The Gnostic Paul by Elaine Pagels
Gnostic Exegesis of the Pauline Letters
A study of how second-century gnostic Christians—especially Valentinians—interpreted the letters of Paul as esoteric teachings that validated their cosmology and path to salvation. Drawing on Nag Hammadi writings and patristic sources, it reconstructs their allegorical and mythic exegesis, showing how terms like wisdom, mystery, resurrection, church, and sacraments were reframed through categories such as pneumatic, psychic, and pleroma. The analysis contrasts these readings with emerging orthodox interpretations, revealing the diversity and contestation surrounding Paul’s legacy in early Christianity.
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- Published
- 1975
- Nationality
- American
- Length
- Short
- Pages
- 150–200 pages
- Original Language
- English
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