What are the 7 Extra Books in the Catholic Bible Called: A Deeper Insight

In the vast and rich tapestry of Catholic Christian faith, the Holy Scriptures form the cornerstone. While the common perception suggests a specific set of books in the Catholic Bible, there are seven additional books that hold equal significance and are often referred to as the “Seven Deuterocanonicals.” This article delves into the origins, content, and the very name of these books to provide a deeper understanding of their role in Catholic tradition.

The Origin of the Seven Deuterocanonicals

The term “Deuterocanonical” means “second-canonical” or “next in importance” in reference to the Apocrypha. These seven books were not originally considered as part of the inspired Word but have gradually acquired importance and were later incorporated into Catholic Holy Scriptures due to their doctrinal alignment and historical relevance.

The Seven Books in Detail

1. The Book of Tobit: It tells the story of Tobit and his journey to find his lost son, along with his encounter with God’s angels and a vision of the end times. It is a book of faith and courage, highlighting the role of prayer and divine intervention in daily life.
2. The Book of Judith: A story about a strong and faithful Jewish woman who led her people against enemy invaders by her courageous leadership and divine guidance.
3. The additions to the Book of Esther: These additions provide more context to the story of Queen Esther, offering insights into her life and struggles as she navigates political intrigue and divine providence.
4. The Song of Three Young Men in Armor: A poem about three youths who witness Jesus’ crucifixion and encounter a supernatural phenomenon on Mount Tabor. This work is known for its eschatological themes and mystical elements.
5. The Prayer of Sirach: A collection of wisdom teachings attributed to a fictional character named Sirach, offering advice on piety, morality, and practical living. It is highly valued for its devotional content and philosophical insights.
6. The Wisdom of Solomon: A philosophical work that explores themes like creation, human existence, and the nature of wisdom. It is significant for its emphasis on monotheism and divine providence.
7. The Letter of Jeremiah: A work that is attributed to Jeremiah, but is not considered canonical in its entirety. It describes aspects of Temple history, provides additional information on Temple rituals and contains prophecies about future events in Judaism.

The Naming Conventions

These seven books are not widely recognized by name across different denominations and can be identified differently. In Catholicism, their importance is recognized through centuries of tradition and liturgical use, leading to their inclusion in the official Catholic Bible along with the canonical books. The names often reflect their content or themes, like “The Book of Tobit” named after its protagonist or “The Wisdom of Solomon” reflecting its philosophical content.

Conclusion

The seven extra books in the Catholic Bible are not just additions to a collection but are integral parts of a rich religious heritage that have been slowly accepted into Catholic doctrine over centuries. Their unique stories, themes, and insights offer deeper understanding of Catholic faith and its historical context. The names may vary, but their significance remains unchanged in the tapestry of Catholic Christian faith.

Related Questions:

1. What are the main themes in each of these seven Deuterocanonical books?
2. How did these books gain their status in Catholic Holy Scriptures?
3. What are some key differences between these Deuterocanonical books and the canonical books in the Catholic Bible?