Abstract

Michaela C. Hastetter:
Logos-Fragments versus the One Logos
Rediscovering Irenaeus’ “Adversus haereses” in regard to Neognostic Tendencies in Contemporary Music (Hans Zender)
(FKTh 2023-4, p. 283–299)

Based on the background of the revival of the “Gnosis of Valentinus” at the end of the 20th century, the “Logos Fragments” (2006–2009) of Hans Zender will be analysed as an example of a neo-gnostic composition and structural analogue to the description of the Valentinian School, as found in the Adversus Haereses of Irenaeus of Lyon, based on comparable parameters in music and theology, whereby thus far unnoticed parallels will be opened. In regard to this, the response of Irenaeus to gnostic teaching appears surprisingly current. The one Logos stands opposed to the fragmentation of the idea of God into a plurality of Aeons; while the early Church admits fragmentation in the area of knowing, this knowing on the contrary, from the side of the Gnostics, is seen to be an absolute whole. The topic will then finally be widened out to include the various interpretative traditions of the parable of the vineyard workers.