The Gnostic Christians

Gnostic Christians were early religious groups emphasizing personal spiritual knowledge (gnosis) over formal doctrine or church authority. They believed that the material world is flawed or corrupt, created by a lesser divine being, and that true spiritual awakening involves awakening to one's divine origin within. Gnosticism often contrasted with orthodox Christianity, highlighting inner enlightenment and direct connection with the divine. Though many Gnostic texts were suppressed, their ideas influenced early Christian diversity and continue to offer a distinctive perspective on spirituality and the nature of reality.