The Orthodox Apocrypha

The Orthodox Apocrypha typically refers to a collection of biblical texts that are accepted by most Eastern and Oriental Orthodox Christian traditions, but are not included in the canon of the Bible recognized by most Western Christian denominations, such as Roman Catholics and mainstream Protestants. These texts include additional books and passages that are considered part of the Old Testament by the Eastern Orthodox Church but are not included in the Hebrew Bible or Protestant Old Testament.

These texts are valued for their historical and spiritual significance within Eastern and Oriental Orthodox Christianity and may be read liturgically or studied for instruction. While not universally accepted across all Orthodox Christian traditions, the Orthodox Apocrypha enriches the spiritual and cultural heritage of Orthodox Christianity and provides insights into the faith and practices of ancient Jewish and early Christian communities.

The collection used at Theos includes the books of 1st and 2nd Esdras, 3rd and 4th Maccabees, the Prayer of Manasseh, the Testament of the 12 Patriarchs, Jubilees, and 1st Enoch.