Overview

Manichaeism is the belief that Good and Evil are equally powerful in either ability or authority. This belief was influenced by the Persian religion of Zaroastrianism and most adherents are gnostics.

Traditional Manichaeism depends on Dualism, although many Manichaens, especially in modern times, reject Dualism. Manichaeism specifically depends on Limited Theism.

Why is it Heresy?

​Manichaeism is heresy because it denies the Omnipotence of God and elevates the position of Satan and the fallen angels. In doing so, it sets up an idol and follows a false god rather than the God of the Bible.

Etymology

Manichaeism is named for its founder, Mani.

History

The Manichaeists were from a gnostic sect that was influenced by the false religion called Zaroastrianism. The Manichaeist sect was founded by the Iranian Montanist Mani in the 200s. Notably, Augustine of Hippo converted to Christianity from Manichaeism in 387. The Manichaeist sect was nearly extinct by the Middle Ages, however Manichaeism had already spread to other sects.

The Paulician sect (Founded by Constantine of Mananalis) of the 600s were an Armenian sect that held to Manichaeism. Even though there are reports of Paulician sects in the 1800s, the majority of the Paulicians were wiped out in the late 800s by the Roman Catholic Church, and the sect never rose to significance again afterwards. Bogomillism also arose as a major Manichaen cult in the 900s. They survived all the way until the 1400s. Again, in the 1100s, the Catharist, or Albigensian, sect arose. One of their core teachings was Manichaeism. They were wiped out by the Roman Catholic Church in 1229, after a 20 year war that Pope Innocent III declared in response to a Catharist murdering Pierre de Castelnau.

In modern days, Manichaeism is rare but can still be found. Some modern members of the Charismatic Movement, such as author Lee E. Thomas, are Manichaeans. There are a few modern gnostics who are also Manichaeans.

Notable Adherents

  • Mani
  • Bogomil
  • Lee E. Thomas
  • Constantine of Mananalis

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