Apocryphal Books
What they are
The apocryphal books are ancient writings connected to Jewish and Christian traditions that were not included in the official biblical canon. The word “apocryphal” comes from Greek and means “hidden” or “reserved.” This does not mean they are false, but that they were set apart from the Bible recognized by certain religious communities.
Why they were left out
In the early centuries, there was no single Bible. Different groups used different texts. Some books were excluded due to uncertain authorship, others because they presented distinct or highly symbolic theological ideas, and also to preserve doctrinal unity.
Were they read in ancient times?
Yes. Many apocryphal texts were widely read and respected. Some directly influenced religious thought of the period and are cited or reflected in passages of the New Testament.
What these texts talk about
They describe stories of angels, divine revelations, visions of the end times, moral wisdom, and details of biblical events that appear briefly or mysteriously in the Bible.
Well-known examples
Book of Enoch, Jubilees, Tobit, Judith, Wisdom of Solomon, and the Gospel of Thomas.
Do all Christians reject these books?
No; some are included in the Catholic Bible and remain canonical in the Ethiopian Church.
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