Gnosticism: From Nag Hammadi to the Gospel of Judas

Course Overview

Discover the mysteries of Gnosticism—its worldview, rituals, and sacred texts—and reveal its remarkable impact on Western religious history.

Gnosticism, a fascinating and perplexing phenomenon, emerged as a significant religious ideology that contended with early Christianity. Despite being condemned as heretical by the emerging Orthodox Church, many of Gnostic ideas influenced key Christian doctrines, including concepts like original sin and the nature of God.

This 24-lecture course provides a richly detailed exploration of Gnostic theology, sacred writings, and notable figures within Gnostic movements. Professor Ehrman guides you through the intricate layers of Gnosticism and its influence over centuries, from its role within early religions to its resurgence in contemporary spiritual thought. You’ll engage with core teachings and explore how Gnosticism continues to resonate in modern culture.

Video Lecture List

1. Rediscovering Gnosis

• 33 min
• Explore the key tenets of Gnosticism, focusing on its concept of gnosis and the discovery of the Nag Hammadi codices.

1. Who Were the Gnostics?

• 31 min
• Investigate early sources describing Gnostic beliefs and how they relate to traditional Christian views.

1. God in Gnostic Myth

• 32 min
• Delve into the understanding of God in the Secret Book According to John and its implications.

1. Gnosticism on Creation, Sin, and Salvation

• 31 min
• Review the Gnostic retelling of the Genesis story and its perspectives on creation and salvation.

1. Judas as a Gnostic Tragic Hero

• 31 min
• Analyze the Gnostic Gospel of Judas and its reinterpretation of Judas’s role in Jesus’s narrative.

1. Gnostic Bible Stories

• 31 min
• Examine texts like The Revelation of Adam, which reframe biblical narratives in a Gnostic context.

1. Gnosticism’s Ritual Pathway to God

• 33 min
• Discover Gnostic practices aimed at achieving gnosis through rituals and meditation.

1. The Feminine in Gnostic Myth

• 31 min
• Investigate the prominent role of female figures in Gnostic texts and their theological significance.

1. The Gospel of Thomas’s Cryptic Sayings

• 33 min
• Explore the teachings in the Gospel of Thomas and their unique perspectives on Jesus’ wisdom.

1. The Gospel of Thomas on Reunifying the Self

• 30 min
• Discuss the Gnostic view of salvation and the overcoming of divisions within the self.

(…Continued through all 24 lectures)