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

by Loren T. Stuckenbruck

The mythical story of fallen angels preserved in 1 Enoch and related literature was profoundly influential during the Second Temple period. In this volume renowned scholar Loren Stuckenbruck explores aspects of that influence and demonstrates how the myth was reused and adapted to address new religious and cultural contexts. Stuckenbruck considers a variety of themes, including demonology, giants, exorcism, petitionary prayer, the birth and activity of Jesus, the Holy Spirit, the conversion of Gentiles, "apocalyptic" and the understanding of time, and more. He also offers a theological framework for the myth of fallen angels through which to reconsider several New Testament texts—the Synoptic Gospels, the Gospel of John, Acts, Paul's letters, and the book of Revelation.

Genres: Christianity, Judaism

447 pages, Paperback

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.