The Book of Jubilees, also known as "The Little Genesis" or "The Apocalypse of Moses," is a pseudepigraphical text written during the Second Temple period in ancient Judaism. It presents a unique retelling of biblical history, spanning from the creation of the world to the time of Moses. This work, attributed to Moses himself, is not included in the canonical Hebrew Bible but is considered an important part of the Hebrew Pseudepigrapha.
The Book of Jubilees derives its name from the numerical computation of time used within its narrative, which is organized into "jubilee cycles" of 49 years each. It offers a comprehensive chronology of events and teachings, supplementing the narratives found in the Book of Genesis and the Book of Exodus. The author aims to explain theological and legal aspects of Jewish tradition and provide insights into various biblical events.
The text contains diverse themes such as the origins of evil, punishment and reward, angelology, and the divine revelation to Moses. It also emphasizes the significance of observance of the Sabbath, dietary laws, and festivals. The Book of Jubilees reflects a sectarian perspective, possibly originating from the Essene community, as evident in its strict adherence to the Law and its interpretation.
Despite not being regarded as canonical in Judaism or Christianity, the Book of Jubilees has played a significant role in shaping Jewish thought during the Second Temple period. It has been preserved in Ethiopian Christian tradition and is especially important to the Ethiopian Orthodox Church, where it is considered canonical. Academics and scholars value the book for its insights into Jewish theology, biblical interpretation, and historical context during the period it was composed.
