The inspiration and insight of these
Gnostic writings can become
a companion on your own
spiritual journey.
Just what is a soul, exactly? Where did
the idea come from? How do we experience our souls? Two ancient
Gnostic texts—The Exegesis on the Soul and The Hymn of
the Pearl, both presented here in all-new
translations—hold important clues to the development of
the soul as a concept and reveal inspiring ways your own soul
can remember and return to its unique, divine purpose.
The Exegesis on the Soul depicts the soul
as a feminine figure who has fallen into the corrupted world
and must find her way back to the Divine. It is the story of
the soul’s struggle and redemption that will embolden
your own spiritual pilgrimage. The Hymn of the Pearl is an
allegorical story about a prince sent to retrieve a precious
pearl but who soon forgets his purpose and falls asleep. It is
a moving tale of the importance of remembering your
soul’s identity and calling—and knowing that only
you can fulfill your destiny.
Accessible facing-page commentary explains
the Gnostic writings for you even if you have no previous
knowledge of Gnosticism or early Christianity. Additional
material draws on ancient religions, Platonism, Christianity,
Judaism, Islam and modern philosophical and psychological
notions of the soul to place the Gnostic teachings in a clear
historical context. By following the development of this
concept through time, you will more clearly perceive—and
respond to—the divine spark found in your own soul.
“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
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.
