Audio The Assumption of Moses

An ancient Jewish apocrypha, contains Moses' prophecies to Joshua.

The Assumption of Moses is an ancient Jewish apocalyptic text that explores themes of prophecy, the destiny of Israel, and the eschatological future. Though the work itself is no longer extant, its content is partially preserved through references in other ancient writings and a Latin manuscript discovered in the 19th century. Traditionally attributed to Moses, the book is often categorized as part of the Pseudepigrapha, a collection of ancient Jewish texts ascribed to notable figures from the past.

The Assumption of Moses is structured as a farewell discourse delivered by Moses to Joshua before his death. The text primarily focuses on revealing the future fate of the twelve tribes of Israel, offering a prophetic vision of events to come. It contains elements of apocalyptic literature, emphasizing divine judgment, the role of angels, and the ultimate triumph of God's justice.