In more than one respect the Book of Enoch is an important factor in these investigations. Being one of the oldest specimens of apocalyptic literature reflecting in its different parts the convictions, feelings, and longings of the people of God at different stages of their development written in imitation of the spirit of the prophets, with religious purposes and spiritual objects it can safely be said to be an invaluable aid to the understanding of the religious and moral atmosphere in which the Saviour lived. It does not belong merely to the curiosities of literature, but is a book of positive worth, and the source of much information to the patient investigator.

This will suffice as an apology for a new translation of Enoch. In the translation the object has been to render as literally as possible, even if thereby the English should become a little harsh. Of course the notes do not pretend to unravel all the mysteries in this most mysterious of books but it is hoped they will be of some assistance in understanding these intricacies. Naturally, these and the Introduction are, in part, a compilation but the thoughts of others have been used with judgment and discrimination, and the sources are indicated. In all questions the writer has been independent, as will be seen by the fact that he has frequently departed from beaten paths.Much remains yet to be done before this book will be entirely understood. Both its connection in sentiment and expression with the Old Testament, as well as its influence on Talmudic and Rabbinical lore, especially the latter, must, to a great extent, be the work of future investigations. But even with the limited means at hand this book, which an inspired writer thought worthy of citation, will not be read by the Christian theologian and minister without deep interest.

In conclusion the translator desires to express his thanks to his friend Prof. Dr. Adolf Harnack, of Giessen, Germany, for kind words and deeds in connection with this work and to Prof. Dr. Ezra Abbot for his interest and aid in its publication. GEORGE H. SCHODDE. Columbus, Ohio, Nov. 21, 1881.

Rev. George Henry Schodde (Allegheny City, April 15, 1854 - September 15, 1917) was an American scholar of the coptic language, and "Old Testament" pseudepigrapha. He graduated Ph.D. Leipzig, 1876, and returned to America joining the Lutheran General Council, and becoming professor at Capital University, Columbus, Ohio. He produced a translation of 1 Enoch in 1885.