Gnostic Writings on the Soul: Annotated & Explained

Two ancient Gnostic texts—The Exegesis on the Soul and The Hymn of the Pearl—explore the concept of the soul. In addition to modern translations of these ancient texts, Andrew Philip Smith provides commentary, offering analysis and historical context. The Exegesis on the Soul depicts the soul as a feminine figure who has fallen into the corrupted world and must find her way back to the Divine—a story of struggle and redemption. The Hymn of the Pearl is an allegorical story about a prince sent to retrieve a precious pearl but who soon forgets his purpose and falls asleep. It is a tale of the importance of remembering one’s identity and calling.