Go beyond the Bible with this simple introduction to apocrypha. "Apocryphal literature offers a fascinating glimpse into the creativity surrounding the Biblical past in the premodern Jewish and Christian imagination.... Hawk here offers a guide of unprecedented scope and clarity, making up-to-date specialist findings accessible to everyone. The result is an invaluable resource for teaching but also a delight to read for anyone curious about the Biblical past outside the Bible." -Annette Yoshiko Reed, professor of religious studies and Jewish studies, New York University Regardless of whether they were lost, cut, or censored from the Bible, the various apocryphal stories offer unique opportunities to learn more about the fascinating histories of Judaism and Christianity and broaden your spiritual understanding. But exploring this vast cannon of texts alone can be a daunting task. Apocrypha for Beginners makes it simple by offering a guided experience, helping you contextualize each piece's place in history and its importance. · More than fifty apocrypha-Delve into a variety of apocrypha from different eras and cultures, including those from the Dead Sea Scrolls, gnostic texts, revelations, and apocalypses. · In-depth commentary-Better understand each text with a brief summary of its origin, meaning, and cultural significance. · Easy-to-follow info-It's easy to connect essential facts with the help of a detailed timeline, canon comparison chart, and index of important individuals. Take your Bible study to the next level with Apocrypha for Beginners. "A must-read for everyone who is interested in these fascinating but little-known texts."-Dr. Lorenzo DiTommaso, professor, Department of Religions and Cultures, Concordia University