Beyond Belief: The Secret Gospel of Thomas

By Elaine Pagels

Unveiling Christianity's Hidden Teachings

A groundbreaking exploration of early Christian texts, including the secret Gospel of Thomas, rediscovered in Egypt in 1945.

Overview

Beyond Belief takes readers on an eye-opening journey through the origins of Christianity, tracing its earliest texts and investigating what Jesus’ teachings meant to his followers before doctrine shaped the religion as we know it today. Elaine Pagels, National Book Award-winning author of The Gnostic Gospels, presents a revelatory look at the diversity of early Christian beliefs.

Key Themes

• Lost Teachings – The discovery of the Gospel of Thomas and its radical view of self-knowledge as a path to divine understanding.
• Early Christian Conflicts – How the church fathers chose which gospels to include in the New Testament and suppressed others.
• Spiritual Exploration – A compelling discussion of religious diversity and the personal search for meaning.
• Historical and Theological Insight – Drawing from newly uncovered texts and modern biblical scholarship.

Why This Book Matters

• Challenges Traditional Narratives – Offers an alternative view of Christianity’s development.
• Richly Researched – Written by one of the world’s foremost religious historians.
• Relevant to Modern Spirituality – Explores themes of self-discovery and faith beyond institutional boundaries.

Praise for Beyond Belief

“A beautifully written, compelling investigation of early Christianity that will change the way you think about religious history.”

Final Thoughts

For those intrigued by religious history, spirituality, or theological scholarship, Beyond Belief provides an insightful and thought-provoking look at the roots of Christianity and its evolving interpretations. A must-read for seekers of historical truth and spiritual wisdom.

ISBN-13: 9780375703164

ISBN-10: 0375703160