What is the Apocrypha?
The Apocrypha refers to a collection of ancient Jewish and early Christian writings that are not included in the canonical Hebrew Bible or the Protestant Old Testament, though many are part of the Catholic and Orthodox Old Testament canons. These texts often fill historical gaps, offer alternative narratives, or present theological ideas that were influential in their time.
Best Books for Complete Beginners
For those new to the Apocrypha, starting with accessible collections is recommended. The Bible Authorized King James Version With Apocrypha by Carroll and Prickett provides a familiar biblical framework. The HarperCollins Study Bible: New Revised Standard Version, with the Apocryphal/Deuterocanonical books (1993) offers scholarly notes. Old Testament legends by M.R. James presents engaging stories from less-known apocryphal works, making them approachable for new readers.
Intermediate Reading
Moving beyond introductory collections, intermediate readers can delve into specific influential texts. The book of Enoch, particularly translated from Ethiopic manuscripts, offers complex angelology and cosmology. Pistis Sophia presents Gnostic teachings attributed to Jesus. William Wake's The suppressed Gospels and Epistles of the original New Testament of Jesus the Christ, Volume 1, Mary, explores early Christian writings outside the standard New Testament.
Classical / Advanced Texts
Serious students will find value in primary source translations and comprehensive scholarly works. R.H. Charles's The apocrypha and pseudepigrapha of the Old Testament in English (1913) is a monumental collection with extensive notes. The Septuagint Version Of The Old Testament And Apocrypha offers the ancient Greek translation. A Concordance to the Septuagint by Hatch and Redpath (1897) is invaluable for linguistic research.
Reading Order — Step by Step
Begin with a comprehensive study Bible that includes the Apocrypha, such as The new Oxford annotated Bible (2018), to grasp the context. In the first month, focus on the Deuterocanonical Books and M.R. James's Old Testament legends for foundational stories. Month two can explore The book of Enoch and The Aquarian Gospel of Jesus the Christ. By month three, engage with R.H. Charles's collection and Pistis Sophia for deeper theological and textual analysis.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which Apocrypha book should I read first?
For beginners, starting with 'Old Testament legends' by M.R. James offers accessible stories. Alternatively, a study Bible like 'The HarperCollins Study Bible' with its annotations provides context for the Deuterocanonical books.
Are the Apocrypha books considered scripture?
Acceptance varies. Catholic and Orthodox traditions include many Apocryphal books as Deuterocanonical scripture. Protestant traditions generally do not consider them canonical scripture but may find them historically or theologically valuable.
What is the difference between Apocrypha and Pseudepigrapha?
Apocrypha typically refers to texts found in some biblical canons (like the Deuterocanonical books), while Pseudepigrapha are ancient religious writings not accepted into any major biblical canon, often falsely attributed to biblical figures.
Where can I find the Book of Enoch?
Several editions exist. R.H. Charles's collection includes translations. Look for specific translations like 'The book of Enoch the Prophet : Translated from an Ethiopic MS. in the Bodleian Library' for scholarly versions.
Are there Apocryphal Gospels?
Yes, numerous texts exist that claim to be Gospels but are not part of the New Testament canon. Examples include texts discussed in William Wake's work or B. Harris Cowper's 'The Apocryphal Gospels'.
What is the value of studying the Apocrypha today?
Studying the Apocrypha provides insight into the religious and cultural milieu of Second Temple Judaism and early Christianity, influencing later theological developments and offering a broader perspective on ancient beliefs.