Manicheanism

Manichaeism is an ancient religious belief system founded by the prophet Mani in the 3rd century CE. It presents a worldview characterized by a dualistic struggle between two fundamental forces: good, represented by light and spiritual knowledge, and evil, associated with darkness and materialism. These forces are in conflict, influencing the universe, human nature, and morality. Followers aim to free the soul from material and physical constraints, often practicing strict asceticism, to ultimately reunite with the realm of light. Manichaeism combined elements of Christianity, Zoroastrianism, and Buddhism, emphasizing spiritual enlightenment through knowledge and moral purity.