Customer Reviews

The Gospel Of Thomas

5 star:		(4)
4 star:		(0)
3 star:		(1)
2 star:		(0)
1 star:		(1)

 

 

This is a clear translation in modern english for those who are interested in gnostic texts. My favorite thing about the book is the author does not attempt to tell you what the passage means, its spiritual significance, or why it should be in the New Testament cannon. He assumes that you are smart enough to understand the material yourself and make up your own mind about it. Because of this it is great as a tool for reasearch or seeking the truth.

An explination of the history of the gnostic texts is given at the beginning that is concise and informative.

Bottom line...well designed book that begs to be read.

I received this book as a gift. And what a nice surprise,the work contains Greek and Coptic translations.
My friends know I love to study religious work. This book does not disappoint ! A beautiful addition to my private study library, as well as a teaching tool. I love it.

Unfortunately, this book is full of errors. I looked up the Biblical references, and 10% of them were wrong, in the sense that a scripture reference was given while quoting a passage from somewhere else in the Bible. I noted several instances of this. From an "author" who makes a business out of public domain books, a little more care should have been taken.
Lumpkin inside the book does say that he has taken the translation of others and put them together for this book, but unfortunately the book's cover says, "A contemporary translation by Joseph Lumpkin." This, in my view, leads one to believe that these translations were carried out by Lumpkin himself. Clearly that cannot be the case, for Lumpkin has noted otherwise inside the book, and Lumpkin is not an academic and has no knowledge of ancient Greek or Coptic. Instead, turn to Elaine Pagels or Bart Ehrman.

this book arrived before i expected it and in perfect condition. i am so happy to have it to use as reference for my research. thanks.

I feel like I hit the jackpot when reading this book! We are in the process of doing Stephen Adly Guirgis' play The Last Days of Judas Iscariot. I have been a part of this project from it's birth. Thomas' character in the play is very different than anyone has ever seen. This detailed look at Thomas from Mr. Lumpkins text has opened up a plethora of ideas that will enhance this production. We here at studio have found Mr. Lumpkins' work second to none. Artists need to have a voice and we are happy to have found this author. It's the fourth time we have used his work as a resource and our results have opened up an amazing spectrum for debate and questions. We all have a bit of Thomas in us, some more than others.

I love contrary stuff, and this is contrary in bulk. I'm sure that a Christian reader will ignore these quotes of Jesus and they will not shake their faith, but for non-believers...this is ammunition.

To be born again is to die and be born as the opposite sex. Interesting...