The Book of Jubilees

By:   R H Charles
Imprint:   Revive Classics
Dimensions:   Height: 229mm,  Width: 152mm,  Spine: 14mm
Weight:   440g
ISBN:   9781998621781
ISBN 10:   1998621782
Pages:   184
Publication Date:   19 November 2024
Audience:   General/trade ,  ELT Advanced
Format:   Hardback
Publisher's Status:   Active

R. H. Charles (1855-1931) was a prominent British biblical scholar known for his pioneering work in translating and interpreting apocryphal and pseudepigraphal texts. His scholarship brought attention to significant ancient writings, including The Book of Enoch and The Book of Jubilees, which he translated and annotated extensively, making these previously obscure texts accessible to modern readers and scholars. His rigorous analyses and commentaries remain influential in biblical studies, particularly regarding the historical and theological contexts of these ancient works.Charles was the first scholar to propose an origin theory for The Book of Jubilees, suggesting it was authored by a Pharisee influenced by midrashic traditions, possibly related to the Books of Chronicles. This hypothesis framed Jubilees as a reflection of early Jewish thought and law. Although his Pharisaic theory was largely set aside after the discovery of the Dead Sea Scrolls, Charles' scholarship on Jubilees laid foundational work for understanding its religious and cultural significance.In addition to his work on apocryphal literature, Charles held academic positions and was respected in both British and international scholarly circles. His contributions to biblical studies provided essential insights into early Jewish and Christian literature, influencing subsequent scholarship on the Dead Sea Scrolls and other ancient texts. His work continues to be a cornerstone for those exploring the religious and historical contexts of biblical-era writings.