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corpus. I discovered that the lead plates of Charles’ volumes had been melted down to make bullets
studying.
in the Great War. All students preferred translations in English; moreover, virtually no reliable text
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
corpus we all called “the Old Testament Pseudepigrapha.”
studying.
corpus. I discovered that the lead plates of Charles’ volumes had been melted down to make bullets
in the Great War. All students preferred translations in English; moreover, virtually no reliable text
Since the 1970s, gifted men and women have provided texts, translations, and studies focused on
editions were published for many of the documents I was convinced should be included in the
one of the documents in the OTP. Now we have a known corpus that is increasing. At that time,
corpus we all called “the Old Testament Pseudepigrapha.”
focus was almost always on philology and history. Now, we have a vineyard of ancient apocalyptic
creations, so to speak, and we may enjoy its fruits by exploring the eternal questions and asking in
Since the 1970s, gifted men and women have provided texts, translations, and studies focused on
what ways, if at all, these complex ancient compositions help us draw closer to possibly reliable
one of the documents in the OTP. Now we have a known corpus that is increasing. At that time,
(perhaps revealed) perceptions and answers. Here are some areas we may all continue to explore:
focus was almost always on philology and history. Now, we have a vineyard of ancient apocalyptic
creations, so to speak, and we may enjoy its fruits by exploring the eternal questions and asking in
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
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:
delimited his might by creating Adam, in his image, and with the freedom to reject the good and
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
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
delimited his might by creating Adam, in his image, and with the freedom to reject the good and
distinctions?
even the Creator? How and in what ways can the Creator effect history; is this One incapable, by
self-limitations, to never intervene but only to supervene? And how may we make such
19
Second, the Bible is the “Crucible of the Pseudepigrapha.” Those who wrote these cultural
distinctions?
shaping apocalyptic masterpieces intimate and even anticipate a beatific future since God claimed
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
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
the “End” of creation would be glorious. They also knew that the future, for God, is also the
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
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
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
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
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
humans often pass away before 80. Some apes and monkeys can use their hands. How intelligent
20
to possess cognitive abilities equal to humans. And tortoises may live over 150 years while
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
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
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)?
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
and yet cannot blink, and most move without hands or legs and can disarticulate their jaws so they
can swallow others whole? I should add that the Tetrapodophis specimen from the Cretaceous
[Ancient Egyptian Art often Shows a Serpent with Feet. Above is a depiction of
22 the Cretaceous
can swallow others whole? I should add that the Tetrapodophis specimen from
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
Nehebkau, the Snake God. Egyptian Book of the Dead.]
19
See Charlesworth, “Biblical Stories and Quotations Reflected and Even Adumbrated in the Old Testament
19
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,
New York: Sheffield, 2002) p. 1-6.
New York: Sheffield, 2002) p. 1-6.
20
20
See esp. J. R. Learn, “Just How Intelligent Are Dolphins?” Discover (March 26 2021)).
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).
The number “3,400” is from the Encyclopedia Britanica (2023).
22
22
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.
See the illustrated and highly informative “A Fossil Snake With Four Legs” by Ed Young in National Geographic
See the illustrated and highly informative “A Fossil Snake With Four Legs” by Ed Young in National Geographic
(July 23 2015).
(July 23 2015).
15
who dismiss the description of the serpent in Genesis as fictious need to continue reading and
Boa quidem serpens quem tellus Itala nutrit mistakes. What wisdom disappeared in smoke when the great libraries, like the one in Alexandria, Constantinopolitan Creed those confessing belief in Jesus did not want simply to equate Jesus with
trusted. When he declared creation “good” and “very good” God knew, according to the priestly
Fifth, are there other worlds? When I began in astrophysics, we knew about only seven planets.
24
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.
Hunc bubulum plures lac enutrire docent. 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
I have heard the tale of an old native American who, centuries ago, was leading his tribe from cold
3. Are the Apocalypses the Dream Literature of Antiquity? Yes, that is characteristic of the
Ashton also quoted Pliny: “The blood of a serpent is more precious than Balsamum, and if you 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
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
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 not separated but side by side: “the Logos Word became flesh”; subsequently, Jesus collapsed,
d c
W
ood
r
y
re
stl
ording
prie
v
lar
e
c
trusted.
Constantinopolitan Creed those confessing belief in Jesus did not want simply to equate Jesus with
God
kne
he
g
on “
g
ti
a
”
Boa quidem serpens quem tellus Itala nutrit
y
de
to
e
a
w,
the
c
mistakes. What wisdom disappeared in smoke when the great libraries, like the one in Alexandria,
Fifth, are there other worlds? When I began in astrophysics, we knew about only seven planets.
a
c
ood”
nd “
n he
report possibly a garbled account of something else? Are we allowed to learn from areas too often
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. 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
Hunc bubulum plures lac enutrire docent.
24
were burned?
All were in our solar system. Now, today, we know about millions of planets. Are not some of
a
e
sti
n de
sc
God. Did not the earliest Christians affirm that Jesus was “crucified, dead and buried” and
b
.
y
would be
ti
s, that hum
fic
n
ribe
a
apparently accepted these wild myths as truthful: “Hitherto we have only seen that side of a 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
you are leading your people?” He replied: “We are moving because we spy a blessed place 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
4. Do we Become Present when We Imagine a Place Phenomenologically? Absolutely, that
Ashton also quoted Pliny: “The blood of a serpent is more precious than Balsamum, and if you 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
did any who composed the Bible or the pseudepigraphical and apocryphal books intimate such
a
wh
n
ve
Ame
3. Are the Apocalypses the Dream Literature of Antiquity? Yes, that is characteristic of the
e
ric
o, c
a
nturie
s
g
old
his
o
ha
tribe
na
ti
d
le
a
a
Dragon’s temperament that is inimical to man, but there are stories, equally veracious, of their
ing
f
n
a
c
om
the
o, w
rd
o
a
he
fr
tale
ve
John; and in this masterpiece, Jesus is celebrated with the asyndetic affirmation? Two nouns are ld
I
s
dream of it. We all must dream.” Perception and understanding may be found in stories.
knowledge? What about Ezekiel’s ascent in a chariot that resembles a flying saucer? Is the biblical
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 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
not separated but side by side: “the Logos Word became flesh”; subsequently, Jesus collapsed,
hear, I judge; and my judgment is just, because I do not seek my own will but the will of him who
mind?
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
rning
s
t
re
a
a
know
a
wa
de
s,
re
dl
y
de
sn
ke
s
whe
report possibly a garbled account of something else? Are we allowed to learn from areas too often
y
S
ou not
“
nd horr
do
rts, a
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. exhausted and thirsty, by the well in Samaria and stood weeping outside Lazarus’s tomb. Jesus’
ir,
ibl
thi
ther
e
e
a
with
:
he
e
sent me;” Οὐ δύναμαι ἐγὼ ποιεῖν ἀπʼ ἐμαυτοῦ οὐδέν· καθὼς ἀκούω κρίνω, καὶ ἡ κρίσις ἡ ἐμὴ
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
I am reminded of the description of the land of “the Blessed Ones” in the History of the Rechabites,
early followers experienced him as a man who transcended human abilities; but, in my opinion, he
apparently accepted these wild myths as truthful: “Hitherto we have only seen that side of a considered fantastic? Is it not possible that weird accounts and apocalyptic visions may have y o u a re le a ding y ou r pe o ple? ” He re pli e d: “ W e a r e movi ng be c a use we sp y a bl e ssed plac e a nd
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
1890 until today), have continued to shape the minds of too many today.
4. Do we Become Present when We Imagine a Place Phenomenologically? Absolutely, that
e
sought to point them to God, the Father: “It is not possible that I do anything on my own. As I
dre
rc
must
ll
m.” Pe
on a
pti
torie
rsta
be
y
e
a
Dragon’s temperament that is inimical to man, but there are stories, equally veracious, of their hidden experiences? Do we have access to our subliminal consciousness? What has shaped our a document in the Pseudepigrapha. Recall how after God had brought the seer among “the Blessed
dre
. W
nd in s
g
ma
fou
s.
m of it
a
nd u
a
ndin
nde
apocalyptic literature, imagine that visionary men like Enoch and Ezra, who visit the heavens
affection and love for men, women, and children: How they, by kindness, may be tamed, and found in the biblical and related books? If many are too fanciful for modern science is that not also Jesus not emphasize that he sought to share what he heard ὁ πατήρ (the Father) instructing him?
Ones” on a paradisaic island, he shares their report about their life:
is pellucidly obvious thanks to the publications of Maurice Merleau-Ponty. When we imagine a
Did this confession and understanding create the Nicene Creed that stipulated that Jesus was fully
above, or Zosimos, who is guided to the mysterious islands, are depicted present in such places to
Such unfounded claims from ancient mythology and Victorian Cryptozoology are enriched and mind? hear, I judge; and my judgment is just, because I do not seek my own will but the will of him who
true of many recent discoveries and inventions? My grandfather took a steamer to Palestine before
s
lesse
s”
e
a
e
d of
Hist
s
th
in
f
the
brought into kindly relations with the human species.” These claims, barely a century old (from
d
riptio
c
e
c
the
o
the
of
mi
I
B
land
distant location, we also imagine that somehow and in some way, we are present entering that
“
nde
ory
n of
the R
r
e
de
sent me;” Οὐ δύναμαι ἐγὼ ποιεῖν ἀπʼ ἐμαυτοῦ οὐδέν· καθὼς ἀκούω κρίνω, καὶ ἡ κρίσις ἡ ἐμὴ ,
habit
m
One
1913 and was on board for almost two weeks; what would be his response to my claim that I took
enlivened by more recent claims. Examples would include Christopher Columbus’s report in his 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
1890 until today), have continued to shape the minds of too many today.
ph
ra
P
doc
mon
se
g
B
ument in
“
the
the
e
less
pig
se
r
a
ud
e
rou
g
place to describe it. Those who enter the heavens, according to the authors of the Apocalypses and
e
ht
fte
ha
the
a
ll
e
c
a
d b
a
how
If the answer to all these questions is “no,” then why are we so fascinated by stories and accounts
. R
r
δικαία ἐστίν, ὅτι οὐ ζητῶ τὸ θέλημα τὸ ἐμὸν ἀλλὰ τὸ θέλημα τοῦ πέμψαντός με. (John 5:30). Did d
God
a
journal of seeing “mermaids,” and an authority in Florida in 1954 who supported the accounts of 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 :
are filled (with) lovely, marvelous, and abundant fruits. And again, from the roots of the
Jesus not emphasize that he sought to share what he heard ὁ πατήρ (the Father) instructing him?
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
One
ra
a
dis
on a
a
p
s”
the St John’s River Serpent that he would not be “surprised at all” if in “the wilds of Florida” there 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 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
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
25
culture over the past three centuries and recognize that we all share the same dream: peace and
would be “some creature like that monster.” 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
od c
rth f
n
omm
oug
describe the mysteries of our universe.
ht fo
re
1913 and was on board for almost two weeks; what would be his response to my claim that I took
h
e
And G
did t
a
nde
nt and sple
a
d thi
d
enlivened by more recent claims. Examples would include Christopher Columbus’s report in his
a
s
a
n
s land br
or us ple
human and fully divine? Confessions must not be reduced to simplistic Umgangsprache
s whic
rest and are sustained.”
harmony on this fragile earth. If relatively recently humans have “created” rapid means of effective
the same journey but I needed only about ten hours?
(colloquial speech). ith) lovely, marvelous, and abundant fruits. And again, from the roots of the
re
journal of seeing “mermaids,” and an authority in Florida in 1954 who supported the accounts of 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
(w
a
filled
(HistRech 11:3-4; Charlesworth in OTP 2.456].
the St John’s River Serpent that he would not be “surprised at all” if in “the wilds of Florida” there 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-
5. How May we Perceive a New Creation? We can focus on the improvements in human
trees flows sweet and delightful water; and from these fruits and water we take delight and
With this aside, which may have been unconsciously stimulated when I suddenly was face to face
communication, the railroads, planes, rockets, medicines, and life-saving alterations to our
25
r
a
re
sust
e
st and a
Who made science superior and the only source of knowledge? Albert Einstein warned us not to
ined.”
would be “some creature like that monster.” 26 culture over the past three centuries and recognize that we all share the same dream: peace and In seeking understanding about our nature, our origins, and the universe, let us not be misled by
comfortable and alluring as the road to the religious paradise; but it has proved itself as trustworthy,
precious earth, then they can recognize the impending disasters to all, and accordingly, make
called Gnostic Gospels heretical? Why were only “Jews” at Jamnia and only “Christians” at
with a cobra that was the largest in captivity, we may continue with our questions. How can
storks fly from Amsterdam or Beijing to Australia, often stopping on the way in the Hula Valley harmony on this fragile earth. If relatively recently humans have “created” rapid means of effective The author, like some Essenes, perceived that οἱ ἄγγϵλοι τοῦ θεοῦ dwell with them: καὶ οἱ ἄγγϵλοι
OTP
R
ist
th i
n
swor
.
2.456]
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
(H
h 11:3
e
c
-
ha
rle
4; C
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
preparations to share a common destiny.
32
communication, the railroads, planes, rockets, medicines, and life-saving alterations to our
With this aside, which may have been unconsciously stimulated when I suddenly was face to face hopes, and primitive feelings.” He chose another path: “The road to this paradise was not as τοῦ θεοῦ οἰκοῦσιν μεθ᾽ ἡμῶν [HistRech 12:8]. Most likely, the author is imagining the recreation
reflections about Jesus warn that definitions should be clear but also open ended? Are all the so-
in Galilee; and how do they know the way without compasses? How are humans similar to animals
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
th
a
t
e
γγ
ived
γγ
ϵ
λ
ἄ
οἱ
ἄ
Es
The
called Gnostic Gospels heretical? Why were only “Jews” at Jamnia and only “Christians” at
οι
se
ne
s,
li
r
c
λ
ϵ
pe
a
uthor,
dwe
some
ll
with
with a cobra that was the largest in captivity, we may continue with our questions. How can comfortable and alluring as the road to the religious paradise; but it has proved itself as trustworthy, (perhaps at the end of time) of the blessed life that Adam and Eve had enjoyed in the Garden of
them:
ke
οἱ
ὶ
α
οι
precious earth, then they can recognize the impending disasters to all, and accordingly, make
τοῦ
26
θεοῦ
κ
28
6. Is the Morality in the Apocalypses Focused Only on This Earth? Moral imperatives are
and also different from them? When we are living during the centuries in which we have proven Nazarene,” Jesus. 27 perceived, promised, and experienced because no option is excluded for human speculation and
33
storks fly from Amsterdam or Beijing to Australia, often stopping on the way in the Hula Valley
32
h
c
e
12:8]
μ
. Most li
εθ᾽
Hist
R
ἡ
Nicaea? How has our theology been contaminated by endeavors and predilection for too precise
[
τοῦ
Eden (at the beginning of time): Endzeit wird Urzeit. kely, the author is imagining the recreation
σιν
preparations to share a common destiny.
μ
θεοῦ
ῶν
οἰκ
and I have never regretted having chosen it.” Einstein continued to believe in God and in an
οῦ
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 contemplation. As we seek for an improved theology should we not also learn from the concept of
impersonal supreme Being and was captivatingly “enthralled by the luminous figure of the
in Galilee; and how do they know the way without compasses? How are humans similar to animals
definitions? “Either-or” is blind sometimes; “both-and” may offer a world in which harmony is
(perhaps at the end of time) of the blessed life that Adam and Eve had enjoyed in the Garden of
28ons). 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 cosmological locati 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
and also different from them? When we are living during the centuries in which we have proven
33
perceived, promised, and experienced because no option is excluded for human speculation and
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.
Continuing our perusal of the Essenes, some of the most gifted intellectuals within early Jewish
the author of 2 Enoch 8 in Recension A: “And the men took me from there. They brought me to
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
the ability to annihilate all life and buildings,
apocalyptists envision such a possible scenario? what advantage then do humans have? Are we 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
apocalypticism, we now should ask: Did the Essenes establish dwellings only at Qumran?
30
that the emphasis shifted from suffering for the unrighteous, and blessedness for the righteous - to
cosmological locations). Paradise is in the third heaven, according to Paul in 2 Corinthians 12 and
Continuing our perusal of the Essenes, some of the most gifted intellectuals within early Jewish
Sixth, is there life after death? Is that not a focus of many apocryphal works? Do not the
humans obliterating the life-giving dimensions of our fragile earth? Did not the ancient the third heaven. And they placed me in the midst of Paradise.” [OTP 1.115F.I. Andersen] The according to the energetic force that unites the universe, and from the Upanishads, the great
Logos according to Heraclitus (c. 535- c. 475 BCE), from so-called Lao-Tzu (c. 500 BCE) who
Obviously not. Josephus (37-100 CE), who knew the culture of first-century Palestine intimately
apocalyptists envision such a possible scenario? 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
annihilation of the wicked, and eternal blessed and unimaginable glory and happiness for those
ancient Jews and Christian imagined a blessed place, sometimes in an unknown place, in which
apocalypses contain descriptions of postmortem life? Of course, they do. And it is possible to note
apocalypticism, we now should ask: Did the Essenes establish dwellings only at Qumran?
treasury of wisdom in India that took shape from about 500 BCE to the Middle Ages, and tried to
Fourth, the OTP is full of death bed scenes and reflections on finality. It seems that some passages
in our sacra scriptura imply that the patriarchs knew the time of their deaths. And is Death that the emphasis shifted from suffering for the unrighteous, and blessedness for the righteous - to and observed the Roman conquest of Galilee and then the burning of Jerusalem, reported that
30
according to the energetic force that unites the universe, and from the Upanishads, the great
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
demonstrate the human’s universal oneness. Is not the goal of world-wide theological speculations
faithful to God and the Torah.
God’s will was obeyed joyously.
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 annihilation of the wicked, and eternal blessed and unimaginable glory and happiness for those Essenes lived in many areas of the country:
treasury of wisdom in India that took shape from about 500 BCE to the Middle Ages, and tried to
and observed the Roman conquest of Galilee and then the burning of Jerusalem, reported that
ancient Jews and Christian imagined a blessed place, sometimes in an unknown place, in which
basically human endeavors, guided by the spirit (variously defined), to arrive at a sense of Awe?
imagined to visit humans to take souls to heaven? In one pseudepigraphon, Abraham refuses to faithful to God and the Torah. Essenes lived in many areas of the country:
God’s will was obeyed joyously.
demonstrate the human’s universal oneness. Is not the goal of world-wide theological speculations
in our sacra scriptura imply that the patriarchs knew the time of their deaths. And is Death
34
7. What Significant Advances Have Been Made in the Study of Ancient Apocalypses? The
[Two Anguiped Serpents pulling a chariot. Courtesy: Sienna Museum]
In our culture, many are confused by the account in Genesis in which the serpent is cursed 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 Seventh, why do too many claim or assume an absolute dichotomy between Jewish thoughts and basically human endeavors, guided by the spirit (variously defined), to arrive at a sense of Awe?
They [the Essenes; Ἐσσηνοὶ καλοῦνται] are not only in one town but many of them dwell
imagined to visit humans to take souls to heaven? In one pseudepigraphon, Abraham refuses to
Christian reflections in the first century CE? Were Jesus and all his disciples not Jewish? Were not
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
35
ְ
ֹ
must now “walk on his belly” [ךְ ָ֔ל ת ֣ךנחְג־לַּע]. Distant mythology and ancient art, see above, often specific day and hour when one will die? Seventh, why do too many claim or assume an absolute dichotomy between Jewish thoughts and dismissed from too many curricula. In the late 1960s, when I began to teach at Duke, students
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
They [the Essenes; Ἐσσηνοὶ καλοῦνται] are not only in one town but many of them dwell
In our culture, many are confused by the account in Genesis in which the serpent is cursed and
29
the books in the Christian Bible all composed by Jews, with maybe a few exceptions: the so-called
to fabulous archaeological discoveries, epigraphy, enriched Hebrew, Aramaic, Syriac, and Greek
35
Christian reflections in the first century CE? Were Jesus and all his disciples not Jewish? Were not
in every town [Μία δ' οὐκ ἔστιν αὐτῶν πόλις ἀλλ' ἐν ἑκάστῃ μετοικοῦσιν πολλοί]. And
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 specific day and hour when one will die? preoccupation with ideas has been replaced in most recent endeavors by contextualization, thanks Today, too much has changed. Religion and philosophy have been too often abandoned and even
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
ֹ
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
29
to fabulous archaeological discoveries, epigraphy, enriched Hebrew, Aramaic, Syriac, and Greek
ָ
ֹ
ְ
ְ
ֹ
׃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 the books in the Christian Bible all composed by Jews, with maybe a few exceptions: the so-called 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
if it were their own, and they go into the homes of those whom they had never known
ַֽ 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
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
Vietnam War brought home a recognition of human limitation, the importance of values and
if it were their own, and they go into the homes of those whom they had never known
philology - as well as a focused phenomenology on past lives, their opportunities, perceptions,
ἐποίησας τοῦτο, ἐπικατάρατος σὺ ἀπὸ πάντων τῶν κτηνῶν καὶ ἀπὸ πάντων τῶν θηρίων τῆς γῆς, 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
ַֽ
ָ
ְ
׃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
ֹ
ֹ
ְ
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
Vietnam War brought home a recognition of human limitation, the importance of values and
“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
misunderstandings, and reality. Apocalypses are certainly grounded in reality on earth, in which
ἐποίησας τοῦτο, ἐπικατάρατος σὺ ἀπὸ πάντων τῶν κτηνῶν καὶ ἀπὸ πάντων τῶν θηρίων τῆς γῆς, 24 John Ashton, Curious Creatures in Zoology (London: John C. Nimmo, 1890). He began his book as follows: 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
ἐπὶ τῷ στήθει σου καὶ τῇ κοιλίᾳ πορεύσῃ [Gen 3:14]. The ancient artists and the author of Genesis
translation).
31
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
translation).
culture has developed for more than 200,000 years. For example, ornate jewelry about 150,000
ἐπὶ τῷ στήθει σου καὶ τῇ κοιλίᾳ πορεύσῃ [Gen 3:14]. The ancient artists and the author of Genesis 24 John Ashton, Curious Creatures in Zoology (London: John C. Nimmo, 1890). He began his book as follows: 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
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
to ignore these disciplines and prepare for a lucrative job. Why? Have they concluded that the
years old has been recovered from Morocco’s Bizmoune Cave.
3 assume that the serpent once had feet but it must now crawl “on its breast” ἐπὶ τῷ στήθει (cf. 2 scientific examination.” ange things.” He added that their claims were not “put under the microscope of modern 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?
“TRAVELLERS see str
23
Enoch, History of the Rechabites).
Our study helps us bring into focus the heart of early Jewish and Christian reflections on life and
Where are young people to learn values and transfer apocalyptic hopes when the church has
some great minds, like David Flusser and Geza Vermes, showed that they are not only “Jewish”
23
Enoch, History of the Rechabites). 25 scientific examination.” 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?
“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
destiny. The horrors they suffered could not diminish the light even though it may have been
but also deeply “Christian”? Each shared many hours with me, over decades, and I remember each
become passé, the family no longer enjoys dinners in which morality is taught, and religion is
Ancient mythology is sometimes not so ancient. In 1890 John Ashton’s Curious Creatures in 25 “Big Dough Offered For the Monster,” Orlando Sentinel (October 22, 1953). From 1954 to 1960, I explored the 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
Everglades and I was often fueled by apparently wise counsel.
but also deeply “Christian”? Each shared many hours with me, over decades, and I remember each
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. 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
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
See the opening of and the information in Charlesworth, “Phenomenology, Symbology, and Lexicography: The
Zoology imagined that: 26 See the opening of and the information in Charlesworth, “Phenomenology, Symbology, and Lexicography: The saying something like: “Jim I believe in one supreme Being, YHWH, and the divinity of Jesus but 32
caused by the flames. We are apocalyptically given the assurance that God is good and to be
Zoology imagined that:
never will I imagine Jesus was God.” Contemplating, that statement, I imagine before the Nicene-
Amazingly Rich Vocabulary for ‘Serpent’ in Ancient Greek,” Revue biblique 111 (2004) 499-515. Also see,
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, never will I imagine Jesus was God.” Contemplating, that statement, I imagine before the Nicene- 32 Charlesworth, ed., The History of the Rechabites: Volume I: The Greek Recension. SBL T&T 17, Pseud Series 10.
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.
(Chico, Calif.: Scholars Press, 1982)
The Boas Serpent which Italy doth breede, Charlesworth, The Good and Evil Serpent: How a Universal Symbol Became Christianized. The Anchor Yale Bible ; for this citation see p. 72.
29
33
Reference Library. (New Haven: Yale University Press, 2010) and Charlesworth, “Teologia biblica e simbolismo del
The Boas Serpent which Italy doth breede,
They would do well to ponder the insights in Yaron Z. Eliav, A Jew in the Roman Bathhouse: Cultural Interaction
29 33 See H. Gunkel, Schöpfung und Chaos in Urzeit und Endzeit: Eine religionsgeschichtliche Untersuchung über Gen.
Reference Library. (New Haven: Yale University Press, 2010) and Charlesworth, “Teologia biblica e simbolismo del
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 The redactor of Recension J adds “Then I looked downward” and so places Paradise on the earth. In 2En 42,
Men say, upon the milke of Cowes doth feede. serpente,” in Voci dall’area santuariale di Lanuvium: Un percorso storico- religioso con ricadute nel presente, edited 27 30 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
I und Apoc. Joh. XII (Göttingen: Vandenhoeck und Ruprecht, 1895).
30
Men say, upon the milke of Cowes doth feede.
Albert Einstein, “Autobiographical Notes,” in Albert Einstein: Philosopher-Scientist, edited by Paul Arthur Schilpp.
serpente,” in Voci dall’area santuariale di Lanuvium: Un percorso storico- religioso con ricadute nel presente, edited
The redactor of Recension J adds “Then I looked downward” and so places Paradise on the earth. In 2En 42,
in the Ancient Mediterranean (in press) and his “Bathhouses as Places of Social and Cultural Interactions,” in The
Library of Living Philosophers. (Evanston, 1949) p. 5. Einstein’s quotation as assed by Max Jammer, Einstein and
34
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. I und Apoc. Joh. XII (Göttingen: Vandenhoeck und Ruprecht, 1895).
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.
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.
Library of Living Philosophers. (Evanston, 1949) p. 5. Einstein’s quotation as assed by Max Jammer, Einstein and
Oxford Handbook of Jewish Daily Life in Roman Palestine, edited by Catherine Hezser (Oxford: Oxford University
Religion (Princeton: PUP, 1999) p. 28.
Oriente 55, 255-256]. 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.
31
35
Oriente 55, 255-256].
Religion (Princeton: PUP, 1999) p. 28.
Press, 2010) pp. 605-22. Among his many publications, see Anita Norich and Yaron Z. Eliav, editors, Jewish
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
23 Often, I cite the Septuagint because its text is often older and better than the Masoretic Text. 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
National Geographic (August 25, 2023).
23
Literatures and Cultures: Context and Intertext. Brown Judaic Studies 349. (Providence RI, 2008).
See Jammer, Einstein and Religion, respectively pp. 264 and 22.
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.
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.
17 22 19
22
22
