The Book of Parables, also known as the Similitudes of Enoch, is the second major section of the Book of Enoch, covering chapters 37 to 71. It introduces profound visions about the coming judgment, the fate of the righteous and wicked, the celestial realms, and most importantly, the role of the Messianic figure called the Son of Man. This section has been one of the most influential parts of Enochic literature, shaping later Jewish and Christian eschatology.
Overview of the Three Parables
The Book of Parables consists of three visionary parables (or similitudes) that reveal divine mysteries. Each parable expands on Enoch’s revelations about the coming judgment, the fate of fallen angels, and the role of the Son of Man in the end times.
- The First Parable (Chapters 38–44) – The judgment of the wicked and the reward of the righteous.
- The Second Parable (Chapters 45–57) – The Son of Man as the agent of judgment and salvation.
- The Third Parable (Chapters 58–71) – The final destiny of the righteous, the Son of Man’s authority, and Enoch’s transformation.
Chapter-by-Chapter Breakdown
Chapters 37: Introduction to the Parables
- Enoch introduces the three parables and declares that they contain hidden knowledge about the heavens, the coming judgment, and the role of the Elect One (Messiah).
- The visions are delivered to him by angelic beings who reveal the secrets of the divine realm.
The First Parable (Chapters 38–44): The Judgment of the Wicked and Reward of the Righteous
This parable describes the coming final judgment and the separation of the righteous and the wicked.
- Chapter 38: A prophetic vision of the ultimate fate of the righteous and sinners. The wicked will be cast into darkness, while the righteous will dwell in the presence of the Elect One.
- Chapter 39: Enoch sees the heavenly realm, where the righteous and the holy dwell in eternal light.
- Chapter 40: He encounters four powerful archangels:
- Michael – Defender of the righteous.
- Gabriel – Bringer of divine messages.
- Raphael – Healer and protector.
- Phanuel – Angel of repentance and hope.
- Chapter 41–44: Enoch learns about cosmic mysteries, including the workings of the sun, moon, stars, and the divine order governing the universe. These chapters also introduce hidden knowledge about the spiritual realm and angelic forces.
The Second Parable (Chapters 45–57): The Role of the Son of Man and the Judgment of Kings and Tyrants
This section reveals the identity and role of the Son of Man, also called the Elect One and Messiah.
- Chapter 45: God’s judgment is announced. The righteous will rejoice, while kings and oppressors will tremble before the Son of Man.
- Chapter 46: Enoch sees the Son of Man sitting on a divine throne. He is described as having existed before creation and being chosen by God to judge humanity.
- Chapter 47: The cries of the righteous ascend to heaven, and God appoints the Son of Man to deliver justice.
- Chapter 48: The Son of Man is identified as the Elect One who will bring salvation and judgment. He was hidden before time began and will be revealed in the last days.
- Chapter 49: The Son of Man possesses divine wisdom and will establish righteousness on the earth.
- Chapter 50: The resurrection of the righteous is foretold, and they will inherit eternal life.
- Chapters 51–53: A vision of the fate of powerful rulers and sinners. The wicked will be consumed by fire, while the faithful will be rewarded.
- Chapters 54–57: The fallen angels and the wicked will be bound and cast into punishment. The vision also depicts the coming of a great final war, with divine forces intervening.
The Third Parable (Chapters 58–71): The Glorification of the Righteous and Enoch’s Transformation
This parable reveals the final destiny of the righteous and unveils more mysteries about the Son of Man.
- Chapter 58: The righteous receive eternal joy and shine like the stars.
- Chapter 59–60: Enoch learns about the forces of nature and their connection to divine judgment.
- Chapter 61: The Son of Man is enthroned, and all heavenly beings bow before him.
- Chapter 62: The wicked are brought before the Son of Man in fear, while the righteous rejoice.
- Chapter 63: The sinners beg for mercy but find none.
- Chapter 64–69: Further revelations about fallen angels and the coming judgment.
- Chapter 70–71: Enoch is taken into heaven and transformed into a divine being. He is identified with the Son of Man, suggesting that he has a special role in the divine plan.
Key Themes and Mysteries Revealed
- The Son of Man / Elect One / Messiah
- The Son of Man is a pre-existent, divine figure chosen by God before creation.
- He will execute judgment, defeat the wicked, and establish righteousness.
- He brings salvation to the faithful and condemnation to sinners.
- The Judgment of Kings and Tyrants
- Earthly rulers who oppress others will be severely punished.
- The righteous, who suffered under them, will be vindicated.
- The Resurrection and Eternal Life
- The righteous will be resurrected and granted immortality.
- The wicked will face eternal destruction.
- The Transformation of Enoch
- Enoch is elevated to a divine status, possibly identified with the Son of Man.
- He is given access to heavenly secrets and becomes an intercessor between God and humanity.
Theological and Historical Significance
Influence on Jewish Thought
The Book of Parables shaped Jewish apocalyptic literature, influencing beliefs about the Messiah, the resurrection, and divine justice. The concept of the Son of Man parallels descriptions in the Book of Daniel (Daniel 7:13–14).
Connection to Christianity
Many of the descriptions of the Son of Man in Enoch closely resemble those of Jesus Christ in the New Testament. Jesus frequently referred to himself as the Son of Man, and passages in the Gospels (Matthew 24:30, Mark 14:62, Revelation 1:13) echo themes found in Enoch’s visions.
Rejection from the Biblical Canon
Despite its influence, the Book of Parables was excluded from the Hebrew Bible and later Christian canon. Some scholars believe this was due to its messianic ideas conflicting with certain Jewish and Christian authorities.
The Book of Parables is one of the most profound sections of the Book of Enoch, revealing mysteries about the final judgment, the destiny of humanity, and the role of the Son of Man. Whether viewed as prophecy, allegory, or apocalyptic vision, its impact on Jewish and Christian thought remains undeniable.
