TL;DR
The Deuterocanonical Books of the Bible are additional texts included in the Old Testament by the Catholic and Orthodox churches, but not by Protestant denominations.
What is Deuterocanonical Books of the Bible about
The Deuterocanonical Books of the Bible, also known as the Apocrypha, consist of several books and additions to existing books that are included in the Catholic and Orthodox versions of the Old Testament but excluded from the Protestant canon. These texts, written between 200 BC and 100 AD, provide historical, theological, and moral insights. Their inclusion was debated throughout history, with significant exclusions during the Protestant Reformation in the 16th century, as Reformers did not consider them divinely inspired.
Deuterocanonical Books of the Bible 6 Key Takeaways
Historical Context
These books were written between 200 BC and 100 AD, providing essential historical context to Jewish and early Christian life during the intertestamental period.
Canonical Discrepancies
Included in Catholic and Orthodox Bibles, these books are excluded from Protestant Bibles, highlighting theological and canonical differences among Christian denominations.
Theological Insights
The Deuterocanonical texts offer unique theological perspectives, including wisdom literature, historical accounts, and moral teachings not found in the standard Old Testament.
Literary Contributions
Books like Tobit, Judith, and the Wisdom of Solomon contribute to the literary richness of biblical texts, combining narrative, poetry, and philosophical reflections.
Controversial Reception
The reception of these books has been contentious, with figures like Jerome initially rejecting many but eventually including them in the Vulgate, recognizing the Church's authority on the canon.
Moral and Ethical Lessons
These texts provide moral and ethical lessons, reflecting the beliefs and practices of Jewish communities during the Second Temple period.
Top Deuterocanonical Books of the Bible Quotes
- "For wisdom is more mobile than any motion; because of her pureness she pervades and penetrates all things." - Wisdom of Solomon 7:24
- "Prayer with fasting is good, but better than both is almsgiving with righteousness." - Tobit 12:8
Who should read Deuterocanonical Books of the Bible?
This book is ideal for theologians, biblical scholars, and anyone interested in the historical, theological, and moral dimensions of the Bible. It is also beneficial for those exploring the differences in biblical canons among various Christian denominations.
Deuterocanonical Books of the Bible Best Reviews
- The Deuterocanonical Books give readers a deeper understanding of biblical history and theology, offering valuable insights into the beliefs and lives of ancient Jews and early Christians. - Biblical Scholar Review
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Deuterocanonical Books of the Bible FAQs
Why were 7 deuterocanonical books removed?
In the sixteenth century, Protestant Reformers removed these books because they did not align with their theology and were not considered inspired Scripture. They were labeled 'Apocrypha.'
Which book is not included in the deuterocanonical books?
Rufinus, a 4th-century theologian, categorized these as ecclesiastical rather than canonical, including Wisdom of Solomon, Sirach, Judith, Tobit, and two books of Maccabees but excluding Baruch and the Epistle of Jeremiah.
Who rejected the deuterocanonical books?
Jerome initially rejected most deuterocanonical books but included them in his Latin Vulgate translation, recognizing the Church's authority in determining the canon.