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The Deuterocanon
The seven books of the Old Testament found in the Catholic Bible but not in the Hebrew canon.
The Deuterocanon (meaning 'second canon') consists of the books of Tobit, Judith, Wisdom, Sirach, Baruch, and 1 and 2 Maccabees, along with parts of Esther and Daniel (CCC 120). These books have been accepted as inspired by the Church since the earliest centuries.
Apostolic Tradition
The Church followed the Septuagint (the Greek Bible used by the Apostles), which included these books. They were definitively confirmed as canonical at the Council of Trent (CCC 120, 131-133).
Frequently Asked Questions
Why are they called 'Deuterocanonical'? Not because they are less important, but because their inclusion was debated in some quarters before the canon was universally finalized (CCC 120).
May the Lord bless you and keep you.
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