Enoch, Metatron, and the Divine Secrets: A Journey from Muslim Leader to LDS Believer
By Bobby Darvish - darvishintelligence.blogspot.com
My journey from being a dedicated Muslim leader, vegan, and former director of CAIR-Columbus to embracing Christianity within the LDS Church has been one of profound transformation, challenge, and insight. A significant aspect of my newfound faith lies in understanding the ancient prophet Enoch, whose story—rich with mystical undertones—reveals the depth of God’s heavenly hierarchy and the sacred tasks assigned to His chosen servants. Enoch’s role as a divinely appointed guardian and communicator of divine revelation sheds light on the complex layers of faith and the unseen spiritual realms.
The story of Enoch, a figure steeped in ancient Judaic mysticism, is one I encountered in my studies as I sought understanding beyond the Islamic texts that once formed my worldview. Enoch, a figure briefly mentioned in the Bible, finds an expanded role within Jewish apocryphal literature, particularly the texts of 3 Enoch and the Book of Jubilees. These recounts, often viewed as esoteric or Kabbalistic, resonate deeply within the LDS faith, as Enoch is seen as a powerful figure whose journey reflects humanity’s ultimate goal—to draw nearer to God, serve in His courts, and partake in His mysteries.
In the Jewish mystical tradition, Enoch was taken up to heaven and appointed not only as a guardian of all celestial treasures but also as the chief of the archangels, known as Metatron. According to these sources, Enoch was tasked with fulfilling God’s commands and became the immediate attendant of the divine throne. The idea of Enoch transforming into Metatron, who is also depicted as the "lesser YHWH" in some texts, encapsulates a theme of divine progression—something that resonates profoundly with LDS doctrine. This doctrine teaches that through faithfulness and adherence to divine commandments, individuals can achieve a deeper understanding of God’s will, similar to how Enoch ascended in glory.
In these esoteric Jewish texts, Enoch, as Metatron, is portrayed as the mouthpiece of God’s word, bringing divine revelations not only to angels but also to prophets, including Moses. This role suggests a unique intermediary status, bridging heaven and earth. For instance, the Book of Jubilees is traditionally attributed to Enoch’s direct communication with Moses. Enoch is said to have dictated the mysteries and laws, positioning him as a conduit between the celestial and mortal realms. Such stories carry a message of God’s intricate design, a network of beings and realms that operate under His direction—something I did not fully grasp during my time as an Islamic leader but have come to understand through the lens of LDS teachings.
My previous role in Islamic organizations introduced me to concepts of divine law and governance, but these were often confined to earthly applications and lacked the expansive spiritual hierarchy and progression presented in LDS doctrine. Islam’s view of prophets generally ends with Muhammad, yet the narrative of Enoch (as Metatron) challenges this finality, suggesting that God’s heavenly hierarchy remains vibrant, involving heavenly beings executing His decrees across eternity. The Jewish Kabbalistic view offers a fascinating counterpoint, describing Enoch’s continued purpose in heaven as one of unceasing service and guardianship.
The LDS Church recognizes the Book of Enoch within the Pearl of Great Price, further acknowledging Enoch’s extraordinary mission and teachings. This understanding adds layers to the narrative of salvation, spiritual ascension, and divine authority, qualities mirrored in LDS temple teachings about service, sacrifice, and eternal progression. For me, the LDS interpretation of Enoch's life and transformation underscores the concept that God’s work is eternal, involving divine mysteries and spiritual realms that support His plan for humanity.
As I reflect on my past, particularly my commitment to promoting Islamic values through organizations like CAIR and the Muslim Forum of Utah, I realize that these positions taught me about the commitment required to serve and the power of conviction. However, the figure of Enoch illuminates a higher calling, one that transcends any earthly organization or legalistic interpretations. Enoch's story reinforces the truth that the pursuit of divine knowledge and service is a continuous journey, one that calls individuals to ascend spiritually in alignment with God’s will.
Enoch’s transformation into Metatron and his close association with God reflects a profound sense of trust, a divine relationship that signifies ultimate obedience and service. This journey—from being a mortal man to ascending as the chief of archangels—illustrates that God offers His children the chance to draw closer to Him through righteous living, a core principle that has shaped my life as a Christian within the LDS Church. This is the faith that resonates with me: a faith that encourages growth, transcendence, and active participation in God’s eternal kingdom.
In the end, Enoch’s legacy as Metatron—a heavenly scribe, a chief archangel, and a communicator of divine mysteries—demonstrates the path available to all who seek to know God and fulfill His decrees. It is a message that has guided me in my journey from Islam to Christianity, grounding my faith in the assurance that God’s divine purpose extends far beyond our earthly understanding. Enoch’s life and exaltation exemplify the hope and promise of eternal progression, a truth that resonates deeply within my soul as I strive to live in accordance with the teachings of Jesus Christ.
Citations:
Charlesworth, James H. The Old Testament Pseudepigrapha, Volume 1: Apocalyptic Literature and Testaments. Garden City, NY: Doubleday, 1983.
Schäfer, Peter. The Origins of Jewish Mysticism. Princeton University Press, 2009.
Alexander, Philip S. 3 Enoch and the Development of Mystical Judaism. New York: Oxford University Press, 2018.
VanderKam, James C. The Book of Jubilees. Sheffield Academic Press, 2001.
"Metatron in Jewish Mysticism." Encyclopedia Britannica. www.britannica.com/topic/Metatron
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