Secret Books in the Early Alexandrian Church

The idea of "secret books" within the early Alexandrian Church is often met with skepticism. However, historical evidence suggests that this concept was not as unprecedented as some might believe. A closer look at the works of Origen and the writings of Jerome reveals a culture of secrecy and controlled dissemination of certain theological writings. Let's explore this intriguing aspect of early Christian literature.

Origen and His Secret Writings

Origen of Alexandria, one of the most prolific and influential early Christian theologians, provides a key example of secretive practices. Jerome, in his letter to Fabian, Bishop of Rome, mentions that Origen expressed regret for having made certain erroneous statements in his writings. Origen blamed Ambrose, his patron and a prominent Christian figure, for hastily making public what was intended only for private circulation.

Jerome's Account:

"Origen himself in a letter written to Fabian, bishop of Rome, expresses penitence for having made erroneous statements, and charges Ambrose with over haste in making public what was meant only for private circulation."

In Latin:

"Ipse Origenes in epistula, quam scribit ad Fabianum Romanae urbis Episcopum, poenitentiam agit, cur talia scripserit, et causas temeritatis in Ambrosium refert, quod secreto edita, in publicum protulerit."

This passage highlights several important aspects:

1. Private Circulation: Origen's writings were sometimes intended for a limited audience, indicating that not all theological works were meant for widespread distribution.
2. Controlled Dissemination: The process of deciding which texts were to be made public was significant. Ambrose's decision to publish Origen's private writings underscores the tension between private and public theological discourse.
3. Regret and Responsibility: Origen's regret and his blaming of Ambrose suggest a careful consideration of the potential impact of certain teachings if they were to become widely known.

The Concept of Secrecy in Early Christian Writings

The notion of secrecy and restricted dissemination of certain texts can be further supported by examining other early Christian practices:

• Mystery Religions: Early Christianity, much like contemporary mystery religions, had elements that were kept secret from the general public. Initiates were gradually introduced to deeper theological concepts, which were not immediately accessible to all believers.
• Gnostic Texts: Many Gnostic texts were considered esoteric, intended for a select group of enlightened individuals. These texts often contained advanced theological ideas that were not meant for the uninitiated.

Secret Mark and Other Hidden Texts

The discussion about secret writings in the Alexandrian Church often centers around the controversial "Secret Gospel of Mark." However, as Jerome's account of Origen's secretive practices demonstrates, there were likely other texts treated similarly. The Secret Gospel of Mark is just one example within a broader tradition of selective dissemination.

Secret Gospel of Mark:

The Secret Gospel of Mark is a purported longer version of the Gospel of Mark, known only from a letter attributed to Clement of Alexandria. This gospel allegedly contained deeper spiritual teachings reserved for advanced believers.

Other Potential Secret Texts:

1. Hypotyposes: Origen's lost work, "Hypotyposes," was known to have contained esoteric interpretations of Scripture, possibly intended for a select audience.
2. Origen's Commentary on Genesis: Some of Origen's more speculative theological ideas were likely shared in a controlled manner, to avoid controversy and misinterpretation.

Conclusion

The early Alexandrian Church, as evidenced by Origen's writings and Jerome's accounts, did indeed engage in the practice of maintaining secret books. These texts, intended for private circulation among a select audience, were part of a broader tradition of managing theological knowledge. The Secret Gospel of Mark, while a notable example, is not an isolated case. The controlled dissemination of theological writings reflects a careful balance between sharing divine knowledge and protecting it from misinterpretation and controversy. Understanding this context enriches our appreciation of early Christian literature and its complex history.