II Esdras
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Definition
- Proper noun:
- A deuterocanonical/apocryphal text: "II Esdras" is the name of a book found in some versions of the Christian Old Testament, considered apocryphal by Protestants and deuterocanonical by some other traditions. It is a work of apocalyptic literature featuring angelic revelations and visions.
Usage and Context
- II Esdras is used as the title of a specific ancient religious text. It is often studied in the context of biblical apocrypha, intertestamental literature, and the development of Jewish and Christian apocalyptic thought.
Examples of Usage
- Proper noun:
- The vision of the eagle and the lion is described in II Esdras.
- Scholars compare the angelology in II Esdras with that in the Book of Daniel.
- The manuscript included a copy of II Esdras among the apocryphal books.
Advanced Usage and Notes
- "The Ezra Apocalypse": II Esdras is sometimes referred to by this alternative name, highlighting its apocalyptic nature and its traditional attribution to the scribe Ezra.
- Chapters 3-14: The core of II Esdras (chapters 3-14) is often called "4 Ezra" in scholarly numbering, with the added chapters (1-2, 15-16) sometimes called "5 Ezra" and "6 Ezra" respectively. This distinguishes its sections from the canonical books of Ezra and Nehemiah (sometimes called 1 Esdras and 2 Esdras in different canons).
Variants and Related Terms
- Esdras: A name used for several books associated with the scribe Ezra. The numbering varies significantly between different religious canons (e.g., Greek, Latin, English).
- 1 Esdras: An alternative Greek version of parts of the canonical books of Ezra, Nehemiah, and Chronicles.
- 4 Ezra*: The common scholarly designation for the central apocalyptic section of II Esdras.
Synonyms and Related Concepts
- Apocryphon: A general term for a work of hidden or secret teachings, often of a revelatory nature.
- Apocalyptic literature: A genre to which II Esdras belongs, characterized by symbolic visions, angelic interpreters, and revelations about the end times and the heavenly realm.
Related Phrases and Idioms
Noun
- an Apocryphal book of angelic revelations