The First Apocalypse of James: A Public Domain Synoptic Translation
Public-domain synoptic translation of NHC V,3 // Codex Tchacos 2 // P.Oxy. 5533. (ref)
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The First Apocalypse of James:
A Public Domain Synoptic Translation
by Mark M. Mattison
This translation has been committed to the public domain. It may be freely copied and used,
in whole or in part, changed or unchanged, for any purpose.
This ancient Apocalypse is currently known from three manuscripts. The first, titled “The
Apocalypse of James,” is commonly referred to as “The First Apocalypse of James” because it is
the first of two fragmented tractates with the same name in Nag Hammadi Codex V, a fourth-
century codex discovered in 1945. The second, titled simply “James,” is the second tractate in the
Codex Tchacos, a fourth-century codex discovered sometime in the 1970s and first published in
2006. The third is known from Greek fragments dating to the fourth or fifth century, discovered
more recently and first published in 2021. Scholars generally agree that the Apocalypse was first
written in Greek in the second century.
This synoptic translation would not have been possible without the prior work of many
gifted scholars whose works are listed in the Bibliography. I’m particularly grateful for the help of
two outstanding scholars: Lance Jenott, Director of Religious Studies at the Washington University
in St. Louis, and Samuel Zinner, a scholar of ancient and modern history, literatures, and linguistics.
Both have generously provided not only additional resources, but hours of personal conversation
and insights on the more difficult passages. Though this translation has benefitted significantly
from these conversations, nevertheless any flaws or mistakes are obviously my own.
This document was first published on-line on July 24, 2023 and most recently corrected on
May 16, 2025. Please forward notices of errors or suggested corrections to:
Sigla
. Uncertain letter
[ ] Gap in the text or reconstructed text
( ) Editorial insertion to clarify the text
< > Editorial correction of a scribal error
{ } Text erroneously added by the scribe
Bold numerals in the body of the text denote page numbers of the Coptic codices.
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The First Apocalypse of James
Introduction: Jesus and James
Nag Hammadi Codex (NHC) V, 3 Codex Tchacos (CT), 2
24 It was the Lord who said to me, “See now the fulfillment 10 “Since I see (the fulfillment) of my liberation, I’ll
of my liberation.1I’ve explained these things to you, my brother tell you, my brother James. You’re not called ‘brother’ for
James. I haven’t called you ‘my brother’ for nothing, even nothing, even though [you’re] not a brother physically;
though you’re not my brother physically; it’s not like I don’t but you don’t know yourself, so I’ll tell you who I am.
know you, so when I explain it you, pay attention and listen. Listen.
The One Who Exists
Nothing existed except the One Who Exists, Nothing existed except the One Who Exists, who [can’t be] named
who can’t be named or described. I, who can’t be or described [among those who] exist or will exist. But as for me, I’m
named either, am from the One Who Exists, though from the One Who Exists, who can’t be named. And while I’ve been
[a] number of names have been [given] to me. <You called [by a number of] names, they’re not mine; they’re [foreign] to
and I> both come from the One Who Exists, but [I] me. But I’m [not first]. I’m second from the One Who Exists.
am before you.
Achamoth (the “Lower Wisdom”) Creates Powers and Gods
Since you’ve asked about the feminine, she Since you’ve asked about the feminine, listen. The feminine existed,
existed, but she wasn’t [first]. [She] prepared but she didn’t exist first. She created [powers] and gods for herself. So
powers and gods for herself. But [she] didn’t exist the One Who Exists, exists from the beginning. The feminine (creator)
[when] I came out, 25 because I’m an image of the also exists, but not from the beginning. 11 But I’m the one who came
One Who Exists. But I’ve brought out the image from the image of the One Who Exists to tell you about the One Who
of [the One Who Exists] so that the children Exists. But I also came to tell you about the image of the powers so that
(ni$hre) of the One Who [Exists] may know what the children (N$hre) of the One Who Exists will know what belongs to
belongs to them and what’s foreign. Look, I’ll them and what doesn’t belong to them. Look, I’ve revealed (qwlp) the
reveal (qwLP) every part of this mystery to you, mystery to you. They’ll [arrest (è[maxte]) me after] 3 days and [will
because they’ll arrest (amaxte) me (the day) after judge] me. [A crowd of elders will condemn] me and [curse] me, but my
tomorrow, but my liberation will be near.” [liberation] is near.”
James said, “Rabbi, you’ve said ‘They’ll [But] in response [James] said, “Rabbi, what are you saying? If they
arrest (amaxte) me.’ But I, what can I do?” arrest (amaxte) you, then what will I do?”
The Twelve Rulers
He said to me, “Don’t be afraid, James. They’ll arrest In response he said to him, “When they arrest (amaxte)
(amaxte) you too. But leave Jerusalem, because it always you and stone you, you’ll be liberated. But don’t return to
gives the cup of bitterness to the children (N$hre) of light. Jerusalem, because it always gives the cup of bitterness 12 to the
A number of rulers live there.2But your liberation will be children (N$hre) of light. A number of rulers live there. So
liberated from them. (And) so that you know may know your liberation [is] that you liberate yourself from them, and it’s
(both) who they are [and] what kinds of things they are, for you to know what they’re like and how many of them there
you’ll [leave]. And listen, not (about) [all of them], but […]. are – not all of them, but the first ones. Listen!
NHC V, 3, 24 // CT 2, 10: ... my liberation, i.e., Jesus’ liberation from his physical body. Cf. CT 2, 11, where Jesus tells James that “When they arrest
you and stone you, you’ll be liberated.”
NHC V, 3, 25 // CT 2, 12: A number of rulers live there. Though the lines between “spiritual rulers” and “earthly rulers” is often blurred (cf. note
below on NHC V, 3, 33 // CT 2, 20), these (twelve) rulers were created by the feminine ... for herself (cf. NHC V, 3, 24 // CT 2, 10, above; later in the
text, it is revealed that this feminine creator is Achamoth, also known as the “lower wisdom.”) According to NHC V, 3, 36 // CT 2, 23, the
twelve rulers are “prototypes” of the twelve disciples and their seventy-two companions (for seventy or seventy-two disciples after the
twelve, cf. Luke 10:1,17). Just prior to his false arrest and martyrdom, James disabuses the twelve disciples of their misconceptions
in NHC V, 3, 42.
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Nag Hammadi Codex (NHC) V, 3 Codex Tchacos (CT), 2
“The twelve […] rulers […], each [one of them …] “Those I’ve brought with me from […] down […] rulers, each
26 over his own group of Seven.” one on his [group of Seven].”
James said, “Are there then, Rabbi, twelve groups In response [James] said, “Are there then, Rabbi, [12] groups
of Seven and not seven, as there are in the Scriptures?” of Seven and not seven, [as] we have it in the Scripture?”
The Lord said, “James, the one who spoke through Jesus said, “The one who spoke through this very Scripture
this Scripture understood only up to a point. But I’ll reported only up to the point that he was able to understand. But
reveal (qwLP) to you what has come from the One who I’ll reveal (qwlp) to you what has come from the One who can’t
can’t be numbered. I’ll show you concerning their be numbered and has made known his number, what has come
number. As for what has come from the One who can’t from the One who can’t be measured and has made known their
be measured, I’ll show you concerning their measure.” 13 measure.”
The Seventy-Two Companions
James said, “So then, Rabbi, look, I’ve received their “If then, Rabbi, I’ll withdraw from the number of the
number. There are seventy-two <companions.1Who> are they?” rulers, who are these seventy-two companions?”
The Lord said, “These are the seventy-two lesser heavens He said, “<These> are the 72 lesser heavens which
that belong to them. These are the powers of all their might, and are among them. [But] those that are greater than they are
they were set up by them; and they’re the ones that have been the powers that are above, those through which the entire
assigned over every place under the [authority] of the twelve axis (of the universe) stands and [… can’t be numbered
rulers. The lesser power that’s in them [brought forth] for herself … ] but […] because of the […] that’s in you. They’re
angels [and] hosts that can’t be numbered. But [the One Who innumerable. But if you [want], you’ll count them, but you
Exists] was given […] because of […] the One Who Exists […] can’t do it now unless you cast out the blindness that’s in
that can’t be numbered. 27 If you want to number them now, your heart [and] this very bond that’s in the flesh. Then
you won’t be able to (do it) until you cast out from yourself you’ll reach up to the One Who Exists, and you won’t be
blind thought, this bond of flesh that surrounds you. And then James anymore, 14 but one who in every way is in the One
you’ll reach up to the One Who Exists, and you won’t be James Who Exists. Those who aren’t numbered will be [counted]
anymore, but you’re the One Who Exists. And all those who before you, and all that can’t be measured [will be]
aren’t numbered will all have been named.” measured for you.”
The Opposition of the Powers
“Rabbi, how will I reach up to the One Who Exists, since In response he said, “Rabbi, how will I reach up to the
all these powers and these hosts are armed against me?” One Who Exists, since so many powers fight [against me?]”
He said to me, “These powers aren’t armed against just you,
but they’re armed against others. These powers are armed
against me, and they’re armed with other [powers]. But they’re
armed against me [in] judgment. [But] they don’t [judge] me […]
to me in it […] through them […] in this place […] sufferings
(Mkoox). I’ll […] he’ll […] 28 and I won’t rebuke them,
but there’ll be a silence and a hidden mystery in me. But “[…] but [a silence and a] hidden mystery is in me. But
I’m afraid in the face of their wrath.” I’m afraid in the face of [their wrath].”
James said, “Rabbi, if they arm themselves against “If they’ve armed themselves against you like this,
you, then there’s no blame. how much more (will they arm themselves against) me?
Because, Rabbi,
You’ve come with knowledge You’ve come [with] knowledge
to rebuke their forgetfulness; to rebuke their ignorance,
you’ve come with memory and you’ve come with memory
to rebuke their ignorance. to rebuke their forgetfulness.
NHC V, 3, 26: ... seventy-two <companions. Who> are they? Following Wolf-Peter Funk, “The Significance of the Tchacos Codex for
Understanding the First Apocalypse of James” in April DeConick, ed., The Codex Judas papers: proceedings of the International Congress on the Tchacos
Codex held at Rice University, Housting, Texas, March 13-16, 2008 [Brill], 2009, 518-519. For similar cosmogonies featuring the numbers “12”
and “72,” see On the Origin of the World (NHC II, 5, 105), Eugnostos the Blessed (NHC III, 3, 83), and The Gospel of Judas (CT 4, 49).
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Nag Hammadi Codex (NHC) V, 3 Codex Tchacos (CT), 2
But I’m <not> worried about you: 15 But I’m not worried about you, because
Because (although) you’ve come down into a great ignorance, (although) you’ve come to ignorance,
but you weren’t corrupted by anything in it. and you weren’t corrupted by anything in it.
Because you’ve come down into thoughtlessness, You came to forgetfulness,
and your memory stayed with you. and memory was within you.
You walked in mud, You walked in the mud,
and your clothes weren’t corrupted, and you weren’t corrupted.
nor were you buried in their filth, They didn’t receive your vengeance (M÷öutaxo
nor did they lay hold of you (oute neutaxo Mmok an). Mpekkba).
And I wasn’t like them, but I clothed myself with everything Now, I’m not like this, but all the forgetfulness with
that’s theirs. which I’ve clothed [myself] is [from them, and] I
There’s forgetfulness in me, don’t remember.
and I remember things that aren’t theirs. Those who are mine don’t know me, [but] I’m fully
[…] in […] and I in their […] I found knowledge. in the know.
James’ Liberation
“I’m not [concerned] for their sufferings (Mkoox) […] but “And I’m not concerned for the torments that are in
I’ve become afraid [of them because] they (have power to) this place, [but] about their (power to) conquer
conquer (am[ax]úe). Because what 29 will they do? What will I (eúbì[p]ìuaóaĂ[te]). What [will you do? What] will you
be able to say? What statement will I be able to make (N$aje say? By what statement (N$aje) [will I] be saved?”
pe+na$joof) to escape them?”
The Lord said, “James, I praise your understanding “James, I praise your understanding (xht), and fear is
(dianoia) and your fear. If you continue devoting yourself making you so devoted (cote eire Mmok’’ Mma!xIse). Don’t
(viloponi), don’t be concerned about anything except your be concerned about anything except your liberation. Look, I’ll
liberation. Because look, I’ll complete this destiny on the go and prepare this very destiny on the earth as it has been
earth as I have said from the heavens, and I’ll reveal (qwLP’) prepared in the heavens, 16 and after this I’ll reveal (qwlp)
your liberation to you.” your liberation to you.”
Overcoming the Rulers
James said, “Rabbi, how? Will you appear (ouwNX) to us “Rabbi, how? Will you appear (öûwôĂ) to me after
again after these things – after they arrest (amaxte) you, and you these things – after you’re judged, and the destiny is
complete this destiny, and you go up to the One Who Exists?” prepared, and you’ve reached the One Who Exists?”
The Lord said, “James, after these things, I’ll reveal (ouwNX) “James, after these things, I’ll appear (ouwnX) to you in
everything to you – not just for you, but for the unbelief of this place not just <for you>, [but] for the [unbelief] of
people – so that [faith will] be among them. For many will people, because how else would [faith] be among them?
[reach] faith [and] will increase [in it], until [they come] [But many] will turn to faith and grow in it, until they come
Nag Hammadi Codex (NHC) V, 3 Codex Tchacos (CT), 2 P.Oxy. LXXXVI 5533
[to] knowledge. 30 And after this, to knowledge. And for this, I’ll [appear] “[…] to knowledge. Because of this, I’ll
I’ll appear (ouwNX) to refute ([ouwnx ebol]) to rebuke (jpio) the appear (φανήσομαι) to refute (ἀπέλεγξιν) the
(soxe) the rulers, and I’ll reveal rulers, [and I’ll] reveal ([ou]wnX) to rulers, to show (φ[α]νερῶσαι) them this: the
(ouÿnX) to them that this one them that there’s one who can’t be one who can’t be overcome (ἀκράτητος).
can’t be overcome (atemaxte). If overcome (atamAXte). When they
they overcome (amaxte) him, then overcome (amaxte) him, then he When he’s overcome (κρατηθῇ), then he’ll
he’ll overcome (amaxte) them all. overcomes (amaXTe). So now, I’ll go. overcome (κεκράτηκεν) all. Now, I’m going.
But now, I’ll go. Remember what Remember what I’ve said, and let it Remember what’s been said and let [it]
I’ve said, and let it sink in.” grow within you.” grow in you.”
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Nag Hammadi Codex (NHC) V, 3 Codex Tchacos (CT), 2 P.Oxy. LXXXVI 5533
James said, “Lord, I’ll hurry to do “I’ll hurry, Rabbi, to do “I’ll hurry […]”
what you’ve said.” what you’ve said.”
The Passion
The Lord <left> and fulfilled And Jesus went and prepared
what was fitting.1 what was fitting for him.
When James heard of his sufferings But James heard about his [But] James heard of his
(Mkoox) and he was deeply distressed sufferings (XIse) and 17 was deeply [sufferings] (τ[ἀ] π[ά]θ[η] αὐτοῦ) and
(afMkax Nxht’ emate), they were grieved (aflupei mp$a), and he was grieved ([λυπ]ἡ[θ]η), and he
waiting for the sign (tupos) of his coming. awaited his coming. The only awaited his coming.
thing he had to console himself
with was waiting for his coming.
Jesus Appears to James
But he came after some days. And And it was two days, and look! [But] he was beside him (again)
James was walking on the mountain James was ministering on the after [2] days, [and look! James] was
called “Gaugelan” with his disciples, [mountain] called “Galgelam” […] going to the mountain called “Golgoul”
who listened to him [since they] were there […] with his disciples [who] with [his own] disciples who gladly
distressed ([x]w$ Nxht). And they listened to him willingly (swtM erof (ἡδέως) heard him. [And] they had him
had him as a comforter. They said, eXNau). And they had him as a for encouragement. They said, “[This]
“This is the second [teacher comforter. They said, “This is the is the second teacher ([δ]ιδάσκαλως).”
([ref+sb]w).”2Then the] crowd second teacher (sAX).” And look! They And look! The people (ὁ λ<α>ός) were
dispersed, but James stayed [by dispersed, and James stayed by himself scattered […] was left [by himself …]
himself] praying [fervently] ([emate]), and prayed fervently (Mp$a), as he was pray […]
as 31 he was accustomed to doing accustomed to doing (kata tefXE).
(Nce eteöuNtaf Noutwp’ Mmau).
And the Lord appeared to him. But suddenly Jesus appeared to […] to him the [Lord … stopping]
Then he stopped praying, hugged him him, and he stopped praying and the prayer, he started to hug him
(maLX<k>3NxhtF), and kissed him. started to hug him (jitF erof). This ([λα]βε[ῖν] αὐτόν). He said, [“Rabbi], I
He said, “Rabbi, I’ve found you! I is what he said: “Rabbi, I left you! I have you! I heard what you [suffered
heard about the sufferings (Mkoox) heard what you endured, and I was (ἔπ[αθες]) and] I was grieved
you endured, and my emotional very grieved (a!lupi Mp$a). You (ἐλυπήθην) […]”
suffering was great (a!Mkax Nxht’ know how much I care about you.
emate). You know how much I care That’s why I didn’t want to be with
about you. That’s why, I think, I didn’t you, 18 so that I wouldn’t see this very
want to see this (group of) people (group of) people (epeeilaos ete
(epe!laos) (anymore). They must be paei pe). It will be condemned,
judged for the things they’ve done, because what they’ve done is horrible
because what they’ve done isn’t right.” to see.”
Jesus Encourages James
Nag Hammadi Codex (NHC) V, 3 Codex Tchacos (CT), 2
The Lord said, “James, don’t be concerned about “James, don’t be concerned about the people
me or about this people (pe!laos). I’m the One (÷ò[a]ö[s]) or about me, because I’m the One who’s
who’s within me. At no time did I suffer (Mkax) within myself from the beginning. For I didn’t suffer (xise)
NHC V, 3, 30: … the Lord <left> ... Ibid., 519-520. ... fulfilled what was fitting // CT 2, 16: ... prepared what was fitting for him, i.e., Jesus left James in
order to be crucified so that his physical body would die.
NHC V, 3, 30 // CT 2, 17 // P.Oxy. LXXXVI 5533: ... the second teacher, i.e., second after Jesus, or Jesus’ successor.
NHC V, 3, 31: malX<k>. Lance Jenott proposed this reconstruction based on molXK on page 32 in a conversation on June 28, 2023.
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Nag Hammadi Codex (NHC) V, 3 Codex Tchacos (CT), 2
anything, nor was I harmed (XIse), and this (group of) in any way, nor did I die; and this very (group of) people
people (pe!laos) didn’t do me any harm (’xoou). But it (peeiòèos etì paei pe) didn’t do any harm (pecoou). But
was inflicted on an image (outupos) of the rulers,1and it it was inflicted on the image (ptupos) of the rulers, for whom
was right that it should be [destroyed] by them. […] But the <it was right> to be prepared. It was the rulers who prepared
rulers […] he [came to his end]. But [you’re concerned, him, then he came to his end. But watch out, because the just
because the] just [God] is angry with [you, since you’ve God is angry, for you’ve been a servant to him. That’s why you
been] 32 a servant to him. That’s why your name is ‘James received the name ‘James the Just.’ See, already you’ve been
the Just.’ You see how you’ll sober up when you’ve seen released, since you’ll know me and you’ll know yourself. And
me. And you stopped this prayer since you’re a just man of you yourself will stop the prayer that the just God prayed.”
God, and then you hugged (molXK) and kissed me. 19 And as for me, he hugged (ji) me and kissed me.
“Truly, I tell you that you’ve stirred up great anger and “Truly, I tell you that he’s stirred up his anger and wrath
wrath against yourself, but (that’s) so that these other against you, but that it’s right that these things also happen.”
things might happen.”
But James was fainthearted. He wept, and his emotional But James was fainthearted. [He wept], and he was very
suffering was great (afMkax Nxht’ emate). And they both sat grieved (aflupi Mp$a). [And] they both sat down on the
down on a rock. rock.
The Lord said to him, “James, that’s how you’ll come by [Jesus] said to James, “James, it’s right that these things
your sufferings (Mkoox), but don’t be sad, because the flesh is will happen to you, but don’t be grieved. The flesh is weak.
weak. It’ll receive what’s appointed for it. But you, don’t be It’ll receive what’s assigned to it. But you, don’t be
[faint]hearted or afraid.” The Lord [stopped]. fainthearted, and don’t fear anything.”
[But] when James heard these things, he wiped away his When James heard these things, he wiped away his
tears in [his eyes and] was greatly relieved (èfesi emate) […] tears and was greatly relieved from the grief (afesì Mp$a
that was [in him]. ebol xntluph) that was in him.
Jesus Tells James How to Escape the “Toll Collectors”
The Lord [said] to [him, “James], look, I’ll 33 reveal your But Jesus said to him, “Look, now I’ll reveal your
liberation to you. When they’ll arrest (amaxte) [you] and you liberation to you. When they’ll arrest (amaXTe) you, you’ll
come by these sufferings (Mkoox), a crowd will arm themselves face these things. Many will oppose you because of 20 the
against you so that <they> may arrest (<a>maxte) you. But word of your arrest (p$aje mpekaóèĂte). But among
three of them especially (Nxouo) will capture (amaxte) you – them, there are three who sit there by themselves as toll
those who sit as toll collectors.2Not only do they demand toll, collectors. Not only do they receive toll for sins, but they
but they steal souls (too). demand and take souls (too).
“Then when you fall into their hands, one of them who is a “[When] you fall by the hands of many (of them), one
guard will say to you, ‘Who or where are you from?’ of them – because he’s [a guard] – will ask you, ‘Who or
where are you from?’
“You’re to say to him, ‘I’m a son, and I’m from the “You’ll say to him, ‘I’m the Son, and I’m from the
Father.’ Father.’
“He’ll say to you, ‘What son? And what kind of Father do “And he’ll [say] to you, ‘What Son? Or what Father?’
you belong to?’
“You’re to say to him, ‘I’m from the Father Who [Exists] “You’ll say to [him], ‘The Father who exists from the
from the Beginning, but a Son who is in the One Who Exists [beginning], but the Son who is in the One Who Exists
from the Beginning.’ from the Beginning.’
“[He’ll say] to you, ‘And [where have you come from]?’ “And he’ll say to you, ‘Where have you come from?’
“You’re to [say to him, ‘I came] from the One Who [Exists “You’ll say to him, ‘From the One Who Exists from
from the Beginning].’ the Beginning.’
“And he’ll ask <you>, ‘Why have you come?’
NHC V, 3, 31 // CT 2, 18: ... it was inflicted on an image / the image (outupos / ptupos) of the rulers. The essential person of Jesus did not suffer
and die; rather his physical body, created in the image of the lower spiritual rulers, suffered and died.
NHC V, 3, 33 // CT 2, 20: ... arrest ... three ... toll collectors. The thin line between “earthly rulers” and “spiritual rulers” is most apparent here. What
begins as an arrest by earthly authorities (cf. CT 2, 29, 30) blends seamlessly into an encounter with three spiritual beings who are, as it were,
hostile “gatekeepers” to be overcome in a heavenly ascent.
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Nag Hammadi Codex (NHC) V, 3 Codex Tchacos (CT), 2
“You’ll say, ‘I’ve come (both) to all those who are mine
and to those who aren’t mine.’
“[…] he’ll say to you, ‘Why 34 […] these strangers?’ “He’ll say, ‘Then what have you come 21 after? Those
who aren’t yours?’
“You’re to say to him, ‘They’re not all strangers, [but] some “And you’ll say, ‘They’re not all strangers to me, but
are from Achamoth, who’s the female (creator). And she (to) Achamoth, that is, the female (creator), and she’s
created them when she brought down the generation existing created these for herself. But she brought down the
from the beginning. So then, they’re not strangers, but they’re generation that exists from the beginning. So then, they’re
ours. On the one hand, they’re ours, since she who lords over [not] strangers to [me, but] they’re mine. [On the one
them is from the One Who Exists from the Beginning. On the hand], they’re mine, since [she who] lords over them is
other hand, they’re strangers, since the One Who Exists from from the One Who Exists from the Beginning. On the
the Beginning didn’t unite with her when she created them.’ other hand, they’ve become [strangers], since the One Who
Exists from the Beginning didn’t unite with her when she
created them.’
“He’ll also say to you, ‘Where will you go?’ “And he’ll say, ‘Now where will you go?’
“You’re to say to him, ‘I’ll return to the place from which “You’ll say, ‘I’ll go up to those who are mine, to the
I’ve come.’ place from which I’ve come.’
“If you say these things, you’ll escape their attacks. “If you say these things, you’ll escape from all of them.
“But when you fall into the hands of [these] three who “But when you come to the three who take the soul,
capture (amaxte) (and) steal souls in that place […] these you there’s a great struggle in that place if you say to them, ‘I’m
[…] a vessel [that’s] more [precious] than [the female (creator) a vessel more precious than Achamoth, the female
who’s Achamoth …] 35 […] is your Mother. Because <if> your (creator). She created you, 22 and if your Mother is ignorant
Mother is [ignorant] about her root, you won’t [ever] become of her own root, then when will you become sober? But
sober [either]. But I’ll call [upon] the imperishable knowledge, I’ve called (upon) the undefiled Sophia, who’s in the
who’s Sophia, who’s in the Father (and) who’s the Mother of [Father], the Mother of Achamoth. But her (Achamoth’s)
Achamoth. Achamoth has no father, nor (any) male [partner], partner [wasn’t] upright [with the] female (creator). Without
but she’s [a female] from a female. She created you without a a male (partner), [she] created you by herself. [She] became
male, since she was by herself. She’s ignorant of who [lives ignorant of her mother {it is she, by herself, who’s ignorant
through] her Mother, because she thought that she existed by of her mother}. And she thought that she was by herself.
herself. But [I] will cry out to her Mother.’ But I’ve called her Mother.’
“And then they’ll be troubled, blaming their root and the “And then they’ll all be troubled, and they’ll blame their
generation [of] their Mother. [But] you’ll go up to [what] is own root and the generation of their Mother. But you’ll go
yours [… cast off their fetters …] up to your roots <…>, the chains that are their chains.
The Transmission of Jesus’ Revelation to James
36 “[…] One Who [Exists] from the Beginning, “Look, James, I’ve revealed to you who I am, and the One Who
[and the] (proto)types of the twelve disciples, and the Exists from the Beginning, and the 23 (proto)types of the twelve
[seventy]-two companions, [and the female] (creator) disciples, [and] the 72 companions, and Achamoth [the female]
Achamoth, which translates as ‘Sophia,’1and who I (creator), which translates as ‘Sophia,’ and who you are, and who the
am, and the imperishable Sophia, through whom undefiled Sophia is, through whom you’ll be liberated, [and] all the
you’ll be liberated with all the children (N$hre) of children (n$hre) of the One Who Exists – they’ve known
the One Who Exists – these things they’ve known themselves [and] are hidden within themselves. [You must keep]
and have hidden [within] themselves. You’re to hide these things I’ve said [hidden], and they’ll be within you, and you’ll
<these things> within you, but keep quiet. But keep quiet about them. But you’ll reveal them to Addai when you
you’re to reveal them to Addai when you [will leave],2 leave the flesh, and immediately this very land will struggle (mi$e).
NHC V, 3, 36 // CT 2, 23: ... Achamoth, which translates as ‘Sophia.’ “Achamoth” is Hokhma, the Hebrew word for “wisdom,” whereas Sophia is the
Greek word for “wisdom.” Though these two words mean the same thing, in this text Sophia designates the “higher wisdom,” i.e., the
Mother of Achamoth (NHC V, 3, 35 // CT 2, 22), who in turn is the “lower wisdom.” Cf. Jas. 3:14-17 for the two wisdoms.
NHC V, 3, 36: ... when you [will leave] ... // CT 2, 23: ... when you leave the flesh .... According to Josephus, James was executed shortly after the death
of Porcius Festus around 62 CE (Jewish Antiquities, 20.9.1). Here the text introduces a narrative of an alternative apostolic succession; not
through the twelve disciples, but rather through James and Addai, legendary apostle to the East. ... immediately they’ll [make] war with this land
/ ... immediately this very land will struggle. The Jewish-Roman war of 66-73 CE.
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Nag Hammadi Codex (NHC) V, 3 Codex Tchacos (CT), 2
and immediately they’ll [make] war ([R]Ö[o]lemi) And she’ll drink her cup, because she angered the God who dwells in
with this land. […], then, for the one who dwells in Jerusalem.1But let Addai keep these words in his heart for ten years, and
Jerusalem. But let Addai take these things to then he’ll dare to sit down and write them out. And then, when he’s
heart.In the tenth year, Addai is to sit down and written them out, they’ll be taken from him and given to Manael. This is
write them out. And [when] he’s written them out a holy name, but it means the same thing as 24 Masphel. Let this person
[…] and they’ll be given [to Manael]. He has [this keep this very book as an inheritance for the children (n$hre).
name …]
Nag Hammadi Codex (NHC) V, 3 Codex Tchacos (CT), 2 P.Oxy. LXXXVI 5533
“But a holy offspring (ousperma “[…] because a holy spirit
efoueeb) will come out from him, and from him, and he’ll be deemed
he’s worthy to inherit these [things] I’ve worthy to inherit these things said
said. before.
37 “[… when he … his] little [son] “But when his little son ($hre) grows “When his [younger son]
($[hre]), his [name] will be called [up …], he’ll be given the name Levi. Then ([υ(ἱό)]ς) inherits […] Levi, then
‘Levi.’2Then he’s to bring out words […] the land will make war again (on the land itself will be at war
from […] said earlier. […] a woman […] fnaRpolemi).4But Levi will hide there as a (πολεμηθήσεται). [But] Levi will
Jerusalem from her [generation, and] little child ($hre), and not a word that I’ve hide them wisely […]
he’ll have [two] sons with her (efjpo said will come from his lips. But he’ll marry
N$h[re sna]u ebol NxhTS). [They a woman from Jerusalem from his
are] to inherit these things, [and] the generation, and he’ll have two sons with her
understanding of the one who […] (Nfjpo ebol nxhTS N$hre snau), and
exalts. And they are to receive [these] the <second> will inherit these things. The
through him from his mind. But the heart of the older one will be closed, and
younger3is the greater of them. And let they’ll be taken from his heart, but the […] his [mind], but the younger
these things be (given) to him and younger one will grow up with them and will will grow in them and keep [them]
hidden within him until [he] reaches the keep them hidden until he reaches his hidden [...] 17 years old. And
age of seventeen years. […] seventeenth year. 25 And then the land will [then] the [land itself] will be at
go to war (polemei),5 but since he’s not war (while) he’s not really (there),
there, he’ll be guarded according to but [according to providence
providence (pronoia). (πρόνοιαν) he’ll be guarded …]
“And he’ll [grow] up and conquer
(aóaXTe) many provinces. Many will be
38 “[…] be delivered ([n]ouXÒ) delivered (ouja!) through him, and he’ll
through [him]. He’ll be severely (ìmate) make this word become a rule (dogma) for
persecuted at the hands of his many provinces. But he’ll be severely
companions […] he’ll be proclaimed (Mp$[a]) persecuted by his [companions …].
[through them]. And as for this word, And he’ll be attacked by them, and they’ll
CT 2, 23: ... the God who dwells in Jerusalem, i.e., Addonaios / Addon (“Adonai”); cf. NHC V, 3, 39 // CT 2, 26.
NHC V, 3, 37 // CT 2, 24: ... Levi. Though Levi the disciple is featured in texts like the The Gospel of Mary (BG 8502, 1, 18) and The Gospel of Peter
(P.Cair. 10759), this Levi, son of Manael / Masphel, is probably not inspired by Levi son of Alphaeus (Mark 2:14,15; Luke 3:24; 5:27-29)
but rather Levi the patriarch. The trope of the younger of two sons is inspired by the book of Genesis.
NHC V, 3, 37 // CT 2, 24 // P.Oxy. LXXXVI 5533: ... the younger. Unlike the other figures in this apostolic succession (James > Addai > Manael /
Masphael > Levi), Levi’s younger son isn’t named, perhaps because he’s a contemporary, or a near-contemporary, of the second-century
author.
CT 2, 24: Then the land will make war again. Most likely the Kitos War of 115 to 117 CE.
CT 2, 25: And then the land will go to war. Most likely the Bar Kokhba revolt of 132 – 135 CE, seventeen years after the beginning of the Kitos
War.
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Nag Hammadi Codex (NHC) V, 3 Codex Tchacos (CT), 2 P.Oxy. LXXXVI 5533
[they’ll proclaim] it. [Then it’ll become] attack this very word, but these things will […] and [this word will be
an offspring (qraq) of […]” happen to overcome (èmaxte) the rulers.” scorned by them …]”
The Seven Women Disciples
James said, “[I’m] content […] “Rabbi, I’ve come to believe all of “Rabbi […] and […]”
and they are […] my soul. Yet I ask these things, and all is well in my soul.
of you [another thing]: Who are the Yet I’ll ask you this: Who are the seven
[seven] women who’ve [become] women who’ve become your disciples
your disciples?1And look, all women and whom all the generations bless?
bless you. I’m also amazed at how And I’m amazed that they’re in weak
some [powerless] vessels have vessels, and (yet) they’ve found powers
become strong through a perception and perceptions.”
that’s in them.
[The] Lord [said], “It’s well “James, it’s well that you’re amazed, but
that you’re [amazed ... concerning the Son of Humanity (p$hre mprwme) has
…] come and revealed 26 the secrets concerning
the children (N$hre) of light, so that they “[…] of the light [so that they may be in
may have the secrets when they’re revealed. the] manifest [even if they] have these
The seven women are seven spirits who are things [hidden. The 7] women [are] the 7
included in the Scripture: spirits […]”
Nag Hammadi Codex (NHC) V, 3 Codex Tchacos (CT), 2
39 “[…] A spirit [of wisdom (sovia)],2 “A spirit of wisdom (sovia) and of thought (sabe),
a spirit of thought (meû[e]),
a spirit of counsel ($oj[ne]) and [power (qom)], a spirit of counsel (sojô[e]) [and power (Ą[o]m)],
a spirit [of understanding (nous)], [a spirit of] understanding (nous) and knowledge
a spirit of knowledge (gnw[sis]), (so[oune]),
a spirit of their fear (xot[e]). a spirit of fear (xote).
“[Then] when we passed through [the region] of the [great] “When <I> passed through the land of the great ruler
ruler whose [name] is Addonaios, [I went in] by him. And [he] who’s called Addon, I went in by him. And he was
was ignorant. [And] when I left him, [he] thought I was [a] son ignorant. But when I left him, he thought [I] was his son.
of his. He was as gracious [to me] at that time as (to) a son of And he was as gracious to me as to his own son. And
his. And then, before I appeared in this place, (the spirits) were before I appeared in these places, these (spirits already)
cast out among [these] people ([pe!]laos). But from [this were there among this very people (pilaos ete paei
place] of heaven, the prophets […].” pe), where no prophets spoke without the seven spirits.
And these are the seven spirits who preached concerning
me through the mouths of people (Nrwme) 27 as they were
able to speak out, because I hadn’t yet spoken with all
power. But I came and brought it to completion, and I’m
not yet [completed].”
40 [… Then James said], “Rabbi, [you’ve persuaded] me “You’ve also persuaded me about all of these things.
[about] these things. Among the seven who have been So, Rabbi, because it (i.e., the people)3has received the
seven and left them together, do you have some who are
NHC V, 3, 38 // CT 2, 25: ... the seven women who’ve become your disciples. On seven women disciples, cf. the opening line of The Sophia of Jesus Christ:
“After he rose from the dead, his twelve disciples and seven women continued to be his followers.” Marvin Meyer, ed., The Nag Hammadi
Scriptures (HarperOne), 2007, 287.
NHC V, 3, 39 // CT 2, 26: A spirit of wisdom ... A modified version of Isaiah 11:2.
CT 2, 27: ... it (the people). Funk translates f as “he,” writing that this passage “is slightly obfuscated by the unwarranted introduction of a
third person singular” (Wolf-Peter Funk, “The Significance of the Tchacos Codex for Understanding the First Apocalypse of James,” 513.
Nagel translates f as “es” and regards “das Volk” as the antecedent (Peter Nagel, Codex apocryphus gnosticus Novi Testamenti [Mohr Siebeck],
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Nag Hammadi Codex (NHC) V, 3 Codex Tchacos (CT), 2
[presented] as a group, who is more [honored than the more honored than others?”
others]?” “I praise you (even) more, O James, because you ask about
The Lord said, “[James], I praise you […] about details, and you won’t say a single idle word. Truly, [you’re] worthy of
details […] words […] Truly, you’re worthy […] your own root, and you’ve cast out from yourself the cup of
because cast out from [yourself the] cup, which is drunkenness (ä[x]e). Not a single ruler can stand against you,
bitterness (si$[e]). None of [the rulers will be able] to because you’ve begun to recognize those who are yours. Cast far
stand against you, because [you’ve begun] to recognize from yourself all ignorance, and watch out (nau) lest they become
[those who] are [yours], from the beginning to the jealous of you because you’ve received these words, that is, the
end. Cast out from yourself all lawlessness, and watch knowledge that exalts. Also, be persuaded by this other (example),
out (ma+xthk) lest they be jealous of you. When you which is that of Salome, Mary, and Arsinoe, whom I’ll 28 introduce
[speak] these words of this [perception], persuade this to you, because they’re worthy of the One Who Exists, and because
[…], Salome, Mary […, and] Arsinoe […] they’ve become sober and have been healed from the blindness in
their hearts, and they’ve recognized who I am.
“This (is) according to the providence of the Father, because he’s
41 “[…] Since the priest […] receives […] he sent me as a priest, and in every place imaginable (sehp) gives to me
[assigns] these burnt offerings and offerings the firstfruits and the firstborn. [The priest of] this [world] receives
([N]xenqlil mN[xenprosv]ora). But I […] not in the firstfruits and assigns sacrifices and offerings (Ncusia
this way, but [I receive the] firstfruits1of those [impure xiprosvoø[a]). But I’m not like this. Rather, I receive the firstfruits
that I send them] up, so that the [true] power may be of those who are defiled, that I may send them up [un]defiled, so that
revealed ([ou]wNX ebol). The perishable has gone the true power will be revealed (ouÿôx ebol); because the defiled
[up] to the imperishable, and the work of the feminine has separated from what’s undefiled, and the work of the <female>
has reached the work of this masculine. has reached the (work of the) male.
James said, “Rabbi, into these three, then, has “Rabbi, the three, then, have been destroyed and haven’t
their […] been cast, because they’ve been despised suffered,2when they were worthy and (yet) persecuted by [others] and
and persecuted by […]” things were said that aren’t (true).”
“James, it’s completely unnecessary for anyone 29 to
be destroyed. These very three are beyond a place of
faith [because they’ve received ([auji g]èr) the] hidden
knowledge.3These are the names [of] the three: Sapphira
42 […] “[…] and Joanna […] Look […] everything […] from and Susanna and Joanna. Look, I’ve revealed everything
anyone […], because you’ve received the [beginning] of knowledge to you, and you’re not a stranger to these very words,
[…] that what is the […] walk (moo$[e]) […] you will […]. But because you’ve received the beginning of knowledge […]
I’ll go […] and I’ll appear (ouw[nX]) […] because they trust you from those who are mine. Now walk around (moo$e),
[… be] content with their [blessing] and deliverance (ouja!), and and you [will find] the rest of them. [But] I [will] go to
this revelation (pe!ouwNX ebol) will come to pass ($wpe).” these and [appear] (ouwNX) to them, because they […]”
2023, 111). ... by this other (example). Cf. Mikael C. Haxby, The First Apocalypse of James: Martyrdom and Sexual Difference, Doctoral dissertation
(Harvard University), 2013, 128.
NHC V, 3, 41 // CT 2, 28: ... firstfruits ... The aforementioned women disciples / prophetesses.
CT 2, 28, 29: ... the three, then, have been destroyed and haven’t suffered ... it’s completely unnecessary for anyone to be destroyed. At the top of page 29, these
three women disciples / prophetesses are identified as Sapphira, Susanna, and Joanna. Like Jesus, they did not suffer and die, but rather
their physical bodies suffered and died. Cf. the note on NHC V, 3, 31 // CT 2, 18, above.
CT 2, 29: ... beyond a place of faith. Literally, “separated (por[j e]bol) from a place of faith.” Cf. page 16: “[But many] will turn to faith and
grow in it, until they come to knowledge.” This point is made by Antti Marjanen, “The Seven Women Disciples in the Two Versions of the
First Apocalypse of James” in April DeConick, ed., The Codex Judas papers: proceedings of the International Congress on the Tchacos Codex held at Rice
University, Housting, Texas, March 13-16, 2008 (Brill), 2009, 543: “‘...becoming separated from a ma of faith’ and ‘having received the hidden
knowledge’ describe the two phases of a progression of growth one is supposed to go through.” ... [because they’ve received ([auji g]èr)] ... Cf.
Marjanen, ibid., 542, citing Johanna Brankaer and Hans-G. Bethge, Codex Tchacos. Texte und Analysen. Texte und Untersuchungen zur
Geschichte der altchristliche Literatur 161 (Walter de Gruyter), 2007, 124.
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Nag Hammadi Codex (NHC) V, 3 Codex Tchacos (CT), 2
James Reproves the Twelve
And he went at that time [immediately] and reproved the [… the] twelve [… un]belief […] he said to them
twelve, and he cast assumptions (Noutwt’ Nxht) [out] of them […] and a knowledge […] he persuaded them […] from
[concerning] the way of knowledge. them […] the rest they […].
Conclusion: The Arrest and Martyrdom of James
It happened after […] they arrested (amaxte) James in
the place of another man 30 against whom they had made
accusations, because he had fled from […] but […] prison,
rather it was another one named James who came out of
the prison. They arrested (èmaxte) this (one) [instead] of
43 […] but most of [the judges], when they saw [that] nothing him. They brought him before the judges. But most of the
could be taken up [against him, left] him alone. [But the rest] judges saw that he was without sin. They [left him] alone.
and the people (plè[o]s), they […], “Let us [take] this (one) And the others and [the people] (÷òè[os]) all stood there
from this earth, because [he’s] not [worthy] to live.” These and [said], “Take him from the earth. He’s not [worthy to
(judges) were afraid. They arose and said, “We have no part in live]. But these (judges) were afraid. [They arose] and said,
this blood, because a just man will be destroyed through “We’re not […].”
injustice.”
James left so that […] […] he remembered […] he became […] for the people
(Nrwóì) […] him, but the […].
44 [… My] Father, [who’s in the heavens, forgive] [But] when they were stoning [him], he said, “My Father,
them, because [they know] not […].” [who’s in the] heavens, forgive them, because [they know] <not>
what they’re doing.”
The Apocalypse of James James
11
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Select Bibliography
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zur Geschichte der altchristliche Literatur 161 (Walter de Gruyter), 2007
Edwards, Robert Michael, The Three Lives of James: From Jewish-Christian Traditions to a Valentinian
Revelation, Preserved in Two Late Antique Attestations, Postdoctoral dissertation (University of Ottawa),
2015
Funk, Wolf-Peter, “B. VI.7. Die erste Apokalypse des Jakobus (NHC V, 3 / CT 2),” Antike christliche
Apokryphen in deutscher Übersetzung (Mohr Siebeck), 2012
Funk, Wolf-Peter, “The First Revelation of James,” in Marvin Meyer, ed., The Nag Hammadi Scriptures
(HarperOne), 2007, 321-330
Funk, Wolf-Peter, “The First Apocalypse of James,” in Wilhelm Schneemelcher, ed., and McL. Wilson,
R. (trans.), New Testament Apocrypha. Vol. 1: Gospels and Related Writings (Westminster John Knox Press),
1991, 313-326
Funk, Wolf-Peter, “The Significance of the Tchacos Codex for Understanding the First Apocalypse of
James” in April DeConick, ed., The Codex Judas papers: proceedings of the International Congress on the Tchacos
Codex held at Rice University, Housting, Texas, March 13-16, 2008 (Brill), 2009
Haxby, Mikael C., The First Apocalypse of James: Martyrdom and Sexual Difference (Mohr Siebeck), 2023
Jenott, Lance, “Reading Variants in James and the Apocalypse of James: A Perspective from New
Philology,” in Liv Ingeborg Lied and Hugo Lundhaug, eds., Snapshots of Evolving Traditions (De Gruyter),
2017
Kasser, Rodolphe, and Wurst, Gregor, The Gospel of Judas, Critical Edition: Together with the Letter of Peter to
Philip, James, and a Book of Allogenes from Codex Tchacos (National Geographic), 2007
Landau, B.C., G.S. Smith, and W.B. Henry, “First Apocalypse of James,” in The Oxyrhynchus Papyri, Vol.
LXXXVI, 2021, 3-13
Marjanen, Antti, “The Seven Women Disciples in the Two Versions of the First Apocalypse of James” in
April DeConick, ed., The Codex Judas papers: proceedings of the International Congress on the Tchacos Codex held
at Rice University, Housting, Texas, March 13-16, 2008 (Brill), 2009
Nagel, Peter, Codex apocryphus gnosticus Novi Testamenti (Mohr Siebeck), 2023
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3 (Brill), 2000
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References
- Mark M. Mattison, "The First Apocalypse of James: A Public Domain Synoptic Translation." Academia.edu. The First Apocalypse of James: A Public Domain Synoptic Translation (download: Direct Download).
- Public-domain synoptic translation of NHC V,3 // Codex Tchacos 2 // P.Oxy. 5533.
- Academia page: The First Apocalypse of James: A Public Domain Synoptic Translation.
- Direct download: Direct Download.