The Essenes and the Advent of Jesus is an inspiring eight-lesson Bible study for the Advent and Christmas season that explores the events and intense spiritual preparation that led to the birth of Jesus the Christ. This study guide, rooted in Scripture and enriched by insights from the readings of the Christian psychic Edgar Cayce, integrates the traditional story of the birth of Jesus with unique and invaluable background material extracted from the readings. It presents a richer Bible interpretation that fills in some of the historical gaps in the Advent story, and corrects some misperceptions prevalent in the traditional interpretation of the few biblical verses that tell the story. It reveals the hidden spiritual context surrounding the Immaculate Conception and the coming of the Messiah.

The Christmas story actually begins some four hundred years before the birth of Jesus with the formation of a School of Prophets at Mount Carmel by the prophet Elijah. This school became the center of a religious Jewish sect called the Essenes, who dedicated their lives to preparing for this divine event. The Essenes, known as the compilers and keepers of the Dead Sea scrolls, lived lives of purity and dedication, guided by prophecy and spiritual discipline. They provided for the education and protection of Mary, ensuring that she was spiritually, mentally, and physically ready for her sacred role. The Essene community educated Jesus during his childhood and saw that he was given a higher education in spiritual matters as a young adult.

Each of the eight lessons in this Bible study focuses on a key event or figure involved in the Advent and birth of Jesus, integrating relevant Bible verses, inspired insights from the Cayce readings, and discussion questions designed to deepen understanding and encourage personal reflection. The study guide is perfect for individual or group Bible study, inviting readers to rediscover the Advent season as the Essenes once did-through preparation, prophecy, and spiritual awakening-and shedding new light on the eternal mystery of the birth of Jesus.