The Gnostic Gospels: Were They Illegal?

The Nag Hammadi Library, a collection of 52 Christian texts, has sparked debate about its origins and significance. Some scholars argue it was a hidden stash of heretical texts, while others suggest it was part of a private collection or funerary goods. The role of Athanasius, a bishop who condemned such texts, is also discussed. Evidence points to possible monastic origins, but recent criticism questions this theory, suggesting the texts were more common than previously thought.

What is the Nag Hammadi Library primarily known for?

• A collection of modern Christian texts

• A set of banned mystical texts

• A library of ancient Roman literature

• A collection of medieval manuscripts

What did Bishop Athanasius do in 367 CE?

• He organized a council to discuss Christian doctrine

• He translated the Bible into Coptic

• He issued a letter condemning heretical texts

• He founded a new monastery

What is one argument against the monastic origin of the Nag Hammadi Library?

• Athanasius was too powerful to be ignored

• The books were found in a tomb, suggesting funerary use

• The texts were written in Greek

• The texts were all magical in nature

What does recent scholarship suggest about the power of Athanasius?

• He had limited authority and was often ignored

• He was never banished from his position

• He was the sole authority on Christian texts

• He was a powerful enforcer of orthodoxy

What is a possible reason for the burial of the Nag Hammadi texts?

• They were hidden from Roman authorities

• They were used as grave goods in funerary practices

• They were part of a public library

• They were meant to be destroyed

What theme do the Nag Hammadi texts share with Egyptian practices?

• Political treaties

• Cosmology and eschatology

• Agricultural techniques

• Military strategies

What does the prevalence of texts like those in the Nag Hammadi Library suggest?

• They were banned by all Christian authorities

• They were rare and unique

• They were only read by monks

• They were common and widely read