The Apocrypha

[Isaiah 53]

Dear Brothers and Sisters-

I have a quick question for you. I recently bought a Bible that included the Apocrypha (my apologies if you do not refer to it as such). I am interested in reading all the books/passages contained within. But, I turn to you and would ask your opinon.

Which are your favorite books/passages/verses of the Apocryhal books? I would love to hear them and read them for myself. I appreciate your time. God Bless.

PEACE IN CHRIST!!

 

[Suzannah]

Hi there my friend! I know that others will have a much better answer but I cannot resist: my favorite is the Book of Susannah!
It is considered in "literary circles" (yes, true!) to be the "First Detective Story"!

 

[Oblio]

The Book of The Wisdom of Solomon is good.

 

[OrthodoxTexan]

I would second the Wisdom of Solomon. It's an interesting text reflecting some early thought about the nature and role of the Holy Spirit throughout OT history. These are the Scriptures that influenced the early Church and her beliefs, and ultimately influenced Christian Trinitarian theology (IIRC, Athanasius references the Wisdom of Solomon in "On the Incarnation"). It really is a shame that they have been so neglected by Protestant Christianity.

 

[luvmyirishman]

The second book of Esdras is great.

 

[Reader Nilus]

1 Maccabees is a must read to understand the second half of Daniel. My favorite is the Prayer of Manasseh. The question asked of Our Lord about the 7 brothers comes from Tobit. Sirach is also very good.
Jeff the Finn

 

[Isaiah 53]

Thanks to everyone. Keep those suggestions coming!!

PEACE IN CHRIST!!

 

[Photini]

Which are your favorite books/passages/verses of the Apocryhal books? I would love to hear them and read them for myself. I appreciate your time. God Bless.

Wisdom of Sirach

Also Tobit and 2 Esdras (especially chapter 2)

"I, Ezra, saw on Mount Zion a great multitude that I could not number, and they all were praising the Lord with songs. In their midst was a young man of great stature, taller than any of the others, and on the head of each of them he placed a crown, but he was more exalted than they. And I was held spellbound. Then I asked an angel, 'Who are these, my lord?' He answered and said to me, 'These are they who have put off mortal clothing and have put on the immortal, and have confessed the name of God. Now they are being crowned and receive palms.' Then I said to the angel, 'Who is that young man who is placing crowns on them and putting palms in their hands?' He answered, 'He is the Son of God, whom they confessed in the world.' So I began to praise those who had stood valiantly for the name of the Lord. Then the angel said to me, 'Go, tell my people how great and how many are the wonders of the Lord God that you have seen.'" (2 Esdras 2:42-48)

 

[ProCommunioneFacior]

I love the story of Tobit.

 

[Patristic]

Since no one has mentioned it I will recommend the book of 2 Maccabees. I am reading through this book again, and am really coming to appreciate it more as I study it.