GNOSTICISM

This is pronounced with a silent "g" it is derived from the Greek word gnosis which means: knowledge. It originated in what is now the Middle East and Greece during pre-Christian times. The movement has been composed of many groups with differing beliefs. One common concept is that there are two Gods: one Supreme Father who is from the "good" spirit world, and one Demiurge who created the evil material world. Salvation comes through knowledge and liberation from the material, earthly world to attain a higher level of spirituality. Many Gnostic sects were the victims of genocide by the Christian Church. The movement lives on today and is growing in numbers.