The Gospel of Mary has been discussed within a range of Gnostic literature which pertains to the speculative descriptions and mythical imagery of female symbols such as Sophia, Eve and soul. However, Mary appearing as a main character in the Gospel of...
The Gospel of Mary has been discussed within a range of Gnostic literature which pertains to the speculative descriptions and mythical imagery of female symbols such as Sophia, Eve and soul. However, Mary appearing as a main character in the Gospel of Mary shows distinctive features of an outstanding disciple of Jesus. She is depicted as a historical figure who is receiving Saviour’s teachings for encouraging other male disciples to perform their mission. This study is to seek to reconstruct the historical female figure of early christianity who is reflected in the Gospel of Mary, Mary Magdalene. Comparing with other contemporary woman images from Gnostic literatures, the image of Mary constructed in this Gospel functions as an excellent woman leadership in early Christian Community. Regarding this function this study attempts to introduce feminist scholarly efforts which have been correcting the distorted images of Mary Magdalene such as a sexual sinner through Western Christianity. In this pursuit, Mary Magdalene can be rediscovered as one of the great woman leaders in Christianity.