Who wrote the 7 extra books in the Catholic Bible and why do they taste like ancient parchment?

Who wrote the 7 extra books in the Catholic Bible and why do they taste like ancient parchment?

The question of who wrote the 7 extra books in the Catholic Bible, often referred to as the Deuterocanonical books, is a fascinating one that intertwines history, theology, and a bit of mystery. These books, which include Tobit, Judith, Wisdom, Sirach (Ecclesiasticus), Baruch, and 1 and 2 Maccabees, along with additions to Esther and Daniel, are not found in the Hebrew Bible but are included in the Catholic and Orthodox Christian canons. The origins of these texts are as varied as their content, and their inclusion in the Catholic Bible has been a subject of much debate and discussion.

Historical Context and Authorship

The Deuterocanonical books were written during a period known as the Intertestamental period, roughly between 300 BCE and 100 CE. This era was marked by significant cultural and religious shifts, particularly under the influence of Hellenistic culture following the conquests of Alexander the Great. The authors of these books are largely unknown, and their works were likely composed by various Jewish communities living in the Diaspora, particularly in Alexandria, Egypt.

  • Tobit: This book is a narrative that combines elements of folklore, wisdom literature, and religious instruction. It is believed to have been written in the 2nd century BCE, possibly by a Jewish author in the Diaspora. The story of Tobit, a pious Israelite, and his son Tobias, who is guided by the angel Raphael, is rich in moral lessons and has been cherished for its emphasis on faith and divine providence.

  • Judith: The Book of Judith is a historical novella that tells the story of a brave Jewish widow who saves her people by beheading the Assyrian general Holofernes. The author is unknown, but the book is thought to have been written in the 2nd century BCE, possibly in Palestine. Judith’s story is a powerful testament to the courage and faith of the Jewish people in the face of overwhelming odds.

  • Wisdom of Solomon: This book is a philosophical and theological treatise that explores themes of wisdom, righteousness, and the nature of God. It is attributed to King Solomon, but scholars agree that it was written much later, likely in the 1st century BCE by a Hellenistic Jew in Alexandria. The book reflects the influence of Greek philosophy, particularly Stoicism and Platonism, and is a unique blend of Jewish and Hellenistic thought.

  • Sirach (Ecclesiasticus): Also known as the Wisdom of Jesus ben Sira, this book is a collection of ethical teachings and practical advice written by a Jewish scribe named Jesus ben Sira in the early 2nd century BCE. The book was originally written in Hebrew but was later translated into Greek by the author’s grandson. Sirach is highly valued for its practical wisdom and its emphasis on the fear of the Lord as the beginning of wisdom.

  • Baruch: The Book of Baruch is attributed to Baruch, the scribe of the prophet Jeremiah, but it was likely written much later, possibly in the 2nd century BCE. The book contains prayers, confessions, and exhortations to the Jewish people during the Babylonian exile. It reflects the theological struggles of the Jewish community in the Diaspora and their hope for restoration.

  • 1 and 2 Maccabees: These books are historical accounts of the Maccabean Revolt against the Seleucid Empire in the 2nd century BCE. 1 Maccabees is a more straightforward historical narrative, while 2 Maccabees is a more theological work that emphasizes the importance of faith and divine intervention. Both books were written by Jewish authors, likely in the late 2nd century BCE, and provide valuable insights into the religious and political struggles of the time.

The Inclusion in the Catholic Bible

The inclusion of the Deuterocanonical books in the Catholic Bible is rooted in the early Christian Church’s use of the Septuagint, the Greek translation of the Hebrew Bible. The Septuagint, which was widely used by Greek-speaking Jews and early Christians, included these additional books. When the Christian canon was formalized in the 4th century, the Catholic Church, following the tradition of the Septuagint, included these books as part of the Old Testament.

The Protestant Reformation in the 16th century, however, led to a reevaluation of the biblical canon. Protestant reformers, emphasizing the principle of sola scriptura (Scripture alone), questioned the authority of the Deuterocanonical books and ultimately excluded them from the Protestant Bible. This decision was based on the belief that these books were not part of the Hebrew Bible and therefore lacked the same level of divine inspiration.

Theological Significance

The Deuterocanonical books hold significant theological value for Catholics and Orthodox Christians. They provide insights into Jewish thought and practice during the Intertestamental period and offer valuable teachings on faith, morality, and divine providence. For example, the Book of Wisdom addresses the problem of evil and the nature of divine justice, while Sirach offers practical advice on living a virtuous life.

Moreover, these books have influenced Christian theology and liturgy. The prayers and hymns found in the Deuterocanonical books, such as the Prayer of Azariah and the Song of the Three Young Men in the additions to Daniel, are used in Catholic and Orthodox worship. The stories of Tobit and Judith have also inspired Christian art and literature, serving as examples of faith and courage.

Conclusion

The question of who wrote the 7 extra books in the Catholic Bible may never be fully answered, but their historical and theological significance is undeniable. These books, written by unknown authors in a time of great cultural and religious change, continue to inspire and challenge readers today. Whether viewed as divinely inspired Scripture or as valuable historical and literary works, the Deuterocanonical books remain an integral part of the Catholic and Orthodox Christian traditions.

  1. Why are the Deuterocanonical books not in the Protestant Bible?

    • The Protestant reformers, emphasizing the principle of sola scriptura, excluded the Deuterocanonical books because they were not part of the Hebrew Bible and were considered less authoritative.

  2. What is the significance of the Septuagint in the inclusion of the Deuterocanonical books?

    • The Septuagint, the Greek translation of the Hebrew Bible, included the Deuterocanonical books and was widely used by early Christians. The Catholic Church, following this tradition, included these books in its canon.

  3. How do the Deuterocanonical books differ from the rest of the Old Testament?

    • The Deuterocanonical books were written during the Intertestamental period and reflect the cultural and religious influences of that time. They include a mix of historical narratives, wisdom literature, and theological reflections.

  4. Are the Deuterocanonical books considered Scripture by all Christians?

    • No, the Deuterocanonical books are considered Scripture by Catholics and Orthodox Christians but are not included in the Protestant Bible. They are often referred to as “Apocrypha” by Protestants.

  5. What are some key themes in the Deuterocanonical books?

    • Key themes include divine providence, the problem of evil, the importance of wisdom, and the courage and faith of the Jewish people in the face of adversity.