Gnostic Writings on the Soul

Andrew Phillip Smith has been investigating early Christianity and Gnosticism for over a decade, sharing the results in presentations and writings. He is the author of The Lost Sayings of Jesus: Teachings from Ancient Christian, Jewish, Gnostic and Islamic Sources—Annotated & Explained; The Gospel of Philip: Annotated & Explained (all SkyLight Paths) and The Gospel of Thomas: A New Version Based on Its Inner Meaning.Stephan A. Hoeller, PhD, is professor emeritus of comparative religions at the College of Oriental Studies in Los Angeles. He is a frequent lecturer on Gnosticism and other spiritual traditions, and is the author of Gnosticism: New Light on the Ancient Tradition of Inner Knowing and two other books on the relationship of Gnosticism to Jungian psychology.

"A fascinating guide to new and different ways of thinking. Smith's presentation of authentic Gnostic texts [conveys] a good understanding of Gnostic conceptions of the soul."—Stevan Davies, author of The Gospel of Thomas: Annotated & Explained“One of the clearest and most accessible entry-points to the wisdom of the ancient Gnostics that I have ever seen.”—Richard Smoley, author of Forbidden Faith: The Gnostic Legacy from the Gospels to The Da Vinci Code“Takes us beyond the limiting literalism of much of contemporary theology. Smith opens a door for us....” —Ron Miller, chair, religion department, Lake Forest College, and author of The Gospel of Thomas: A Guidebook for Spiritual Practice“Artful and erudite ... brings these allegories into three-dimensional relief, making them more memorable, accessible, and significant.”—Rabbi Elie Kaplan Spitz, author of Does the Soul Survive? A Jewish Journey to Belief in Afterlife, Past Lives & Living with Purpose“Smith’s fine introduction and notes [reveal how] Gnosticism helped transform Western ideas about the soul.... Reveals part of our common spiritual heritage.”—Tamar Frankiel, PhD, author of Kabbalah: A Brief Introduction for Christians

• Foreword ixIntroduction xiiiA Note on the Translation xliThe Exegesis on the Soul 1The Hymn of the Pearl 45Notes 89Suggestions for Further Reading 91