Pistis Sophia

One of the most important surviving texts of the Gnostic tradition, Pistis Sophia presents a vast and intricate vision of the spiritual universe, the soul's journey toward redemption, and the hidden mysteries revealed by the risen Christ.

Literally translated from the Coptic by George Horner and introduced by Francis Legge, this remarkable work records dialogues between the resurrected Jesus and his disciples, including Mary Magdalene, Mary the mother of Jesus, Martha, and others. Over the course of these conversations, Christ unveils profound teachings concerning the structure of the heavens, the nature of divine wisdom, the fate of the soul after death, and the mysteries necessary for spiritual ascent.

At the heart of the text stands the dramatic story of Pistis Sophia, a heavenly being who falls from her exalted realm into chaos and suffering before beginning a long path of repentance and restoration. Her prayers, struggles, and ultimate redemption form one of the most powerful and influential narratives in Gnostic literature, symbolizing the soul's search for divine light and reunion with the spiritual world.

Beyond this central narrative, Pistis Sophia explores complex cosmologies, spiritual hierarchies, baptismal mysteries, judgment, forgiveness, and the hidden knowledge believed to lead the soul toward the highest realms of light. The text preserves one of the richest surviving expressions of ancient Gnostic spirituality and offers invaluable insight into early Christian mystical thought.

Combining George Horner's respected literal translation with Francis Legge's scholarly introduction, this edition remains an essential resource for students of Gnosticism, early Christianity, esoteric religion, and the history of mystical thought.