Enoch’s translation
Little-known biblical figure Enoch is described as having “walked with God” (Genesis 5:22). In Scripture, the word walking often indicates a habitual and wholehearted commitment—in Enoch’s case, to the one God. His commitment led to his passing from earth without experiencing physical death (see verse 24).
Enoch’s passing is sometimes compared to Elijah’s going up into heaven in a whirlwind (see II Kings 2:11) and is represented in the King James Bible by the term translation. As part of a list of characters from Hebrew history who exemplified strong faith, Hebrews 11:5 explains, “By faith Enoch was translated that he should not see death; and was not found, because God had translated him: for before his translation he had this testimony, that he pleased God.” Enoch’s mention concludes with these words about God: “Without faith it is impossible to please him” (verse 6).
Spiritual pioneer Mary Baker Eddy answers the question, “Do you believe in translation?” Her reply clarifies the spiritually scientific view of “the removal of a person to heaven, without his subjection to death.” She writes: “I believe in this removal being possible after all the footsteps requisite have been taken up to the very throne, up to the spiritual sense and fact of divine substance, intelligence, Life, and Love. This translation is not the work of moments; it requires both time and eternity” (Miscellaneous Writings 1883–1896, pp. 67–68).
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