Who were the Gnostics?
Gnosticism, particularly its early Christian form, represents a complex and fascinating aspect of early Christian history. It was characterized by distinctive beliefs, practices, and eventual suppression. Emerging in the first and second centuries AD, Christian Gnosticism was not a uniform movement but rather a constellation of diverse groups who shared certain esoteric and mystical beliefs. Origins The origins of Christian Gnosticism remain mysterious, likely drawing from Jewish, Christian, and Hellenistic pagan traditions. The movement developed as early followers of Jesus sought to understand his teachings and divine nature. ...