Book of Jasher (biblical book)

The Book of Jasher (Hebrew: סֵפֶר הַיָּשֵׁר, Sefer haYashar; also translated as Book of the Upright or Book of the Just) is a non-canonical book referenced twice in the Hebrew Bible. These references appear in Joshua 10:13 and 2 Samuel 1:18. Neither passage provides much detail about the book, only indicating its existence and use as a source for poetic and historical material.

Due to these biblical mentions, various works bearing the title "Book of Jasher" have appeared throughout history. None of these surviving texts are considered to be the original book mentioned in the Bible. They are pseudepigraphal works, meaning they are written under a false or assumed name.

The most well-known Book of Jasher, often referred to as "Pseudo-Jasher," is a Hebrew work that was likely compiled in the 16th or 17th century, although some scholars argue for an earlier date. This version recounts biblical history from the creation of the world through the period of the Judges, often expanding upon or providing different interpretations of events described in the canonical books of the Bible. It incorporates midrashic traditions and embellishments, offering a more detailed and narrative-rich account than found in the biblical text alone.

The content of Pseudo-Jasher is not considered historically accurate by most biblical scholars. It is viewed primarily as a work of religious and moral instruction, intended to inspire faith and provide a particular perspective on Jewish history and tradition.

The identity of the original Book of Jasher remains a mystery. Its contents and exact nature are unknown. Speculation ranges from it being a collection of poems and heroic songs to a book of legal precedents or a collection of historical traditions. Because no verifiable fragments of the original book have been discovered, our understanding is limited to the implications of the two brief biblical references.