Gospel Study

by John-Peter Gernaat

The study of the Book of Revelation reached chapter 11. In chapter 10 we looked specifically at a Talmudic tradition that combines with the esoteric kabalistic tradition that Enoch was assumed into heaven and seated at the right-hand of God as the regent (place-holder) for the Son of Man (Jesus, the Christ). As the regent he is known as the angel Metatron. In kabalistic tradition Metatron has a twin angel, Sandalphon. While Metatron is the angel of the high heavens, Sandalphon is the angel of the earth – guardians of the first and the tenth sefirots of the Tree of Life. Metatron is the celestial scribe and guardian of the secrets of heaven. Who is the Elder who constantly speaks to John while he is lifted into the spirit? Who is the mighty angel who straddles the sea and the land – standing on what is firm and on what is mobile – and holds in his hand the small open book? The Gospel Study resumes after the Christmas break on 9 January and will begin with a contemplation on Chapter 12.