Gnosticism: From Nag Hammadi to the Gospel of Judas

De: David Brakke, The Great Courses

Narrado por: David Brakke

Gnosticism, one of the most fascinating and perplexing phenomena in Western religious history, sparked religious ideologies that competed with many other religions of the time, including the theological thinking that came to define Christianity. And, though the emerging Orthodox Church eventually condemned Gnosticism as heretical, the church formed many of its most central doctrines (such as original sin, the Immaculate Conception, and even the concept of heresy) in response to Gnostic ideas.

This fascinating 24-lecture course is a richly detailed guide to the theology, sacred writings, rituals, and outstanding human figures of the Gnostic movements. What we call "Gnosticism" comprised a number of related religious ideologies and movements, all of which sought "gnosis," or immediate, direct, and intimate knowledge of God. The Gnostics had many scriptures, but unlike the holy texts of other religions, Gnostic scriptures were often modified over time. Gnostic cosmology was extraordinarily intricate and multidimensional, but religious myth was simply a means to the ultimate end of gnosis.

Follow Gnostic ideology and its vivid impact on Western thought through the centuries, from its role in early religions and its re-emergence in medieval spirituality to its remarkable traces in modern popular culture, from science fiction novels like Blade Runner to Hollywood films like The Matrix. In delving into the paths of gnosis, you'll discover a compelling, alternative current of religious practice in the West, and reveal Gnostic influence resonating in Western spirituality even in the present day.

PLEASE NOTE: When you purchase this title, the accompanying reference material will be available in your Library section along with the audio.

©2015 The Great Courses (P)2015 The Teaching Company, LLC

Enlightening.

This course opened me up to new understandings of gnosticism, mysticism, and myth making. I learn new concepts that I was never exposed to before. New sects, new believe systems and how they integrated and evolved into the belief systems we have today

Excelent overview of the subject

Professor David, after finishing your course I would like to thank you for clarity and balance in the presentation of such a complicated subject. As a Catholic priest I see the true gnosis in the teachings of the Catholic Church, much like Ireneus, Augustine and the other big minds you mentioned in the course; however true gnosis and true Catholic wisdom embraces all truth, wherever it might be found. Thank you for the course once again!

Fills in so many gaps with possibilities

something to ponder for anyone who's interested. Offers insights I've never been exposed to elsewhere

gnosticism is the good book

this is a book that I would recommend to anyone that likes or does not like religion so that they can understand origins of where the idea of religion came from

great intro to Gnosticism! good balance & insights

very solid historical context built to lend itself to observing a very diverse and seemingly obscure philosophy with modern pop-culture relevance and references.