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by JP1967 on January 7th, 2004

JP1967

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What is Gnosticism?

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  • by wickedwillie on January 7th, 2004

    wickedwillie

    Gnosticism is a philosophical and religious movement which started in pre-Christian times. The term is derived from the Greek word gnosis which means "knowledge". It is pronounced with a silent "G" (NO-sis). Gnostics claimed to have secret knowledge about God, humanity and the rest of the universe of which the general population was unaware. It became one of the three main belief systems within 1st century Christianity, and was noted for three factors which differed from the two other branches of Christianity:

    -Novel beliefs about Gods, the Bible and the world which differed from those of other Christian groups.

    -Tolerance of different religious beliefs within and outside of Gnosticism.

    -Lack of discrimination against women.

    -A belief that salvation is achieved through knowledge. In the words of The Gnostic Apostolic Church humanity needs to be awakened and brought "to a realisation of his true nature. Mankind is moving towards the Omega Point, the Great day when all must graduate or fall. This day is also the Day of Judgement in that only those who have entered the Path of Transfiguration and are being reborn can return to the Treasury of Light."

    The movement and its literature were essentially wiped out by the end of the 5th century CE by heresy hunters from mainline Christianity. Its beliefs are currently experiencing a rebirth throughout the world.

    Comments

    • "heresy hunters" were not representative of most Christians, and Biblical Christianity does not discriminate against women.

      Santaanacanyon

      by Santaanacanyon on January 23rd, 2004

    • Wickedwillie never stated that "heresy hunters" represented MOST Christians, only that they were comprised of Christians.

      shaggy

      by shaggy on March 31st, 2005

    • Biblical Christianity doesn't discriminate against women? What? Since when?

      AntigoneRising

      by AntigoneRising on October 3rd, 2006

    • You must be reading a different bible. Mine is VERY misogynistic.

      Stepper

      by Stepper on December 14th, 2009

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