The Lost Gospel of Judas Iscariot: A New Look at Betrayer and Betrayed by Bart D. Ehrman

“The Lost Gospel of Judas Iscariot: A New Look at Betrayer and Betrayed” is a book by Bart D. Ehrman that explores the discovery and significance of the Gospel of Judas, a recently discovered ancient text that sheds new light on the story of Judas Iscariot, one of Jesus’ twelve apostles.

Ehrman begins the book by providing an overview of the historical and theological context of the Gospel of Judas. He explains the discovery of the text and its translation, and explores the ways in which it challenges traditional views of Judas as a villainous figure who betrayed Jesus.

One of the key arguments that Ehrman makes in the book is that the Gospel of Judas was likely written by a group of early Christian Gnostics who held alternative views of Jesus and his teachings. He argues that the text reflects the Gnostic belief that the material world is corrupt and that salvation can only be achieved through secret knowledge and spiritual enlightenment.

Ehrman also explores the ways in which the Gospel of Judas challenges traditional Christian beliefs about Jesus, including the idea that Jesus was a divine figure who came to Earth to save humanity from sin. He argues that the text presents a more complex and nuanced view of Jesus and his teachings, one that is more consistent with Gnostic beliefs.

Overall, “The Lost Gospel of Judas Iscariot” is a fascinating exploration of an important ancient text that challenges traditional views of Judas and Jesus. Ehrman’s scholarship provides valuable insights into the historical and theological context of the Gospel of Judas, and his analysis of the text’s significance is sure to stimulate further debate and discussion.