How Do You Spell MANICHEISM?

Pronunciation: [mˈanɪʃˌe͡ɪzəm] (IPA)

The word "Manicheism" refers to a dualistic religious system founded by the Persian prophet Mani in the third century. The word is pronounced /ˈmænɪˌkiː.ɪzəm/ (MAN-i-kee-iz-uhm) in IPA phonetics. The spelling of the word is derived from the name of the founder, "Mani," and the suffix "-cheism," which means a system or doctrine. The proper spelling highlights the unique pronunciation and indicates the specific religious system being referred to.

MANICHEISM Meaning and Definition

1. Manichaeism, also known as Manicheanism, is a dualistic religious and philosophical system that originated in the 3rd century CE. It was founded by Mani, a Persian prophet and sage, and gained popularity across the Roman Empire, Byzantine Empire, and Sassanian Empire.

   Manichaeism posits a cosmic struggle between two fundamental forces: light and darkness, represented respectively by a benevolent god of light and an evil god of darkness. These opposing forces exist in all aspects of the universe, including the spiritual and material realms. Manichaeans believe that the physical world is created by the evil god while the divine spark of light, trapped within human souls, longs to return to its original source.

   The adherents of Manichaeism strive for "knowledge" or gnosis, through ascetic practices such as fasting and celibacy. They view the material world as transitory and corrupt, emphasizing the importance of freeing the divine light within. Ultimately, salvation lies in releasing this divine essence and returning it to the realm of light, thus liberating the soul from its entrapment in darkness.

   Manichaeism exerted a significant influence on the thought and culture of its time, including later religions such as Christianity and Islam. However, it faced persecution from other established religions and gradually declined in popularity. Though it largely disappeared by the 15th century, the influence of Manichaeism can still be seen in ideas related to dualism and the struggle of good and evil that persist in various religious and philosophical traditions.

2. The doctrines of Manes, a Persian, who taught that there were two supreme principles, the one good, the author of all good; the other evil, the author of all evil.

   Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.

Common Misspellings for MANICHEISM

• manicheisk
• manicheisj
• manicheis

Etymology of MANICHEISM

The word "Manichaeism" (also spelled "Manicheism") originates from the name of its founder, Mani (circa 216–276 CE), who was a charismatic religious teacher and prophet. Mani was born in Mesopotamia, which is present-day southern Iraq, and established a syncretic religious movement that blended elements from Christianity, Zoroastrianism, and other Gnostic philosophies. His teachings revolved around the existence of a primordial dualistic struggle between forces of light (good) and darkness (evil).

The term "Manichaeism" traces back to the Latinized form of Mani's name, Manichaeus, which was derived from the Greek transliteration of his name, Manichaios.