The Book of Enoch

1. Enoch's Prophecies Foretell Divine Judgment and Redemption

The words of the blessing of Enoch, wherewith he blessed the elect and righteous, who will be living in the day of tribulation, when all the wicked and godless are to be removed.

Enoch's role as a prophet. The Book of Enoch opens with Enoch, a righteous man, delivering prophecies concerning the future judgment of the wicked and the ultimate redemption of the elect. These prophecies serve as a warning and a source of hope, emphasizing the importance of righteousness in the face of impending tribulation. Enoch's words are not just for his time but for a "remote one which is for to come," highlighting the timeless relevance of his message.

Themes of judgment and salvation. Enoch's prophecies paint a vivid picture of divine intervention, where the wicked will be removed, and the righteous will be protected. This theme of judgment is intertwined with the promise of salvation for those who remain steadfast in their faith. The prophecies underscore the consequences of ungodliness and the rewards of righteousness, urging individuals to choose the path that leads to eternal life.

Impact on the faithful. These prophecies are intended to provide comfort and guidance to the elect during times of hardship. By understanding the future that awaits them, the righteous can find strength and perseverance in their commitment to God. The prophecies serve as a beacon of hope, assuring them that their suffering is not in vain and that a brighter future awaits those who remain faithful.

2. Fallen Angels Corrupted Humanity, Leading to Cataclysm

And the angels, the children of the heaven, saw and lusted after them, and said to one another: 'Come, let us choose us wives from among the children of men and beget us children.'

The Watchers' transgression. A significant portion of the Book of Enoch details the story of the Watchers, angels who descended to Earth and engaged in forbidden unions with human women. This transgression led to the birth of giants and the spread of wickedness across the land. The Watchers' actions represent a profound corruption of the natural order and a violation of divine law.

Consequences of corruption. The offspring of these unions, the giants, consumed all the acquisitions of men, and when men could no longer sustain them, the giants turned against them and devoured mankind. This led to widespread violence, sin, and the corruption of all living things. The earth itself cried out against the lawless ones, highlighting the devastating impact of the Watchers' actions.

Divine retribution. In response to the corruption, God sent a great deluge to destroy all that was on the earth, except for Noah and his family, who were spared to preserve a righteous seed. The fallen angels were bound and cast into darkness, awaiting their final judgment. This cataclysm serves as a stark reminder of the consequences of disobedience and the importance of adhering to divine commandments.

3. Enoch's Heavenly Journeys Reveal Cosmic Secrets

Behold, in the vision clouds invited me and a mist summoned me, and the course of the stars and the lightnings sped and hastened me, and the winds in the vision caused me to fly and lifted me upward, and bore me into heaven.

Enoch's ascent to heaven. Enoch is taken on a series of heavenly journeys, guided by angels, where he witnesses the secrets of the cosmos and the divine realm. These journeys provide him with unique insights into the workings of the universe and the fate of humanity. Enoch's experiences are a testament to his righteousness and his special relationship with God.

Cosmic revelations. During his journeys, Enoch sees the treasuries of the winds, the places of the luminaries, and the prisons of the fallen stars. He learns about the laws governing the movements of the sun, moon, and stars, as well as the forces that shape the earth. These revelations offer a glimpse into the intricate and orderly nature of God's creation.

Intercession for the Watchers. Despite their transgressions, the Watchers implore Enoch to intercede on their behalf, seeking forgiveness for their sins. Enoch carries their petition to God, but ultimately, their request is denied. This episode highlights the severity of their actions and the unwavering nature of divine justice.

4. The Son of Man Will Judge the Wicked and Uphold the Righteous

This is the son of Man who hath righteousness, With whom dwelleth righteousness, And who revealeth all the treasures of that which is hidden, Because the Lord of Spirits hath chosen him.

The Son of Man's identity. The Book of Enoch introduces the figure of the Son of Man, a righteous being chosen by God to judge the world and reveal hidden truths. The Son of Man is depicted as a source of hope and salvation for the righteous, and a harbinger of doom for the wicked. His appearance marks a turning point in the history of humanity.

Judgment and justice. The Son of Man will sit on the throne of glory and judge the works of all people. The wicked will be cast into darkness and torment, while the righteous will be rewarded with eternal life and peace. This judgment will be based on righteousness and truth, with no room for deceit or injustice.

Hope for the elect. The righteous and elect will find refuge and strength in the Son of Man. He will be their guide and protector, leading them to a new era of peace and prosperity. The Son of Man's reign will be characterized by justice, mercy, and the ultimate triumph of good over evil.

5. Wisdom and Righteousness are Essential for Salvation

Wisdom found no place where she might dwell; Then a dwelling−place was assigned her in the heavens.

Wisdom's importance. The Book of Enoch emphasizes the importance of wisdom and righteousness as essential qualities for salvation. Wisdom is depicted as a divine attribute that guides individuals towards truth and understanding. Righteousness is the practice of living in accordance with God's commandments and moral principles.

Wisdom's journey. Wisdom initially sought a dwelling place among humanity but found none. As a result, wisdom returned to her place in the heavens. This highlights humanity's initial rejection of wisdom and the subsequent consequences.

Paths to salvation. Those who embrace wisdom and righteousness will be saved from the impending judgment and granted eternal life. They will walk in the light of God's presence and enjoy everlasting peace. Conversely, those who reject wisdom and righteousness will face eternal punishment and destruction.

6. The Luminaries Obey Divine Laws, While Humanity Often Strays

Observe ye everything that takes place in the heaven, how they do not change their orbits, and the luminaries which are in the heaven, how they all rise and set in order each in its season, and transgress not against their appointed order.

Celestial order. The Book of Enoch dedicates significant attention to the movements of the sun, moon, and stars, emphasizing their unwavering obedience to divine laws. These celestial bodies serve as a model of order and regularity, contrasting with the often chaotic and sinful behavior of humanity. The luminaries are a testament to God's power and wisdom in creation.

Human disobedience. Unlike the luminaries, humanity often strays from the path of righteousness, engaging in sin and wickedness. This disobedience leads to discord and suffering on Earth. The book urges individuals to emulate the celestial order by aligning their lives with God's commandments.

Consequences of straying. Those who stray from the path of righteousness will face judgment and punishment. The book warns against the dangers of pride, greed, and violence, urging individuals to repent and return to God's ways. Only through obedience and righteousness can humanity find true peace and fulfillment.

7. The Righteous Will Inherit Eternal Life and Peace

But for the elect there shall be light and joy and peace, And they shall inherit the earth.

Promise of inheritance. The Book of Enoch offers a powerful vision of the future for the righteous, promising them eternal life and peace. They will inherit the earth and dwell in a world free from sin and suffering. This promise serves as a source of hope and encouragement for those who remain steadfast in their faith.

Qualities of the righteous. The righteous are characterized by their love of God, their obedience to His commandments, and their commitment to justice and compassion. They are humble, wise, and unwavering in their faith. These qualities distinguish them from the wicked and make them worthy of eternal life.

Eternal blessings. In the new world, the righteous will enjoy unending joy, peace, and prosperity. They will dwell in the presence of God and experience the fullness of His love. This eternal reward is the ultimate goal of the righteous and the culmination of their earthly journey.

8. Sinners Face Eternal Punishment and Destruction

But on you all shall abide a curse.

Consequences of sin. The Book of Enoch does not shy away from depicting the fate of sinners, who face eternal punishment and destruction. Their wickedness will be exposed, and they will be cast into darkness and torment. This serves as a warning against the dangers of sin and the importance of choosing righteousness.

Characteristics of sinners. Sinners are characterized by their pride, greed, violence, and rejection of God's commandments. They oppress the righteous, engage in deceit, and blaspheme against the divine. Their actions lead to their ultimate downfall and eternal separation from God.

Eternal torment. The punishment of sinners is described as a fiery abyss, a place of unending torment and suffering. They will be bound in chains and cast into darkness, where they will experience the full weight of God's wrath. This serves as a stark reminder of the consequences of unrepentant sin.

9. Embrace Righteousness and Shun the Paths of Wickedness

Therefore shall ye execrate your days, And the years of your life shall perish, And the years of your destruction shall be multiplied in eternal execration, And ye shall find no mercy.

Call to action. The Book of Enoch concludes with a clear call to action, urging individuals to embrace righteousness and shun the paths of wickedness. The choice between these two paths determines one's eternal destiny. The book emphasizes the importance of making a conscious decision to follow God's ways and reject the temptations of sin.

Paths of righteousness. The path of righteousness is characterized by love, compassion, justice, and obedience to God's commandments. It leads to eternal life, peace, and fulfillment. Those who walk this path will be blessed and protected by God.

Paths of wickedness. The path of wickedness is characterized by pride, greed, violence, and rejection of God's commandments. It leads to eternal punishment, destruction, and separation from God. Those who walk this path will face judgment and condemnation.

Last updated: February 23, 2025