There are 5 things in particular that I admire about this work:(1) It has a superb introduction, which details historical, mythological, and various contextual aspects of Mani and his followers (it is nearly 50 pages).(2) It is splendidly organized.  Just check out the table of contents yourself.(3) This book has a nice format.  While the second point pertains to topical organization, this regards the aesthetic aspects of the work.  In other words, it's a joy to read because...well, it's easy on the eyes.(4) It's comprehensive.  Not necessarily in length, although that is true, too.  What I mean here is that it covers a lot without getting into pedantic concerns.(5) There is a very helpful dictionary of mythico-theological terms near the bibliography, which I referred to repeatedly in my reading (and still do).  If you keep getting confused over who the Maiden of Light is, the Five Sons of the Living Spirit, or the Third Ambassador, don't fret.In conclusion, two renowned Manichaean scholars in the world today have provided an invaluable compass to steer one's way through the maze of Manichaean literature and scholarship.  Recommended to be read with Lieu's 'Manichaeism in the Later Roman Empire and Medieval China' (another invaluable work).

Manichaean Texts from the Roman Empire PDF

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