Tobit
c. 3rd–2nd century BC
A narrative about Tobit, a righteous Israelite in exile, and his son Tobias who journeys with the angel Raphael in disguise. A story of faith, healing, and God's providence.
Apocrypha / Deuterocanonical Books
These books ARE included in Catholic Bibles, many Orthodox Bibles, and were part of the Septuagint (the Greek Old Testament used by early Christians). Protestant traditions removed them during the Reformation. They are not obscure or rejected — millions of Christians consider them Scripture.
10 texts in this category
Judith
c. 2nd century BC
The story of a brave Jewish woman who infiltrates an enemy camp and kills the general Holofernes to save her people. A dramatic narrative of courage and faith.
Wisdom of Solomon
c. 1st century BC
A philosophical meditation on wisdom, righteousness, and immortality, written as if by Solomon. Contains some of the most eloquent theology in Jewish wisdom literature.
Sirach (Ecclesiasticus)
c. 180 BC
A large collection of practical wisdom, ethical instruction, and theological reflection by Jesus ben Sirach. Similar to Proverbs but more expansive.
Baruch
c. 2nd century BC
Attributed to Baruch, Jeremiah's scribe. A reflection on exile, confession of sins, and a poem praising Wisdom personified.
Letter of Jeremiah
c. 3rd–2nd century BC
A passionate warning against idolatry, describing the powerlessness and absurdity of worshipping handmade gods.
1 Maccabees
c. 100 BC
A historical account of the Maccabean revolt (167–134 BC) against the Seleucid Empire. Describes the rededication of the Temple — the origin of Hanukkah.
2 Maccabees
c. 124 BC
A theological interpretation of the Maccabean period focusing on divine intervention, martyrdom, and the resurrection of the dead.
Additions to Daniel
c. 2nd–1st century BC
Includes the Prayer of Azariah (in the fiery furnace), the Song of the Three Young Men, Susanna (a story of virtue and justice), and Bel and the Dragon (Daniel debunking idolatry).
Additions to Esther
c. 2nd–1st century BC
Six additional passages that add explicit references to God (absent from the Hebrew Esther), prayers by Mordecai and Esther, and royal decrees.