The Gnostic Paul (1975 Pagels), book

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The Gnostic Paul: Gnostic Exegesis of the Pauline Letters (1975) is a book by Elaine H. Pagels.

Abstract

"In this highly original work, Elaine Pagels demonstrates how evidence from gnostic sources may challenge the assumption that Paul writes his letters to combat "gnostic opponents" and to repudiate their claims to secret wisdom. Drawing upon evidence from the gnostic exegesis of Paul, including several Nag Hammadi texts, the author examines how gnostic exegetes cite and interpret key passages in the letters they consider Pauline-1 & 2 Corinthians, Galatians, Ephesians, Philippians, Colossians, and Hebrews. Besides offering new insight into controversies over Paul in the second century, this analysis of gnostic exegesis suggests a new perspective for Pauline study, challenging students and scholars to recognize the presuppositions-hermenuetical and theological-involved in their own reading of Paul's letters."--Publisher description.

Editions and translations

Published in Philadelphia: Fortress Press, 1975. Reprinted in Philadelphia: Trinity Press International, 1992.

Table of contents

• Introduction
• 1. Romans
• 2. 1 Corinthians
• 3. 2 Corinthians
• 4. Galatians
• 5. Ephesians
• 6. Philippians
• 7. Colossians
• 8. Hebrews
• Conclusion: Gnostic Exegesis of the Pauline Letters

External links

• Google Books (partial text)