Definition

1. 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

1. an Apocryphal book of angelic revelations