12. THE BOOK OF PARABLES
37.1 The second vision that he saw,
the vision of wisdom, which Enoch, the son of Jared, the son of Malalel, the
son of Cainan, the son of Enosh, the son of Seth, the son of Adam, saw.
37.2 And this is the beginning of the words of wisdom, which I raised my voice
to speak, and say. "To those who dwell on dry ground: - Hear, you men of
old, and see, those who come after; the words of the Holy One, which I will
speak, in front of the Lord of Spirits."
37.3 "It would have been better to have said these things before, but from
those who come after, we will not withhold the beginning of wisdom."
37.4 Until now, there has not been given, by the Lord of Spirits, such wisdom
as I have received. In accordance with my insight, in accordance with the wish
of the Lord of Spirits: by whom the lot of eternal life has been given to me.
37.5 And the three parables were imparted to me and I raised my voice, and said
to those who dwell on the dry ground: -
Notes
(12) THE BOOK OF PARABLES
(pages 55-85)
This part of Enoch's book is introduced by a quote from the "Holy One,"
at 37.3; this is the headman of the Watchers, and what he says is almost an
apology. Enoch's parables are actually three essays, which outline the future
path of spiritual enlightenment, as explained to him by the Holy One.
The content of the second two parables is similar; the main theme is a Messiah,
who will bring guidance at the correct time. This eventually brings about an
age of enlightenment, where the souls of the righteous can live in peace.
