Topical Encyclopedia The Book of Jubilees, often referred to as "Lesser Genesis," is an ancient Jewish text that expands upon the narratives found in the Book of Genesis and the early chapters of Exodus. It is considered part of the Pseudepigrapha, a collection of ancient writings that are not included in the canonical Bible. The book is traditionally attributed to Moses, who is said to have received its contents from an angel on Mount Sinai. It is written in the form of a divine revelation, providing a detailed account of biblical history from creation to the giving of the Law at Sinai.Content and Structure The Book of Jubilees is structured around a chronological framework of "jubilees," periods of 49 years, with each jubilee consisting of seven cycles of seven years. This framework is used to date events from creation to the Exodus. The text provides a retelling of Genesis and parts of Exodus, often with additional details and interpretations that are not found in the canonical texts. It emphasizes themes such as the importance of the Sabbath, the observance of festivals, and the purity laws. Theological Themes 1. Sabbath Observance: The Book of Jubilees places a strong emphasis on the observance of the Sabbath, portraying it as a divine institution established at creation. This emphasis aligns with the biblical commandment found in Exodus 20:8-11 : "Remember the Sabbath day by keeping it holy. Six days you shall labor and do all your work, but the seventh day is a Sabbath to the LORD your God." 2. Covenant and Law: The text underscores the significance of the covenant between God and Israel, highlighting the importance of adherence to the Law. It presents the Law as eternal and binding, reflecting the biblical view of the covenant as seen in Deuteronomy 7:9 : "Know therefore that the LORD your God is God, the faithful God who keeps His covenant of loving devotion for a thousand generations with those who love Him and keep His commandments." 3. Angelic Mediation: Jubilees introduces the concept of angelic mediation in the transmission of divine revelation, suggesting that angels played a role in conveying God's laws and instructions to humanity. This theme is not explicitly found in the canonical texts but reflects the broader Jewish tradition of angelic involvement in divine matters. 4. Purity and Holiness: The book emphasizes the importance of purity and holiness, particularly in relation to marriage and family life. It expands on the biblical laws concerning sexual morality and the separation from Gentile practices, echoing the biblical call to holiness in Leviticus 19:2 : "Speak to the whole congregation of the Israelites and tell them: 'Be holy because I, the LORD your God, am holy.'" Historical and Cultural Context The Book of Jubilees is believed to have been composed in the 2nd century BCE, during the Second Temple period. It reflects the religious and cultural milieu of the time, particularly the concerns of Jewish communities regarding identity, law, and tradition in the face of Hellenistic influences. The text was highly regarded by the Qumran community, as evidenced by the multiple copies found among the Dead Sea Scrolls. Canonical Status and Influence While the Book of Jubilees is not part of the Jewish or Protestant biblical canon, it is considered canonical by the Ethiopian Orthodox Church, where it is known as the "Book of Division." Its influence can be seen in various Jewish and Christian writings, including the works of early Church Fathers and later Jewish commentators. The book's detailed chronological framework and additional narratives have contributed to its enduring interest among scholars and religious communities. Conclusion The Book of Jubilees offers a unique perspective on biblical history and law, providing insights into the religious thought and practices of ancient Judaism. Its emphasis on the Sabbath, covenant, and purity reflects core biblical themes, while its angelic mediation and chronological structure offer a distinctive interpretation of the sacred history. International Standard Bible Encyclopedia Book of JubileesBOOK OF JUBILEES See APOCALYPTIC LITERATURE; APOCRYPHA. Library The Book of Jubilees Note by the American Editor. Appendix i. Pseudepigraphic Writings Brief Outline of Ancient Jewish Theological Literature Introduction. The Book of Enoch The Old Faith Preparing for the New - Development of Hellenist ... The Testaments of the Twelve Patriarchs. The Scope of the Apocalypse Shewn by Its Structure Introductory Notice to the Testaments of the Twelve Patriarchs Resources What is the Book of Jasher and should it be in the Bible? | GotQuestions.orgIs there a difference between the book of life and the Lamb's book of life? | GotQuestions.org What is the Book of Giants? | GotQuestions.org Book: Dictionary and Thesaurus | Clyx.com Bible Concordance • Bible Dictionary • Bible Encyclopedia • Topical Bible • Bible Thesuarus |
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