The Essential Gnostic Gospels

Alan Jacobs is a very good guide and translator this selection of the gnostic gospels. As a poet and mystic himself (he is the editor of the comprehensive anthology Poetry for the Spirit) he is ideally placed to convey the inner meaning of these gospels. The Revd Dr Vrej Nersessian, Curator of the British Library Christian Middle East section, provides an introduction that enables the reader to understand the context in which the Gospels were written. The texts are chosen with the modern reader in mind, omitting much archaic material. The book contains the Gospels of Thomas and Philip of with many other less well-known texts. Each section is set out in verses, and is briefly introduced by the editor. This inspired translation should find a place on the shelf of every student of gnosticism.