Catholicity and Gnosis

Name: Catholicity and Gnosis
Author: Samuel Taylor Coleridge

The work explores the dichotomy between catholicity and gnosticism in early Christian literature. It posits that catholicity served as a criterion for determining the canonicity of texts, contrasting with the gnostic tendency to interpret Scriptures in a fantastical manner. The author emphasizes that gnostic knowledge, which is characterized by a sense of superiority, is distinct from genuine knowledge. The Epistle of Barnabas is cited as an example of gnostic interpretation, while the Epistle to the Hebrews is noted for its unique position within the canon, having been initially excluded due to its gnostic elements. However, its eventual inclusion is attributed to its significant merit and the association with St. Paul, which helped secure its acceptance by the church. The text further discusses the roles of key figures in early Christianity, particularly St. Paul, who is portrayed as a defender and explainer of Christian doctrines, especially those related to metaphysics. The author suggests that St. Paul's background and education equipped him to articulate complex theological concepts effectively. Overall, the work delves into the historical and theological implications of these two contrasting spirits, examining their influence on the formation of Christian doctrine and the canon of Scripture.

By Samuel Taylor Coleridge · First published 1832 · Genre: Theology, Philosophy, Religious Studies · 483 words

First lines

In the first century, catholicity was the test of a book or epistle -- whether it were of the Evangelicon or Apostolicon -- being canonical. This catholic spirit was opposed to the gnostic or peculiar spirit, -- the humour of fantastical interpretation of the old Scriptures into Christian meanings. It is this gnosis, or _knowingness,_ which the Apostle says puffeth up, -- not _knowledge_, as we translate it. The Epistle of Barnabas, of the genuineness of which I have no sort of doubt, is an example of this gnostic spirit. The Epistle to the Hebrews is the only instance of gnosis in the canon: it was written evidently by some apostolical man before the destruction of the Temple, and probably at Alexandria. For three hundred years, and more, it was not admitted into the canon, especially not by the Latin church, on account of this difference in it from the other Scriptures. But its merit was so great, and the gnosis in it is so kept within due bounds, that its admirers at last succeeded, especially by affixing St. Paul's name to it, to have it included in the canon; which was first done, I think, by the council of Laodicea in the middle of the fourth century. Fortunately for us it was so.

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Catholicity and Gnosis is listed on Textopian as an essay by Samuel Taylor Coleridge, dated 1832 CE.

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Work type: Essay
Author: Samuel Taylor Coleridge
Date: 1832 CE
Language: English
Genres: Theology, Philosophy, Religious Studies, Literary Criticism, History
Length: 483 words
Structure: 1 section, 4 paragraphs
Reading fit: Fairly Difficult (10th-12th Grade)

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Genres

Theology — The book discusses the nature of Christian doctrine and the distinction between catholicity and gnosticism.
Philosophy — It explores metaphysical concepts and the philosophical implications of religious texts.
Religious Studies — The work examines the historical and canonical aspects of Christian scriptures.
Literary Criticism — It analyzes the interpretation of biblical texts and their literary significance.