Joseph B. Lumpkin

The Third Book of Enoch: Also Called 3 Enoch and the Hebrew Book of Enoch Joseph B. Lumpkin

3 Enoch, also called "The Third Book of Enoch," "The Hebrew Book of Enoch," and "The Book of the Palaces," purports to have been written in the second century A. D. by a Rabbi, who became a 'high priest' after he had visions of an ascension to Heaven, 90 AD - 135 A. D. The book is part of the Merkabah tradition, which are writings with the theme of ascension into heaven. The name is derived from a Hebrew word meaning " chariot," referring to Ezekiel's vision beginning in Ezekiel 1:4. 3 Enoch is also part of the Temple or Hekalot body of literature. The name Sefer Hekhalot means, "Palaces" or "Temples." 3 Enoch is one of the supreme sources of Jewish mystical knowledge. The Hebrew Book of Enoch (3 Enoch) has been translated using Hebrew source materials and contains "in-text" commentary. This volume contains copious notes designed to guide the reader through the difficulties of language, theology, and mystical references. It is a necessary resource for those engaged in the study of religion, religious history, or mysticism.