Delving into the ancient texts that shaped the Jewish and Christian traditions, Ancient Jewish and Christian Scriptures uncovers the fascinating stories behind the writings that made it into the sacred canons and those that didn't. Renowned scholars John J. Collins, Craig A. Evans, and Lee Martin McDonald expertly guide readers through the social and cultural contexts in which these texts were written, revealing why some were deemed authoritative while others were dismissed as uninspired or heretical. By examining these non-canonical writings, readers gain a deeper understanding of the historical, literary, and religious forces that influenced the development of early Jewish and Christian communities. Moreover, they discover how these texts continue to illuminate the challenges and controversies that have shaped Jewish and Christian faiths, offering a richer appreciation of biblical Scripture and its enduring impact on modern religious thought.