| The Gnostic Discoveries: The Impact of the Nag Hammadi Library Contributor(s): Meyer, Marvin W. (Author) |
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ISBN: 006085832X ISBN-13: 9780060858322 Publisher: HarperOne OUR PRICE: $13.49 Product Type: Paperback - Other Formats Published: December 2006 Annotation: On the 60th anniversary of the discovery of ancient Gnostic texts at Nag Hammadi, a leading scholar explains the historical significance and continuing influence of these alternative views of Christianity suppressed by the early church. |
| Additional Information |
| BISAC Categories: - Religion | Gnosticism - Religion | History - Religion | Reference |
| Dewey: 299.932 |
| Physical Information: 0.8" H x 5.2" W x 8" (0.55 lbs) 256 pages |
| Themes: - Religious Orientation - Christian - Theometrics - Academic |
| Descriptions, Reviews, Etc. |
| Publisher Description: The Meaning of the Nag Hammadi, now in paperback opens the with the thrilling adventure story of the discovery of the ancient Papyrii at Nag Hammadi. Muhammad Ali, the fellahin, discovered the sealed jar, he feared that it might contain a jinni, or spirit, but also had heard of hidden treasures in such jars. Greed overcame his fears and when he smashed open the jar, gold seemed to float into the air. To his disappointment, it was papyrus fragmenst, not gold, but for scholars around the world, it was invaluable. Meyer then discusses the pre-Christian forms of wisdom that went onto influence what Christians believe today. In addition, some Nag Hammadi texts are attributed to Valentinus, a man who almost became Pope, and whose rejection changed the church in significant ways. Text by text, Meyer traces the history and impact of this great find on the Church, right up to our current beliefs and popular cultural fascination with this officially suppressed secret knowledge about Jesus and his followers. |
Contributor Bio(s): Meyer, Marvin W.: - Marvin Meyer is one of the foremost scholars on early Christianity and texts about Jesus outside the New Testament. He is Griset Professor of Bible and Christian Studies at Chapman University in Orange, California. Among his recent books are The Gospel of Judas, The Gnostic Gospels of Jesus, The Gospels of Mary, The Gospel of Thomas, and The Nag Hammadi Scriptures. |