Gnosticism
|nɑːs-tɪ-sɪ-zəm|
🇺🇸
/ˈnɑːstɪˌsɪzəm/
🇬🇧
/ˈnɒstɪˌsɪz(ə)m/
hidden/esoteric knowledge
Etymology
'Gnosticism' originates from Greek, specifically the word 'gnōsis', where the root 'gnō-' meant 'knowledge'.
'Gnosticism' changed from Late Greek 'gnōstikismos' and Greek 'gnōsis' into Latin 'gnosticismus' and then entered English (via Medieval/Modern usage) as 'Gnosticism'.
Initially it referred broadly to 'knowledge' or things 'pertaining to knowledge' (from 'gnōsis'), but over time it came to denote the specific set of religious/philosophical movements and doctrines that emphasize esoteric salvation through knowledge.
Meanings by Part of Speech
Noun 1
a diverse set of ancient religious and philosophical movements, originating in the early centuries CE, that emphasize gnosis—esoteric spiritual knowledge—as the path to salvation and often maintain a dualistic view separating spirit (good) from matter (evil).
Gnosticism influenced several early Christian sects and prompted extensive theological debate.
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Noun 2
the belief that salvation or spiritual liberation is achieved primarily through special, hidden, or inner knowledge (gnosis) rather than through faith, moral action, or institutional rites.
Some critics accused the group of promoting a form of Gnosticism by privileging secret teachings over communal worship.
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Noun 3
figurative use: any attitude, system, or discourse that prizes secret or exclusive knowledge and claims superior insight inaccessible to ordinary people.
The author's theoretical jargon verged on corporate Gnosticism, implying insiders alone could understand the company's strategy.
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Noun 4
a person who adheres to or advocates Gnosticism; a follower of Gnosticism (transformation of 'Gnosticism').
Ancient Gnostics often formed small, tightly knit communities around secret teachings.
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Adjective 1
adjective form relating to or characteristic of Gnosticism (transformation of 'Gnosticism').
Gnostic teachings often emphasize inner revelation over external authority.
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Adverb 1
adverbial form meaning 'in a manner relating to Gnosticism' (transformation of 'Gnosticism').
He interpreted the text gnostically, seeking hidden meanings rather than literal ones.
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Last updated: 2025/10/30 05:26