WHAT IS THE BOOK OF ENOCH?

WHAT IS THE BOOK OF ENOCH?

Brett A. Todd

In the last few years, there has been a growing curiosity about the Book of Enoch, probably because of the renewed interest in mystical and apocalyptic literature, as well as a growing interest in the Dead Sea Scrolls. Let’s take a look at the Book of Enoch.

The Book of Enoch is an ancient Hebrew apocalyptic writing (4 BCE) that describes why the angels fell from heaven, the origin of demons, Nephilims (Giants), and why the Genesis flood was necessary.  This book was falsely named after the alleged author, Enoch, the great grandfather of Noah.

Although this book is not considered to be a part of the Bible, it is worthy to note that it was widely read by Jews and early Christians.  In fact, the Book of Enoch was found among the Dead Sea Scroll in 1947, which illustrates how important this book was among the Jewish Essenes and most likely other Jewish groups as well.  It also deserves attention to note that Beta Israel (Ethiopian Jews) and the Ethiopian Orthodox Church do consider the Book of Enoch to be Scripture and is found in their Bible.

To the surprise of many, the Book of Enoch is quoted in the New Testament.  In Jude 1:14–15, we read, note the apocalyptic nature of this verse, “It was also about these that Enoch, in the seventh generation from Adam, prophesied, saying, ‘See, the Lord is coming with ten thousands of his holy ones, to execute judgment on all, and to convict everyone of all the deeds of ungodliness that they have committed in such an ungodly way, and of all the harsh things that ungodly sinners have spoken against him.’” (Enoch 1:9).

You may remember the old revival hymn, “He Could Have Called Ten Thousand Angels” by Ray Overholt.  More than likely, it was from this passage of Scripture that he was inspired to write this much-loved hymn.  However, for our study what should really catch the attention of the reader is the fact that this spurious reading from Enoch, found its way into the Bible and became Holy Scripture itself. 

There is another story in the Bible in which the Book of Enoch has significantly influenced both Jews and Christians through the years.  This story is found in Genesis 6:1-8 and talks about the sons of God (Angels) who came down from heaven and had sexual relations with the daughters of humans.  We will take up this story in our next study.