On the Origin of the World is a Gnostic work dealing with creation and the end time. The manuscript does not have a title, but scholars have dubbed it 'On the Origin of the World' because of what it describes. The unknown author seems interested in providing information about a Gnostic understanding of the world’s conception. In particular, it re-thinks the entire story of Genesis, and positions Yaldabaoth (the Demiurge) as the creator of the world, fulfilling the role of God in Genesis. Furthermore, the Serpent in the Garden of Eden is depicted as a hero sent by Sophia to guide mankind towards enlightenment.
Another distinct characteristic aspect about the text is the perspective it is written from. It intertwines views from Judaism, Christianity, Hellenistic and Egyptian thought, and others in order to help explain its concept of Gnosticism.
Year: 270-330 AD