0
In early Christian times, Christianity was highly fragmented. Gradually, two main branches developed - what is now called the proto-Catholic-Orthodox branch and the Gnostic branch. Gnosticism, by its very nature, coulkd never become united under one set of beliefs, and never had a strong, disciplined hierarchy. Because of this, Constantine saw Gnosticism as of no benefit to the governance of the empire, and merely undermining the unity of Christianity. Thus, the Gnostics did not receive state patronage and their beliefs were strongly discouraged. The Catholic-Orthodox branch of Christianity developed into the Christian Church we know today.
Prior to the time of Constantine it may not have been evident that the Catholic-Orthodox branch would succed over Gnosticism. For that reason, it could be misleading to refer to Gnosticism as a cult. Because there was no single Gnostic Church, it would not have been a sect (school) of Christianity, but could perhaps be referred to a a group of sects.
AnswerGnosticism and the beliefs arising from it are cults. AnswerSome claim that Gnosticism is a cult, yet a cult by definition is a set of collectivist views shared by all members. Gnostics are INDIVIDUALISTS. An Individualist can not be a cult member because it conflicts with the definition of a cult. I suggest you do a little more research before you label the Gnostic beliefs as a cult. Remember, they were put to death because the essentially "knew too much" and questioned the tyrannical power of the catholic church so they were exterminated. They believed that God encompassed all things and the path to God was within yourself. Like I said INDIVIDUALISTS not cult or collectivists. Just because someone has opposing beliefs to you does not make them a cult
Wiki User
∙ 14y ago
Add your answer:
Earn +20 pts
What is a small religious community called?
A small religious community is typically referred to as a cult or sect.
What is a synonym for sect?
bloc, body, coalition, party, set, side, wing, or cult
What is a four letter word that refer to a group of people?
band, clan, cult, sect
Is Bridal Love Ministries in South Africa a sect or a cult?
Bridal Love Ministries is neither a sect nor a cult nor is it a church. It is a ministry that provides verse by verse Bible studies on the Bible books of Song of Songs and Revelation.
What is synonym for cult?
sect, faction, school, religion, clique, craze, trend, obsession, worship, devotion, idolization
Are the shakers a cult?
No, the Shakers were a religious sect that originated in the 18th century and are known for their communal living, celibacy, and ecstatic dancing. While they had unique beliefs and practices, they are not considered a cult by most definitions.
Does anyone know the blind monk and sect leader Idji Xuan?
If you're talking about this french guru af Algrange and his sect - what is definetely a CULT not a sect - I know him. When you further dream about living and working in a community that is organized like Kim's Northern Korea or the scientology church... you should lose no time and go right on to become a member of Idji Xuan's cult. they take all your money and let you work as a slave.
When and-or how does a 'cult' stop being a cult and end up as a religion?
I suppose technically it never stops being a cult. However when the sect or group in question become relatively large they are generally accepted into the mainstream. But there are always those who will continue to label them as cults. I Cr 13:8a
What are sects and cults?
The word 'sect' first appears in the works of the Jewish historian Josephus to describe a 'school' of Judaism. It was subsequently used in Acts of the Apostles, once again with the same meaning. Thus, a sect is a school of a religion and could be thought of as a denomination. A cult is a system of religious worship, easily definable from others. Thus, in the pagan Roman Empire, the worship of Mithras was a cult. In modern usage, a Christian group easily definable from, and rejected by, mainstream Christianity is often called a cult. For some, a religion that is not officially or widely recognised can be called a cult. On this view, Scientology could be regarded as a cult.
What is a sect or cult?
Sect is a break away as subset of a community with its own distinct custom,religion worship ,rituals. It has social sanction. Cult on the other hand is the practice of a ritual and custom by a select group in a community that may practice certain rituals,customs,laws that may have pagan origin in mysticism or sacrifices.It may or may not have religious or social sanction.
Where can one read about Gnosticism?
Gnosticism can be read about in many books. The Gnostic Society has their own Library in which everything about the Gnosticism can be learned or studied.
Hinduism in India or Roman Ratholicism in Spain fall into church cult or sect category?
Hinduism in India or Roman Catholicism in Spain fall into which of the following types?
