Towards a Manichaean Reading of the Nag Hammadi Codices

Abstract

This article outlines some of the complexities apparent in the literary and historical relationship between the Nag Hammadi writings and Manichaeism. In particular, it examines the trajectories of reception, redaction, and refutation reflected on both sides of this relationship. As a prolegomena to future research, it aims to lay the groundwork for a more nuanced understanding of how Manichaeans read and even influenced several key Nag Hammadi texts.