Damus
daomah · 1d
Do you mind elaborating? Historically, gnostic systems were quite complex. Is it fair to refer to anti-material dualism as gnosticism? I've used it as shorthand in that way with the trans movement but...
Neal profile picture
yeah, the possession of the “secret sauce” to be doled out via levels of
initiation is a calling card of gnostic movements.

I found the classic aristotelian approach to be most helpful in untangling the “complex” mess of all the gnostic traditions.

looking at the form, not the matter.
so we ask, what is the singular, specific thing, ie its essence, that makes gnosticism different than all other isms.
and i was most compelled by the idea that its thinking reality itself is oppressive.

also, when people are speaking about things that are accessible to all, it’s a good indication that it’s not gnostic.


sorry, I’m not familiar with “anti material dualism” so don’t really have anything to contribute.

hopefully that was helpful
daomah · 1d
Forgive me. I didn't mean anti-material dualism as a technical term. When I think of gnosticism I am thinking of a spirit vs matter dualistic system that sides with spirit being superior. So my question was simply is it fair to flatten gnosticism to such a degree and, from your response, I'd say you...