 150 years while
creatures? A few animals, like the octopi, chimpanzees, and especially bottlenose dolphins seem
Yellowstone, I was informed that an apocalyptic denouement is expected; a specialist warned that
humans often pass away before 80. Some apes and monkeys can use their hands. How intelligent
to possess cognitive abilities equal to humans. And tortoises may live over 150 years while
20
the “Giant Yellowstone Supervolcano” beneath the park discloses an overdue explosion. It will
is the octopus; is this creature’s strategies due only to ecological intelligence (that is, the ability to
humans often pass away before 80. Some apes and monkeys can use their hands. How intelligent
erupt and wipe out all life in the USA and perhaps on the earth. In the estimation of other
secure food) or is it capable of planning (as Piero Amodio of the University of Padua observed)?
is the octopus; is this creature’s strategies due only to ecological intelligence (that is, the ability to
21
specialists, the eruption is about a hundred millennia away. Finally, meteorologists warn that in
How have the 3,400 species of serpents (reptiles, snakes) existed 20 times longer than humans
secure food) or is it capable of planning (as Piero Amodio of the University of Padua observed)?

the future, climate change will wipe out most of Florida and other low-lying areas on earth. Some
and yet cannot blink, and most move without hands or legs and can disarticulate their jaws so they
How have the 3,400 species of serpents (reptiles, snakes) existed 20 times longer than humans
21

can swallow others whole? I should add that the Tetrapodophis specimen from the Cretaceous is
experts have a different scenario; they are concerned that a “catastrophic cyber event”
and yet cannot blink, and most move without hands or legs and can disarticulate their jaws so they
[Ancient Egyptian Art often Shows a Serpent with Feet. Above is a depiction of
can swallow others whole? I should add that the Tetrapodophis specimen from
22 the Cretaceous

developing. Today we are sharing daunting futures with the ancient apocalyptists.
Period has two feet and tiny front legs (or hands). It also has five fingers or toes. Certainly, all
Nehebkau, the Snake God. Egyptian Book of the Dead.]

22
Period has two feet and tiny front legs (or hands). It also has five fingers or toes. Certainly, all

[Ancient Egyptian Art often Shows a Serpent with Feet. Above is a depiction of

Life on earth has been fragile. It is imperative that all of us comprehend how humans on earth
Nehebkau, the Snake God. Egyptian Book of the Dead.]

declined to a mere 1,280 people and almost became extinct between 930,000 and 813,000 years

19
See Charlesworth, “Biblical Stories and Quotations Reflected and Even Adumbrated in the Old Testament

19
ago. Perhaps it was due to glacial events, declining temperatures, droughts, and the loss of animals
See Charlesworth, “Biblical Stories and Quotations Reflected and Even Adumbrated in the Old Testament
Pseudepigrapha,” in S. Delamarter, A Scripture Index to Charlesworth’s The Old Testament Pseudepigrapha (London,

Pseudepigrapha,” in S. Delamarter, A Scripture Index to Charlesworth’s The Old Testament Pseudepigrapha (London,
and vegetation that “humans” needed for survival. As a result, human diversity was diminished.
New York: Sheffield, 2002) p. 1-6.
New York: Sheffield, 2002) p. 1-6.
20
See esp. J. R. Learn, “Just How Intelligent Are Dolphins?” Discover (March 26 2021)). discovery of fire; the
Then, there was an accelerated population boom, caused – perhaps – by the
20
See esp. J. R. Learn, “Just How Intelligent Are Dolphins?” Discover (March 26 2021)).

21
21
The number “3,400” is from the Encyclopedia Britanica (2023). bipedal (the ability to walk). About 1.9
earth’s warming climate; and some hominins became
40
The number “3,400” is from the Encyclopedia Britanica (2023).
I am indebted to the insights of scientists reported by Eric Ralls in “Humans Almost Went Extinct as Population
22
22
40
million years ago, Homo erectus appeared with a larger brain and could use advanced tools.
Today, pythons have a pair of little spurs that have evolved from earlier feet. Lizards still have something like feet.
Today, pythons have a pair of little spurs that have evolved from earlier feet. Lizards still have something like feet.
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
See the illustrated and highly informative “A Fossil Snake With Four Legs” by Ed Young in National Geographic
Severe Human Bottleneck During the Early to Middle Pleastocene Transition,” Science 381 (31 August 2023).
See the illustrated and highly informative “A Fossil Snake With Four Legs” by Ed Young in National Geographic
Declined to only 1,280 People,” Earth (September 1, 2023). See also, Wangjie Hu, et al., “Genomic Inference of a
Neanderthals appeared about 400,000 years ago but became extinct about 40,000 years ago. Homo
(July 23 2015).
(July 23 2015).
Severe Human Bottleneck During the Early to Middle Pleastocene Transition,” Science 381 (31 August 2023).
15
26
who dismiss the description of the serpent in Genesis as fictious need to continue reading and
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 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
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 were burned? scribes, that human destiny would be beatific.
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
Ashton also quoted Pliny: “The blood of a serpent is more precious than Balsamum, and if you 3. Are the Apocalypses the Dream Literature of Antiquity? Yes, that is characteristic of the I have heard the tale of an old native American who, centuries ago, was leading his tribe from cold
(d. 79 A.D.) famous passage on the Essenes, which he describes as a celibate group of men,

living on the western shore of the Dead Sea, who have no money only palm trees for
None among them [the Essenes] is richer than the other; for the law with them is that
trusted. When he declared creation “good” and “very good” God knew, according to the priestly
mistakes. What wisdom disappeared in smoke when the great libraries, like the one in Alexandria,
dwellings for a relatively long period. They were not seasonal workers, for if they were we
Boa quidem serpens quem tellus Itala nutrit

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 major apocalypses. But we should also add that the apocalypses ultimately revealed the importance Montana to warm Texas, an ideal land in the south that is free of snow. He was stopped on the way
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

24
Hunc bubulum plures lac enutrire docent.
would most probably find similar sites in other parts of the oasis as well. All features of the
scribes, that human destiny would be beatific.
were burned?
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 and fragility of life on earth and enriched speculations and provided in-depth moral insights. with this warning: “Sir, do you not know there are deadly snakes, deserts, and horrible heat where
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 you are leading your people?” He replied: “We are moving because we spy a blessed place and
(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 4. Do we Become Present when We Imagine a Place Phenomenologically? Absolutely, that I have heard the tale of an old native American who, centuries ago, was leading his tribe from cold

Dragon’s temperament that is inimical to man, but there are stories, equally veracious, of their
3. Are the Apocalypses the Dream Literature of Antiquity? Yes, that is characteristic of the
dream of it. We all must dream.” Perception and understanding may be found in stories.
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] … annoynt your lips with a little of it, they will looke passing redde: and, if the face be annoynted major apocalypses. But we should also add that the apocalypses ultimately revealed the importance Montana to warm Texas, an ideal land in the south that is free of snow. He was stopped on the way
None among them [the Essenes] is richer than the other; for the law with them is that
is pellucidly obvious thanks to the publications of Maurice Merleau-Ponty. When we imagine a
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 and fragility of life on earth and enriched speculations and provided in-depth moral insights. with this warning: “Sir, do you not know there are deadly snakes, deserts, and horrible heat where
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
distant location, we also imagine that somehow and in some way, we are present entering that
impressed with this brilliant man and enjoyed the years we shared together in many ancient sites
I am reminded of the description of the land of “the Blessed Ones” in the History of the Rechabites,
"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 place to describe it. Those who enter the heavens, according to the authors of the Apocalypses and you are leading your people?” He replied: “We are moving because we spy a blessed place and
and then be immortal like the soul.”
1890 until today), have continued to shape the minds of too many today.
a document in the Pseudepigrapha. Recall how after God had brought the seer among “the Blessed
within modern Israel, but conceivably the huts may have belonged to Jewish simple farmers. He
4. Do we Become Present when We Imagine a Place Phenomenologically? Absolutely, that
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 apocalyptic literature, imagine that visionary men like Enoch and Ezra, who visit the heavens dream of it. We all must dream.” Perception and understanding may be found in stories.

Ones” on a paradisaic island, he shares their report about their life:
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] …
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 is pellucidly obvious thanks to the publications of Maurice Merleau-Ponty. When we imagine a I am reminded of the description of the land of “the Blessed Ones” in the History of the Rechabites,
Such unfounded claims from ancient mythology and Victorian Cryptozoology are enriched and
above, or Zosimos, who is guided to the mysterious islands, are depicted present in such places to
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
distant location, we also imagine that somehow and in some way, we are present entering that
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 describe the mysteries of our universe. a document in the Pseudepigrapha. Recall how after God had brought the seer among “the Blessed
And God commanded and this land brought forth for us pleasant and splendid trees which
1890 until today), have continued to shape the minds of too many today.
and then be immortal like the soul.”
place to describe it. Those who enter the heavens, according to the authors of the Apocalypses and
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 apocalyptic literature, imagine that visionary men like Enoch and Ezra, who visit the heavens Ones” on a paradisaic island, he shares their report about their life:
journal of seeing “mermaids,” and an authority in Florida in 1954 who supported the accounts of
are filled (with) lovely, marvelous, and abundant fruits. And again, from the roots of the

and I would appreciate careful responses to his hypothesis.
at Qumran, Jericho, perhaps above Ein Gedi, southwest Jerusalem, and in the Galilee. In addition,
5. How May we Perceive a New Creation? We can focus on the improvements in human
[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 above, or Zosimos, who is guided to the mysterious islands, are depicted present in such places to trees flows sweet and delightful water; and from these fruits and water we take delight and
These diverse ancient and modern reports on the Essenes make it highly likely that Essenes could
38
25d possible Essene burials, perhaps one mile west of
with Magen Broshi (1929-2020), I examine
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
describe the mysteries of our universe.
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 culture over the past three centuries and recognize that we all share the same dream: peace and And God commanded and this land brought forth for us pleasant and splendid trees which
rest and are sustained.”
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 harmony on this fragile earth. If relatively recently humans have “created” rapid means of effective are filled (with) lovely, marvelous, and abundant fruits. And again, from the roots of the
(HistRech 11:3-4; Charlesworth in OTP 2.456].
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. communication, the railroads, planes, rockets, medicines, and life-saving alterations to our trees flows sweet and delightful water; and from these fruits and water we take delight and
5. How May we Perceive a New Creation? We can focus on the improvements in human
… 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
rest and are sustained.”
36
would be “some creature like that monster.”
called “Essæi” (ὅσιοι) from their saintliness (though not exactly after the meaning of the with Magen Broshi (1929-2020), I examine 26 39 culture over the past three centuries and recognize that we all share the same dream: peace and The author, like some Essenes, perceived that οἱ ἄγγϵλοι τοῦ θεοῦ dwell with them: καὶ οἱ ἄγγϵλοι
As we conclude and peruse the lives of humans over the past four thousand years, and more,
precious earth, then they can recognize the impending disasters to all, and accordingly, make
with a cobra that was the largest in captivity, we may continue with our questions. How can
in villages and avoid cities on account of the habitual wickedness of those who inhabit them,

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. communication, the railroads, planes, rockets, medicines, and life-saving alterations to our τοῦ θεοῦ οἰκοῦσιν μεθ᾽ ἡμῶν [HistRech 12:8]. Most likely, the author is imagining the recreation
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.
The author, like some Essenes, perceived that οἱ ἄγγϵλοι τοῦ θεοῦ dwell with them: καὶ οἱ ἄγγϵλοι
with a cobra that was the largest in captivity, we may continue with our questions. How can
26
scientific focused explorations have led to massive discoveries
6. Is the Morality in the Apocalypses Focused Only on This Earth? Moral imperatives are
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, precious earth, then they can recognize the impending disasters to all, and accordingly, make (perhaps at the end of time) of the blessed life that Adam and Eve had enjoyed in the Garden of
and also different from them? When we are living during the centuries in which we have proven
th
th
nothing has or can drain the human’s ability to dream. While in the 16 and 17 centuries, the
33
32
storks fly from Amsterdam or Beijing to Australia, often stopping on the way in the Hula Valley
preparations to share a common destiny.
Eden (at the beginning of time): Endzeit wird Urzeit. kely, the author is imagining the recreation
τοῦ θεοῦ οἰκοῦσιν μεθ᾽ ἡμῶν [HistRech 12:8]. Most li
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 present in the earliest times in Eden (and Jews placed the present blessed abode in many different (perhaps at the end of time) of the blessed life that Adam and Eve had enjoyed in the Garden of
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.
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 cosmological locations). Paradise is in the third heaven, according to Paul in 2 Corinthians 12 and Eden (at the beginning of time): Endzeit wird Urzeit.
scientific focused explorations have led to massive discoveries
33
and also different from them? When we are living during the centuries in which we have proven
6. Is the Morality in the Apocalypses Focused Only on This Earth? Moral imperatives are

Continuing our perusal of the Essenes, some of the most gifted intellectuals within early Jewish
Also, contemplate what Philo reported in Hypothetica 11.1-18, many of Philo’s comments are now spying and then endeavor to achieve the optimism that too many of us have lost. the author of 2 Enoch 8 in Recension A: “And the men took me from there. They brought me to apocalypticism, we now should ask: Did the Essenes establish dwellings only at Qumran?

the ability to annihilate all life and buildings,
present in the earliest times in Eden (and Jews placed the present blessed abode in many different
apocalyptists envision such a possible scenario? what advantage then do humans have? Are we
30
Now, this is the enviable system of life of these Essenes, so that not only private individuals
cosmological locations). Paradise is in the third heaven, according to Paul in 2 Corinthians 12 and
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 the third heaven. And they placed me in the midst of Paradise.” [OTP 1.115F.I. Andersen] The Continuing our perusal of the Essenes, some of the most gifted intellectuals within early Jewish
Obviously not. Josephus (37-100 CE), who knew the culture of first-century Palestine intimately
If we hear replies that categorize this hope as
spying and then endeavor to achieve the optimism that too many of us have lost.

ancient Jews and Christian imagined a blessed place, sometimes in an unknown place, in which
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 apocalyptists envision such a possible scenario? unrealistic and unperceptive, we might reply by the author of 2 Enoch 8 in Recension A: “And the men took me from there. They brought me to apocalypticism, we now should ask: Did the Essenes establish dwellings only at Qumran?
and observed the Roman conquest of Galilee and then the burning of Jerusalem, reported that

30
God’s will was obeyed joyously.
Now, this is the enviable system of life of these Essenes, so that not only private individuals observing the tectonic plates that separate the Americas from Europe and Africa are moving and the 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
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
34
[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 ancient Jews and Christian imagined a blessed place, sometimes in an unknown place, in which Essenes lived in many areas of the country:
and observed the Roman conquest of Galilee and then the burning of Jerusalem, reported that
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 God’s will was obeyed joyously. Essenes lived in many areas of the country:
34
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
7. What Significant Advances Have Been Made in the Study of Ancient Apocalypses? The
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
In our culture, many are confused by the account in Genesis in which the serpent is cursed and unperceived by human eyes. preoccupation with ideas has been replaced in most recent endeavors by contextualization, thanks They [the Essenes; Ἐσσηνοὶ καλοῦνται] are not only in one town but many of them dwell
[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]

Perhaps, Philo may be remembering how King Herod seems to have admired the Essenes. Why?
specific day and hour when one will die?
35
ְ

must now “walk on his belly” [ךְ ָ֔ל ת ֣ךנחְג־לַּע]. Distant mythology and ancient art, see above, often
ֹ
7. What Significant Advances Have Been Made in the Study of Ancient Apocalypses? The
in every town [Μία δ' οὐκ ἔστιν αὐτῶν πόλις ἀλλ' ἐν ἑκάστῃ μετοικοῦσιν πολλοί]. And
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

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

specific day and hour when one will die?
in every town [Μία δ' οὐκ ἔστιν αὐτῶν πόλις ἀλλ' ἐν ἑκάστῃ μετοικοῦσιν πολλοί]. And
35
preoccupation with ideas has been replaced in most recent endeavors by contextualization, thanks
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
Perhaps, Philo may be remembering how King Herod seems to have admired the Essenes. Why? unperceived by human eyes. to fabulous archaeological discoveries, epigraphy, enriched Hebrew, Aramaic, Syriac, and Greek They [the Essenes; Ἐσσηνοὶ καλοῦνται] are not only in one town but many of them dwell
if any of their sect comes from other locales, their resources are available to them, just as
ְ

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
philology - as well as a focused phenomenology on past lives, their opportunities, perceptions,

ֹ
ֹ
ְ

It is perhaps, because Herod shared with the Essenes a common enemy: the Hasmoneans. Epilogue to fabulous archaeological discoveries, epigraphy, enriched Hebrew, Aramaic, Syriac, and Greek if any of their sect comes from other locales, their resources are available to them, just as
ְ

ָ
׃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
if it were their own, and they go into the homes of those whom they had never known

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 misunderstandings, and reality. Apocalypses are certainly grounded in reality on earth, in which if it were their own, and they go into the homes of those whom they had never known
If the cultural achievements and dreams of the early Jews did not billow up in smoke in September
philology - as well as a focused phenomenology on past lives, their opportunities, perceptions,

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 culture has developed for more than 200,000 years. For example, ornate jewelry about 150,000 before as if they had been long acquainted with them” (Josephus, War 2.124; my idiomatic
before as if they had been long acquainted with them” (Josephus, War 2.124; my idiomatic
misunderstandings, and reality. Apocalypses are certainly grounded in reality on earth, in which
Most of the leading scholars today concur that the Essenes left the cities of Palestine and lived in
ἐποίησας τοῦτο, ἐπικατάρατος σὺ ἀπὸ πάντων τῶν κτηνῶν καὶ ἀπὸ πάντων τῶν θηρίων τῆς γῆς,
24
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:
31
translation).
culture has developed for more than 200,000 years. For example, ornate jewelry about 150,000
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 years old has been recovered from Morocco’s Bizmoune Cave. translation).
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
24
3 assume that the serpent once had feet but it must now crawl “on its breast” ἐπὶ τῷ στήθει (cf. 2
“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:
31
west of the Dead Sea and reports: “Below them was En-gedi” (Natural History 5.15.73). Pliny’s 37 From Y. Aharoni, “Archaeological Survey of 'Ein Gedi,” Bulletin of the Israel Exploration Society 22 (1958) 27 years old has been recovered from Morocco’s Bizmoune Cave.
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).
25 scientific examination.”
23
Enoch, History of the Rechabites). 37 From Y. Aharoni, “Archaeological Survey of 'Ein Gedi,” Bulletin of the Israel Exploration Society 22 (1958) 27 Our study helps us bring into focus the heart of early Jewish and Christian reflections on life and
description lacks clarity. Did Pliny mean Ein Gedi (يدج نيع ,יִּדֶג ןי ע) was at a lower elevation or
“Big Dough Offered For the Monster,” Orlando Sentinel (October 22, 1953). From 1954 to 1960, I explored the
[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
destiny. The horrors they suffered could not diminish the light even though it may have been
[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 25 “Big Dough Offered For the Monster,” Orlando Sentinel (October 22, 1953). From 1954 to 1960, I explored the Our study helps us bring into focus the heart of early Jewish and Christian reflections on life and
2007).
Everglades and I was often fueled by apparently wise counsel.
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). destiny. The horrors they suffered could not diminish the light even though it may have been
caused by the flames. We are apocalyptically given the assurance that God is good and to be
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
caused by the flames. We are apocalyptically given the assurance that God is good and to be
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
32 Charlesworth, ed., The History of the Rechabites: Volume I: The Greek Recension. SBL T&T 17, Pseud Series 10.
Ein Gedi oasis, which was situated nearby a Jewish village (mentioned by Josephus Flavius
Old City of Jerusalem,” Ancient Jerusalem Revealed, edited by Hillel Geva (Jerusalem: Israel Exploration Society,
Zoology imagined that: Amazingly Rich Vocabulary for ‘Serpent’ in Ancient Greek,” Revue biblique 111 (2004) 499-515. Also see, 32 Charlesworth, ed., The History of the Rechabites: Volume I: The Greek Recension. SBL T&T 17, Pseud Series 10.
Amazingly Rich Vocabulary for ‘Serpent’ in Ancient Greek,” Revue biblique 111 (2004) 499-515. Also see,
1994) pp. 147-155.

Charlesworth, The Good and Evil Serpent: How a Universal Symbol Became Christianized. The Anchor Yale Bible
(Chico, Calif.: Scholars Press, 1982); for this citation see p. 72.
Charlesworth, The Good and Evil Serpent: How a Universal Symbol Became Christianized. The Anchor Yale Bible
Ein Gedi oasis, which was situated nearby a Jewish village (mentioned by Josephus Flavius 1994) pp. 147-155. (Chico, Calif.: Scholars Press, 1982); for this citation see p. 72.
in the first century and by Eusebius in the early fourth century). The installations and small
The Boas Serpent which Italy doth breede,
39
Reference Library. (New Haven: Yale University Press, 2010) and Charlesworth, “Teologia biblica e simbolismo del
33
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).
33 See H. Gunkel, Schöpfung und Chaos in Urzeit und Endzeit: Eine religionsgeschichtliche Untersuchung über Gen.
in the first century and by Eusebius in the early fourth century). The installations and small
39
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).
See H. Gunkel, Schöpfung und Chaos in Urzeit und Endzeit: Eine religionsgeschichtliche Untersuchung über Gen.
Men say, upon the milke of Cowes doth feede. inhabitants lived in these as permanent
Men say, upon the milke of Cowes doth feede.
30
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 30 The redactor of Recension J adds “Then I looked downward” and so places Paradise on the earth. In 2En 42, I und Apoc. Joh. XII (Göttingen: Vandenhoeck und Ruprecht, 1895).
Esp. see, Pixner, “Jerusalem’s Essene Gateway: Where the Community Lived in Jesus’ Time," Biblical
The redactor of Recension J adds “Then I looked downward” and so places Paradise on the earth. In 2En 42,
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
I und Apoc. Joh. XII (Göttingen: Vandenhoeck und Ruprecht, 1895).
Paradise is in the East, as in the Bible.
34
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 Paradise is in the East, as in the Bible. 34 I concur with those who agree that the etymology of the word “Essene” remains doubtful.
31
I concur with those who agree that the etymology of the word “Essene” remains doubtful.

Oriente 55, 255-256].

31
Notably, see Sarah Kuta, “This 9,000-year-old Necklace is Remarkable. Who wore it is even more surprising,”
35
evenings with him and his colleagues in the Benedictine Dominion Abbey in Jerusalem. With him, I have endeavored
Oriente 55, 255-256].
evenings with him and his colleagues in the Benedictine Dominion Abbey in Jerusalem. With him, I have endeavored
Notably, see Sarah Kuta, “This 9,000-year-old Necklace is Remarkable. Who wore it is even more surprising,”
See Philo’s comment that they dwell only in villages. The Greek noun πόλις is too often in Josephus’ description
23 36 I corrected the Greek. to stress the Jewishness of Jesus and commonality today between Jews and Christians. National Geographic (August 25, 2023). 35 See Philo’s comment that they dwell only in villages. The Greek noun πόλις is too often in Josephus’ description
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.
Often, I cite the Septuagint because its text is often older and better than the Masoretic Text.
National Geographic (August 25, 2023).
of the Essenes understood to denote a city; here it means a town or village.
I corrected the Greek.
of the Essenes understood to denote a city; here it means a town or village.
24 17 22
22
22

42 43 44 45 46 47 48 49 50 51 52