Testament of Naphtali

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July 1, 2026

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The "Testament of Naphtali" is a pseudepigraphal work, meaning it is not part of the biblical canon. It is attributed to Naphtali, one of the 12 sons of Jacob and the traditional ancestor of one of the tribes of Israel.123

The work presents Naphtali's last words, offering moral exhortations based on his life experiences. It includes an autobiography, a warning against a specific vice, and a prophecy about the future of his descendants. This particular testament, along with that of Levi, is believed to have Semitic originals and was found among the Dead Sea Scrolls, suggesting a connection to the Essene sect. The Testament of Naphtali is characterized by its pietistic and ascetic tone, reflecting beliefs in resurrection and the Last Judgment.3

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biblical literature
Testaments of the Twelve Patriarchs
…fragment of the “Testaments of Naphtali.” A Hebrew “Testament of Judah,” which was used both by the Book of Jubilees and the Testaments of the Twelve Patriarchs in their description of the wars of the sons of Jacob, also probably existed.
Read More
…fragment of the “Testaments of Naphtali.” A Hebrew “Testament of Judah,” which was used both by the Book of Jubilees and the Testaments of the Twelve Patriarchs in their description of the wars of the sons of Jacob, also probably existed.
Read More