KIRKUS REVIEWS

TITLE INFORMATION
A SIMPLE EXPLANATION OF THE GNOSTIC GOSPEL
Cyd Charise Ropp
ISBN: 9798218985042
August 28, 2024
BOOK REVIEW

A 21st-century Gnostic explores the seminal text of her faith in this nonfiction work.

“Valentinian Gnosticism is a form of proto-Christianity,” writes Ropp in the book’s introduction, asserting her belief that “it is the true, original form of Christianity.” Focusing on the third- or fourth-century Gnostic work the Tripartite Tractate of the Nag Hammadi codices, the author explores an alternative branch of Christianity that was deemed heretical and “wiped out” by Catholicism. In contrast to Roman Catholicism, per Ropp, Gnosticism “encourages a personal relationship with the “God Above All Gods,” eschews hierarchical leadership and rituals, and holds that no church or earthly institution “can give you gnosis” (mystical knowledge). Aiming to “demystify” the “arcane language” of the Tripartite Tractate, as well as to connect the work to the more well-known themes articulated in the Christian New Testament, Ropp systematically walks readers through the major ideas posited in the Gnostic text. Unlike other biblical books, according to the author, the Tripartite Tractate is closer to a philosophical rumination than a collection of myths, as it establishes a thesis about a divine Father before working through the logical implications of that proposition. Ropp’s analytical approach informs her emphasis on applying Gnosticism to modern life, as the author deeply believes that “Gnostic faith is not blind faith but reasonable faith.” Holding a doctorate in classical rhetoric, Ropp is the host of the Gnostic Insights podcast and author of The Gnostic Gospel Illuminated (2019). Here, she offers readers a scholarly exploration of the Tripartite Tractate that challenges popular assumptions, such as the claim by many that Gnosticism is a New Age religion. Her academic approach, backed by scholarly references, is balanced by an engaging writing style geared toward readers unfamiliar with the esoteric nuances of Gnosticism. The work’s accessibility is further supported by a lengthy glossary of terminology as well as the inclusion of full-color images, diagrams, and other visual aids. Even readers unconvinced about the veracity of Gnosticism will find a stimulating reflection on the nature of meaning, knowledge, and truth.

A well-researched, impassioned case for Gnosticism. [Kirkus Reviews]

Psychologist Ropp offers readers just what the title of this illuminating introduction suggests: a clear guide to the basics of gnostic philosophy and theology, as found in the Tripartite Tractate, discovered in Nag Hammadi in 1945. Ropp starts at the beginning, with the “starting hypothesis”: “that there is an original consciousness we call the Father.” From there, she traces out in intricate, inviting detail these ancient teachings as they proceed “logically from that starting proposition through all of the steps necessary to reach our observable universe.” Ropp guides readers through these emanations from the Father—from the Son and the Totalities of the “ALL” to the Demiurge, who created the material realm.

While gnostic theology is complex, Ropp’s explications demystify the key language and ideas while embracing the central mysteries and emphasizing contemporary interpretations. She presents the central impulse as clear, even actionable, for the lay reader: “Onward and upward” to reunion with the divine. Ropp includes graphics to help explain the complex gnostic theology, such as the arrangement of the Aeons of the Fullness or the hierarchy of reality. Throughout, Ropp presents philosophical guidance derived from this rich material, with an emphasis on the “lines” that “separate egoic striving from our ethereal inheritance.” Advice on how to embrace the “Aeonic, virtuous side” of existence and “the Fullness of God” shines through, especially the ideas of repentance, redemption, and “the Simple Golden Rule.” Readers will find much here about our very reasons for living “in a fallen world” and the impulse to embrace “the harmony and mutual love of the Fullness.”

Ropp doesn’t limit her wisdom to gnostic theology. She incorporates ancient texts such as the Tibetan Book of the Dead and contemporary ideas such as meme bundles. Although these are outside the strict scope of classic gnostic thought, they still fit with her broader theology and help illuminate elements that may seem obscure. Ropp’s training in rhetoric and study of gnostic teachings serve her well in laying out these theories of the origin of reality. A reader interested in exploring gnostic theology and ethics will appreciate this clear explanation of one complex text.

Takeaway: Clear, illuminating introduction to gnostic theology and ethics.

Comparable Titles: Elaine Pagels’s The Gnostic Gospels, Marvin W. Meyer’s The Nag Hammadi Scriptures.

A Simple Explanation of the Gnostic Gospel

by Cyd Ropp Ph.D.

Pub Date: Aug 28 2024 | Archive Date: Apr 29 2025

https://www.netgalley.com/catalog/book/622730

Member Reviews

Abigail L, Librarian

A Simple Explanation of the Gnostic Gospel is a clear and eye-opening guide to understanding Gnostic wisdom and the Tripartite Tractate. I really appreciated how the author took something that could easily feel complicated and made it deeply approachable, laying it out from the very beginning of creation through to the ultimate purpose of our lives. Reading this gave me a fresh sense of peace and a deeper connection to spiritual truths that somehow already felt familiar, and I enjoyed the way it encouraged me to reflect on my own place in the bigger cosmic story.

Sue E, Reviewer

✨ If your soul’s been feeling a little homesick, this book is basically its GPS back to where it belongs! I picked up A Simple Explanation of the Gnostic Gospel thinking it might be heavy, but wow—it’s like talking to a super wise friend who’s just explaining what’s always been sitting quietly inside you. 🤯💬 It’s deep, it’s cozy, and it totally blew my mind (in the best way). If you’ve ever wondered if you’re meant for more (spoiler: you ARE), you seriously need to read this. 🕊️📖

Dr. Cyd Ropp’s New Book Provides A Simple Explanation of the Gnostic Gospel

Published at April 23rd 2025, 4:58 PM EDT via AB Newswire

Unlock the Hidden Wisdom of the Gospels With A Simple, Eye-Opening Journey Through Gnostic Christianity

What if the answers to life’s biggest questions were already within you—waiting to be remembered? In her book, A Simple Explanation of the Gnostic Gospel, author and scholar Dr. Cyd Ropp invites readers on a revelatory journey through ancient Gnostic teachings that illuminate our cosmic origin, spiritual purpose, and divine inheritance. Drawing from the Tripartite Tractate of the Nag Hammadi library, Dr. Ropp decodes sacred texts in clear, accessible language—making profound wisdom from early Christianity available to today’s readers.

More than a scholarly work, this book is a spiritual awakening—organized in the order creation itself emerged. It explores:

The path of consciousness from the Father through the Son to all living beings
The divine purpose behind human life
The truth of redemption and our ultimate return to the Fullness of God
How ancient Valentinian Gnosticism reflects the original teachings of Christ

Whether you’re a seeker, spiritual scholar, or curious reader, A Simple Explanation of the Gnostic Gospel offers a transformative lens through which to see your place in the universe and your relationship with the divine.

About the Author

Dr. Cyd Ropp holds a Ph.D. in Communication from the University of Memphis and has spent decades studying comparative religion and classical philosophy. Her diverse background includes careers in education, counseling, and hospitality. Today, she brings deep clarity and compassion to spiritual topics that often feel inaccessible or misunderstood.

Learn more at https://gnosticinsights.com Follow on Facebook: facebook.com/profile.php?id=61565571241898

Awaken the truth already written in your soul. Get your copy today. Available on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0DDVVYG7

A Simple Explanation of the Gnostic Gospel

By Cyd Ropp, Ph.D.

Published by Bluebird Publishing | August 28, 2024

ISBN: 979-8218982201 | Religion/Spirituality