Origins of Belief

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Origins & History

How beliefs emerged, borrowed, and changed, and what material evidence can and cannot show.

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Origins & History

What are the Dead Sea Scrolls, and what do they actually establish?

Ancient Jewish manuscripts found near Qumran, and the claims they can and cannot support.

Origins & History

What do the Nag Hammadi writings reveal about early Christianity?

A buried codex collection that widened the picture of early Christian diversity.

Origins & History

How did concepts of hell develop?

From shadowy underworlds to eternal punishment: an idea with a long history.