The Origin of Evil Spirits

The Reception of Genesis 6:1-4 in Early Jewish Literature

by Archie Wright

Book cover: The Origin of Evil Spirits

Extent: 258 pages

Publisher: Mohr Siebeck

Subjects: Biblical Studies, Jewish Studies

Series: Wissenschaftliche Untersuchungen zum Neuen Testament 2.Reihe

Series volume number: 198

Language: English

Paperback (Published)

(November 2013)

ISBN: 9783161510311

6.06 x 9.06 inches

Price: $93.00

In stock

How do we account for the explosion of demonic activity in the New Testament? Archie T. Wright examines the trajectory of the origin of evil spirits in early Jewish literature. His work traces the development of the concept of evil spirits from the Hebrew Bible (Genesis 6) through post-biblical Jewish literature.


How do we account for the explosion of demonic activity in the New Testament? Archie T. Wright examines the trajectory of the origin of evil spirits in early Jewish literature. His work traces the development of the concept of evil spirits from the Hebrew Bible (Genesis 6) through post-biblical Jewish literature. “I would in fact recommend this book, not because of the answers it gives, but the questions it raises.” — Philip R. Davies in Journal of Semitic Studies 55 (2010) “This work is marked by several strengths. First, Wright shows an impressive command of the primary and secondary literature. Second, this writer appreciates Wright’s tendency to express cautious conclusions regarding historical and source-critical matters. These qualities are especially helpful in a work dealing with the reception history of a given text. Third, Wright has an extremely helpful discussion of the identity of the nephilim of Gen. 6:4 (80-83).” — Mark D. Owens in Faith & Mission 24 (2007), pp. 68-70

  • By (author) Archie Wright