What is the etymological origin of the term "apocrypha" as applied to early Christian writings?

The word "apocrypha" originates from the Medieval Latin adjective apocryphus, meaning secret or non-canonical. This, in turn, comes from the Greek adjective apokryphos, meaning obscure, derived from the verb apokryptein, which means to hide away. This etymology reflects the hidden or secret nature attributed to these texts.

What is the general consensus among major Christian denominations regarding the New Testament apocrypha?

Roman Catholic, Eastern Orthodox, and Protestant churches generally do not consider the New Testament apocrypha to be part of the Bible. While some of these writings were accepted as scripture by early Christians, a widespread consensus emerged by the fifth century that limited the New Testament to the 27 books of the modern canon.

How does the term "apocrypha" relate to Gnostic writings, according to the text?

The text notes that applying the term "apocryphal" to Gnostic writings can be misleading. While "apocrypha" generally refers to books considered useful but not divinely inspired by the church, Gnostic texts often represent a distinct theological system that was viewed differently by orthodox believers.

What other terms have been used to describe books that were not universally accepted into the biblical canon, and how do they differ?

The Greek Fathers sometimes used the term antilegomena, meaning "spoken against," although this could also apply to canonical books. Scholars often use pseudepigrapha, meaning "falsely inscribed" or "falsely attributed," for writings attributed to apostles but written by anonymous authors. In Catholic and Orthodox traditions, what Protestants call apocrypha often includes deuterocanonical books, while the term apocrypha is synonymous with pseudepigrapha for Protestants.

What three key methods developed in early Christianity to safeguard the authenticity of Jesus' teachings?

Three key methods developed to safeguard the authenticity of Jesus' teachings were: ordination, where groups authorized individuals as reliable teachers; creeds, where groups defined the boundaries of interpretation; and canons, which listed the primary documents believed to contain the original message.

How did early Christian canons, such as the Syriac Peshitta, differ from the modern New Testament canon?

The Syriac Peshitta, used by Syrian churches, originally excluded five books: 2 Peter, 2 John, 3 John, Jude, and Revelation. This canon of 22 books was cited by figures like John Chrysostom. While Western Syrians later added these books, some traditions, like the Malankara Syrian Orthodox Church and the Chaldean Catholic Church, still follow lectionaries based on the original 22 books.

What unique inclusion did the Armenian Apostolic Church sometimes make in its biblical canon?

The Armenian Apostolic Church has at times included the Third Epistle to the Corinthians in its biblical canon, though it was not always listed with the other 27 canonical New Testament books. This church also did not accept the Book of Revelation into its Bible until around 1200 CE.

Who were some of the early translators and collectors of New Testament apocrypha in English?

Early English translations were made by William Wake and Jeremiah Jones in the 18th century. William Hone collected these in his 1820 work, The Apocryphal New Testament. Later translations and revisions were made by scholars like M.R. James and J.K. Eliott.

What is considered the standard scholarly edition of the New Testament Apocrypha in German, and who translated its English version?

The standard scholarly edition in German is by Schneemelcher. Its English translation was done by Robert McLachlan Wilson.

How are the texts from the Nag Hammadi library often considered in relation to New Testament apocrypha?

The texts of the Nag Hammadi library are often considered separately but are also included in scholarly editions of New Testament apocrypha, such as the current edition of Schneemelcher, which contains eleven Nag Hammadi texts.

What is the significance of the infancy gospels, and what were the earliest ones?

The infancy gospels provide information about Jesus' childhood and were popular, as evidenced by the number of surviving manuscripts, despite not being accepted into the biblical canon. The earliest ones were the Infancy Gospel of James, also called the Protoevangelium of James, and the Infancy Gospel of Thomas.

Which early Church Fathers quoted from the Jewish-Christian Gospels?

Early Church Fathers who quoted from the Jewish-Christian Gospels include Clement of Alexandria, Origen, Eusebius of Caesarea, Epiphanius of Salamis, Jerome, and possibly Didymus the Blind.

How are the Jewish-Christian Gospels that no longer survive studied today?

Although these gospels do not survive intact, scholars attempt to reconstruct them from references found in the writings of the Church Fathers. These reconstructed texts are typically categorized under New Testament Apocrypha.

What are the three Jewish-Christian gospels described in Schneemelcher's work?

Schneemelcher's work describes three Jewish-Christian gospels: the Gospel of the Ebionites (GE), the Gospel of the Hebrews (GH), and the Gospel of the Nazarenes (GN). Some scholars believe the latter two might be the same source.

Can you name a few non-canonical gospels that are not specifically infancy or Jewish-Christian gospels?

Some non-canonical gospels include the Gospel of Marcion, the Gospel of Mani, the Gospel of Apelles, the Gospel of Bardesanes, the Gospel of Basilides, the Gospel of Thomas, the Gospel of Barnabas, and the Gospel of Nicodemus.

What is the focus of Passion Gospels, and what are some examples?

Passion Gospels are texts specifically concerned with the suffering and events surrounding Jesus' Passion. Examples include the Gospel of Peter, the Gospel of Nicodemus (also known as the Acts of Pilate), the Gospel of Bartholomew, and the Questions of Bartholomew.

What was the purpose of harmonized gospels, and what is a prominent example?

Harmonized gospels aimed to create a single, unified narrative from the canonical gospels, eliminating discordances. The most widely read example of such a text was the Diatessaron.

What form do many Gnostic texts, particularly those from the Nag Hammadi library, take?

Many Gnostic texts, especially those from the Nag Hammadi library, take the form of dialogues where Jesus expounds esoteric knowledge, and his disciples ask questions about it. These texts often explore Gnostic cosmology and ethics.

Who were the Sethians, and what kind of texts did they produce concerning Jesus?

The Sethians were a Gnostic group who initially worshipped the biblical Seth as a messianic figure and later viewed Jesus as a re-incarnation of Seth. They produced texts, often in the form of visions, that expounded their esoteric cosmology.

What was the general assessment of the "Circuits of the Apostles" by Patriarch Photios I of Constantinople?

Patriarch Photios I of Constantinople, in the ninth century, judged the "Circuits of the Apostles" (attributed to Leucius Charinus) to be full of folly, self-contradiction, falsehood, and impiety. These texts typically described the later lives of apostles with supernatural events.

What is the estimated dating for most apocryphal Acts of the Apostles, and which ones are believed to be later?

Most apocryphal Acts are believed to have been written in the 2nd century. However, the Acts of Barnabas and the Acts of Peter and Paul are thought to have been written as late as the 5th century.

Which non-canonical epistles were highly regarded by the early church and are included in the collection known as the Apostolic Fathers?

Several non-canonical epistles were highly regarded and are included in the Apostolic Fathers collection. These include the Epistle of Barnabas, First and Second Epistle of Clement, the seven Epistles of Ignatius, the Epistle of Polycarp to the Philippians, the Epistle of Mathetes to Diognetus, and the Martyrdom of Polycarp.

What does the term Antilegomena refer to in the context of the New Testament canon?

Antilegomena refers to books that were "spoken against" or disputed regarding their inclusion in the canon. While some canonical books like the Apocalypse of John were antilegomena in the East, the term is also used for certain non-canonical texts that were debated.

What are the Gospel of Peter and the Gospel of Nicodemus known for?

The Gospel of Peter and the Gospel of Nicodemus (also called the Acts of Pilate) are known as Passion Gospels, focusing on the events of Jesus' suffering and crucifixion.

What was the Diatessaron?

The Diatessaron was a harmonized gospel text that aimed to provide a single, unified narrative from the canonical gospels, eliminating discordances. It was the most widely read text of its kind.

What kind of knowledge do many Gnostic texts, particularly those from the Nag Hammadi library, focus on expounding?

Many Gnostic texts, especially those from the Nag Hammadi library, focus on expounding esoteric cosmology and ethics held by Gnostics. These often take the form of dialogues where Jesus reveals hidden knowledge.

What is another name for the Apocryphon of John, and what group is it associated with?

The Apocryphon of John is also known as the "Secret Gospel of John" and is associated with the Sethians, a Gnostic group. It expounds their esoteric cosmology, often in the form of visions.

What is known about the Gospel of Eve, and what theological perspective did it represent?

The Gospel of Eve is a lost work mentioned by Epiphanius. A quotation from it suggests it represented complete pantheism.

Why was the Shepherd of Hermas considered a "close candidate" for the canon but ultimately not included?

The Shepherd of Hermas was considered a close candidate because it was widely read and accepted as a spiritually significant work, appearing in some early biblical collections like Codex Sinaiticus. However, the Muratorian fragment noted it was written "very recently, in our times" (referring to the 2nd century), after the time of the Apostles, thus precluding its inclusion in the canon.

What was a key debate concerning the use of non-canonical but widely accepted New Testament apocryphal texts in the early church?

A primary debate centered on whether these widely used texts, such as the Didache and the Shepherd of Hermas, should be read aloud in church services or only privately by individuals. They were often considered "useful" or "good for teaching" but not canonical.

Who compiled The Apocryphal New Testament in 1820?

William Hone compiled The Apocryphal New Testament in 1820, which included early 18th-century English translations by William Wake and Jeremiah Jones.

What is the Gospel of the Ebionites, and where are its references found?

The Gospel of the Ebionites is one of the reconstructed Jewish-Christian gospels, with seven quotations attributed to Epiphanius. It is considered part of the New Testament apocrypha.

What is the Gospel of the Hebrews, and from whom are its quotations derived?

The Gospel of the Hebrews is another reconstructed Jewish-Christian gospel. Its quotations are attributed to Cyril of Jerusalem, Clement of Alexandria, Origen, and Jerome.

What is the Gospel of the Nazarenes, and what are its sources?

The Gospel of the Nazarenes is a reconstructed Jewish-Christian gospel. Its text is primarily derived from Jerome, with additional references from medieval sources.

Who is "Leucius Charinus" associated with in the context of apocryphal texts?

Leucius Charinus is the purported author of a collection of apocryphal texts known as "The Circuits of the Apostles," which included the Acts of Peter, John, Andrew, Thomas, and Paul.

What is the estimated dating for most apocryphal Acts of the Apostles, and which ones are believed to be later?

Most apocryphal Acts are believed to have been written in the 2nd century. However, the Acts of Barnabas and the Acts of Peter and Paul are thought to have been written as late as the 5th century.

What subject matter do a significant number of apocryphal texts address?

A significant number of apocryphal texts, over 50 in total, focus on the events surrounding the varied fate of Mary, the mother of Jesus. Examples include "The Home Going of Mary," "The Falling Asleep of the Mother of God," and "The Descent of Mary."

What types of texts are found in the "Miscellany" category of New Testament apocrypha?

The "Miscellany" category includes texts that do not fit neatly into other classifications due to their content or form. Examples include church regulations like the Apostolic Constitutions, early Christian teachings like the Didache, liturgical texts, and various texts related to figures like Pilate and archangels.

What are "fragments" in the context of New Testament apocrypha?

Fragments refer to small portions of texts that are parts of unknown or uncertain works, rather than complete books. Significant examples include the Gospel of the Saviour, the Naassene Fragment, the Secret Gospel of Mark, and the Oxyrhynchus Gospels.

What are "lost works" in the context of New Testament apocrypha?

Lost works are texts that are mentioned in ancient sources and would likely be considered apocryphal, but for which no known text has survived to the present day. Examples include the Gospel of Eve, the Gospel of Matthias, and the Gospel of Bartholomew.

What does it mean for a text to be considered a "close candidate for canonization"?

Texts considered "close candidates for canonization" were those that were well-accepted and considered spiritually significant works, even if they were ultimately not included in the final biblical canon. Many of these were widely used but not necessarily deemed "Catholic" or universal.

What perspective does Bart Ehrman offer on the historical development of the New Testament canon and the apocrypha?

Bart Ehrman suggests that the victors in theological struggles rewrote early Christian history, leading later readers to assume their views were universally held from the beginning. He notes that the debate over which books to include lasted for centuries, and even within "orthodox" circles, there was considerable debate.

What was significant about Athanasius' Easter letter in 367 CE regarding the New Testament canon?

Athanasius' Easter letter in 367 CE defined a canon of 27 books, identical to the current New Testament canon. Notably, it also listed two works, The Shepherd of Hermas and the Didache, as "not in the canon but to be read."

What did the Muratorian fragment state about the Shepherd of Hermas?

The Muratorian fragment, dated around 150-175 CE, stated that the Shepherd of Hermas ought to be read but could not be read publicly in church either among the Prophets or the Apostles, as it was written after their time.

Who is M.R. James associated with in the context of New Testament apocrypha translations?

M.R. James produced new translations of the Apocryphal New Testament that appeared in 1924. These translations were later revised by J.K. Eliott.

What is the Gospel of Jesus' Wife mentioned in the text?

The Gospel of Jesus' Wife is listed among the fragments of apocryphal texts. Its authenticity has been challenged.

What is the primary purpose of the New Testament apocrypha, as described in the introduction?

The New Testament apocrypha are writings by early Christians that provide accounts of Jesus and his teachings, the nature of God, or the lives and teachings of his apostles. They were not included in the final biblical canon.

What does the term "antilegomena" signify in early Christian discussions about scripture?

Antilegomena, meaning "spoken against," was a term used for books that were disputed or debated regarding their canonical status. While some canonical books like the Apocalypse of John were considered antilegomena by some, the term also applied to certain non-canonical texts.

How did the development of the New Testament canon involve methods beyond just listing books?

The development of the New Testament canon involved methods such as ordination to authorize teachers, the creation of creeds to define interpretations, and the establishment of canons to list authoritative documents, all aimed at safeguarding the authenticity of Jesus' teachings.

What is the significance of the "Protoevangelium of James" in relation to infancy gospels?

The Protoevangelium of James, also known as the Infancy Gospel of James, is one of the earliest and most significant infancy gospels. It served as a basis, along with the Infancy Gospel of Thomas, for later combinations like the Gospel of Pseudo-Matthew.

What is the "Diatessaron" and what was its role among harmonized gospels?

The Diatessaron was a harmonized gospel that aimed to create a unified narrative from the canonical gospels by eliminating discordances. It was the most widely read text of this type.

New Testament Apocrypha Wiki: The Uncanonical Testament: Exploring Early Christian Texts Beyond the Canon

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Defining the Apocrypha

Etymology and Meaning

The term "apocrypha" originates from the Greek word apokryphos, meaning "hidden" or "obscure." Historically, it referred to writings considered useful but not divinely inspired, or those deliberately concealed. This distinguishes them from canonical texts, though the precise definition and application have evolved over time.^[4]^[5]

Canonical Status

While some early Christian communities accepted certain apocryphal works, a consensus emerged by the fifth century, limiting the New Testament to the 27 books of the modern canon. Roman Catholic, Eastern Orthodox, and Protestant traditions generally do not consider these texts part of the biblical canon.^[2]^[3]

Scholarly Terminology

Scholars often employ terms like "antilegomena" (spoken against) or "pseudepigrapha" (falsely attributed) to categorize these texts. While "apocrypha" is sometimes used broadly, it's crucial to note that Gnostic writings, for instance, were often viewed differently than texts merely considered non-canonical by orthodox believers.^[6]

Historical Development of the Canon

Early Christian Diversity

The early centuries of Christianity were marked by a wide array of writings circulating, reflecting diverse interpretations of Jesus' teachings. Establishing a definitive canon involved debates over authenticity, apostolic origin, and theological alignment.^[3]

Canon Formation

Canonical lists varied initially. For example, the Syriac Peshitta traditionally excluded books like 2 Peter and Revelation, while the Armenian Apostolic Church sometimes included the Third Epistle to the Corinthians. The process of canonization spanned centuries, solidifying the 27 New Testament books by the mid-4th century.^[7]^[8]

Criteria for Inclusion

Works were generally accepted if they were believed to be written by apostles or their close associates and were widely used within the church. Texts like the Shepherd of Hermas and 1 Clement, though popular, were sometimes considered "useful" rather than strictly canonical, as indicated by early witnesses like the Muratorian fragment.^[24]^[25]

Apocryphal Gospels

Infancy Gospels

These texts provide narratives about Jesus' childhood, often depicting miraculous events. Key examples include the Infancy Gospel of James (Protoevangelium of James) and the Infancy Gospel of Thomas, which formed the basis for later compilations like the Gospel of Pseudo-Matthew.^[14]

Jewish-Christian Gospels

Attributed to Jewish Christian communities, these gospels (such as the Gospel of the Ebionites, Hebrews, and Nazarenes) are known primarily through quotations by Church Fathers. Scholars debate whether they derive from a single Aramaic/Hebrew source or multiple Greek versions.^[15]^[16]

Non-Canonical & Passion Gospels

This category includes diverse texts like the Gospel of Marcion, Gospel of Mani, and the Gospel of Thomas (a sayings gospel). Passion Gospels focus specifically on Jesus' suffering and death, such as the Gospel of Peter and the Gospel of Nicodemus (Acts of Pilate).^[19]^[20]

Harmonized Gospels

Texts like the Diatessaron aimed to synthesize the canonical Gospels into a single, coherent narrative, smoothing over perceived discrepancies. While influential in some early Christian circles, they were not included in the final canon.

Gnostic Texts and Jesus

Esoteric Knowledge

Many Gnostic texts, particularly those discovered at Nag Hammadi, present esoteric cosmologies and ethical teachings, often in the form of dialogues where Jesus imparts hidden knowledge to his disciples.^[13]

Dialogues with Jesus

Prominent examples include the Apocryphon of James (Secret Book of James), the Book of Thomas the Contender, and the Gospel of Mary, which feature extensive dialogues revealing Gnostic interpretations of Jesus' teachings and the divine realm.^[23]

Sethian Traditions

The Sethians, an early Gnostic group, revered Seth as a messianic figure and often identified Jesus with him. Their texts, such as the Apocryphon of John and the Coptic Gospel of the Egyptians, elaborate on their unique cosmology and spiritual lineage.

Ritual Diagrams

Some Gnostic texts, like the Ophite Diagrams and Books of Jeu, appear to contain ritualistic elements or diagrams intended for use in religious practices, reflecting the experiential dimension of Gnostic spirituality.

Acts of the Apostles Genre

Post-Apostolic Lives

These texts detail the lives and deeds of the apostles following Jesus' ministry, often incorporating supernatural events and miraculous occurrences. Many were attributed to "Leucius Charinus."^[22]

Notable Acts

Key examples include the Acts of John, Acts of Paul, Acts of Peter, and Acts of Thomas. Some, like the Acts of Thomas and Acts of Peter and the Twelve, are considered Gnostic in nature. While most date to the 2nd century, some later texts exist.^[22]

Apocryphal Epistles

Letters of the Early Church

These epistles, or letters, were exchanged between early Christian figures or addressed to communities. Some, like those of the Apostolic Fathers, were highly regarded and nearly canonical.^[1]

Apostolic Fathers

Texts attributed to the Apostolic Fathers, such as 1 Clement, 2 Clement, the Epistles of Ignatius, and the Epistle of Polycarp, are significant for understanding early Christian thought and practice. The Didache and the Shepherd of Hermas are also often grouped with these.^[1]

Other Epistles

This category also includes epistles attributed to Paul (e.g., Epistle to the Laodiceans) and other figures, as well as texts like the Epistula Apostolorum and the Epistle of Pseudo-Titus, which explore theological themes and church order.^[1]

Apocalyptic Visions

Future and Afterlife

Apocalyptic literature often takes the form of visions, revealing insights into the future, the afterlife, or divine mysteries. These texts explore eschatological themes and cosmic narratives.

Notable Apocalypses

Key works include the Apocalypse of Paul, Apocalypse of Peter, and various Apocalypses of James and Thomas. These texts offer diverse perspectives on divine revelation and the end times.^[18]

The Fate of Mary

Marian Narratives

Several apocryphal texts focus on the life and passing of Mary, the mother of Jesus. These include narratives such as "The Falling Asleep of the Mother of God" and "The Descent of Mary," which elaborate on traditions surrounding her dormition and assumption.^[21]

Miscellany and Other Texts

Diverse Writings

This category encompasses texts that do not fit neatly into the other classifications. It includes works on church regulations (Apostolic Constitutions), early catechisms (Didache), liturgical texts, and historical accounts like the Doctrine of Addai.^[20]

Unique Texts

Other notable texts include the Physiologus (an early Christian allegorical work on animals), the Clementine literature, and various letters attributed to figures like Pilate, offering unique insights into early Christian beliefs and practices.

Significant Fragments

Textual Remnants

Beyond complete works, numerous fragments of apocryphal texts exist, providing tantalizing glimpses into lost writings. These include the Fayyum Fragment, the Naassene Fragment, and various Oxyrhynchus Gospels.^[23]

Debated Authenticity

The Secret Gospel of Mark, whose authenticity has been subject to scholarly debate, is another significant fragment. These remnants are crucial for textual criticism and understanding the transmission of early Christian literature.

Lost Works

Texts Mentioned in Antiquity

Numerous apocryphal texts are known only through references in ancient sources, with no surviving manuscripts. Examples include the Gospel of Eve, Gospel of Matthias, and the Gospel of the Twelve, which likely represent diverse early Christian traditions.^[23]

Close Canonical Candidates

Near Inclusions

Several texts were widely read and respected, appearing in early canonical lists or biblical manuscripts, yet ultimately remained outside the final canon. These include the Epistle of Barnabas, 1 Clement, 2 Clement, the Shepherd of Hermas, and the Didache.^[1]

Scholarly Evaluation

Present-Day Significance

Modern historians of early Christianity view these apocryphal texts as invaluable resources. They offer critical insights into the diversity of beliefs, practices, and theological debates that characterized the formative centuries of Christianity.^[24]

Historical Context

The study of apocrypha illuminates the complex process of canon formation. It reveals that the "victors" in theological disputes shaped the historical narrative, and that debates over scripture persisted for centuries.^[24]

Published Collections

Scholarly Editions

Numerous scholarly collections and translations of New Testament apocrypha have been published over centuries. Notable editions include those by William Wake, M.R. James, Wilhelm Schneemelcher, and Bart Ehrman, providing critical access to these ancient texts.^[9]^[10]^[11]^[12]^[3]

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References

ANF08...Apocrypha of the New Testament.

New Testament Apocrypha, Vol. 1: Gospels and Related Writings (1990), Vol. 2: Writings Relating to the Apostles Apocalypses and Related Subjects (1992), Westminster John Knox Press.

Cassell's Latin Dictionary, Marchant, J.R.V, & Charles, Joseph F., (Eds.), Revised Edition, 1928, p.396

A full list of references for this article are available at the New Testament apocrypha Wikipedia page

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This content has been generated by an AI model for educational purposes, drawing upon publicly available data. While efforts have been made to ensure accuracy and adherence to the source material, it is intended as an academic overview and not as definitive theological or historical doctrine.

This is not theological or historical advice. The information provided is not a substitute for consulting primary sources, engaging with peer-reviewed scholarship, or seeking guidance from qualified academic experts in early Christian studies. Always verify information through rigorous academic research.

The creators of this page are not responsible for any interpretations, omissions, or actions taken based on the information presented herein.

The Uncanonical Testament

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Defining the Apocrypha ❓

📖 Etymology and Meaning

⚖️ Canonical Status

📚 Scholarly Terminology

Historical Development of the Canon ⏳

📜 Early Christian Diversity

🏛️ Canon Formation

🧐 Criteria for Inclusion

Apocryphal Gospels 🕊️

👶 Infancy Gospels

✡️ Jewish-Christian Gospels

❓ Non-Canonical & Passion Gospels

🔄 Harmonized Gospels

Gnostic Texts and Jesus 👁️

🌌 Esoteric Knowledge

🗣️ Dialogues with Jesus

🐍 Sethian Traditions

ritual Ritual Diagrams

Acts of the Apostles Genre 🚶

📜 Post-Apostolic Lives

🌟 Notable Acts

Apocryphal Epistles ✉️

🤝 Letters of the Early Church

👨‍🏫 Apostolic Fathers

❓ Other Epistles

Apocalyptic Visions 🌌

🌠 Future and Afterlife

😇 Notable Apocalypses

The Fate of Mary 🌟

🤱 Marian Narratives

Miscellany and Other Texts 🧩

📜 Diverse Writings

🗝️ Unique Texts

Significant Fragments 💔

🧩 Textual Remnants

❓ Debated Authenticity

Lost Works 🗝️

❓ Texts Mentioned in Antiquity

Close Canonical Candidates ✅

⭐ Near Inclusions

Scholarly Evaluation 📊

🧐 Present-Day Significance

📈 Historical Context

Published Collections 📚

📖 Scholarly Editions

Teacher's Corner 🧑‍🏫

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📜 Important Notice

Dive in with Flashcard Learning!

Defining the Apocrypha

Etymology and Meaning

Canonical Status

Scholarly Terminology

Historical Development of the Canon

Early Christian Diversity

Canon Formation

Criteria for Inclusion

Apocryphal Gospels

Infancy Gospels

Jewish-Christian Gospels

Non-Canonical & Passion Gospels

Harmonized Gospels

Gnostic Texts and Jesus

Esoteric Knowledge

Dialogues with Jesus

Sethian Traditions

Ritual Diagrams

Acts of the Apostles Genre

Post-Apostolic Lives

Notable Acts

Apocryphal Epistles

Letters of the Early Church

Apostolic Fathers

Other Epistles

Apocalyptic Visions

Future and Afterlife

Notable Apocalypses

The Fate of Mary

Marian Narratives

Miscellany and Other Texts

Diverse Writings

Unique Texts

Significant Fragments

Textual Remnants

Debated Authenticity

Lost Works

Texts Mentioned in Antiquity

Close Canonical Candidates

Near Inclusions

Scholarly Evaluation

Present-Day Significance

Historical Context

Published Collections

Scholarly Editions

Teacher's Corner

True or False?

Test Your Knowledge!

Gamer's Corner

Discover other topics to study!

References

Feedback & Support

Academic Disclaimer

Important Notice