Faith & Reason Nexus

Introduction: Delving into the Book of Enoch
The Book of Enoch sparks considerable curiosity among Christians and those exploring Christianity. Despite this, cautionary advice often circulates against its use or reading. This prompts a crucial question: Should Christians engage with the Book of Enoch, or is it advisable to steer clear?

What is the Book of Enoch?
The Book of Enoch is categorized as a pseudepigraphical work—a historical text attributed to a specific author, although the claimed authorship lacks solid evidence. In this instance, the book is ascribed to Enoch, the great-grandfather of Noah and the son of Jared, mentioned in the genealogy of Genesis 5:18.

Unraveling the Mystery of Enoch and the Book
Enigma surrounds Enoch in the Bible, contributing to the mystique enveloping the Book of Enoch itself. In Genesis 5:24, Moses portrays Enoch uniquely, stating, “Enoch walked with God, and he was not, for God took him.” This departure from the typical life-and-death narrative adds an intriguing layer, shared only with Elijah in this distinctive manner. While historians date the composition of the Book of Enoch between 300 and 200 B.C., it’s crucial to note the lack of concrete evidence linking Enoch to its authorship. Despite this, the book serves as an apocalyptic text, delving into the flood’s events with a focus on demons, angels, and giants, offering a more detailed account than Genesis.

Although not considered Scripture, the Book of Enoch aligns with some biblical narratives, particularly regarding the flood. However, caution prevails as it lacks the historical backing and consistency found in the Bible’s canonical books. Notably, the Bible references the Book of Enoch in Jude, verses 14-15, acknowledging its existence but not endorsing it as scriptural truth. The interplay between the two texts adds a layer of intrigue to the biblical narrative.

Exclusion from the Bible and Fallen Angels
The Book of Enoch’s omission from the Bible arises from its non-canonical status. Major Christian denominations adhere strictly to the Canon of Scripture approved by Jews at the Council of Jamnia. Some suggest Daniel 12:4, emphasizing the sealing of the book until the end times, as a potential reason for its exclusion. In the Book of Enoch, the Fallen Angels, known as the Watchers, were 200 angels sent to Earth to oversee humans. Led by Semyaza and Azazel, they felt lust for “daughters of men,” resulting in the birth of giants, the Nephilim, reaching staggering heights.

The Bible references the Nephilim in Genesis 6:4, connecting their existence to the union of “sons of God” and “daughters of men,” leading to renowned mighty men. Each fallen angel imparted diverse knowledge to humanity, spanning astronomy, astrology, medicine, metallurgy, cosmetics, agriculture, technology, and weaponry.

Sections of the Book of Enoch
The Book of Enoch comprises five sections, believed by scholars to be originally independent works:

1. The Book of Watchers (1 Enoch 1 – 36): Composed in the fourth or third century BC, it begins with Enoch’s blessing for the righteous during a future day of tribulation. Interestingly, this section also alludes to a flat Earth.

2. The Book of Parables (1 Enoch 37 – 71): Dated by J.T. Milik to the third century, this section introduces the expression “Son of Man” and prophesies transformative events.

3. The Book of the Heavenly Luminaries (1 Enoch 72 – 82): Described as the Astronomical Book, it details the movements of celestial bodies, including the Sun and Moon.

4. The Dream Visions (1 Enoch 83 – 90): Also known as the Book of Dreams, it is considered pre-Flood by the Ethiopian Orthodox Church and likely contains symbolic visions.

5. The Epistle of Enoch (1 Enoch 91 – 108): Concluding the book, it foretells the reaction of sinners upon witnessing shining entities and emphasizes their predetermined fate.