Description
Book SynopsisThe three principal infancy gospels-the Infancy Gospel of James, the Book of Joseph the High Priest, and the Infancy Gospel of Thomas-are accounts of the birth and early life of Mary and of the birth and early life of Jesus. These apocryphal stories are fictions but nevertheless of great historical interest in terms of the beliefs and storytelling of early Christians, for they are the sources of well-known Christian legends as well as some of Christianity's beloved heroes and heroines. Now you can experience the mystery and amusement of these charming folktales without any previous knowledge of early Christian history or thought. This SkyLight Illuminations edition offers insightful yet unobtrusive commentary that explains references and philosophical terms, shares inspiring interpretations of famous spiritual teachers, and gives you a deeper understanding of the sources of devotion Christians feel for the holy infant Jesus. Sharing these folktales told by the ordinary people of early Christianity provides access to the great insight these writings offer into the Christian people's religion of ancient times rather than to the religion of the literate elites
Trade Review"Accessible and insightful … helps us appreciate the imaginative storytelling in these narratives as well as their piety and theological content—and even their occasional humor. An ideal starting point for the study of these fascinating gospels." —Robert J. Miller, author, Born Divine: The Births of Jesus and Other Sons of God “Clear, accurate and fun to read.... I love this book! Weaves solid historical scholarship with a deep appreciation for folk traditions and fiction. Gives us a sense of the creativity involved in thinking about the infancy of Jesus and his mother, Mary. I will assign it for students next semester.” —Jane Schaberg, professor of religious and women's/gender studies, University of Detroit Mercy “Filled with incidents that are magical, touching, humorous, even shocking, but always entertaining. Davies’ translations are appropriately idiomatic, and his comments are informative and insightful by comparing these stories not only to pagan, Christian and Jewish parallels but also to versions of some of the stories in the Qur’an.” —Ronald F. Hock, professor of religion, University of Southern California
Table of ContentsForeword by A. Edward Siecienski, PhD Introduction: Tales from the Childhood of Mary and Jesus The Gospel of James Joachim and Anne: The Gift of Mary Mary: The Story of Her Birth Mary: Raised in Blessing and Purity Joseph: Mary's Protector Mary: Miraculous Conception Joseph and Mary: Accused and Tested Mary and Joseph: The Christmas Story The Magi: In Search of a King Herod: The Murder of Zechariah The Gospel of the Infancy A Cave, Not a Stable: The Nativity Story A Sinful Mary and the Anointing of Christ Jesus in the Temple The Magi and Herod: Varying Views of Jesus Into Egypt: The Holy Family in Flight Exorcising a Deaf and Dumb Demon 83 The Bridegroom Mule: A Brother Restore Bandits: In Them, Jesus Sees His Destiny 93 Balsams in His Path: The Holy Child Return The Co-Wife’s Punishment Satan’s Bite: The Young Judas Iscariot Divine Mischief: The Boy Jesus at Play The King, Christ and a Snake The Infancy Gospel of Thomas The Introduction to the Gospel of Thomas Clay Sparrows: A Dark Miracle The Vengeful Boy: Christ in Conflict The Young Healer Explores His Powers Divine Carpenter: Jesus Adjusts His Elder’s Mistakes The Pupil Teaches His Teacher The Miraculous Physician In the House of My Father: Jesus in the Temple Notes Suggestions for Further Reading
