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Gnostic Conduct and Ethics |
Gnostics commonly believe that systematic rules designed to define behavior are not needed. Gnostic thought teaches that such systems are designed to the demiurge, and following these rules would be conducive to following his teachings. Gnosticism does not have a set of rules to mirror Orthodox Christianity’s Ten Commandments, as these rules are not salvific. The only way to salvation is to attain gnosis. However, systematic rules are important if they are being used to bring order to and maintain a social group and to ensure harmony among a society.
The Gnostics also shared similar views regarding morality. To a Gnostic, morality can only be viewed in temporal and secular terms. The individual is in control of his own matters of conduct. Of course, the different historical periods required a different moral conduct of the Gnostics. The early Gnostics practiced vegetarianism, and some avoided sex and reproduction. Still other Gnostic sects promoted free love. Gnostic moral behavior is generally ascetic; it is expressed fluently in sexual and dietary practices. |
The Mystic Christ
by Ethan Walker III
The light of non-duality and the path of love according to the life and teachings of Jesus. The Gnostic path is the inner path to God-realization. Buddha, Krishna, Jesus and the other great Masters are all one and in essence taught the same thing. |
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