The Discourse on the Eighth and Ninth is a Hermetic text found at Nag Hammadi that presents a spiritual dialogue between a student and his master. According to the text, the teacher guides his student through an initiation ritual wherein the pair conjure the 8th heaven in fits of religious ecstasy. Empowered by the 9th, the teacher reveals ineffable truths to his underling, who ascends to the next level of sacred knowledge. Afterward, the teacher instructs him to document what has taken place and to guard his writings faithfully. This discourse offers a glimpse into the inner rituals of esoteric traditions.
Other Gospels proudly presents as part of our Nag Hammadi Initiative. The Coptic text was translated by Samuel Zinner and edited by Mark Mattison via our financial support. Introduction and technical editing by Rachel Bousfield.
How to cite:
Zinner, Samuel. . Translated by Samuel Zinner, edited by Mark Mattison and Rachel Bousfield. Other Gospels. (accessed ).
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The rendering of the above scripture was made possible by Willis Barnstone, who has graciously provided exclusive permission to present it here. All rights including the right of electronic reproduction are reserved by the author. Chapter and verse numbers have been added to aid reference.
For more of Dr. Barnstone's wonderful works, check out his and Marvin Meyer's The Gnostic Bible.