The Gospel of Mary Magdalene (Paperback)

The Gospel of Mary Magdalene (Paperback) by Jean-Yves Leloup (Editor)

Product details
Paperback: 200 pages
Publisher: Inner Traditions Bear and Company; 1st U.S. Ed edition (28 Mar 2002)
Language English
ISBN-10: 0892819111
ISBN-13: 978-0892819119
Product Dimensions: 22.6 x 15.2 x 0.3 cm

Product Description
KJ, Napra ReView, May/June 2002

There are some fascinating glimpses at gender politics between the earliest followers of Jesus and the enigmatic personage of Mary Magdalene. Book DescriptionRestores 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.

Synopsis

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 emphasise 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.

About the Author

Orthodox theologian 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.

Pistis Sophia: The Gnostic Tradition of Mary Magdalene, Jesus, and His Disciples (Paperback)

Pistis Sophia: The Gnostic Tradition of Mary Magdalene, Jesus, and His Disciples (Paperback) by G. R. S. Mead (Author)

Product details
Paperback: 400 pages
Publisher: Dover Publications (11 Mar 2005)
Language English
ISBN-10: 0486440648
ISBN-13: 978-0486440644
Product Dimensions: 21.3 x 13.7 x 2.3 cm

The Fall of Sophia: A Gnostic Text on the Redemption of Universal Consciousness (Paperback)

The Fall of Sophia: A Gnostic Text on the Redemption of Universal Consciousness (Paperback) by Violet MacDermot (Author, Translator)

Product details
Paperback: 224 pages
Publisher: Lindisfarne Press (1 Sep 2001)
Language English
ISBN-10: 1584200006
ISBN-13: 978-1584200000
Product Dimensions: 20.6 x 15.1 x 1.5 cm

Product Description
Synopsis: A fresh translation of the Pistis Sophia from the Coptic and a discussion of its historical setting. Sophia is one of the great symbols of the divine feminine in world civilization and the personification of divine Wisdom. In Gnosticism, the secret teaching of ancient Christianity, she represents the consciousness that all of us share, but which became trapped in the material world as a result of the Fall. One of the most sublime Gnostic texts is the Pistis Sophia or "Faith Wisdom", a great allegory in which the resurrected Christ tells how he freed the divine Sophia from her imprisonment to powers of spiritual wickedness. In this profound yet accessible work, Violet MacDermot provides a fresh translation of the Pistis Sophia from the Coptic and discusses it in its historical setting. She also shows how the story of Sophia is one in which we too can share in spiritual liberation. Her engaging discussion relates this work not only to ancient teachings, but to the thought of C G Jung, Emanuel Swedenborg and the Kabbala.

Most Helpful Customer Reviews

1 of 1 people found the following review helpful:
Participating in the "Gnostic Renaissance", 15 Oct 2007
By calmly - See all my reviews

Violet MacDermot translated the Pistis Sophia from the original Coptic text found in Nag Hammadi, Egypt into English as part of the Coptic Gnostic Library effort. Her translation of Books One and Two that focus on the fall of Sophia are reprinted here. MacDermot here supplements her translation with essays on Sophia's story and the significance of the Pistis Sophia and the Gnostic spirit in general in Western history. The foreword by Stephen Hoeller, "Sophia and the Gnostic Renaissance" adds further to understanding the place of the Pistis Sophia and the ancient Gnostic enterprise in human history.

MacDermot observes that the Gnostic Christians have views that conflict both with that of orthodox Christianity and materialism. Orthodox Christianity seemed to Gnostic Christians demanding of faith and obedience and fearful of self-knowledge. Science today seems too mechanical. From a Gnostic Christian viewpoint, if orthodox Christians complain about science's materialism, it often seems out of a desire to replace it with literalism. Gnosticism offers a third way, one that remembered favorably the ancient Western mythological wisdom of the Persians, Egyptians and Greeks and is today compatible with Eastern wisdom traditions such as Buddhism.

MacDermot follows the spirit of Gnosticism into modern times, presenting a summary of Emmanuel Swedenborg, Otto Weininger, Vladimir Solovyov, Auguste Comte, Rudolf Steiner, Lewis Mumford, Patrick Geddes, Dimitrije Mictrinovic, and Carl Jung, a wealth of leads who presented an organic vision of life. A bibliography of their works and others is included. One can see how the work of the early Gnostics is compatible with and has contributed to similar thought of more recent times

The Fall of Sophia itself is presented as a mythic way to explain the transition from collective consciousness to individual self-consciousness that occurred in the first few centuries of the Common Era. After Jesus finds Sophia fallen, Jesus and his disciples interpret the repentences of Sophia as she finds herself beset upon by evil powers within a chaotic realm. Jesus helps restore Sophia and then shares the mystery of the Ineffable, which can make one a ruler with Jesus, of this world and yet not of this world. By the middle of this story, you may feel like Sophia, overwhelmed by the evil powers. By the end of this story, you may share with the disciples, in an appreciation of the richness of your spirit, something materialism and literalism do not convey.

Macdermot has provided an exquisite context in which to understand the Fall of Sophia and its relationship to some recent thought. If you choose then to read more of the Gnostic texts and/or more of the more recent thinkers Macdermot presents, you may become a participant in a "Gnostic Renaissance" that might transform our challenged society.

Since I first read this book a month ago, it has weighed on my mind. What I had found to be some repetitiveness upon first reading, I'm realizing was a careful reiteration to convey the teaching forcefully.

http://www.amazon.co.uk/dp/1584200006?tag=thelanguedoc-21&camp=526&creative=3950&linkCode=st1&creativeASIN=1584200006&adid=1S9KHT50R54GN21E6N55&

Wish list from my friend Kelli's site! (partial list, let's call it number one)

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My friend Kelli makes these wonderful dolls!!! Handmade. So here I'll keep a list of the ones I want. Her site is Dancinggoddessdolls.com

For the most part, unless no other choice, I collect the 11" dolls. Some only come larger, but I prefer, if able, to keep to 11"...


1. Mary Magdalene:




2. Hestia:




3. Sedna





4. Gaia:




5. Oya (I have the 6" version)





6. Pele




7. Shaman




8. White Buffalo Woman



9. Oracle



10. Cernunnos




11. Dylan




12. Epona




13. Flidais (have    )




14. Grandmother Spider Woman




15. Gwynyhfar



16. Medusa



17. Oak King




There's plenty more, but will save for another time.

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Taken from my Amazon.com wish list

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Robin of Sherwood: The Complete Collection DVD


A Bit of Fry and Laurie - The Complete Collection... Every Bit! DVD


The Dresden Files - The Complete First Season DVD


Grey's Anatomy - The Complete Third Season DVD


Bones - The Complete Second Season DVD


House, M.D. - Season Three DVD




The Judi Dench Collection DVD


Cleopatra 2525 - Complete Series DVD


The Adventures of Brisco County Jr. - The Complete Series DVD


Johnny Clegg with Savuka & Juluka - Live! and More... DVD






My Brilliant Career DVD


The Isle of Dreaming ~ Price, Kate, CD



Legends of the Goddess ~ Powers, Laura, CD


Rite the First Time ~ Three Weird Sisters, CD


The Best of Pagan Song ~ Various Artists - New Age, CD


My Big Fat Greek Life - The Entire Series DVD




Butterflies - Series 2 DVD


Butterflies - Series 1 DVD






Song for Ireland ~ Black, Mary, CD


What Do Pretty Girls Do? ~ MacColl, Kirsty, CD


Kite ~ MacColl, Kirsty, CD


Electric Landlady ~ MacColl, Kirsty, CD


Galore ~ MacColl, Kirsty, CD


The Gathering of Spirits ~ Carrie Newcomer, CD


Kindred Spirits ~ Various Artists - International - Europe - Celtic/British Isles, CD


Salty Heaven ~ Bloom, Luka, CD


Prelude: The Best of Charlotte Church ~ Church, Charlotte, CD

Marija Gimbutas: The Goddesses and Gods of Old Europe

The Goddesses and Gods of Old Europe: Myths and Cult Images, New and Updated Edition by Marija Gimbutas

My review

rating: 4 of 5 stars
Have wanted these books of hers for years, but they are hard to find. Definitely on my "Wish List"


View all my reviews.

Marija Gimbutas: The Language of the Goddess

The Language of the Goddess by Marija Gimbutas

My review

rating: 4 of 5 stars
Have wanted to get my hands on one of her books for years now,and still haven't managed to do it. When I do, then will post a review.


View all my reviews.

Jeannie Ralston: The Unlikely Lavender Queen

The Unlikely Lavender Queen: A Memoir of Unexpected Blossoming by Jeannie Ralston

My review

Saw this reviewed somewhere and piqued my curiosity...especially when to do with lavender even in the most round-a-bout way.


View all my reviews.


The Unlikely Lavender Queen: A Memoir of Unexpected Blossoming
by Jeannie Ralston
$23.95 List price

Publisher: Broadway Books
Pub. Date: May 2008
ISBN-13: 9780767927956
272pp


Synopsis

“I couldn’t help but question how I’d gotten to this strange spot in my life, so far from what I’d expected for myself. Yes, there had been a heady romance a few years back. Then a slew of
subsequent decisions, fueled by love and yearnings I didn’t even know I had. But I never, ever would have suspected that this was where the sum total of them would bring me. That afternoon a new doubt dripped into my mind. When do you know, I wondered, whether the choices you’ve made were the right ones?”

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In 1990, Jeannie Ralston was a successful magazine writer and bona fide city girl—the type of woman who couldn't imagine living on soil not shaded by skyscrapers. By 1994, she had called off an engagement, married Robb, a National Geographic photographer, and was living in Blanco Texas, population 1600.

THE UNLIKELY LAVENDER QUEEN is the intimate story of a woman who gives up a lot for the man she loves – her beloved blue state, bagels and all-night bodegas—only to have to wonder: Was it too much? Ralston offers a lively chronicle of her life as a wife, new mother and an urban settler in rural Texas. As she labors to convert a dilapidated barn into a livable home, deal with scorpions and unbearably hot summers, raise two young children while Robb is
frequently away on assignment, she realizes her ultimate struggle is to reconcile her life plans and goals with her husband’s without coming out the proverbial loser. And just when it seems like she might be losing that fight—and herself— a little purplebloom changes her life.

For centuries lavender has been a mystical herb, so valuable to ancient Romans that a bushel would cost nearly a month’s wages. But when Robb returns from a trip to Provence with a plan for growing lavender on their land, Ralston is not convinced—in fact the last thing she needed or wanted was to take up farming on top of everything else. Then, much to her surprise, she slowly but surely falls in love with lavender, and in the course of growing and selling blooms, hosting the public at the farm, and creating lavender products, she discovers a new side of herself. A few short years later, Ralston had built Hill Country Lavender, a thriving commercial enterprise that transforms both her little corner of Texas and her life.

THE UNLIKELY LAVENDER QUEEN will resonate with all women who have faced the tough choices that come with “having it all” and secretly (or not so secretly) hoped for great adventure to come along and surprise them. Ralston’s honest, funny, and poignant memoir is a testament to the fact that such adventures await us around every bend in life.


Publishers Weekly

Arriving in Manhattan for a McCall'smagazine summer internship when she was 21, Ralston was smitten with big-city life. Soon she had the career of her dreams, a Chelsea apartment, even a film student fiancé. Then, on a feature assignment for Life, she met Robb, a photographer for National Geographic, and her life was up-ended.

Before long, Ralston was leaving her boyfriend and New York City, to move with Robb to his home state of Texas. They settled first in Austin, but Robb wanted a less urban lifestyle, so they bought land with a creek and an old stone barn in the Texas Hill Country. Robb's busy schedule of international photo shoots left Ralston in charge of house renovations, hardly her forte. Then Robb had his next idea-they'd raise lavender on their limestone-rich land, which was similar to the soil of Provence. Ralston agreed, provided they start having children. Together, they began a successful niche-industry, growing and processing lavender into a variety of marketable products.

In this satisfying and enjoyable story, the reluctant Ralston eventually falls in love with their fields of lavender. (May)

Copyright © Reed Business Information, a division of Reed Elsevier Inc.
All rights reserved.


Biography

JEANNIE RALSTON is a contributing editor to Parenting and a freelance writer whose work has appeared in Life, The New York Times, National Geographic, and other publications. She and her family currently live in San Miguel de Allende, Mexico.

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Savina J. Teubal: Sarah The Priestess: The First Matriarch of Genesis

Savina J. Teubal: Sarah the Priestess: The First Matriarch of Genesis,
Swallow Press, 0804008442
The matriarch Sarah as a priestess of high ranking preserving goddess ways and feminine wisdom in the face of a patriarchal paradigm shift. Abraham and Sarah's spiritual life makes much more sense after reading and examining some of these theories.
Empowering and enlightening.








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Stephen Fry: The Ode Less Travelled

The Ode Less Travelled: Unlocking the Poet Within by Stephen Fry

My review

rating: 4 of 5 stars
The ONLY reason I didn't give this 5 stars is the fact that I would really love to have this book with an audiobook cd attached, read by Stephen Fry himself. It was so easy to get through when you can imagine his voice reading the words but I kept losing that voice and thus losing my ability to keep up with what I was reading. It makes so much more sense when you "hear" him reading it, and doesn't seem so dry then. If you know his voice, then you probably know what I mean.





Have found out that it is available in audio...found on Amazon.com.



Thanks to the poster on my blog that informed me of such a surprise!


View all my reviews.

Anita Diamant: Pitching My Tent

Pitching My Tent: On Marriage, Motherhood, Friendship, and Other Leaps of Faith by Anita Diamant

My review

rating: 5 of 5 stars
I WANT THIS BOOK!!! Really badly. I have it checked out from the library, and quite frankly, had to quit reading as I really need my own copy that I can notate places in the book!



3 pages in and already decided!!!! EEEEEKKKKKSSSS!


Friday, July 18, 2008:::::Returned it to the library yesterday, didn't want to, wonder if I could sneak it out and keep it, LOL! Just kidding. But definitely on my Wish List!!!


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Debra Winger: Undiscovered

Undiscovered by Debra Winger

My review

rating: 5 of 5 stars
Just checked this out of the library and am only a few pages into it. I'm impressed so far. I will have to say that I am surprised, because I remember that Debra Winger had a "reputation" of being difficult to work with. But after I saw her, briefly, on The View, and saw this book, I think the label was not exactly deserved. Or rather misunderstood.



But she has sketches, poems and other stuff in the book too, at least so far. She also includes a snippet from "Shadowlands", a really good movie with her and Anthony Hopkins about CS Lewis and Joy (can't remember her last name)

will write more on this later!


View all my reviews.

Karen Armstrong: The 4,000-Year Quest of Judaism,Christianity, and Islam

A History of God: The 4,000-Year Quest of Judaism, Christianity, and Islam by Karen Armstrong

My review

Have several others of her books and really want this book. Added to wish list.


View all my reviews.