The Gospel of Thomas, Chapter 7 summary

What happens

1. An unnamed speaker describes an empty cistern, and Jesus contrasts those waiting outside with the solitary person who enters.
2. Jesus tells of a merchant buying a pearl and urges his listeners to seek treasure that cannot decay.
3. Jesus identifies himself with light and the All, then questions seeking truth among finely dressed rulers.
4. A woman praises his mother's body, but Jesus praises those who hear and keep the Father's word.
5. Jesus speaks about recognizing the world, renouncing power, nearness to himself, and the difference between visible images and hidden light.
6. Jesus contrasts Adam's origins with his death and contrasts animal shelters with the Son of Man's lack of rest.

In this chapter

What to notice

Jesus places his presence within an ordinary material object. The statement makes his claim to be light and the All concrete.

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