Texts in Conversation
Philippians uses apocalyptic language similar to 1 Enoch 82, describing the peace that surpasses understanding similarly to how Enoch describes the wisdom that surpasses understanding.
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1 Enoch 82:2
Pseudepigrapha
1 And now, my son Methuselah, I am recounting and writing down all these things for you, and I have revealed everything to you, and given you books about all these: so keep, my son Methuselah, the books from your father’s hand, and make sure that you pass them on to future generations. 2 I have given you and your children Wisdom, so that you and they can pass it on to their children through the generations, this Wisdom that surpasses their understanding. 3 And those who comprehend it will not rest, but will listen attentively to learn this Wisdom, and it will please them more than the finest food.
Philippians 4:7
New Testament
5 Let everyone see your gentleness. The Lord is near! 6 Do not be anxious about anything. Instead, in every situation, through prayer and petition with thanksgiving, tell your requests to God. 7 And the peace of God that surpasses all understanding will guard your hearts and minds in Christ Jesus. 8 Finally, brothers and sisters, whatever is true, whatever is worthy of respect, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if something is excellent or praiseworthy, think about these things.
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Notes and References
"... The final line of verse 2 indicates that Enoch’s wisdom is divine wisdom, for it exceeds the human capacity to understand it. A similar notion appears in Isaiah 55:8–9, of God’s design to forgive Israel. Related language occurs in Philippians 4:7 and Ephesians 3:19 with reference to the peace of God that surpasses all understanding and the love of Christ that surpasses knowledge ..."
Nickelsburg, George W. E.
A Commentary on the Book of 1 Enoch Chapters 1-36, 81-108
(p. 343) Fortress Press, 2001
* The use of references are not endorsements of their contents. Please read the entirety of the provided reference(s) to understand the author's full intentions regarding the use of these texts.
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