| Mandaean Gnostics worship within a hierarchical clergy, recognizing a strict division between the congregation of laypeople and the priests. The Mandaean priesthood is divided into three grades: Tarmidia (the disciples), Ganzibria (the treasurers) and Rišamma (the leader of the people). The Rišamma is the highest Mandaean office, and has been vacant for many years. Presently, the Ganzibria is the highest filled office. Rišamma hopefuls may be chosen amongst any of the Ganzibria, but the Mandaeans have yet to support one candidate as a whole. |
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