"Apocrypha is biblical or related writings not forming part of the accepted canon of Scripture."
Writings that are not recognized as part of the standard canon by a religious community.
Definition and history of Apocrypha: Apocrypha refers to religious writings that are not included in the official canon of scripture but still have significance in various religious traditions. Understanding the history and development of apocryphal literature is important for contextualizing its role in religious practice and belief.
Apocryphal texts found in the Bible: There are several apocryphal texts that are found in certain versions of the Bible, such as the Catholic and Orthodox Bibles. These texts include Tobit, Judith, Wisdom of Solomon, Sirach (Ecclesiasticus), Baruch, and the additions to the book of Esther and Daniel. Understanding their inclusion and interpretation is important in understanding their significance in religious practice.
Gnostic texts: Gnostic texts are a type of apocryphal literature that were influential in early Christianity, but were later deemed heretical by mainstream churches. These texts include the Gospel of Thomas, the Gospel of Mary, and the Gospel of Philip among others. Understanding Gnosticism and its role in early Christian theology is important for contextualizing the significance of these texts.
Apocryphal texts in non-Christian religions: Apocryphal literature is not exclusive to Christianity and exists in other religions such as Judaism and Islam. Understanding the role of these texts in these religions is important for understanding their respective beliefs and practices.
Apocrypha in art and literature: Apocryphal literature has been incorporated in various forms of art and literature throughout history. Understanding these representations can provide insight into how apocryphal texts have been interpreted and used in different cultural contexts.
The role of oral tradition in apocryphal literature: Many apocryphal texts were initially transmitted orally before being written down. Understanding the role of oral tradition in the development of apocryphal literature is important for contextualizing their historical and cultural significance.
Apocryphal texts as alternative perspectives on history and theology: Apocryphal texts often offer alternative perspectives on historical events and theological concepts. Understanding these perspectives can provide insight into diverse interpretations of religious beliefs and practices.
The debate over the authenticity and authority of apocryphal texts: The inclusion of apocryphal texts has been a topic of debate within various religious traditions throughout history. Understanding these debates can provide insight into the diversity of beliefs and practices within these religions.
Contemporary interpretations and uses of apocryphal texts: Apocryphal texts continue to be used and interpreted in diverse ways in contemporary religious and cultural contexts. Understanding these contemporary interpretations can provide insight into modern religious practices and beliefs.
Christian Apocrypha: These are religious texts that are not included in the canonical Bible but are still considered by some Christian groups to be of great spiritual value. Examples include the Gospel of Judas, the Gospel of Thomas, and the Apocalypse of Peter.
Jewish Apocrypha: These are texts that were written by Jewish authors but were not included in the Hebrew Bible. Examples include the Book of Enoch, 1st and 2nd Esdras, and the Wisdom of Solomon.
Islamic Apocrypha: These are religious texts that are not included in the Quran but are still considered by some Muslim groups to be of great spiritual value. Examples include the Hadith of Gabriel, the Life of Adam and Eve, and the Book of Jasher.
Hindu Apocrypha: These are texts that were not included in the core Hindu scriptures but are still considered by some Hindu groups to be of great spiritual value. Examples include the Yoga Vasistha, the Bhavishya Purana, and the Devi Bhagavata Purana.
Buddhist Apocrypha: These are texts that were not included in the Buddhist canon but are still considered by some Buddhists to be of great spiritual value. Examples include the Diamond Sutra, the Flower Garland Sutra, and the Lotus Sutra.
Gnostic Apocrypha: These are a group of early Christian texts that were rejected by the orthodoxy of the time but are still considered by some to be of great spiritual value. Examples include the Gospel of Mary, the Gospel of Philip, and the Secret Book of John.
Pseudepigrapha: These are a group of ancient Jewish texts that were attributed to famous biblical figures but were not actually written by them. Examples include the Testament of Abraham, the Testament of Job, and the Sibylline Oracles.
"...the word apocryphal (ἀπόκρυφος) was first applied to writings which were to be read privately rather than in the public context of church services."
"Apocrypha were edifying Christian works that were not considered canonical Scripture."
"Historically, it wasn't until after the Protestant Reformation..."
"...the word apocrypha was used by some reformers to mean 'false, spurious, bad, or heretical'."
"(...) included in the Septuagint, (the Hebrew Bible in Greek)..."
"...used for over two-hundred years by Jews and by early Christians."
"But books written only in Greek after the advent of the Septuagint, were set apart and remained in Greek."
"Later, when Jerome translated the Canon of Scripture and produced the Latin Vulgate..."
"...he did not include writings he could not find in Hebrew."
"Catholic and Orthodox Churches consider them to be canonical..."
"...some Protestants consider them apocryphal, that is, non-canonical books that are useful for instruction."
"Luther's Bible placed them in a separate section in between the Old Testament and New Testament called the Apocrypha..."
"Some non-canonical apocryphal texts are called pseudepigrapha..."
"...a term that means 'false attribution'."
"The modern English adjective 'apocryphal' is often used to indicate that a writing on any topic is of doubtful authenticity..."
"...spurious, fictitious, false..."
"The modern English adjective 'apocryphal' is often used to indicate that a writing on any topic is... fabulous or mythical."
"...writings which were to be read privately rather than in the public context of church services."
"...non-canonical books that are useful for instruction."