and Jesus Christ.
It is believed to have been written by Gnostic
followers of Jesus, rather than by Judas himself, and probably dates from no earlier than the 2nd century, since it contains late 2nd century theology. In 180 A.D., Irenaeus
, an influential Christian priest, wrote a document in which he railed against this gospel, indicating the book was already in circulation.
The secret account of the revelation that Jesus spoke in conversation with Judas Iscariot during a week, three days before he celebrated Passover
The first is Seth, who is called Christ.
Those [i.e., the disciples] you have seen receiving the offerings at the altar — that is who you are. That is the God you serve, and you are those twelve men you have seen. The cattle you have seen brought for sacrifice are the many people you lead astray before that altar. [. . .] will stand and make use of My name in this way, and generations of the pious will remain loyal to Him.
:Jesus, to Judas
Knowing that Judas was reflecting upon something that was exalted, Jesus said to him: Step away from the others [the disciples] and I shall tell you the mysteries of the Kingdom. It is possible for you to reach it, but you will grieve a great deal. For someone else will replace you, in order that the twelve [disciples] may again come to completion with their God.
Look, you have been told everything. Lift up your eyes and look at the cloud and the light within it and the stars surrounding it. The star that leads the way is your star.
:Jesus, to Judas
You shall be cursed for generations... you will come to rule over them... You will exceed all of them. For you will sacrifice the man that clothes me.
:Jesus, to Judas
In the last days they will curse your ascent to the holy [generation].
:Jesus, to Judas