RELIGIOUS STUDIES / WOMEN'S STUDIES "The Gospel of Mary, taken with the inspired commentary by Jean-Yves Leloup, can help toward making the teaching of Jesus once again alive." --Jacob Needleman, author of Lost Christianity and The American Soul "One welcomes this solid telling of the story and meaning of a neglected text at the root of Christian wisdom and of a neglected figure who had a special relationship with both the historical Jesus in his lifetime and with the Christ spirit after the death of Jesus." --Matthew Fox, author of Original Blessing "Readers will welcome this perceptive translation and the insightful commentary by scholar-mystic Jean-Yves Leloup. The journey of the soul and other profound and subtle teachings of Jesus and his beloved Miriam will enlighten modern seekers." --Margaret Starbird, author of Woman with the Alabaster Jar Perhaps no figure in biblical scholarship has been the subject of more controversy and debate than Mary Magdalene. As the first witness to the Resurrection, Mary was considered by the apostle John to be the founder of Christianity. In most theological studies she has been depicted as a reformed prostitute, the redeemed sinner who exemplifies Christ's mercy. Today's reader can ponder her role through references in the four canonical gospels and in the Gnostic gospels of Philip, Thomas, Peter, and Bartholomew rejected by the early Christian church. Mary's own gospel is among these, but until now it has remained unknown to the public at large. Orthodox theologian Jean-Yves Leloup's translation of the Gospel of Mary from the Coptic and his profound commentary on this text are presented here for the first time in English. What emerges from this important source text and commentary is a renewal of the sacred feminine in the Western spiritual tradition and a new vision for Christian thought and faith throughout the world. JEAN-YVES LELOUP is the founder of the Institute of Other Civilization Studies and the International College of Therapists. His other books include Absurdity and Grace, Lack and Fullness, and a commentary on the Gospel of Thomas. He lives in France.