The writers of the Bible, like any other authors, were dependent on a vast array of literary sources from their time—the ancient world. Many of these documents are tragically lost, but what remains provides insight into the voluminous, fascinating, complex, and dynamic literary world that shaped the expressions of faith found in the Old and New Testaments. Part of these extant sources are known as the Pseudepigrapha. This collection of Jewish and Christian writings shed light on early Judaism and Christianity and their doctrines.
This landmark 2-volume set includes all 65 Pseudepigraphical documents from the intertestamental period that reveal the ongoing development of Judaism and the roots from which the Christian religion took its beliefs. A scholarly authority on each text contributes a translation, introduction, and critical notes for each text. Edited by James H. Charlesworth, The Old Testament Pseudepigrapha includes contributions from E. Isaac, B. M. Metzger, J. R. Mueller, S. E. Robinson, D. J. Harrington, G. T. Zervos, and many others. Originally published by Yale University Press, the leading critical translation of these ancient texts is now available from Hendrickson Publishers in paperback—and at a fraction of its original price.
Available in a two-volume set, or as individual volumes:
- Two-volume set: ISBN 9781598564891
- Volume 1: 9781598564914
- Volume 2: 9781598564907
Volume 1 contains “Apocalyptic Literature” and “Testaments” that reflect a wildly varying trend towards apocalypticism in ancient Judaism. Yet, despite the existence of this movement on the fringe of Judaism, the movement maintained a definitive influence, and produced amazing, if not disturbing, literary expressions. There can be no doubt that these writings shaped the apocalyptic imagination of the biblical authors and helped to shape the way early Christians interpreted the promised return of Jesus Christ.
