Overview
rewritten Bible
Quick Reference
Term used for writings which amplify, modify, or in some other way revise existing books of the OT, thus making them more relevant or acceptable to a later generation of readers. Thus 1 and 2 Chronicles go over the books of Samuel and Kings from a post-exilic standpoint, which is primarily to enhance the standing of David. Ecclus. [= Sir.] 44–9 rewrites much biblical material to emphasize the dignity of the priesthood; the book of Jubilees in the 2nd cent. bce supplements the narratives in Genesis about Noah and Abraham and revises the OT chronology; the Temple Scroll from Qumran contains instructions about worship not contained in the OT. The Jewish Book of Biblical Antiquities of the 1st cent. ce contains additional psalms and affirms a doctrine of resurrection. Josephus' Antiquities (94 ce) rewrites much of the history, as do the targums for use in the synagogues.
