The Demiurge and the Primeval Serpent Motif within Classical Thought and its Culmination within Gnosticism and Early Christianity

Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing), S4 (based).

Early Christian treatments of the topic demonstrated a relatively high degree of familiarity with past uses of the motif.

“In contrast with this transgressive creation narrative, early Christian treatments of the topic demonstrated a relatively high degree of familiarity with past uses of the motif.”

Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing), S4 (based).

The most recognizable Near Eastern primordial serpent figures within a Chaoskampf narrative were best preserved in the Enuma Elish, the Babylonian creation epic.

“Arguably, the most recognizable of the Near Eastern primordial serpent figures within a Chaoskampf narrative were best preserved in the Enuma Elish, the Babylonian creation epic.”

Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).

Ogden observed that Marduk's battle against Tiamat was depicted on some tenth to seventh century Neo-Babylonian cylinder seals found at Nimrud that showed the hero-god using a thunderbolt against the enormous serpent Tiamat.

“Additionally, Ogden observed that Marduk's battle against Tiamat was depicted on some tenth to seventh century Neo-Babylonian cylinder seals found at Nimrud that showed the hero-god using a thunderbolt against the enormous serpent Tiamat.”

• cites Ogden, Drakon: Dragon Myth and Serpent CultNot matched

  Couldn’t be matched to a paper in Crossref, so it can’t be checked.

Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing), S4 (based).

The intersection of Eastern traditions and Greek thought was especially evident in the Greek Orphic religion, in which primordial forces that shaped the cosmos closely resembled those of Eastern traditions in several ways.

“The intersection of Eastern traditions and Greek thought was especially evident in the Greek Orphic religion in which primordial forces that shaped the cosmos closely resembled those of Eastern traditions in several ways.”

Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).

Mircea Eliade observed that the heavenly appellation of Babylon had been superimposed over one that was more consistent with the chaotic, antagonistic primordial serpent motif.

“However, historian Mircea Eliade observed this was not the oldest understanding of 'Babylon,' that the heavenly appellation of Babylon had been superimposed over one that was more consistent with the chaotic, antagonistic primordial serpent motif.”

• cites Mircea EliadeNot matched

  Couldn’t be matched to a paper in Crossref, so it can’t be checked.

Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).

Plato's Forms held that any given thing might have a fundamental ontological value or existence, usually conceived as separate from its material substance.

“The concept broadly known as Plato's Forms presented the idea that any given thing might have a fundamental ontological value or existence, usually conceived as separate from its material substance.”

Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing), S4 (based).

A similar primordial serpent had a demonstrable relevance to Jewish cosmology.

“A similar primordial serpent had a demonstrable relevance to Jewish cosmology.”

Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).

Watkins observed that the motif of a hero struggling with a primal reptilian monster shared common linguistic roots and stretches throughout diverse mythic material from Vedic Indra fighting the dragon to Zeus and Typhon, Thor and the Serpent, Hercules and the Hydra, and Perseus and the Gorgon.

“Watkins observed that the motif of a hero struggling with a primal reptilian monster shared common linguistic roots and therefore stretches throughout such outwardly diverse mythic material as the earliest Vedic traditions of Indra fighting the dragon, all the way to Zeus and Typhon, Thor and the Serpent, Hercules and the Hydra, and Perseus and the Gorgon”

• cites Watkins, How to Kill A DragonNot matched

  Couldn’t be matched to a paper in Crossref, so it can’t be checked.

Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).

The cosmology of the Near East and Classical world appear to have been closely intertwined.

“The cosmology of the Near East and Classical world appear to have been closely intertwined.”

Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).

Robert D. Miller summarized that the Indo-European roots of the Serpent concept likely travelled into the Near East during the 17th or 18th centuries BC by way of various hostile groups from the southern Caucasus entering Babylon.

“Historian and archaeologist Robert D. Miller summarized the state of the present understanding of the motif's origins, stating that although there has been much scholarly debate about the topic, the previously described Indo-European roots of the Serpent concept likely travelled into the Near East during the 17 th or 18 th centuries BC by way of various hostile groups from the southern Caucasus”

• cites Robert D. MillerNot matched

  Couldn’t be matched to a paper in Crossref, so it can’t be checked.

Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).

In the Theogony Hesiod described the struggle of the elder gods or Titans, children of Gaia, against their progeny the Olympian gods for control of the cosmos.

“In Theogony Hesiod described the struggle of the elder gods or Titans, children of Gaia, against their progeny the Olympian gods for control of the cosmos.”

• cites Hesiod, TheogonyNot matched

  Couldn’t be matched to a paper in Crossref, so it can’t be checked.

Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing). May combine two claims.

A figure called the Demiurge ordered the material world according to the Forms and did not create the Forms.

“and that significantly, a figure called the Demiurge ordered the material world according to the Forms, and consequently, did not create the Forms.”

• cites [58] 58. Forsyth, Neil. The Old Enemy: Satan and the Combat Myth. New Jersey: Princeton University Press, 1987.Not checked — no full text of the source

May combine two claims.

According to the Gnostics, the universe had been brought into its present state by a monster, rather than by the defeat of one as the older cosmogonies had claimed.

“Therefore, according to the Gnostics the universe had been brought into its present state by a monster, rather than by the defeat of one as the older cosmogonies had claimed.”

May combine two claims.

The Demiurge in Timaeus was conceived as an intelligence that uniquely held the capacity to recognize order and Forms, but was not the First Cause.

“Therefore, the Demiurge in Timaeus was from the outset conceived as an intelligence that uniquely held the capacity to recognize order and Forms, but was not the First Cause.”

• cites [59] 59. Frothingham. A. L. "Babylonian Origin of Hermes the Snake-God, and of the Caduceus." American Journal of Archaeology 20, no. 2 (April 1916): 175-211.Not matched

  Couldn’t be matched to a paper in Crossref, so it can’t be checked.

Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing), S4 (based).

The Orphic religious message contrasted with that of the Olympian tradition in its more philosophical or even metaphysical bent.

“Finally, the Orphic religious message contrasted with that of the Olympian tradition in its more philosophical or even metaphysical bent.”

Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).

Within the Chaoskampf genre the struggle resulted in the submission of undifferentiated disorder to the hero deity who then fostered an orderly creation.

“Within the genre the struggle resulted in the submission of undifferentiated disorder to the hero deity who then fostered an orderly creation.”

Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).

The ostensibly earlier name Gate of Apsu appeared to associate Babylon with the antagonistic monster Apsu.

“This ostensibly earlier name, Gate of Apsu, appeared to associate the place with this antagonistic monster.”

May combine two claims.

The battle between Marduk and Tiamat was closely mirrored in the story of Baal and Lotan, an Ugaritic tale dating to approximately the fifteenth century BC that was ostensibly also part of the cultural exchange between Greece and the Near East.

“The battle between Marduk and Tiamat was closely mirrored in the story of Baal and Lotan, an Ugaritic tale dating to approximately the fifteenth century BC that was ostensibly also a part of the cultural exchange between Greece and the Near East.”

• cites ForsythNot matched

  Couldn’t be matched to a paper in Crossref, so it can’t be checked.

Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).

According to Forsyth, a fragment of a tale about the deity Baal featured a description of Lotan as a dragon which bore a resemblance to the primordial sea serpent of watery chaos.

“According to Forsyth, a fragment of a tale about the deity Baal featured a description of Lotan as a dragon which bore a resemblance to the primordial sea serpent of watery chaos.”

• cites ForsythNot matched

  Couldn’t be matched to a paper in Crossref, so it can’t be checked.

Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S4 (based). May combine two claims.

A figure called the Demiurge, the δημιουργός, craftsman or builder, was proposed by Plato and served as the organizer of the material universe.

“A figure called the Demiurge, the δημιουργός, craftsman or builder was proposed by Plato and served as the organizer of the material universe.”

Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).

Plato's cosmology involved a contrast between the material cosmos and the forms or essences, which were in some sense immutable.

“Plato's cosmology had involved the contrast between the material cosmos and the forms or essences which were in some sense immutable.”

Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing), S4 (based).

The connection between Greek religion and the Semitic East has been repeatedly affirmed in recent scholarship.

“The connection between Greek religion and the Semitic East has been repeatedly affirmed in recent scholarship.”

Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).

The Platonic Demiurge has been interpreted as an intermediary organizer between the first cause and the material cosmos.

“Rather the Platonic Demiurge has been interpreted as a sort of intermediary organizer between the first cause and the material cosmos.”

Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).

Babylon had been built upon bab apsu, the Gate of Apsu, apsu being the name for the waters of chaos before Creation.

“But it was also in Babylon that the connection between earth and the lower regions was made, for the city had been built upon bab apsu, 'the Gate of Apsu,' apsu being the name for the waters of chaos before Creation.”

• cites Mircea EliadeNot matched

  Couldn’t be matched to a paper in Crossref, so it can’t be checked.

Classified as probably not a substantial claim.

The motif involved monstrous and hostile supernatural figures emblematic of disorder that were subdued by a benevolent deity.

“The motif involved monstrous and hostile supernatural figures emblematic of disorder that were subdued by a benevolent deity.”

Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S4 (based).

Dragons or great serpents associated with creation stories have been well documented within ancient Near Eastern myths, Classical religion, and Judaism.

“Dragons or great serpents associated with creation stories have been well documented within ancient Near Eastern myths, Classical religion, and Judaism.”

Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S2 (checkable), S3 (load-bearing), S4 (based).

Early Christian scholars may have come closest to handling the association between the Demiurge and the ancient idea of the primordial serpent in a cohesive way.

“Perhaps counterintuitively, early Christian scholars may have come closest to handling the association between the Demiurge and ancient idea of the primordial serpent in a cohesive way.”

Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing). May combine two claims.

The Enuma Elish described Tiamat as the mother of various monsters including dragons, opening her mouth to swallow enemies, and having a tail.

“Within the text the monster was described as being the mother of various monsters including dragons, opening her mouth to swallow enemies, and as having a tail.”

• cites Enuma ElishNot matched

  Couldn’t be matched to a paper in Crossref, so it can’t be checked.

Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).

The cyclical nature of the Titan-Olympian conflict has often brought to mind the Chaoskampf motif and by association a succession myth familiar to history and anthropology.

“The cyclical nature of this conflict has often brought to mind the Chaoskampf motif and by association a succession myth familiar to history and anthropology.”

Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).

Radcliffe G. Edmonds noted that most versions of the Orphic cosmogony explicitly begin with water.

“Classicist Radcliffe G. Edmonds noted that most versions of the Orphic cosmogony explicitly begin with water.”

• cites Radcliffe G. EdmondsNot matched

  Couldn’t be matched to a paper in Crossref, so it can’t be checked.

Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing), S4 (based).

The term Demiurge/δημιουργός, translated builder or craftsman, was first used in the metaphysical sense within Plato's dialogue Timaeus.

“The term Demiurge/ δημιουργός, translated builder or craftsman, was first used in the metaphysical sense within Plato's dialogue Timaeus.”

Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).

Joseph Fontenrose acknowledged that although some have disputed Tiamat's identity, at least in this instance she appeared as a serpent.

“In light of these descriptors, classical scholar Joseph Fontenrose acknowledged that although some have disputed Tiamat's identity, at least in this instance, she appeared as a serpent.”

• cites Joseph FontenroseNot matched

  Couldn’t be matched to a paper in Crossref, so it can’t be checked.

Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).

Gnosticism, emerging during the late Classical era, was a patchwork of philosophical and religious ideas.

“Emerging during the late Classical era, Gnosticism was a patchwork of philosophical and religious ideas.”

Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S4 (based).

In contrast to the Judeo-Christian narrative, Gnostic interpretations used the primordial serpent and its offspring in a different way.

“In contrast, Gnostic interpretations used the primordial serpent and its offspring in a different way.”

The quote only partly states this claim.

Middle and Neoplatonists and Christianity investigated the distinction between the One and the Demiurge.

“At the same time, they investigated the distinction between the One and the Demiurge.”

May combine two claims.

Gnosticism was committed to understanding the ostensibly flawed nature of creation and the cosmos and was not homogenous but pervasively open to varied interpretations of existing ideas and divine supernatural figures in the pursuit of gnosis.

“Gnosticism therefore was committed to understanding the ostensibly flawed nature of creation and the cosmos and was not homogenous but pervasively open to varied interpretations of existing ideas and divine supernatural figures in the pursuit of gnosis.”

Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing). May combine two claims.

A serpent crawled out from the bed of Plotinus and left through a hole in the wall at the same moment Plotinus died.

“As he spoke a snake crept under the bed on which he lay and slipped away into a hole in the wall: at the same moment Plotinus died.”

• cites [75] 75. Vernant, J.P. "The Union with Metis and the Sovereignty of Heaven." In Myth, Religion, and Society edited by R. L. Gordon, 1-15. London: Cambridge University Press, 1981.Not matched

  Couldn’t be matched to a paper in Crossref, so it can’t be checked.

May combine two claims.

Yaldabaoth was the first Ruler or Archon, and was the child of the primordial goddess named for wisdom, Sophia Pistis.

“a figure known as Yaldabaoth was the first Ruler or Archon, and was the child of the primordial goddess named for wisdom, Sophia Pistis.”

• cites [17] 17. Origen, "Contra Celsum," trans. Frederick Cromble, in in Ante-Nicene Fathers vol. 4, Book VI:25, New Advent Online Library, https://www.newadvent.org/fathers/04166.htm, (accessed June 11, 2022).Not matched

  Couldn’t be matched to a paper in Crossref, so it can’t be checked.

Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing), S4 (based). May combine two claims.

Leviathan was alluded to a handful of times in the Tanakh, and each of those times identification with the primordial chaos serpent was evident.

“Leviathan was alluded to a handful of times in the text of the Tanakh, and each of those times identification with the primordial chaos serpent was evident.”

Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).

The fact that the serpent occurrence at Plotinus's death was recorded suggested that significance was assigned to it within the context of the philosophy of the time.

“However, the fact that it was recorded suggested significance was assigned to it within the context of the philosophy of the time.”

Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing). May combine two claims.

Grant described the likely beginnings of Gnosticism as traceable to Hellenistic philosophy, Iranian [Near Eastern] religion, Christianity, and heterodox Judaism, and noted that components of all these were to be found within Gnostic thought.

“Additionally, Grant described the likely beginnings of Gnosticism, as accounted for by modern scholars, as traceable to Hellenistic philosophy, Iranian [Near Eastern] religion, Christianity, and heterodox Judaism, and noted that components of all these were to be found within Gnostic thought.”

• cites [3] 3. Copleston, A History of Philosophy, Vol. I, 467-468.Not matched

  Couldn’t be matched to a paper in Crossref, so it can’t be checked.

Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing), S4 (based).

The independent nature of the cosmic entity described in Timaeus was later interpreted creatively by Gnostics.

“This independent nature, as will be discussed below, was later interpreted creatively by Gnostics.”

May combine two claims.

For its role in the rebellion of the Watchers, Leviathan is listed among those to be judged by God, and Leviathan's punishment is to be prepared as food for the righteous.

“For its role in the rebellion of the Watchers, Leviathan is listed among those to be judged by God, and Leviathan's punishment is to be prepared as food for the righteous.”

• cites [23] 23. Basil of Caesarea, Hexaemeron, https://www.newadvent.org/fathers/32011.htm. (accessed April 29, 2022).Not matched

  Couldn’t be matched to a paper in Crossref, so it can’t be checked.

Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing). May combine two claims.

Assyriologist Heinrich Zimmern asserted that the Hebrew word tehom likely had its origin in the Eastern chaos dragon Tiamat, and that the phenomena of void, darkness, and the primeval depths before Creation were almost certainly allusions to the pagan dragon Tiamat.

“Assyriologist Heinrich Zimmern asserted that this word likely had its origin in none other than the Eastern chaos dragon Tiamat, and that the phenomena of void, darkness, and the primeval depths before Creation were almost certainly allusions to the pagan dragon Tiamat.”

• cites [14] 14. Pétrement, A Separate God, 42. 24 "On the Origin of the World," 112:25-117:15, in The Nag Hammadi Scriptures, trans., Marvin Meyer, 212-214.Not matched

  Couldn’t be matched to a paper in Crossref, so it can’t be checked.

May combine two claims.

Plotinus expanded upon the concept of an uncreated Creator, often labeled the One, equating it with that which is essential, with all things good emanating from it.

“Plotinus expanded upon the concept of an uncreated Creator, often labeled the One by equating it with that which is essential, with all things good emanating from it.”

• cites [69] 69. Pétrement, Simone. A Separate God: The Origins and Teachings of Gnosticism. Translated by Carol Harrison. San Francisco: Harper One, 1990.Not matched

  Couldn’t be matched to a paper in Crossref, so it can’t be checked.

May combine two claims.

The Gnostic reading of scripture revised the ranking by identifying the supreme God of Genesis with Plato's Demiurge, whose supremacy appeared compromised by having to consult a divine paradigm above him as the model for his creation.

“But the Gnostic reading of scripture revised this ranking by identifying the supreme God of Genesis with Plato's Demiurge, whose supremacy-on a literal reading of the Timaeus-appeared to be compromised by having to consult a divine paradigm above him as the model for his creation.”

• cites [11] 11. Gary A. Rendsburg, "The Mock of Baal in I Kings 18:27," The Catholic Biblical Quarterly 50, no. 3 (July 1988): 414- 417.Not matched

  Couldn’t be matched to a paper in Crossref, so it can’t be checked.

Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S4 (based).

The Demiurge as proposed by Plato was closely related to reason, organization, and the shaping of the material cosmos around the model of the eternal or divine.

“The Demiurge as proposed by Plato was closely related to reason, organization, and the shaping of the material cosmos around the model of the eternal or divine.”

May combine two claims.

Not every important serpent in Jewish tradition was a representation of the primordial chaos serpent and should likely not be syncretized with that particular serpent motif.

“Not every important serpent in Jewish tradition was a representation of the primordial chaos serpent and should likely not be syncretized with that particular serpent motif.”

May combine two claims.

Although the Demiurge within Gnosticism was the creator of the world, he was closely associated with chaos and outer darkness.

“Therefore, although the Demiurge within Gnosticism was the creator of the world, he was also closely associated with the element of chaos, and the outer darkness.”

• cites [13] 13. Similarly, in an alternate account the heavenly Powers created Adam, but it was the chief creator (i.e. Gnostic Demiurge) who breathed life into him, and notably it was a separate "female spiritual presence," who was the serpent tempter of the Garden. 25 Therefore, humanity was precariously conceived, not by a perfect supreme being but by this inferior figure. 22 "The Secret Book of John," 9:25-10:19, in The Nag Hammadi Scriptures, Trans., Marvin Meyer, 115.Not matched

  Couldn’t be matched to a paper in Crossref, so it can’t be checked.

Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).

Chadwick observed that this knowledge was not merely philosophical or intellectual, but also had to do with special knowledge about the origins of the world, the origin of evil, and man's destiny with regard to these origins.

“Historian Henry Chadwick observed that this knowledge was not merely philosophical or intellectual, but also had to do with special knowledge about the origins of the world, the origin of evil, and man's destiny with regard to these origins.”

• cites [2] 2. Plotinus, The Six Enneads, trans. Stephen Mackenna, I: 8:2, https://www.documentacatholicaomnia.eu/03d/0204-0270,_Plotinus,_The_Six_Enneads,_EN.pdf.Not matched

  Couldn’t be matched to a paper in Crossref, so it can’t be checked.

Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing). May combine two claims.

Miller observed that Leviathan was God's plaything, a mere pet, while at the same time a terrible monster.

“As Miller observed, Leviathan was God's plaything, a mere pet, while at the same time a terrible monster.”

• cites [22] 22. Athenagoras, "A Plea for the Christians," Translated by. B.P. Pratten. Edited by Alexander Roberts in Ante-Nicene Fathers vol 2, New Advent online Library. https://www.newadvent.org/fathers/0205.htm , (accessed June 14, 2022).Not matched

  Couldn’t be matched to a paper in Crossref, so it can’t be checked.

Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing), S4 (based).

Gnosticism used ideas informed by Neoplatonism and Middle Platonism to create a bifurcation of Old Testament and New Testament concepts of supreme deity, and the incarnation of Christ.

“Gnosticism used ideas that were informed by Neoplatonism and Middle Platonism to create a bifurcation of Old Testament and New Testament concepts of supreme deity, and the incarnation of Christ.”

Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).

The ideal of a completely spiritual existence was fascinating to Neoplatonic and other contemporary thinkers, including the Gnostics.

“This meant that the ideal of a completely spiritual existence was fascinating to neoplatonic and other contemporary thinkers, including the Gnostics.”

Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).

According to Plotinus, Evil was equated with the absence of existence, or separation from the Good.

“According to Plotinus, as logical extension of this theology, Evil was equated with the absence of existence, or separation from the Good.”

• cites [70] 70. Rendsburg, Gary A. "The Mock of Baal in I Kings 18:27," The Catholic Biblical Quarterly 50, no. 3 (July 1988): 414-417.Not matched

  Couldn’t be matched to a paper in Crossref, so it can’t be checked.

May combine two claims.

Philo of Alexandria, living during the first century AD, drew upon the idea of the Demiurge and labeled it the Word or Logos of God, which functioned as an intermediate between the material world and the One.

“For instance, the Jewish philosopher Philo of Alexandria living during the first century AD drew upon the idea of the Demiurge and labeled it the Word or Logos of God, which functioned as an intermediate between the material world and the One.”

• cites foot_29Not matched

  Couldn’t be matched to a paper in Crossref, so it can’t be checked.

May combine two claims.

Psalm 104:25-26 continued the motif of Yahweh's dominion over the chaotic sea and featured a more domesticated Leviathan.

“Additionally, Psalm 104:25-26 continued the motif of Yahweh's dominion over the chaotic sea, and significantly, featured a more domesticated Leviathan”

• cites [15] 15. "The Nature of the Rulers," 89:17-90, in The Nag Hammadi Scriptures, trans., Marvin Meyer,193. 26 "The Nature of the Rulers," 86:27, 191. 27 "The Nature of the Rulers," 86:27-87:23,191. 28 The Nature of the Rulers," 86:27-87:23, 191.Not matched

  Couldn’t be matched to a paper in Crossref, so it can’t be checked.

Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing). May combine two claims.

Plotinus might logically have been led to deprecate the visible universe, but in fact stopped short of this.

“He added that because this tendency was the case, Plotinus might logically have been led to deprecate the visible universe, but in fact had stopped short of this.”

• cites [73] 73. Strong, James. Strong's exhaustive concordance of the Bible with Greek and Hebrew Lexicon. Nashville: Abingdon Press, 1976.Not matched

  Couldn’t be matched to a paper in Crossref, so it can’t be checked.

Classified as probably not a substantial claim.

The Gnostic reading suggested that there must be a God presiding over the ideal realm who is superior to the God of Genesis.

“This suggests that there must be a God presiding over the ideal realm who is superior to the God of Genesis.”

• cites [11] 11. Gary A. Rendsburg, "The Mock of Baal in I Kings 18:27," The Catholic Biblical Quarterly 50, no. 3 (July 1988): 414- 417.Not matched

  Couldn’t be matched to a paper in Crossref, so it can’t be checked.

May combine two claims.

Gnostic texts describe the Demiurge as an Archon created first, responsible for the flawed material world, a broken counterfeit creation compared to the heavenly ideal.

“To this end, the Gnostic texts describe the Demiurge as an Archon (or Ruler) who was created first, and responsible for the flawed material world, a broken counterfeit creation in comparison to the heavenly ideal.”

• cites [12] 12. Tiamat, emblem of the chaotic sea personified as a serpent, and bearer of monstrous offspring. Furthermore, the birth of the Gnostic Demiurge Yaldabaoth as well as specifics about his appearance were described in "The Apocryphon of John," sometimes called "The Secret Book of John." In it Yaldabaoth was described as a serpent with the face of a lion and flashing eyes like lightning (figure 5). 22 This aspect is noteworthy in that it again evoked the king of the Titans, Kronos, who as previously discussed was at different times depicted both as a dragon, and as having a lion's head. In examiNot matched

  Couldn’t be matched to a paper in Crossref, so it can’t be checked.

Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing). May combine two claims.

Brakke asserted that early Christian leadership merely liked to imagine itself unified, and minimized diversity.

“Attempting to re-write the narrative about Gnosticism, scholars such as Brakke have asserted early Christian leadership merely liked to imagine itself unified, and minimized diversity.”

• cites [6] 6. Strong, Strong's Exhaustive Concordance, "Hebrew and Chaldee Dictionary H7832," 114. 17 Isaiah 27:1, ESV.Not matched

  Couldn’t be matched to a paper in Crossref, so it can’t be checked.

Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).

Porphyry suggests that during this period, which coincided with the rise of Gnosticism, the serpent had begun to take on a significance in connection with the soul or death in the philosophical community.

“Finally, a detail noted by the philosopher Porphyry suggests that during this period, which coincided with the rise of Gnosticism, the serpent had begun to take on a significance in connection with the soul or death in the philosophical community.”

• cites [74] 74. Turner, John D. "The Gnostic Sethians and Middle Platonism: Interpretations of the Timaeus and Parmenides." Vigiliae Christianae. Vol 60. No 1 9-64. Netherlands: Brill, 2006. sourceNot checked — no full text of the source

Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing), S4 (based).

Second Temple and early Rabbinic Jewish thought led directly to how Christians would ultimately contend with these ideas as they emerged and were reinterpreted in Gnosticism.

“It was in this context that Second Temple, and early Rabbinic Jewish thought led directly to how Christians would ultimately contend with these ideas as they emerged and were reinterpreted in Gnosticism.”

Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).

According to Copleston, Plotinus affirmed an Orphic and Neo-Pythagorean view that equated matter with the principle of evil, the privation of something, and not a positive principle itself, thus approximating dualism.

“Additionally, according to Copleston Plotinus affirmed an Orphic and Neo-Pythagorean view that also equated matter with the principle of evil, the privation of something, and not a positive principle itself, thus approximating something very similar to dualism.”

• cites [72] 72. Steenberg, M. Irenaeus on Creation: The Cosmic Christ and the Saga of Redemption edited by J. den Boeft. New York: Brill, 2008. https://ebookcentral-proquest- com.ezproxy.fhsu.edu/lib/fhsu/reader.action?docID=468429. (accessed January 7, 2021). sourceNot checked — no full text of the source

Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).

Modern scholarship has occasionally contested the existence of a sect that could rightly be categorized as Gnostic at all.

“In discussing Gnosticism it should also be mentioned that modern scholarship has occasionally contested the existence of a sect that could rightly be categorized as Gnostic at all.”

Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing), S4 (based).

Plotinus clearly articulated the distinction that disambiguated the Demiurge of Plato from the singular, perfect, and benevolent creator.

“It was third century Roman philosopher Plotinus who clearly articulated this important distinction which served to disambiguate the Demiurge of Plato from the increasingly relevant idea of a singular, perfect, and benevolent creator.”

May combine two claims.

Isaiah 27:1 listed Leviathan as one figure that would face judgement and was clearly subordinate, as well as easily defeated.

“Similarly, Isaiah 27:1 listed Leviathan as one figure that would face judgement and was clearly subordinate, as well as easily defeated.”

• cites [17] 17. Origen, "Contra Celsum," trans. Frederick Cromble, in in Ante-Nicene Fathers vol. 4, Book VI:25, New Advent Online Library, https://www.newadvent.org/fathers/04166.htm, (accessed June 11, 2022).Not matched

  Couldn’t be matched to a paper in Crossref, so it can’t be checked.

Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing), S4 (based).

Taken together, the allusions and the reference to Leviathan having some role in the rebellion suggest the Watchers were considered associates, in some way, of Leviathan.

“Taken together, these allusions, as well as the reference to Leviathan having some role in the rebellion, suggest the Watchers were considered associates, in some way of Leviathan.”

Classified as probably not a substantial claim.

Day suggested that the acknowledgment of Yahweh as the true victor over chaos was a deliberate indictment against Baalism.

“Day echoed this sentiment and suggested that the acknowledgment of Yahweh as the true victor over chaos was a deliberate indictment against Baalism.”

• cites [31] 31. Plato. Laws. Translated by R.G. Bury. Tufts.edu http://www.perseus.tufts.edu/hopper/text?doc=urn:cts:greekLit:tlg0059.tlg034.perseus- eng1:3.701.(accessed September 7, 2021).Not matched

  Couldn’t be matched to a paper in Crossref, so it can’t be checked.

Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing). May combine two claims.

Grant pointed out that although Gnostics drew upon mythology, they were ultimately devoted to freedom of thought, conceived of structure as tyrannical, and believed gnosis or knowledge was related to the divine.

“He pointed out that although Gnostics drew upon mythology, they were ultimately devoted to freedom of thought, conceived of structure as tyrannical, and believed gnosis or knowledge, was related to the divine.”

• cites [1] 1. Plotinus, The Six Enneads, trans. Stephen Mackenna, II:9:1, https://www.documentacatholicaomnia.eu/03d/0204-0270,_Plotinus,_The_Six_Enneads,_EN.pdf, (accessed November 24, 2021).Not matched

  Couldn’t be matched to a paper in Crossref, so it can’t be checked.

May combine two claims.

Plotinus associated the material with the privation of something, but stopped short of the conclusions of the Gnostics.

“Plotinus associated the material with the privation of something, but importantly stopped short of the conclusions of the Gnostics.”

Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing), S4 (based).

Despite the chthonic element of the Genesis 3 serpent, this figure was likely separate from the chaos serpent.

“Despite this chthonic element, this figure was likely separate from the chaos serpent.”

Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing). May combine two claims.

The core narrative of the Watchers recounted how a group of angels formed a pact, rebelled against God, taught humans sorcery and metallurgy, united with human women, produced giants and monstrous offspring, filled the world with violence, resulting in God's decision to flood the world; the fallen divine beings were imprisoned in a chthonic abyss, sometimes translated Tartarus, to await final Judg

“Although various versions of the story exist, the core narrative in summary recounted how a group of angels known collectively as Watchers, listed by name, formed a pact, and rebelled against God.They subsequently taught human beings various technological arts such as sorcery and metallurgy (for use in war implements) leading people to sin.They also united with human women, producing various giant”

May combine two claims.

Therefore, its use in Revelation not only rejected the Gnostic view of creation, but effectively echoed the Near Eastern association between the defeat of a primordial serpent and the ordering, or in this case re-ordering of the cosmos.

“Therefore, its use in Revelation not only rejected the Gnostic view of creation, but effectively echoed the Near Eastern association between the defeat of a primordial serpent and the ordering, or in this case re-ordering of the cosmos.”

Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).

It has generally been accepted that Gnosticism, especially Valentinian Gnosticism, had roots at least in part within heterodox Jewish speculation about Sophia.

“It has generally been accepted that Gnosticism, especially Valentinian Gnosticism had its roots at least in part, within heterodox Jewish speculation about the nature of the figure of Sophia from Jewish tradition.”

• cites [31] 31. Plato. Laws. Translated by R.G. Bury. Tufts.edu http://www.perseus.tufts.edu/hopper/text?doc=urn:cts:greekLit:tlg0059.tlg034.perseus- eng1:3.701.(accessed September 7, 2021).Not matched

  Couldn’t be matched to a paper in Crossref, so it can’t be checked.

May combine two claims.

As early as Paul's interactions with the Church at Corinth, a Gentile influence had established a belief that some were spiritually superior due to possession of special knowledge, including the idea that the material world was evil or fundamentally flawed, especially the human body, and therefore inconsequential.

“Henry Chadwick noted that as early as Paul's interactions with the Church at Corinth a Gentile influence had established a belief that some were spiritually superior due to possession of special knowledge, including the idea that the material world was evil, or fundamentally flawed, especially the human body, and was therefore inconsequential.”

• cites [34] 34. Plotinus, The Six Enneads, Translated by Stephen Mackenna, https://www.documentacatholicaomnia.eu/03d/02040270,_Plotinus,_The_Six_Enneads,_ EN.pdf. (accessed November 24, 2021).Not matched

  Couldn’t be matched to a paper in Crossref, so it can’t be checked.

Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing). May combine two claims.

Apostolic succession meant that leaders of the Church had directly inherited authority from original Apostles who knew Jesus; if this traceable succession was true, then the existence of secret teachings given by Jesus to his Apostles, as the Gnostics believed, would not be likely since they would have been taught to bishops like Irenaeus by their predecessor.

“Apostolic succession meant that leaders of the Church had directly inherited authority from original Apostles who knew Jesus; if this traceable succession was true then the existence of secret teachings given by Jesus to his Apostles, as the Gnostics believed, would not be likely since they would have been taught to bishops like Irenaeus by their predecessor.”

• cites [40] 40. Theophilus of Antioch, "To Autolycus," in Ante-Nicene Fathers vol 2, Translated by Marcus Dods, New Advent online Library. https://www.newadvent.org/fathers/02042.htm, (accessed July 4, 2022). Secondary Sources Brakke, David. The Gnostics: Myth, Ritual, and Diversity in Early Christianity. Boston: Harvard University Press, 2010. https://ebookcentral-proquest- com.ezproxy.fhsu.edu/lib/fhsu/reader.action?docID=3300901&query=. (accessed September 3, 2021).Not checked yet

  Not checked in the free run.

May combine two claims.

Yaldabaoth created the Earth, separating the land from waters much like the God of Genesis.

“He then went about creating the Earth, separating the land from waters much like the God of the Genesis account.”

• cites [19] 19. Jaroslav Pelikan, Christianity and Classical Culture, The Metamorphosis of Natural Theology in the Christian Encounter with Hellenism, (New Haven, Connecticut: Yale University Press, 1993), 95. Bibliography Primary Sources I Enoch. Translated by George W.E. Nickelsburg and James C. VanderKam. Minneapolis: Fortress Press, 2012.Not checked yet

  Not checked in the free run.

Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S2 (checkable), S3 (load-bearing), S4 (based).

There was a likely racial component that may have biased the Gnostics' attitude against the traditional Jewish creation account.

“Finally, and perhaps most practically, there was a likely racial component that may have biased the Gnostics' attitude against the traditional Jewish creation account.”

Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).

These differences between Baal and Yahweh still demonstrated a working understanding of the pagan material.

“However, these differences between Baal and Yahweh still demonstrated a working understanding of the pagan material.”

Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing). May combine two claims.

The implication again was that the Christian and Old Testament narratives were cohesive, and the Gnostic Demiurge could not have created mankind.

“The implication again was that the Christian and Old Testament narratives were cohesive, and the Gnostic Demiurge could not have created mankind.”

Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing), S4 (based). May combine two claims.

According to Origen, Christ having taken part in creation with God the Father, had created a good cosmos, and existed in unity with the Old Testament God.

“According to Origen, Christ having taken part in creation with God the Father, had created a good cosmos, and existed in unity with the Old Testament God.”

May combine two claims.

The implication was that this Demiurge was demonic, and under the name Samael the Gnostic Demiurge was listed among other demonic forces, including Leviathan.

“Rather than the traditional omnipotent creator of Jewish and Christian narratives, the implication was that this Demiurge was demonic and under the name Samael the Gnostic Demiurge was listed among other demonic forces, including Leviathan.”

• cites [29] 29. Origen. "Commentary on John," in Ante-Nicene Fathers Book I:14 Translated by Allan Menzies. Edited by Allan Menzies. New Advent Online Library. https://www.newadvent.org/fathers/1015.htm. (accessed February 11, 2022).Not matched

  Couldn’t be matched to a paper in Crossref, so it can’t be checked.

Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing), S4 (based).

To readers in the ancient world, this multi-headed dragon would have recalled the Hydra as well as the Leviathan of Jewish tradition, which was often depicted with many heads, for instance in Psalm 74:13-14.

“To readers in the ancient world, this multi-headed dragon would have recalled the Hydra as well as the Leviathan of Jewish tradition, which as mentioned above was also often depicted with many heads, for instance in Psalm 74:13-14.”

Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing). May combine two claims.

Steenberg noted that although Irenaeus eventually developed a stricter interpretation of creation ex nihilo, he along with Justin and Theophilus affirmed the assertion of II Maccabees 7:28 that God created the cosmos out of non-being, which has been alternately interpreted from chaos, unformed substance and primordial matter.

“Professor of Theology M.C.Steenberg noted how although Irenaeus eventually developed a stricter interpretation of creation ex nihilo, he along with early Church theologians Justin and Theophilus affirmed the assertion of Second Temple era text II Maccabees 7:28 that God created the cosmos 'out of non-being,' which has been alternately interpreted from 'chaos,' 'unformed substance' and 'primordial”

• cites [46] 46. Chadwick, Henry. The Early Church I. New York: Penguin. 1984.Not matched

  Couldn’t be matched to a paper in Crossref, so it can’t be checked.

Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).

The implication was that any idea of the fundamentally corrupt nature of the material world, including mankind, was not consistent with the idea of a Supreme Deity at all.

“The implication was that any idea of the fundamentally corrupt nature of the material world, including mankind, was not consistent with the idea of a Supreme Deity at all.”

Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).

Paul's refutation of spiritual cliquishness and resultant immorality at Corinth was the first in a genre of writings that became increasingly necessary if Christianity was going to remain cohesive.

“Paul's refutation of the spiritual cliquishness and resultant immorality at Corinth was the first in a genre of writings that became increasingly necessary if Christianity was going to remain cohesive.”

Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).

Therefore, according to some early Christian thinkers, the role of Demiurge itself was designated to Christ.

“Therefore, according to some early Christian thinkers, the role of Demiurge itself was designated to Christ.”

Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).

Irenaeus argued that the idea that the Kronos-like Demiurge of the Gnostics had created the world in total ignorance of the Supreme God's existence was improbable, because Jews of his day adjured demons in the name of God and acknowledged his authority, so a hypothetical powerful figure like Yaldabaoth could not be less aware than demons were known to be.

“Likewise, the idea that the Kronos-like Demiurge of the Gnostics had created the world in total ignorance of the Supreme God's existence was improbable, as Irenaeus argued that Jews of his day adjured demons in name of God, i.e. they acknowledged his authority, and therefore how could a hypothetical powerful figure like Yaldabaoth be less aware than demons were known to be?”

• cites [45] 45. Casadio, Giovanni, & Johnston, Patricia. Mystic Cults in Magna Graecia. Austin: University of Texas Press. 2009.Not checked — no full text of the source

May combine two claims.

The Rule of Faith was perhaps the most potent of Irenaeus' three tools and the one with the most bearing on the Gnostic Demiurge Yaldabaoth, because it directly contradicted the Gnostic notions that the creator of the earth or mankind was not the supreme deity, the Old Testament was inferior or had an inferior god, and that the traditional Jewish account of creation was inconsistent with the doct

“This was perhaps the most potent tool of the three, and the one with the most bearing on the figure of the Gnostic Demiurge Yaldabaoth, because it directly contradicted the Gnostic notions that the creator of the earth or mankind was not the supreme deity, the Old Testament was inferior or had an inferior god, and that the traditional Jewish account of creation was inconsistent with the doctrines”

Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).

In book one of Against Heresies, Irenaeus described the heretical teachings of Valentinus as being like the Lernaean hydra, the seven-headed, Leviathan-like dragon of Greek legend which regrew two heads for each one cut off.

“In book one of Against Heresies, Irenaeus described the heretical teachings of the school of the Gnostic Valentinus as being like the “Lernaean hydra,” the seven-headed, and Leviathan-like dragon of Greek legend which regrew two heads for each one that was cut off.”

• cites [37] 37. "Baal and Mot." Canaanite Myths and Legends, Edited by J.C.L Gibson, https://ebookcentral- proquest-com.ezproxy.fhsu.edu/lib/fhsu/reader.action?docID=436487. (accessed June 11, 2022).Not matched

  Couldn’t be matched to a paper in Crossref, so it can’t be checked.

May combine two claims.

In The Gospel of Judas, Yaldabaoth was described as rebel, drawing associations with the angelic Watcher rebels of Jewish tradition and the Greek Titan narrative.

“Here the Demiurge Yaldabaoth was described as rebel, and the theme of rebellion again emerged drawing associations with the angelic Watcher rebels of Jewish tradition, and the Greek Titan narrative.”

• cites [30] 30. Origen, "Contra Celsum," in Ante-Nicene Fathers vol. 4, Book VI:25, Translated by Frederick Cromble. New Advent Online Library. https://www.newadvent.org/fathers/04166.htm, (accessed June 11, 2022).Not matched

  Couldn’t be matched to a paper in Crossref, so it can’t be checked.

Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).

Irenaeus noted that Sophia Pistis was regarded by some Gnostics as taking the form of a serpent in the context of the tempter-serpent of the Garden of Eden.

“Irenaeus also noted that the figure of Sophia Pistis was regarded by some Gnostics as taking the form of a serpent albeit in the context of the tempter-serpent of the Garden of Eden.”

• cites [21] 21. Aristophanes, Pax, Translated by Fredericus Bladyes, 758. https://babel.hathitrust.org/cgi/pt?id=mdp.39015066291231&view=1up&seq=93&skin=2 021 .(accessed November 24, 2021).Not matched

  Couldn’t be matched to a paper in Crossref, so it can’t be checked.

Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).

Yaldabaoth was described in The Nature of the Rulers as blind, where blindness meant ignorance and arrogance.

“Yaldabaoth was described within the Gnostic cosmological essay found at Nag Hammadi, “The Nature of the Rulers,” as blind, but in this sense the blindness was ignorance and arrogance.”

• cites [26] 26. Hesiod. Theogony. Translated by J. Banks. Epub. Harvard.edu. https://chs.harvard.edu/primary- source/hesiod-theogony-sb/. (accessed October 19, 2021).Not matched

  Couldn’t be matched to a paper in Crossref, so it can’t be checked.

Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).

Steenberg added that Justin likely believed any matter the God of Genesis used was still formed by God and not eternal or pre-existent.

“Steenberg added that Justin likely nevertheless believed any matter the God of Genesis used was still formed by God and not eternal or pre-existent.”

• cites [47] 47. Collins, Adela Yarbro. The Combat Myth in the Book of Revelation. Missoula, Montana: Scholar's Press, 1976.Not matched

  Couldn’t be matched to a paper in Crossref, so it can’t be checked.

Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).

Revelation 12:3 recounted an image of a great red dragon with seven heads menacing a divine woman and child and the heavens.

“Revelation 12:3 recounted an image of a great red dragon with seven heads menacing a divine woman and child and the heavens.”

• cites [51] 51. Eliade, Mircea. A History of Religious Ideas 2, From Gautama Buddha to the Triumph of Christianity. Chicago, Illinois: University of Chicago Press, 1982.Not matched

  Couldn’t be matched to a paper in Crossref, so it can’t be checked.

Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing). May combine two claims.

While distinguishing orthodox Christian doctrine from Gnosticism, Irenaeus sought to parse differences between Christianity and Judaism, portraying Jews as having ultimately rejected God, something that may have had practical motivations in light of persecutions during the late first and early second centuries AD.

“While working to distinguish orthodox Christian doctrine from Gnosticism, he also sought to parse the differences between Christianity and Judaism, portraying the Jews as having ultimately rejected God, something which may have had practical motivations in light of persecutions that took place during the late first and early second centuries AD.”

• cites [36] 36. The Orphic Fragments. Translated by Otto Kern. 54. https://www.hellenicgods.org/orphic- fragment-54---otto-kern. (accessed September 3, 2021).Not matched

  Couldn’t be matched to a paper in Crossref, so it can’t be checked.

May combine two claims.

Although the primordial serpent was likely not the same as the tempter of the Garden, there was likely room for the serpent of the Garden to sometimes be cast as the primordial serpent.

“Although as discussed above the primordial serpent was likely not the same as the tempter of the Garden, there was likely room for the serpent of the Garden to sometimes be cast as the primordial serpent.”

Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing). May combine two claims.

Gnostics attributed the lineage of the Hebrew people to a grotesque union between Yaldabaoth and Eve; Cain and Abel, described as "ugly," were imagined as the progenitors of the Hebrew people.

“He further observed that Gnostics attributed the lineage of the Hebrew people to a grotesque union between Yaldabaoth and Eve, the direct offspring from this union, Cain and Abel, here described as “ugly,” were imagined as the progenitors of the Hebrew people.”

• cites [33] 33. Translated by W.R.M. Lamb. Cambridge: Harvard University Press, 1925. http://www.perseus.tufts.edu/hopper/text?doc=Perseus%3Atext%3A1999.01.0180%3Ate xt%3DTim.%3Asection%3D37d, (accessed July 3, 2022).Not checked yet

  Not checked in the free run.

Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).

Each of Irenaeus' three tools had direct bearing on Gnosticism in different ways.

“Each of these had direct bearing on Gnosticism in different ways.”

Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).

Irenaeus argued that because God must be perfectly good, and had declared his creation good, the idea of Yaldabaoth, the chaos-born Demiurge of the Gnostics, was essentially absurd prima facie.

“He argued that because God must be perfectly good, and had declared his creation good, that the idea of Yaldabaoth, the chaos-born Demiurge of the Gnostics, was essentially absurd prima facie.”

Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).

Wessels observed that within Jeremiah the polemic against Baal was founded on the idea that Yahweh is the creator who in his power and might can take away that which Baal supposedly can provide and is hailed for.

“Professor of Old Testament and Ancient Near Eastern studies Wilhelm J. Wessels observed that within the Old Testament book of Jeremiah the polemic against Baal was “founded on the idea that Yahweh is the creator who in his power and might can take away that which Baal supposedly can provide and is hailed for.””

• cites [49] 49. Day, John. God's Conflict with the Dragon and the Sea: Echoes of a Canaanite Myth in the Old Testament. London: Cambridge University Press, 1985.Not matched

  Couldn’t be matched to a paper in Crossref, so it can’t be checked.

Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).

This potential explanation suggests Gnostics had a cultural and racial reason to diverge from Jewish narratives.

“This potential explanation suggests Gnostics had a cultural and racial reason to diverge from Jewish narratives.”

Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing). May combine two claims.

Irenaeus asserted neither angels nor any other lesser deity could logically have formed creation without the Father's consent, and that such figures as Yaldabaoth could not have been ignorant or blind to the existence of God, and assumed himself supreme, as the Gnostics asserted their Demiurge had.

“He asserted neither angels nor any other lesser deity could logically have formed creation without the Father's consent and that conversely, such figures as Yaldabaoth could not have been ignorant or 'blind' to the existence of God, and assumed himself supreme, as the Gnostics asserted their Demiurge had.”

• cites [44] 44. Burns, Dylan M. "Providence, Creation, and Gnosticism According to the Gnostics." Journal of Early Christian Studies 24, no. 2. (April 2016): 56-79. sourceNot checked — no full text of the source

Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing). May combine two claims.

Forsyth noted an increasing alienation from Judaism existed within Gnosticism, leading them to identify the Demiurge, the flawed and demonic Yaldabaoth, as the Old Testament God.

“However, in spite of this Forsyth noted an increasing alienation from Judaism also existed within Gnosticism, further leading them to identify the Demiurge, the flawed and demonic Yaldabaoth as the Old Testament God.”

• cites [32] 32. Plato. "Timaeus," in Plato in Twelve Volumes, Vol.Not matched

  Couldn’t be matched to a paper in Crossref, so it can’t be checked.

Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).

Chadwick described Irenaeus as adhering to three tools against heresies: Apostolic succession, the recognition of a New Testament canon, and the Rule of Faith.

“Chadwick described Irenaeus as adhering to essentially three tools against heresies.These were Apostolic succession, the recognition of a New Testament canon, and the Rule of Faith.”

• cites [39] 39. Thucydides. The Peloponnesian War I. Translated by Richard Crawley. New York: E. P. Dutton, 1910.Not matched

  Couldn’t be matched to a paper in Crossref, so it can’t be checked.

Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing), S4 (based). May combine two claims.

The dragon-like figures within Revelation shared a strong affinity with the Jewish and ancient Near Eastern dragons of primordial waters, and at the same time demonstrated how Gnostic ideas of the primeval serpent or any other permutations of that motif were departures from the original meaning.

“The dragon-like figures within the apocalyptic New Testament text Revelation shared a strong affinity with the Jewish and ancient Near Eastern dragons of primordial waters, and at the same time demonstrated how Gnostic ideas of the primeval serpent or any other permutations of that motif were departures from the original meaning.”

Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).

The racial divide may have served to further alienate the Gnostics from the Jewish and orthodox Christian community.

“The racial divide therefore may have served to further alienate the Gnostics from the Jewish and orthodox Christian community.”

Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).

Irenaeus used the comparison to the Lernaean hydra to describe the difficult-to-eradicate nature of Gnostic heresies.

“He used the comparison to this well-known monster to describe the difficult to eradicate nature of Gnostic heresies.”

Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).

Irenaeus observed that Valentinian Gnostics held the Demiurge was involved with oblivion, resulting in unsavory behaviors.

“Irenaeus of Lyon, observed how Valentinian Gnostics held that this figure was “involved with oblivion,” resulting in a number of unsavory behaviors.”

• cites [20] 20. Anonymous, "Anonymous Cyzicenus" in Historia Ecclesiastica. Edited by Günther Christian Hansen. Berlin: 2002. https://pta.bbaw.de/pta/reader/?left=urn-cts-pta- pta0036.pta001.pta-grc1&right=notext. (accessed June 12, 2022).Not checked yet

  Not checked in the free run.

Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing). May combine two claims.

This meant that from the beginning mankind was both a being of dust, i.e. raw matter, as well as the spirit of God, and therefore also contained something immaterial and immortal.

“This meant that from the beginning mankind was both a being of dust, i.e. raw matter, as well as the spirit of God, and therefore also contained something immaterial and immortal.”

• cites [50] 50. Edmonds, Radcliffe G. "Deviant Origins: Hesiodic Theogony and the Orphica." In Oxford Handbook of Hesiod. Edited by A. Loney and S. Scully, 225-242. New York: Oxford University Press, 2018.Not matched

  Couldn’t be matched to a paper in Crossref, so it can’t be checked.

Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing), S4 (based).

These also shared the common idea that the chaotic serpent figure or permutations of it were subdued by a heroic or divine figure who, in an act of creation, subdued the symbol of watery chaos in a great struggle thereby establishing order.

“These also shared the common idea that the chaotic serpent figure or permutations of it were subdued by a heroic or divine figure who, in an act of creation, subdued the symbol of watery chaos in a great struggle thereby establishing order.”

Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).

Celsus' powerful and significant Leviathan suggested possible Gnostic influence.

“Celsus' powerful and significant Leviathan suggested possible Gnostic influence.”

Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).

Subsequently cultural paradigms were allowed to spread and mingle.

“Subsequently cultural paradigms were allowed to spread and mingle.”

Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).

For Christians, any Leviathan which had been defeated was subordinate and diminutive in comparison.

“any Leviathan which had been defeated was subordinate and diminutive in comparison”

Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).

Among these were Greek sanctuary items which began to resemble the style and themes of Eastern art.

“Among these were Greek sanctuary items which began to resemble the style and themes of Eastern art.”

Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S2 (checkable), S3 (load-bearing), S4 (based). May combine two claims.

At the same time, contemporary prejudicial attitudes about the Jewish Christian community may have also influenced Gnosticism and consequently led them even further away from a more cohesive interpretation of the material they were borrowing.

“At the same time, contemporary prejudicial attitudes about the Jewish Christian community may have also influenced Gnosticism and consequently led them even further away from a more cohesive interpretation of the material they were borrowing.”

Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).

Much of what is presently known about Gnostic belief was illuminated by the discovery of Gnostic texts at Nag Hammadi in 1945, which added context to what Christian scholars had written about the Gnostics.

“Additionally, much of what is presently known about Gnostic belief was illuminated by the discovery of Gnostic texts at Nag Hammadi in 1945 which added context to what Christian scholars had written about the Gnostics.”

Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing), S4 (based).

The relationship between Near Eastern and Greek mythological traditions has been explored in recent decades.

“the relationship between Near Eastern and Greek mythological traditions has been explored in recent decades”

Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing), S4 (based). May combine two claims.

This has been supported by depictions in archaeological findings, similar monstrous serpent figures such as Typhoeus in Greek myth, and especially the development of Orphic traditions in which the seven Titans, particularly Kronos, correlated with the mother of monsters in Near Eastern tradition, Tiamat.

“This has been supported by depictions in archaeological findings, similar monstrous serpent figures such as Typhoeus in Greek myth, and especially the development of Orphic traditions in which the seven Titans, particularly Kronos, correlated with the mother of monsters in Near Eastern tradition, Tiamat.”

Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).

After the collapse of the Bronze Age eliminated other writing forms, it was likely that languages dispersed through alphabetic script by Phoenicians, Hebrews, Philistines, and other groups throughout Syria-Palestine.

“after the collapse of the Bronze Age eliminated other writing forms, it was likely that languages dispersed through alphabetic script by Phoenicians, Hebrews, Philistines, and other groups throughout Syria-Palestine.”

• cites [10] 10. Jan Bremmer, Greek Religion and Culture, the Bible and the Ancient Near East, (New York: Brill, 2008), 73. sourceNot checked — no full text of the source

Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).

Concurrently, they imagined that if the Creator of the Old Testament existed, then he must have been this demonic, monstrous Demiurge.

“Concurrently, they imagined that if the Creator of the Old Testament existed, then he must have been this demonic, monstrous Demiurge.”

May combine two claims.

Mirroring the judgment of Leviathan from Isaiah, the dragon and beast of Revelation were judged by God, thereby abolishing death, and establishing a new creation.

“Most significantly, mirroring the judgment of Leviathan from Isaiah discussed above, the dragon and beast of Revelation were judged by God, thereby abolishing death, and establishing a new creation.”

Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing). May combine two claims.

Because of later Platonic development, the Demiurge was eventually adopted by the Gnostics during the Christian era who symbolically identified it as a serpent with a lion's head that closely resembled representations of the Titan Kronos, and was in this version the offspring of a primordial goddess Sophia Pistis rather than Gaia.

“Because of this, the Demiurge was eventually adopted by the Gnostics during the Christian era who symbolically identified it as a serpent with a lion's head that closely resembled representations of the Titan Kronos, and was in this version the offspring of a primordial goddess Sophia Pistis rather than Gaia.”

May combine two claims.

Although the Revelation 12 passage characterized the dragon explicitly as the devil and Satan, the motif employed here was nevertheless that of the Leviathan.

“Although the Revelation 12 passage characterized the dragon in this instance explicitly as the”

Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).

The use of the term drakon for the monster in Revelation 12 shows that he is related to the OT serpentine sea-monster referred to in Isa 27:1 and elsewhere, namely, livyathan, rendered by drakon in the LXX.

“The use of the term drakon for the monster in Revelation 12 shows that he is related to the OT serpentine sea-monster referred to in Isa 27:1 and elsewhere, namely, livyathan, rendered by drakon in the LXX [Septuagint].”

• cites [52] 52. Eliade, Mircea. The Sacred & the Profane, The Nature of Religion. New York: Harcourt, Brace & World, 1963.Not matched

  Couldn’t be matched to a paper in Crossref, so it can’t be checked.

Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).

This distinct figure known by various names was a part of the extensive interplay recent scholarship has revealed between ancient Near Eastern religion and that of the early Greeks.

“This distinct figure known by various names was a part of the extensive interplay recent scholarship has revealed between ancient Near Eastern religion and that of the early Greeks.”

Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).

The location of the sea seems to have intentionally linked this figure to the Leviathan of Jewish tradition.

“The location of the sea, also seems to have intentionally linked this figure to the Leviathan of Jewish tradition.”

May combine two claims.

Origen's response demonstrated he was not comfortable with assigning cosmic significance to the old sea dragon and viewed it firmly defeated and in submission to God as the Psalmist had.

“Origen's response to it demonstrated he was not comfortable with assigning cosmic significance to the old sea dragon and viewed it firmly defeated and in submission to God as the Psalmist had.”

Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S4 (based).

This involved utilizing Platonic and Jewish ideas in unorthodox ways.

“This involved utilizing Platonic and Jewish ideas in unorthodox ways.”

May combine two claims.

The Gnostics interpreted the God of the Jewish Tanakh and Christian Old Testament as having associations with the flawed material world, and therefore inferred that the figure described there was not an eternal flawless deity but in fact an inferior Demiurge regarded as demonic, described as ignorant, blind, and resembling the monstrous pagan god Kronos.

“The Gnostics interpreted the God of the Jewish Tanakh and Christian Old Testament as having associations with the flawed material world, and therefore inferred that the figure described there was not an eternal flawless deity but in fact an inferior Demiurge regarded as demonic, described as ignorant, blind, and resembling the monstrous pagan god Kronos.”

Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing), S4 (based). May combine two claims.

The literature surrounding the topic has established the root of the Demiurge of the Gnostics within Neoplatonic thought and occasionally its mixture with Jewish writings such as the Tanakh and Second Temple era Enoch traditions.

“The literature surrounding the topic has established the root of the Demiurge of the Gnostics within Neoplatonic thought and occasionally its mixture with Jewish writings such as the Tanakh and Second Temple era Enoch traditions.”

Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing), S4 (based). May combine two claims.

Within the text, the Watchers were described as associates of Leviathan, thereby completing the connection of these figures with the Seven Evil Spirits, and Titan traditions.

“Importantly, within the text, the Watchers were described as associates of Leviathan, thereby completing the connection of these figures with the Seven Evil Spirits, and Titan traditions.”

Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing), S4 (based). May combine two claims.

In Jewish scripture, the figure also appears emblematic of the waters before creation, and antagonism towards humanity, which has been supported by linguistic evidence.

“In Jewish scripture, the figure also appears emblematic of the waters before creation, and antagonism towards humanity, which has been supported by linguistic evidence.”

May combine two claims.

Gregory of Nyssa cemented the role of the Leviathan in the cosmology of Christianity, and like Basil, did so in a way that left no room for the Gnostic interpretation.

“Another of the Cappadocian Fathers, Gregory of Nyssa, Bishop of Cappadocia from 372-395 AD, cemented the role of the Leviathan in the cosmology of Christianity, and like Basil, did so in a way that left no room for the Gnostic interpretation.”

Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).

Some Christian scholars affirmed that the divine Demiurge or organizer of the cosmos was Christ himself.

“and was according to some Christian scholars even Christ himself”

Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).

Once the dragon and monstrous offspring were defeated, the cosmos could enter an ordered condition.

“Once the dragon and monstrous offspring were defeated, the cosmos could enter an ordered condition.”

Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing), S4 (based). May combine two claims.

Orphism is a mystic Greek cultic religion which recent scholarship suggests was influenced by Near Eastern traditions.

“Orphism, a mystic Greek cultic religion which recent scholarship suggests was influenced by Near Eastern traditions.”

Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing), S4 (based).

Leviathan was associated with a similar narrative to that of the Titans and the Seven Evil Spirits of the Near Eastern tradition as demonstrated in the Second Temple era text of I Enoch.

“Leviathan was associated with a similar narrative to that of the Titans and the Seven Evil Spirits of the Near Eastern tradition as demonstrated in the Second Temple era text of I Enoch.”

Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing), S4 (based).

Christian scholars such as Irenaeus, Origen, and the Cappadocian Fathers affirmed that if the cosmos was declared good by the God of Genesis, then this was incompatible with an interpretation where chimeric monsters had created a corrupt material universe.

“Christian scholars such as Irenaeus, Origen, and the Cappadocian Fathers decisively affirmed that if the cosmos was declared good by the God of Genesis, then this was incompatible with an interpretation where chimeric monsters had created a corrupt material universe.”

Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S4 (based).

Within Christian thought this was also believed to be in some way repeated at the renewal of creation foretold in Christian doctrine, and in Scripture such as the book of Revelation.

“Similarly, within Christian thought this was also believed to be in some way repeated at the renewal of creation foretold in Christian doctrine, and in Scripture such as the book of Revelation.”

Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing), S4 (based). May combine two claims.

Leviathan was a sea dwelling, serpentine chaos figure, and has bearing on the topic at hand.

“the figure of Leviathan was a sea dwelling, serpentine chaos figure, and has bearing on the topic at hand.”

Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing), S4 (based).

A parallel narrative was also visible within the Jewish tradition of the sea serpent Leviathan.

“A parallel narrative was also visible within the Jewish tradition of the sea serpent Leviathan.”

Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing), S4 (based). May combine two claims.

In this tradition, fallen angelic figures known as Watchers rebelled against God, and were cast into Tartaros as punishment.

“In this tradition, fallen angelic figures known as Watchers rebelled against God, and were cast into Tartaros as punishment.”

May combine two claims.

The Gnostic interpretation of the Demiurge was derived from mythological monsters and served as a way of explaining the perceived corruption of the material world while deconstructing the Jewish and Old Testament creator by association.

“The Gnostic interpretation of the Demiurge was derived from mythological monsters and served as a way of explaining the perceived corruption of the material world while deconstructing the Jewish and Old Testament creator by association.”

Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S4 (based).

This was demonstrated by their use of the Demiurge figure, pagan Titan/succession myth, and Jewish I Enoch rebellion narrative to describe how this counterfeit creator might exist.

“This was demonstrated by their use of the Demiurge figure, pagan Titan/succession myth, and Jewish I Enoch rebellion narrative to describe how this counterfeit creator might exist.”

Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing), S4 (based).

Basil demonstrated that by the early Byzantine period thinkers had rejected the idea of the flawed material world.

“Basil demonstrated that by the early Byzantine period thinkers had rejected the idea of the flawed material world.”

Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing), S4 (based).

The motif of the primordial serpent associated with the watery void before creation and evil has appeared in many of the most ancient cultures.

“The motif of the primordial serpent associated with the watery void before creation and evil has appeared in many of the most ancient cultures.”

Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).

It has also been suggested that such infamous Greek monsters as the Gorgons, themselves notably associated with snakes, share their origins with Lamashtu.

“It has also been suggested that such infamous Greek monsters as the Gorgons, themselves notably associated with snakes, share their origins with Lamashtu.”

• cites [10] 10. Jan Bremmer, Greek Religion and Culture, the Bible and the Ancient Near East, (New York: Brill, 2008), 73. sourceNot checked — no full text of the source

Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing), S4 (based). May combine two claims.

Although the God of Jewish tradition diverged from Eastern dragon-slaying narratives in that the Jewish God was explicitly undaunted by the figure, the Leviathan itself played a very similar role.

“Although the God of Jewish tradition diverged from Eastern dragon-slaying narratives in that the Jewish God was explicitly undaunted by the figure, the Leviathan itself played a very similar role.”

Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).

Revelation 13:1 recounted a deceptive and antagonistic beast that came out of the sea, which like the traditional Leviathan, had many heads.

“Revelation 13:1 recounted a deceptive and antagonistic beast that came out of the sea, which like the traditional Leviathan, had many heads (figure 6).”

• cites [53] 53. Ezquerra, Jaime Alvar. Romanizing Oriental Gods: Myth Salvation and Ethics in the Cult of Cybele, Isis, and Mithras. Translated by Richard Gordon. New York: Brill, 2008.Not matched

  Couldn’t be matched to a paper in Crossref, so it can’t be checked.

Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing), S4 (based).

Like the Leviathan and Tiamat, the seven headed dragon in Revelation 12:9 also allied with other monstrous beasts.

“Like the Leviathan and Tiamat the seven headed dragon in Revelation 12:9 also allied with other monstrous beasts.”

May combine two claims.

Yaldabaoth had created the material world, and so the Gnostics associated their Demiurge with the idea of the inferiority of material things.

“Yaldabaoth had created the material world, and so the Gnostics associated their Demiurge with the idea of the inferiority of material things.”

Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).

As Collins noted, the complete annihilation of the adversary, the Leviathan, and the sea in Revelation heralded a new creation.

“As Collins noted, this complete annihilation of the adversary, the Leviathan, and the sea in Revelation heralded a new creation.”

• cites [54] 54. Jacobsen, Thorkild. "The Battle Between Marduk and Tiamat," Journal of the American Oriental Society 88, no. 1. (January 1968): 104-108. https://www.jstor.org/stable/597902?refreqid=excelsior%3A5a881c0abbbc31e29fe470fd 23b14e6e&seq=1#metadata_info_tab_contents. (accessed September 17, 2021). sourceNot checked — no full text of the source

Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).

Christian scholars such as Irenaeus and his successors asserted that the good creation described in Genesis was incompatible with a narrative in which any monstrous deities had created a corrupt cosmos.

“Concurrently, Christian scholars such as Irenaeus and his successors asserted that the “good” creation described in Genesis was incompatible with a narrative in which any monstrous deities had created a corrupt cosmos.”

Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing), S4 (based).

In using this illustration, Nyssa like other Christian intellectuals before him placed the primordial serpent in submission to the Creator.

“In using this illustration, Nyssa like other Christian intellectuals before him placed the primordial serpent in submission to the Creator.”

Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).

Greek amulets have also been recovered petitioning protection against, and bearing images similar to Lamashtu, a Semitic demon-like entity associated with serpents.

“Greek amulets have also been recovered petitioning protection against, and bearing images similar to Lamashtu, a Semitic demon-like entity associated with serpents.”

Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).

John D. Turner concurred with the consensus assessment that the Sethian Gnostics to whom much of the Nag Hammadi collection belonged sought to creatively merge Plato's Timaeus with the Genesis account.

“For instance, scholar of religion John D. Turner concurred with the consensus assessment that the Sethian Gnostics to whom much of the Nag Hammadi collection belonged, sought to creatively merge Plato's Timaeus with the Genesis account.”

• cites [1] 1. Plotinus, The Six Enneads, trans. Stephen Mackenna, II:9:1, https://www.documentacatholicaomnia.eu/03d/0204-0270,_Plotinus,_The_Six_Enneads,_EN.pdf, (accessed November 24, 2021).Not matched

  Couldn’t be matched to a paper in Crossref, so it can’t be checked.

Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing), S4 (based). May combine two claims.

In their refutation of Gnostic heresies, they echoed the Jewish and ancient Near Eastern idea that the waters or depths before creation represented most popularly in this context as Leviathan, were decisively destroyed or tamed for creation to occur and had therefore not created the world or mankind.

“In their refutation of Gnostic heresies, they echoed the Jewish and ancient Near Eastern idea that the waters or depths before creation represented most popularly in this context as Leviathan, were decisively destroyed or tamed for creation to occur and had therefore not created the world or mankind.”

Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).

Until the discovery of the Ugaritic texts, and for many years afterward, most classical scholars found it convenient, indeed almost obligatory, to discount as fabrications the considerable ancient evidence for contact between the Near East and early Greek literature and philosophy.

“Until the discovery of the Ugaritic texts, and in fact until a good many years afterward, most classical scholars found it convenient, indeed almost obligatory, to discount as fabrications the considerable ancient evidence for contact between the Near East and early Greek literature and philosophy.”

• cites [9] 9. Noegel, "Jonah and Leviathan," 240.Not matched

  Couldn’t be matched to a paper in Crossref, so it can’t be checked.

Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing). May combine two claims.

As Assyria played a large role in the development of trade between Greek West and Semitic East, it rapidly assimilated city states and kingdoms, and by 877 BC the Assyrians had reached the Mediterranean.

“As Assyria played a large role in the development of trade between Greek West and Semitic East, Burkert noted that it rapidly assimilated city states and kingdoms, and by 877 BC the Assyrians had reached the Mediterranean.”

• cites [10] 10. Jan Bremmer, Greek Religion and Culture, the Bible and the Ancient Near East, (New York: Brill, 2008), 73. sourceNot checked — no full text of the source

May combine two claims.

Therefore, identification as a seraph, a Jewish serpentine guardian figure, and most likely not Leviathan or the Near Eastern chaos serpent is indicated.

“Therefore, identification as a seraph, a Jewish serpentine guardian figure, and most likely not Leviathan or the Near Eastern chaos serpent is indicated.”

Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing), S4 (based).

Scholars who have focused on the motif of the primordial chaos serpent or dragon have suggested a theory of monogenesis for the figure wherein an original narrative spread out from a common source, thus explaining its frequent appearance in the region.

“Scholars who have focused on the motif of the primordial chaos serpent or dragon have suggested a theory of monogenesis for the figure wherein an original narrative spread out from a common source, thus explaining its frequent appearance in the region.”

Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).

If matter was deficient then its creator must have also been fundamentally flawed.

“If matter was deficient then its creator must have also been fundamentally flawed.”

Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S4 (based).

Plato introduced the term Demiurge as a primordial builder figure who was the arranger of the material cosmos.

“The philosopher Plato introduced the term Demiurge as a primordial builder figure who was the arranger of the material cosmos.”

Probably not a substantial claim: may not pass S3 (load-bearing).

Archaeological finds have indicated that by the late eighth and early seventh centuries BC, objects of Oriental provenance were present in Greece.

“Additionally, archaeological finds have indicated that by the late eighth, and early seventh centuries BC, objects of Oriental provenance were present in Greece.”