Old Testament Pseudepigrapha (2 vols.)

by James H. Charlesworth

Publisher:

Yale University Press

, 1983–1985

What is the Old Testament Pseudepigrapha collection?

The pseudepigrapha have profoundly impacted Western culture and religious heritage. They bridge the gap between the Old and New Testaments, illustrating the continuity and evolution of religious thought.

The Old Testament Pseudepigrapha is a significant collection of ancient texts attributed to ideal figures from Israel's past. This two-volume set, edited by James H. Charlesworth, offers invaluable insights into the development of Judaism and the foundations of Christian thought.

This collection is an indispensable resource for anyone interested in biblical studies. Its comprehensive nature and scholarly insights make it a valuable addition to any library. Purchase this set today to deepen your understanding of ancient religious texts.

Key features of the Old Testament Pseudepigrapha collection

This collection features new translations of important pseudepigraphal texts, extensive discussions of Wisdom literature, and fragments of lost Judeo-Hellenistic works. These features make the set a comprehensive resource for biblical scholarship.

Volume 1 includes major works like the book of Enoch and the Sibylline Oracles. Each text is accompanied by scholarly commentary that highlights key themes and concepts, providing a deep understanding of the historical and religious context.

Volume 2 continues with significant texts such as the Psalms of Solomon and the Testament of Moses. The interpretative insights offered in this volume shed light on the historical relevance and theological implications of these works.

 

FAQs about pseudepigrapha

1. What is the meaning of pseudepigrapha? Pseudepigrapha refers to writings falsely attributed to biblical figures. Originating between 200 BCE and 200 CE, these texts played a crucial role in the religious and cultural life of ancient Judaism and early Christianity. They offer a glimpse into the beliefs and practices that shaped these communities.
2. How is pseudepigrapha different from canonical texts? Pseudepigrapha are not part of the official canon but provide valuable historical and theological perspectives.
3. Who wrote the Old Testament pseudepigrapha? These texts were written by various authors, often attributed to notable figures like Enoch or Solomon.
4. How reliable are these texts? While not canonical, the pseudepigraphal texts have long been studied for their historical and cultural value.
5. Can I access these texts digitally? Yes, this collection is available in a digital format that integrates with Bible study tools for enhanced research and learning.

 

Mentioned in:

• “Reading Scripture through the Proper Lens.” This piece emphasizes the importance of the pseudepigrapha for understanding the cultural and theological milieu between the Hebrew Bible and the New Testament.
• “The Origin of the LXX.” The article highlights the inclusion of the Letter of Aristeas among the Old Testament pseudepigrapha. It provides historical context for the translation of the Hebrew Bible into Greek, known as the Septuagint, and discusses the cultural and liturgical needs that drove this translation.

• “Jesus Is God: Jude and Peter Tell Me So.” This article notes how Jude and Peter reference the pseudepigraphal text of 1 Enoch to support their theological points.

Product Details

• Title: Old Testament Pseudepigrapha
• Authors: James H. Charlesworth
• Publisher: Yale University Press
• Volumes: 2
• Pages: 2,112

Old Testament Pseudepigrapha, vol. 1

• Publication Date: 1983
• Pages: 1,056

Volume 1 of this work contains two sections. The first is Apocalyptic Literature and Related Works. An apocalypse, from the Greek meaning revelation or disclosure, is a certain type of literature which was a special feature of religions in late antiquity. In the past, the definition was derived from the study of only some of the extant apocalypses, especially the Apocalypse, the Book of Revelation. This has changed, and the present edition of the pseudepigrapha includes nineteen documents that are apocalypses or related literature. It will now be easier to perceive the richness of apocalyptic literature and the extent of early Jewish and Christian apocalyptic ideas and apocalyptic religion.

These new translations present these important documents, many for the first time in modern English, for all "People of the Book" to study, contemplate, and understand.

Old Testament Pseudepigrapha, vol. 2

• Publication Date: 1985
• Pages: 1,056

The publication of Volume 2 of Charlesworth's Pseudepigrapha completes his landmark work. Together with Volume 1, Apocalyptic Literature and Testaments, these new translations present important documents, many for the first time in English.

The second volume contains Expansions of the "Old Testament" and Legends, Wisdom and Philosophical Literature, Prayers, Psalms and Odes, Fragments of lost Judeo-Hellenistic Works. The section on the Old Testament contains clarifications, enrichments, expansions, and retellings of biblical narratives. The primary focus is upon God's story in history, the ongoing drama in which the author claims to participate. Charlesworth's discussion of Wisdom literature contains various collections of wise sayings and philosophical maxims of the Israelites. In his discussion of Psalms, prayers, and odes, Charlesworth presents collection of hymns, expressions of praise, songs of joy and sorrow, and prayers of petition that were important in the period 100 B. C. to A. D. 200. The section of fragments of lost Judeo-Hellenistic works reflect ideas associated with the Persians, Greeks, and Romans, often filtered through the cultures of Syria and Egypt. These fragments are examples of how this mix of cultures influenced Jewish writings.

About James H. Charlesworth

James H. Charlesworth is George L. Collord Professor of New Testament Language and Literature at Princeton Theological Seminary, Princeton, New Jersey, and a world-renowned translator, particularly of pseudepigraphical material.