The Teachings of Silvanus is the fourth tractate in Codex VII of the Nag Hammadi library. The Coptic translation dates to c. 350 AD, but the original Greek version was likely written near Alexandria between c. 200 and the early 300s AD. The text is pseudepigrapha attributed to Silas (Silvanus), a companion of Paul in Acts of the Apostles. Scholars typically consider it not Gnostic, but J. L. Sumney argues that it is a Gnostic work. It is a rare example of an early Christian Wisdom text and was used in monastic circles. The content of the text encourages the reader to seek wisdom and knowledge, embrace Christ as the King and Teacher, and to cast out any negative influences. God and Christ are described as divine, with Christ being an emanation of God's power, wisdom, and life. The text instructs the reader to fear God, glorify Him through good works, and be pure. Summary The opening urges the reader to develop strength of mind and soul and to fight against negative emotions. Silvanus emphasizes the importance of guarding one's thoughts and using reason and the mind as guides, and he warns against showing weakness to enemies, preferring to pursue enemies with strength instead. He also stresses the significance of education and knowledge, encouraging the reader to listen to wisdom and seek knowledge and perception. He contrasts the foolish person who is guided by ignorance and evil with the wise person who seeks wisdom and reason. The reader is advised to cast their anxieties on God and to avoid ignorance, desire, and evil counsels. Silvanus encourages the reader to return to their divine nature and to reject evil influences by embracing Christ as a good teacher and turning away from death. He emphasizes the importance of taking care of the divine within, which consists of the body, soul, and mind and warns against mixing these components. He advises the reader to live according to the mind and not the flesh, and to be cautious against evil thoughts and influences of the Adversary, who may come in the guise of a flatterer and deceive with sins disguised as good things. Silvanus also encourages people to turn towards their rational and human nature, rather than their animal or fleshly side, and to be in agreement with both the intelligence of the snake and the innocence of the dove. The text focuses on