Gnosticism - Main Page

Gnosis, or knowledge, is defined as the intuitive understanding of spiritual truth. Gnosticism is believed to have developed in pre-Christian times, a syncretic blend of Platonic philosophy and Pagan mystery religion.

Some Gnostic groups claimed to have been the original Christians, a position hotly disputed by church 'fathers.' (Ironically, Tertullian, one of Gnosticism's chief opponents, later became a Gnostic himself.) Modern scholarship lends credibility to the claim, as recent discoveries show that fragments of Gnostic texts may be the oldest existing Christian Gospels.

There are some highly organized Gnostic congregations, but many self-labeled Gnostics practice privately. Exceptions include the Mandeans in Iraq, who have practiced continuously since biblical times, although they follow John the Baptist and revile Jesus as a false teacher.

Much of Gnostic scripture has been lost or destroyed; however, in the twentieth century, dozens of Gnostic scriptures were discovered buried in a jar in the desert at Nag Hammadi. These included the shocking Gospel of Thomas, and The Thunder, perfect mind.

Early Gnostics practiced vegetarianism; some sects avoided sex and reproduction. Many modern Gnostics avoid eating meat.