Pseudepigrapha

Pseudepigrapha

( ψευδεπίγραφα ) means those writings the title ( ἐπιγραφή ) of which names a false author instead of the true one. This designation is often applied to the Apocrypha, although there are many Apocrypha which name no author at all in their title. A number of Protestant theologians restrict the term pseudepigrapha to such writings of the O.T. as were composed in the Greek language shortly before or after Christ, and falsely attributed to the patriarchs and prophets of the Old Covenant, as, e.g. the testament of the twelve patriarchs, the book of Enoch, etc. They designate by the name of Apocrypha the writings falsely attributed to the apostles and disciples of Jesus. (See Apocrypha).