What is Gnosis (206)

Gnosis and Gnosticism

Owing to the studies of the “Dead Sea Scrolls” and the works of Dan Brown such as the “Davinci Code”, ‘Gnosis’ and ‘Gnosticism’ are words that for people have become associated with the beliefs and practices of the early Christians. Yes, there is some truth to that, but Gnosis in itself is something much more profound and diverse than that. Put very simply, Gnosis is a word used to point to the knowledge that one gains through the direct and intimate experience with the truth. Whether the experienced truth be something very profound pertaining to the mysteries of life and death for example, or something simple and known already by many.

Gnosis as a School

Depending on the context, ’Gnosis’ can be seen to have several different meanings. In a general context ‘Gnosis’ has the meaning of that which has already been mentioned, which is knowledge through direct experience. In a more specific context ‘Gnosis’ is the knowledge that provides the keys for an individual to awaken consciousness and liberate him/herself from the terrible cycles of suffering. Finally, in a very physical and human context , ‘Gnosis’ is a school that provides the knowledge, practices and support, for students to advance in their path towards the awakening of consciousness and liberation.

Practical Side of Gnosis

In the very practical human side of things Gnosis is an esoteric knowledge that is taught, and when sincerely applied creates self-knowledge, which at the same time is revelation, insight and the newly acquired ability to modify our internal and external life.

Summary

Gnosis in summary, is the fruit of direct experience, it is also a school, and it is the knowledge to free the soul from so much ignorance and suffering.

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