Author(s): Marvin W. Meyer

Gnosticism

This book opens the with the story of the discovery of the ancient codices at Nag Hammadi in Egypt. 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. When he smashed open the jar, gold seemed to float into the air. To his disappointment, they were papyrus fragments, not gold, but for scholars around the world, it was invaluable.

Meyer discusses the pre-Christian forms of wisdom that went on to influence what Christians believe today. In addition, some Nag Hammadi texts are attributed to Valentinus, a man who almost became Pope, & whose rejection changed the church in significant ways. Text by text, Meyer traces the history & impact of this great find, right up to our current beliefs & popular cultural fascination with this officially suppressed secret knowledge about Jesus & his followers.