A new translation and commentary on the extracanonical Coptic text that describes Judas’ special status among Jesus’ disciples
Since its publication in 2006, The Gospel of Judas has generated remarkable interest and debate among scholars and general readers alike. In this Coptic text from the second century C.E., Jesus engages in a series of conversations with his disciples and with Judas, explaining the origin of the cosmos and its rulers, the existence of another holy race, and the coming end of the current world order.
In this new translation and commentary, David Brakke addresses the major interpretive questions that have emerged since the text’s discovery, exploring the ways that The Gospel of Judas sheds light on the origins and development of gnostic mythology, debates over the Eucharist and communal authority, and Christian appropriation of Jewish apocalyptic eschatology. The translation reflects new analyses of the work’s genre and structure, and the commentary and notes provide thorough discussions of the text’s grammar and numerous lacunae and ambiguities.
David Brakke is Joe R. Engle Chair in the History of Christianity and professor of history at the Ohio State University. He is co-editor of The Gnostic Scriptures: Second Edition. He lives in Columbus, OH.
“[The Gospel of Judas] is a superb commentary and a welcome contribution to the Anchor Yale series.”—Daniel M. Gurtner, Religious Studies Review
“David Brakke’s new book marks a significant advancement in our understanding of this recently recovered Gospel and varying perspectives ancient Christians held toward the biblical god, the Eucharist, church leadership, and their relationship with Judaism.”—Lance Jenott, Engelsberg Ideas
“This volume is an essential resource for scholars seeking to situate the Gospel of Judas within the theological contests of the second century and to understand early Gnosticism in its various forms.”—Patrick Gray, Religious Studies Review
“A deft analysis. . . . This well-argued and detailed study provides a welcome addition to the growing literature on the Gospel of Judas.”—Sheila E. McGinn, Catholic Biblical Quarterly
“A splendid book that will serve as the standard English-language, scholarly translation and commentary for years to come.”—Dylan Burns, Universiteit van Amsterdam
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