Where is the Book of Enoch Mentioned in the Bible?
The Book of Enoch, an ancient Jewish text, has intrigued scholars and readers for centuries. Its mention in the Bible, however, is not as straightforward as one might expect. The Bible itself does not explicitly reference the Book of Enoch, which adds to the mystery surrounding this enigmatic text. In this article, we will explore where the Book of Enoch is mentioned in the Bible and the significance of its absence.
1. Absence in the Jewish Canon
The first place to look for the mention of the Book of Enoch in the Bible is the Jewish canon, which includes the Tanakh (the Hebrew Bible). However, the Book of Enoch is not included in the Tanakh. This absence is not surprising, as the text was written well before the final compilation of the Jewish canon. The Book of Enoch was likely considered apocryphal or heretical by the Jewish religious authorities of the time.
2. Mention in the Septuagint
The Septuagint, the Greek translation of the Hebrew Bible, includes the Book of Enoch. This translation was completed around the third century BCE and was widely used by the early Christian church. In the Septuagint, the Book of Enoch is placed between 1 Esdras and 2 Esdras. This placement indicates that the text was considered part of the Bible by some early Jewish and Christian scholars.
3. References in the New Testament
The New Testament contains several references to the Book of Enoch, albeit indirectly. The most notable mention is found in the Epistle of Jude, which was written by the apostle Jude. In Jude 1:14-15, he quotes from the Book of Enoch, specifically referencing the words of the angels who had been cast out of heaven:
“14 Now Enoch, the seventh from Adam, prophesied about these men also, saying, “Behold, the Lord comes with ten thousands of his holy ones, 15 to execute judgment on all, and to convict all who are ungodly among them of all their ungodly deeds that they have committed in an ungodly way, and of all the harsh things that ungodly sinners have spoken against him.”
This reference suggests that the Book of Enoch was known to Jude and his audience, and it was considered a reliable source for prophetic material.
4. The Significance of the Mention
The mention of the Book of Enoch in the New Testament is significant for several reasons. Firstly, it indicates that the text was considered authoritative by some early Christians. Secondly, it provides insight into the theological and eschatological views of the early church. Finally, it highlights the complex relationship between the Jewish and Christian canons, as well as the diverse sources of inspiration for the New Testament authors.
5. Conclusion
In conclusion, the Book of Enoch is not explicitly mentioned in the Bible. However, its presence in the Septuagint and its indirect references in the New Testament, particularly in the Epistle of Jude, suggest that it was considered a significant text by some early Jewish and Christian scholars. The absence of the Book of Enoch in the Jewish canon and its inclusion in the Septuagint highlight the complex relationship between the Jewish and Christian canons and the diverse sources of inspiration for the New Testament.
