Religious Context of Early Christianity

Download or read book Religious Context of Early Christianity written by Hans-Josef Klauck and published by A&C Black. This book was released on 2003-05-01 with total page 548 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: This is a uniquely well-informed and comprehensive guide to the world of religion in the Graeco-Roman environment of early Christianity. Drawing on the most up-to-date scholarship, the volume paints a carefully nuanced portrait of the Christians' religious context. Besides describing ordinary domestic and civic religion and popular belief (including astrology, divination and 'magic'), there is extended discussion of mystery cults, ruler and emperor cults, the religious dimensions of philosophy, and Gnosticism. A valuable textbook for advanced students, as well as an authoritative reference work for scholars.