Manichaeism – eBook

Discover the fascinating world of Manichaeism, a once-prominent faith that captivated ancient Persia and challenged spiritual traditions throughout the Near East. Not only has its legacy persisted through the ages, but its teachings about the nature of divine power offer a profound understanding of the universe’s dualistic framework. Central to Manichaean belief is the eternal struggle between the Lord of Light and the Lord of Darkness. This cosmic battle defines good and evil, with the former being attributed to the Lord of Light and the latter to the malevolent influence of the Lord of Darkness.

This dualism is not limited to mere theological discourse; it extends deeply into cosmogony and ethics, dividing existence into a spiritual domain that nurtures the goodness of the human soul and a material realm that fosters the darkness within the human body. While these clear-cut distinctions may suggest simplicity, they conceal a rich tapestry of doctrinal and liturgical intricacies. Unfortunately, these complexities have vanished from collective memory, largely due to centuries of suppression first by the Christian church and subsequently by the rise of Islam.

In this enlightening work, renowned scholar Michel Tardieu delves into the fragmented historical sources that illuminate this elusive religion. He meticulously reconstructs the life and teachings of its prophet, Mani—an itinerant Persian preacher who was instrumental in founding this now-obscure faith. Tardieu shines a light on Manichaeism’s intricate ecclesiastical structure, its unique moral principles, and its compelling notions surrounding pre-life and afterlife.

Manichaeism serves as an engaging and informed overview of a significant spiritual tradition that transitioned from being one of the world’s great faiths to a notorious heresy, lingering only as a shadow in the teachings of the religions that succeeded it. Explore the unparalleled depth of an ancient worldview that continues to echo in our modern understanding of good and evil.

ISBN: 978-1-234-56789-0, 978-0-987-65432-1