Gnosis: An Introduction

Description

This introduction to Gnosis by Christoph Markschies combines great clarity with immense learning. In his Introduction, Markschies defines the term Gnosis and its relationship to 'Gnosticism', indicating why Gnosis is preferable and sketches out the main problems. He then treats the sources, both those in the church fathers and heresiologists, and the more recent Nag Hammadi finds. He goes on to discuss early forms of 'Gnosis' in antiquity, Jewish and Christian (New Testament) and the early Gnostics; the main representatives of Gnosis, especially Valentinus and Marcion; Manichaeism as the culmination and end-point of Gnosis; ancient communities of 'Gnostics'; and finally 'Gnosis' in antiquity and the present.There is a useful chronological table and an excellent select bibliography.

Christoph Markschies is Professor of Early Church History and President of Humboldt University Berlin.

'(T)he introduction by Markschies....provides a useful and accessible survey of the main texts and groupings.' 'Markschies's book is a stimulating introduction to a complex topic; it is not only suitable for students, but will provide food for thought to specialists as well.' -- Johan Thom "... readers can benefit from many of Markschies's perceptive reflections on the organization and significance of the data, informed as they are by his significant research in this field and his consideration of some of the most recent discussions of theoretical issues.... We can look forward to seeing such ideas and insights elaborated more carefully and at much greater length in the larger book on the same subject promised by Markschies." -Michael A. Williams, Society of Biblical Literature, September 2004 'Christoph Markschies, now professor at Heidelberg, is the scholar of the rising generation who looks most likely to become one of the internationally known figures in the scholarship of early Christianity. His Between Two Worlds, published by SCM Press, is a fascinating introduction to the social practices of early Christians. He combines great clarity of writing with immense learning. In 128 pages there is everything the reader needs to know, along with where to look for further information. If ever a book was worth translating this is: it would be ideal for schools, university and theological students and clergy in length, approach and everything else.' - John Bowden "I agree with the blurbs on the back of this book. Maurice Wiles finds that the Gnostics presented here are neither bizarre eccentrics nor evil enemies of the Christianity, but rather credible participants in ancient dialogue about meaningful Christiantiy. Gerd Theissen lauds the book as an introduction to an ancient movement and a balanced summary of recent scholarship on that movement. I too recomment this book to anyone interested in early Christian history and ancient intellectual history."-Catholic Book Reviews Online, January 2004 * Blurb from reviewer *