Sacred Writings of the Christian Tradition
The sacred scriptures and writings that form the foundation of Christian faith and theology. From the canonical Bible to the writings of the early Church Fathers, these texts have shaped Christian thought and practice for two millennia.
📖 The Holy Bible
The central sacred text of Christianity, comprising the Old and New Testaments, considered divinely inspired scripture revealing God's relationship with humanity.
Old Testament
The Hebrew scriptures inherited from Judaism. Chronicles creation, the covenant with Israel, and prophecies of the coming Messiah.
Major sections: Pentateuch, Historical Books, Wisdom Literature, Prophets
New Testament
The distinctly Christian scriptures centered on the life, teachings, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ. Includes the Gospels, Acts, Epistles, and Revelation.
Major sections: Four Gospels, Acts of the Apostles, Pauline Epistles, General Epistles, Revelation
Deuterocanonical Books
Additional books included in Catholic and Orthodox Bibles but not in Protestant canons. Include Tobit, Judith, Wisdom, Sirach, Baruch, and Maccabees.
Status: Canonical in Catholic/Orthodox traditions
⛪ Early Christian Writings
Apostolic Fathers
Writings from the generation immediately following the apostles (late 1st to mid-2nd century). Includes the Didache, Clement's letters, and Ignatius's epistles.
Period: c. 80-150 CE
Church Fathers
Influential early Christian theologians and teachers who shaped doctrine. Includes Irenaeus, Tertullian, Origen, Augustine, Jerome, and the Cappadocian Fathers.
Period: c. 100-700 CE
Ecumenical Councils
Official statements and creeds from the seven ecumenical councils that defined Christian orthodoxy. Include the Nicene Creed (325 CE) and Chalcedonian Definition (451 CE).
Period: 325-787 CE
📿 Liturgical & Devotional Texts
Liturgies & Prayer Books
The formal orders of worship and prayer used in Christian services. Includes the Divine Liturgy, the Roman Missal, and the Book of Common Prayer.
Breviary & Psalter
Collections of psalms, hymns, prayers, and readings for the Liturgy of the Hours. The 150 Psalms form the heart of Christian contemplative tradition.
Lives of the Saints
Hagiographies documenting the lives, miracles, and martyrdoms of Christian saints. These texts inspire faith and preserve sacred memory.
Sacred Connections
Jewish Roots & Parallels
Gnostic Connections
- Nag Hammadi Library - Gnostic scripture collection
- Gospel of Thomas - Sayings of Jesus
- Pistis Sophia - Gnostic revelation text