A critical edition with translation and analytical study of Diuan Qadaha Rba D-Dmuth Kušţa (the Scroll of the Great Creation of the Image/Likeness of Truth).

Abstract

This thesis provides a translation and critical study of one of the most important Mandaean-Na§oraean secret scrolls which has hitherto remained hidden, not only from the (lay) Mandaeans but also from the majority of the Mandaean priests and lay Na§oraeans. Even the complete name of this scroll Diuan Qadaha Rba d-Dmut Kusta (The Scroll of the Great Creation of the Image/Likeness of Truth) has been hidden and remained a puzzle for Mandaeans in general and for most, if not all, well known Mandaean scholars until now. Furthermore, this study reveals the nature and some elements of the secret contents of DQRDK and proves, with substantial evidence, that this scroll is neither a ritual nor an exorcism scroll (as some scholars have previously believed) but rather a very esoteric mystical scroll. A weakness of previous translations of Mandaean material, especially the secret scriptures, has been a failure to give adequate attention to, or explain in depth, the hidden Mandaean-Na§oraean connections and secret levels of meanings. This thesis uses the processes of translation and an analysis of DQRDK to examine these connections and levels of meanings. As an introduction to these matters, which form the core of Mandaeism, Chapter One offers perspectives on the Mandaean religion to assist in the understanding of DQRDK. Chapter Two discusses the status of the scroll, emphasising that it is a very rare and highly treasured text in Mandaean literature. Other matters covered include its recent history, its acquisition by the Bodleian Library, the confusion surrounding it, the nature of its contents, the problem in translating its title (combined with linguistic and theological remarks), a survey of all DQRDK manuscripts known to be extant in the world, and a critical description of the scroll itself. That is followed, in Chapter Three, by a discussion of scriptural and technical aspects of the scroll. Chapter Three also provides a general analysis of the scroll’s syntax, orthography, grammar, and special mystical features. Establishing the history of DQRDK and its authorship are very important matters that are discussed in Chapter Four. The chapter also focuses on the dating of DQRDK and gives an overview of the contemporary history and local events which are revealed in this scroll. Chapter Five explains the significance of the contents of DQRDK and thus establishes its place and overall value within the Mandaean literary tradition. Theological and artistic values are also highlighted. These five chapters can be considered the first step of this study. They introduce the reader to key issues in preparation for the translation in Chapter Six of this very esoteric and complex text. Much of the complexity and difficulties are addressed in the translation chapter by extensive notes and commentaries, which, it is hoped, will be valuable as a tool of enlightenment throughout the journey into this ‘secret’ scroll/knowledge. The conclusion summarises the key ideas and issues raised in the thesis and aims to establish a new direction for further studies in Mandaeism.