Gnosticism, one of the most fascinating and perplexing phenomena in Western religious history, sparked religious ideologies that competed with many other religions of the time, including the theological thinking that came to define Christianity. And, though the emerging Orthodox Church eventually condemned Gnosticism as heretical, the church formed many of its most central doctrines (such as original sin, the Immaculate Conception, and even the concept of heresy) in response to Gnostic ideas.
This fascinating 24-lecture course is a richly detailed guide to the theology, sacred writings, rituals, and outstanding human figures of the Gnostic movements. What we call “Gnosticism” comprised a number of related religious ideologies and movements, all of which sought “gnosis,” or immediate, direct, and intimate knowledge of God. The Gnostics had many scriptures, but unlike the holy texts of other religions, Gnostic scriptures were often modified over time. Gnostic cosmology was extraordinarily intricate and multidimensional, but religious myth was simply a means to the ultimate end of gnosis.
Follow Gnostic ideology and its vivid impact on Western thought through the centuries, from its role in early religions and its re-emergence in medieval spirituality to its remarkable traces in modern popular culture, from science fiction novels like Blade Runner to Hollywood films like The Matrix. In delving into the paths of gnosis, you’ll discover a compelling, alternative current of religious practice in the West, and reveal Gnostic influence resonating in Western spirituality even in the present day.
An Amazon Link to the Audible Audiobook
==> Gnosticism: From Nag Hammadi to the Gospel of Judas <==
For those with a bit deeper pocketbook, here is a Teaching Company/The Great Courses hotlink to their offerings on the course. However, you might hit at an opportune time and catch it on sale. At this posting (05/01/16) the audio download was $44.95. There is a price increase depending on the format (DVDs, CDs, Audio and Video downloads). You will definitely want to take a look at our ==> The Teaching Company and Its Courses page on our site for suggestions on how you might obtain these kinds of courses at reduced savings.
A Great Courses/The Teaching Company Hot Link
==> Gnosticism: From Nag Hammadi to the Gospel of Judas <==
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