Beyond Belief: The Secret Gospel of Thomas by Elaine Pagels
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Book Reviews of Beyond Belief: The Secret Gospel of Thomas
Book Review: Beyond Belief
Summary: 4 Stars
Another reviewer mentioned that the book isn't necessarily about the Secret Gospel of Thomas. I too think the title should have been left alone at "Beyond Belief." as the book is more about the various streams of early Christian thought and how they differed from "straight-thinking" or "belief-centered" Christians.
I found the book to be very readable and not overly technical. It gives you enough information, about the history of the church, to go out and do you're own research if you desire more details. This is due to it's intended audience, which I think are Christians looking to escape the dogma and religion of their forbears, without losing their spirituality. If you're not that kind of Christian, but are the kind who appreciates the Church's role in forming *your* opinions about the nature of God, you may be put off by it. I myself am neither of those Christians, I am more of a religious history buff and I enjoyed the book for it's unbiased approach to history.
Book Review: Good, but misleading subtitle
Summary: 4 Stars
As many other reviewers have noted, the subtitle of this book is extremely misleading and I cannot see why it was chosen. The Gospel of Thomas, while mentioned (and the text of which is actually included in the back), is far from the focus of the book and it is not, at least, what I expected: a thorough examination focused on the Gospel of Thomas. Rather the book is a sort of introduction to the gnostic gospels using the Gospel of Thomas as a reference and starting point, while at the same time being a personal reflection on the part of Pagels. This makes for good reading and leads to interesting conclusions, though one who was expecting in depth treatment is bound to be slightly disappointed. Rather than the way it is marketed, this work can best be seen as an introduction to the gnostic texts (as well as Pagels' other works) which includes a thoughtful meditation on what their implications are on the understanding of Christianity as well as their impact on the individual.Book Review: Another highly accessible and inspirational outing.
Summary: 4 Stars
Elaine Pagels has done it again, turning out another highly readable and eloquent exposition of religious truth. Although she focuses on the Gospel of Thomas rather less than her title would suggest, she nevertheless gets to the heart of the matter: the rich diversity of Christian origins and modes of belief. I found the description of her attempt to find meaning in religious faith during and after her son's death revealing and compelling. Elaine Pagels remains an inspiration to those of us who reject the dogma and bigotry of "comic-book Christianity" (my phrase), but still seek to rely on our religious tradition for guidance, solace, and strength. She is for me a leading member of a group of writers including John Dominic Crossan, Marcus Borg, and Kathleen Norris who make it possible for thinking people to reclaim their religious heritage. Like Borg and Norris in particular, her books are highly accessible and aimed at the general reader.Book Review: Refreshing!
Summary: 4 Stars
A good, if one-sided, overview of Christian Gnosticism. Elaine gives us a "good parts" version of the Gnostic scriptures, focusing on what she has found useful in her own spiritual life. Because of this, the wacky, sci-fi side of Gnostic belief is non-existent in her pages. No Aeons, Powers, or Demiurges, no "elect few" or negative views of physical existence.Because of this, you get Gnosticism minus a lot of the heresy. This leaves us with something much akin to the writings of orthodox Christian mystics. But nevertheless, this is an enjoyable read, and will no doubt be helpful to those (like myself) who grew up in a constrictive version of the Christian faith. Beyond Belief can be a breath of fresh air, and can enhance one's understanding early Christianity's development. Just don't think your getting the "whole story" regarding the Gnostics!
Book Review: Saint Thomas?
Summary: 4 Stars
I had hoped to read more about the gospel of Thomas, but enjoyed the book for what it was. Truly Elaine Pagels is a literary scholar/historian, made obvious in her writing about early Christian and church history. I have known for many years that my Christian upbringing did not give me a full and honest picture of Jesus and his times. Over the years I have uncovered many misconceptions about the history behind religion and Jesus'life that my religion taught me. When new knowledge surfaced (not only from Pagels book) that did not harmonize with what I was taught, or that fit my personal beliefs better, it caused me to question and be wary of any dogma.
Ghandi said, "There are as many religions as there are people on earth." I believe that.