Mandaeanism

Mandaeanism is a religion which has been classified by scholars as Gnostic (a blanket term for various mostly mystical religions and sects, in the first century AD).

Related Topics:
Religion - Gnostic

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Since the 1st century AD the Mandaeans (Mandai) have mainly lived in the borderland areas of Iraq and Iran. Many have fled the region since the 1990s due to the unstable political climate and have migrated worldwide. This problem has worsened considerably since the US invasion of Iraq; over half of the community have emigrated and there is now considerable concern about the community's long-term viability. There is no official census of the Mandaeans; conservative guesses at current population size have been made in the range of 50,000 to 70,000.

Related Topics:
1st century - Iraq - Iran - 1990s

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In reference to their connection to the Qur'an as the Sabians, Mandaeans are called Subi by their Muslim neighbors. The Mandaeans have also been called the "Christians of St. John" (a misnomer, since they are not Christians) based on a comment made by Portuguese monks in the 16th century. The Mandaeans may also be the same "Nasoraeans" indicated in the works of Epiphanius. The Mandaeans have remained separate and intensely private—what has been reported of them has mostly come from outsiders.

Related Topics:
Qur'an - Sabians - Muslim - St. John - Christian - Portuguese - Monk - 16th century - Nasoraeans - Epiphanius

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The Mandaeans are labeled as gnostics due to the Mandaic word manda, which can be translated as knowledge, the same word as "gnosis" in Greek. Thus Mandaeanism can be seen as a "Gnostic" religion. It is the only remaining Gnostic religion excluding revivals like the Manichaean Orthodox Church http://essenes.net still in practice.

Related Topics:
Mandaic - Gnosis - Greek - Manichaean Orthodox Church

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Part of the Mandaean ritual dress, called a rasta, includes a white turban symbolizing the great mystery of radiance, light and glory.

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