In chapter two of his excellent study of Jewish literature from the Second Temple period (586 BC - 135 AD), Larry Helyer discusses the Apocrypha (mostly Tobit and the Additions to the Book of Daniel). In this chapter, Helyer takes some time to explain how a knowledge of the Apocrypha can be a helpful tool …
A Brief Intro to Ecclesiasticus (Sirach)
In his fine book which explores Jewish literature of the second temple period (516 BC to 135 AD), Larry Helyer has a helpful introduction to Ecclesiasticus (aka “The Wisdom of Ben Sira” or “The Wisdom of Jesus Son of Sirach” or just “Sirach”). Written around 180 BC, Ecclesiasticus is a collection of the traditions of …
What is the Pseudepigrapha?
If you’ve read even a few books in the area of New Testament studies, you’ve probably heard about the Pseudepigrapha. What is that? I found a helpful and brief answer to the question while making my way through Larry Helyer’s Exploring Jewish Literature of the Second Temple Period. “The Greek neuter plural yeudepigrafa (pseudepigrapha) literally …
The Reformed Reader Blog 