The Testaments of the Twelve Patriarchs

The Testaments of the Twelve Patriarchs is an apocryphal work containing the final speeches and dying commands of the twelve sons of Jacob to their descendants. 

R.H. Charles, who translated the Testaments at the beginning of the 20th century, wrote, 

“The main, overwhelming value of the book lies in its ethical teaching, which has achieved a real immortality by influencing the thoughts and diction of the writers of the New Testament, and even those of our Lord.”.

Each Testament consists of a brief overview of the patriarch’s life, admissions of sin, ethical teachings based on the patriarch’s experiences, and prophetic visions about the future of his descendants and the end of days. 




The patriarchs recount the challenges they have faced, ranging from jealousy, temptation, and betrayal to famine, slavery, and war, but ultimately emerging as leaders and spiritual guides for future generations. These timeless testimonies contain universal themes of faith, family, and leadership and provide valuable lessons for readers of all ages. 




Immerse yourself in Christopher Glyn’s rich and captivating narration, and discover the enduring legacy of the Twelve Patriarchs.