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

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,apocalypticand the understanding of time, and theological anthropology. Stuckenbruck is a prolific scholar and a leading authority in the study of Enochic literature. His numerous studies have contributed greatly to our understanding of 1 Enoch, the watcher story, and New Testament interpretation. It is helpful now to have many of his important essays on these matters collected into a single volume. --Ryan E. Stoke, Southwestern Baptist Theological Seminary, Review of Biblical Literature 6.30.16