The Myth of Rebellious Angels: Studies in Second Temple Judaism and New Testament Texts

by Loren T. Stuckenbruck

The myth of rebellious angels preserved in 1 Enoch and related literature was influential during the Second Temple period. This myth, initially attested in the Enochic Book of Watchers and picked up in further parts of 1 Enoch, was received in writings composed in Aramaic, Hebrew, and Greek. This volume collects studies by Loren T. Stuckenbruck that explore aspects of this influence in some of the literature and demonstrate how the myth was reused and adapted to address new cultural and religious contexts (Book of Giants, Book of Jubilees, Dead Sea Scrolls, Book of Tobit, Book of Daniel, Genesis Apocryphon, Philo). In addition, Stuckenbruck analyses the degree to which it offers a theological framework through which to reconsider theological approaches to several New Testament texts (Synoptic Gospels and John, Acts, Pauline texts, and the Book of Revelation). Themes covered in the essays include demonology, prominent evil figures, exorcism, petitionary prayer, the birth and activity of Jesus, the holy Spirit, ""magic"", conversion of Gentiles, ""apocalyptic"" and the understanding of time, and theological anthropology.

Genres: Christianity, Judaism

360 pages, Hardcover

First published August 1, 2014

Reviews

[Alan Fuller · Rating 3 out of 5]

The author analyzes the story of rebellious angels and examines where it shows up in the Bible, Dead Sea Scrolls, and other ancient Jewish writings. Of particular interest to me was his comparison of similarities in 1 Enoch and Revelation. It's a fascinating read if you're interested in the subject.

[William · Rating 4 out of 5]

Loren T. Stuckenbuck is the author of this fascinating study of “The Myth of Rebellious Angels.” Divulging and deliberating the historical texts of Second Temple Judaism and New Testament Texts, the author reveals rational support and theories of a literal translation of Genesis 6:1-4. All of which gives insightful appreciation of Paul’s warning in Ephesians 6:12 and comprehensive evidences of the purpose and existences of an extremely evil, mission oriented and elusive empire that is dead set on one purpose!

[John · Rating 5 out of 5]

Invigorating, Insightful, Challenging... I read this to supplement some apocryphal ideas I'm working on in current fiction, and the scholarship here has made such a profound impact on the work. Detailed and well-researched. An important book on other beings within sacred texts from the 2nd temple Judaism.

[Lance Conley · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is excellent. I found the final part where Stuckenbruck compares Revelation to Enoch the most interesting however. The similarities and parallels are astounding.