Coptic Apocalypse of Paul

The Apocalypse of Paul, in short: ApcPl, is a Gnostic writing, which is in the form of a vision of the rapture and ascension of the apostle Paul. It is part of the Nag Hammadi (NHC V, 2) and is the earliest mid-2nd century have originated.

Content

The vision seems to have been spun out of the note of Paul in 2 Corinthians 12:2-4. The rise of Paul is described by various spheres of heaven, accompanied Jaldabaoths (described as an old man on a throne ), who tried to prevent the further advancement. A soul that does not have the requisite knowledge (gnosis ) to defeat Yaldabaoth here is sent back to the vision to be born again.

Reception

Epiphanius of Salamis says of this writing, they came from the Cainites who saw Cain as the Messiah. For, according to their view of the God of the Old Testament, Yaldabaoth is called, the evil demiurge.