Readings in the Books of the Apocrypha

What are they? Where did they come from? Why are they called "apocryphal"? What do they say? How do they say it? An introductory chapter sketches the development of the Old Testament canon and the apocryphal books. The following chapters contain key sections from each of the traditional fourteen books. These quotations are introduced and connected to assure a snapshot of the content and a sample of the style. Most of the apocryphal books were written more than two thousand years ago in the Greek language by and for the Jewish community. They provide valuable insights into Jewish culture, religion, piety, and history during the four hundred years between the Old and New Testaments. Thought questions at the end of each chapter invite reflection on the relevance of the content of these books for today.

Reverend Van Dyk is the academic dean and Associate Professor Preaching, emeritus, at Calvin Theological Seminary, in Grand Rapids, Michigan. Prior to his service at the seminary he was a pastor for churches in Illinois, Florida, and Michigan. In recent years he has taught various adult study groups, including the Apocrypha.