The Gospel of Mary Magdalene - Paperback

by Jean-Yves LeLoup (Author), Jacob Needleman (Foreword by)

Restores to the forefront of the Christian tradition the importance of the divine feminine

- The first complete English-language translation of the original Coptic Gospel of Mary, with line-by-line commentary

- Reveals the eminence of the divine feminine in Christian thought

- Offers a new perspective on the life of one of the most controversial figures in the Western spiritual tradition

Perhaps no figure in biblical scholarship has been the subject of more controversy and debate than Mary Magdalene. Also known as Miriam of Magdala, Mary Magdalene was considered by the apostle John to be the founder of Christianity because she was the first witness to the Resurrection. In most theological studies she has been depicted as a reformed prostitute, the redeemed sinner who exemplifies Christ's mercy. Today's reader can ponder her role in the gospels of Philip, Thomas, Peter, and Bartholomew--the collection of what have come to be known as the Gnostic gospels rejected by the early Christian church. Mary's own gospel is among these, but until now it has remained unknown to the public at large.

Orthodox theologian Jean-Yves Leloup's translation of the Gospel of Mary from the Coptic and his thorough and profound commentary on this text are presented here for the first time in English. The gospel text and the spiritual exegesis of Leloup together reveal unique teachings that emphasize the eminence of the divine feminine and an abiding love of nature over the dualistic and ascetic interpretations of Christianity presented elsewhere. What emerges from this important source text and commentary is a renewal of the sacred feminine in the Western spiritual tradition and a new vision for Christian thought and faith throughout the world.

Back Jacket

RELIGIOUS STUDIES / WOMEN'S STUDIES "The Gospel of Mary, taken with the inspired commentary by Jean-Yves Leloup, can help toward making the teaching of Jesus once again alive." --Jacob Needleman, author of Lost Christianity and The American Soul "One welcomes this solid telling of the story and meaning of a neglected text at the root of Christian wisdom and of a neglected figure who had a special relationship with both the historical Jesus in his lifetime and with the Christ spirit after the death of Jesus." --Matthew Fox, author of Original Blessing "Readers will welcome this perceptive translation and the insightful commentary by scholar-mystic Jean-Yves Leloup. The journey of the soul and other profound and subtle teachings of Jesus and his beloved Miriam will enlighten modern seekers." --Margaret Starbird, author of Woman with the Alabaster Jar Perhaps no figure in biblical scholarship has been the subject of more controversy and debate than Mary Magdalene. As the first witness to the Resurrection, Mary was considered by the apostle John to be the founder of Christianity. In most theological studies she has been depicted as a reformed prostitute, the redeemed sinner who exemplifies Christ's mercy. Today's reader can ponder her role through references in the four canonical gospels and in the Gnostic gospels of Philip, Thomas, Peter, and Bartholomew rejected by the early Christian church. Mary's own gospel is among these, but until now it has remained unknown to the public at large. Orthodox theologian Jean-Yves Leloup's translation of the Gospel of Mary from the Coptic and his profound commentary on this text are presented here for the first time in English. What emerges from this important source text and commentary is a renewal of the sacred feminine in the Western spiritual tradition and a new vision for Christian thought and faith throughout the world. JEAN-YVES LELOUP is the founder of the Institute of Other Civilization Studies and the International College of Therapists. His other books include Absurdity and Grace, Lack and Fullness, and a commentary on the Gospel of Thomas. He lives in France.

Author Biography

Jean-Yves Leloup is the founder of the Institute of Other Civilization Studies and the International College of Therapists. His other books include Absurdity and Grace, Lack and Fullness, and a commentary on the Gospel of Thomas. He lives in France.