Gnosticism¶

An ancient religious movement (2nd–4th century) teaching that the material world is evil, created by a lesser, flawed god, and that salvation comes through secret spiritual knowledge (gnosis) that awakens the divine spark within.

Key Traits: - Dualism: Spirit = good, Matter = bad - Escape-based salvation: goal is to flee this world - Elitism: Only the "in-the-know" are saved