Abstract

This thesis attempts to confirm the origins, doctrines, and influence of the Jewish groups in the Second Temple Period. Another matter involves the emergence of angelology, within Jewish history. While the notion of angels possibly appeared early in Semitic literature, a proliferation of angelology developed from 539 B.C.E. to 70 C.E. By the time of the writing of the Book of Watchers, angelology was much more pronounced. Examining the background, structure, and contents of 1 Enoch will be necessary to situate the Enochic writings, within the Second Temple Period. Various theories exist concerning the origins, genre, and characteristics of the apocalyptic. Although there is no agreement about these issues, I propose that 1 Enoch exhibits an apocalyptic perspective. I will also seek to establish a priestly connection with the Book of Watchers. An analysis of the tradition of angelology includes an investigation into the origins of angels, their functions in the Hebrew Bible and the Septuagint, possible associations with mythology, and speculation about why angels surfaced within Israelite religion. ;Chapter eight deals with angelology in Genesis 6:1--4 and 1 Enoch 6. My goal is to show how the Enochic account of the fall of the Watchers relates to Genesis 6:1--4. It is my conviction that the Book of Watchers was dependent upon Genesis and served as a midrash of this earlier mythical tradition. I also aspire to validate that the content of both Genesis 6:1--4 and the Book of Watchers exhibits priestly concerns, which are in sync with the overall teachings of the Pentateuch. Since priestly interests are more evident in the later Enochic tradition, this may suggest that the writer was a priest, who sought to address contentious issues involving the Jerusalem priesthood of his time. The completion of these tasks will provide the context for a final discussion of how 1 Enoch's angelology influenced Second Temple Judaism. I am appreciative of the University of South Africa, the examining committee, and professor Spangenberg for their kindness and guidance