Definition

1. Proper noun:
   • Book of Baruch: A deuterocanonical or apocryphal book of the Bible, traditionally ascribed to Baruch, the scribe of the prophet Jeremiah. It is included in the Old Testament canons of Catholic and Orthodox Christian traditions but is generally not considered part of the Hebrew Bible or most Protestant Old Testaments.

Usage

• The term "Book of Baruch" is used as the title of a specific biblical text. It is always capitalized.
• It is typically referenced in discussions of biblical canon, apocryphal literature, or theological studies.

Examples

• As a proper noun (title):
  • The Book of Baruch contains prayers and reflections on the Babylonian exile.
  • Scholars debate the authorship and historical context of the Book of Baruch.

Advanced Usage

• "Baruch" alone: In biblical studies, "Baruch" can refer to the scribe himself, while "Book of Baruch" or "Baruch" specifically denotes the text.
  • The figure of Baruch appears in the Book of Jeremiah, while the Book of Baruch is a separate work.

Variants and Related Words

• Baruch: The shorter, common name for the book.
  • The prayer in Baruch 3:9-38 is a meditation on wisdom.
• 1 Baruch: Used to distinguish this book from other ancient texts attributed to Baruch (e.g., 2 Baruch, 3 Baruch), which are considered pseudepigrapha.

Synonyms

• Baruch (when referring specifically to the canonical text).
• The Prophecy of Baruch (an alternative traditional title).

Notes on Meaning

• The "Book of Baruch" is a specific, singular work. It is not a general term and does not have multiple common meanings outside of this biblical context. Its primary significance is religious and literary.

Noun

1. an Apocryphal book ascribed to Baruch