Geoffrey S. Smith's innovative new book offers a major contribution: a complete anthology of sources attributed to the second-century Egyptian teacher Valentinus and his Christian followers, who revered him as a spiritual master, poet, and visionary--before later generations of church leaders denounced him as a dangerous heretic. Valentinian Christianity invites readers to decide for themselves! --Elaine Pagels, Harrington Spear Paine Foundation Professor of Religion, Princeton University Finally, a convenient, expertly edited text-and-translation volume of primary sources for the Valentinians. What the Loeb series did for classical texts, Smith has now done for this important strand of early Christianity. An ideal tool both for desk reference and for teaching. --Matthew V. Novenson, Senior Lecturer in New Testament and Christian Origins, University of Edinburgh
