The Greek Apocalypse of Baruch is an ancient apocalyptic text believed to have been written in the early Christian era, likely in the first or second century CE. It is an apocryphal work attributed to the biblical figure Baruch, who was said to be the secretary and scribe of the prophet Jeremiah.
This text, also known as the 3 Baruch or the Paraleipomena Jeremiou, exists in two main versions, a longer recension and a shorter recension. It is primarily preserved in Greek, although fragments of it have also been discovered in other languages such as Syriac and Coptic.
The Greek Apocalypse of Baruch provides an imaginative account of Baruch's visions and encounters with heavenly beings, particularly angels, as he traverses various realms. It touches upon apocalyptic themes such as the fall of Jerusalem, the fate of the Jewish people, and the coming Messianic era. The apocalyptic literature in general deals with the revelation of divine secrets, often concerning the future course of history or the ultimate destiny of humanity.
The text includes elements of pseudepigraphical tradition, incorporating the figure of Baruch as a prominent protagonist while expanding upon the biblical narrative. It intertwines historical and eschatological motifs, presenting a vivid portrayal of judgment, reward, and punishment. The Greek Apocalypse of Baruch, although not canonical within Jewish or Christian scriptures, has been deeply influential in shaping apocalyptic thought and literature. It provides insights into ancient apocalyptic traditions and highlights the multifaceted nature of religious and theological development in the late Second Temple and early Christian periods.
