Who wrote the Book of Enoch and when was it written?

The Book of Enoch, also known as 1 Enoch, is a fascinating and complex work that has intrigued scholars, theologians, and laypeople alike for centuries. It is part of a collection of ancient Jewish texts known as the Pseudepigrapha, which are writings attributed to biblical figures but not included in the canonical scriptures of most Jewish and Christian traditions. The Book of Enoch is particularly notable for its influence on early Christian thought and its vivid descriptions of heavenly realms, angelic beings, and apocalyptic visions.

The authorship of the Book of Enoch is shrouded in mystery. Traditionally, it is attributed to Enoch, the great-grandfather of Noah, a figure who is mentioned briefly in the Hebrew Bible. In Genesis 5:24, it is said, "Enoch walked with God; then he was no more, because God took him away." This enigmatic statement has inspired much speculation and legend about Enoch's life and experiences. However, it is widely accepted among scholars that Enoch himself did not write the book that bears his name.

The Book of Enoch is actually a compilation of several different texts, written by multiple authors over a period of time. It is generally believed to have been composed between the third century BCE and the first century CE. The book is divided into five main sections, each of which has its own distinct style and content: the Book of the Watchers, the Book of Parables (or Similitudes), the Astronomical Book, the Book of Dream Visions, and the Epistle of Enoch.

The earliest portion, the Book of the Watchers, is thought to have been written around the third century BCE. This section describes the fall of a group of angels known as the Watchers, who descended to earth and taught humanity forbidden knowledge. The Book of Parables, which contains messianic and eschatological themes, is believed to have been composed later, possibly in the first century BCE. The Astronomical Book, which deals with Enoch's revelations about the movements of heavenly bodies, may date to the third or second century BCE. The Book of Dream Visions and the Epistle of Enoch are also thought to have been written between the second century BCE and the first century CE.

The Book of Enoch was likely composed in a Jewish context, possibly within a community that was influenced by apocalyptic and mystical traditions. It reflects a worldview that emphasizes the cosmic struggle between good and evil, the role of angels and demons, and the ultimate triumph of divine justice. The text also shares certain themes and motifs with other Jewish apocalyptic literature, such as the Book of Daniel and the Dead Sea Scrolls.

The language of the original text is believed to have been Aramaic, although the complete version that has survived is in Ge'ez, the ancient liturgical language of the Ethiopian Orthodox Church. This is because the Book of Enoch was preserved primarily within the Ethiopian Christian tradition, which considers it part of the biblical canon. Fragments of the book have also been found among the Dead Sea Scrolls, confirming its antiquity and its significance in Jewish and early Christian thought.

The Book of Enoch had a considerable impact on early Christian theology, particularly in its descriptions of the Messiah, the Son of Man, and the final judgment. It is quoted in the New Testament letter of Jude (Jude 1:14-15), which cites a prophecy attributed to Enoch. Early Church Fathers, such as Tertullian and Origen, were familiar with the book and regarded it with a degree of respect, although it was not ultimately included in the canonical Bible by the majority of Christian traditions.

The reasons for the exclusion of the Book of Enoch from the Jewish and Christian canons are complex. Some scholars suggest that its apocalyptic and mystical content, as well as its speculative theology regarding angels and the nature of evil, may have made it controversial or difficult to reconcile with the emerging orthodoxies of Rabbinic Judaism and early Christianity. Additionally, as the Christian canon was being formalized, texts that were not widely accepted or that had uncertain origins were often excluded.

Despite its non-canonical status, the Book of Enoch continues to be a source of fascination and study. Its vivid imagery, theological insights, and historical significance provide valuable context for understanding the religious and cultural milieu of the Second Temple period. For contemporary Christians, the Book of Enoch can offer a deeper appreciation of the diverse traditions and beliefs that have shaped our understanding of the Bible and its teachings.

In conclusion, while the Book of Enoch may not have been written by the biblical Enoch himself, it remains an important work that reflects the rich tapestry of Jewish apocalyptic literature. Its authors, though unknown, were undoubtedly influenced by the religious and cultural currents of their time, crafting a text that has endured for millennia and continues to inspire and challenge readers today.