Skip to content

Been Quote by Elaine Pagels

“The Gospel of Judas really has been a surprise in many ways. For one thing, there's no other text that suggests that Judas Iscariot was an intimate, trusted disciple, one to whom Jesus revealed the secrets of the kingdom, and that conversely, the other disciples were misunderstanding what he meant…” quote by Elaine Pagels
Download Open image
“The Gospel of Judas really has been a surprise in many ways. For one thing, there's no other text that suggests that Judas Iscariot was an intimate, trusted disciple, one to whom Jesus revealed the secrets of the kingdom, and that conversely, the other disciples were misunderstanding what he meant by the gospel.”

Elaine Pagels

About This Quote

Source Book: The Gospel of Judas, 2006

The quote highlights the surprising portrayal of Judas as a trusted disciple who receives secret teachings, contrasting with other disciples' misunderstandings.

In simple terms: Judas is shown as a close confidant of Jesus, unlike other disciples.

Key Takeaway

Consider alternative perspectives on familiar narratives.

Themes

religion interpretation history secret knowledge trust

Mood

thoughtful inquisitive

Type

theological scholarly

When to use this quote

  • academic study
  • seminar discussion
  • personal meditation on scripture

Key Concepts

theology historical criticism literary analysis

Questions to Reflect On

  • What does this reinterpretation suggest about authority?
  • How does secret knowledge affect faith?
A Different Perspective

Traditional views may resist reinterpreting Judas.

3.8 out of 5 (5 ratings)

More by Elaine Pagels

Explore all 81 Elaine Pagels quotes

More Been quotes

Browse all 13,699 Been quotes