OPHITES Meaning and
Definition
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Ophites refers to a religious sect or group that emerged in the early centuries of Christianity. The term is derived from the Greek word "ophis," meaning "snake" or "serpent," which played a crucial symbolic role in their beliefs and practices. Ophites formed part of the broader Gnostic movement, characterized by their esoteric or mystical interpretations of Christianity.
The Ophites were known for their veneration of the serpent as a divine symbol of wisdom, knowledge, and spiritual enlightenment. They perceived the serpent as the embodiment of the divine principle that liberates humans from ignorance and leads to spiritual awakening. This veneration of the serpent led to the adoption of various practices, rituals, and myths that centered around serpentine imagery.
As Gnostics, the Ophites subscribed to the belief that the material world was inherently evil or flawed, while the spiritual realm was pure and divine. They believed in the existence of a supreme deity, often referred to as the "Unknown Father," who was distant from the material world. The Ophites viewed Jesus Christ as the serpent's incarnation or a divine being who had descended to save humanity through knowledge and redemption.
Though the exact nature of Ophite beliefs varied, one common aspect was their emphasis on salvation through gnosis or spiritual knowledge. Ophites believed that through secret teachings, rituals, and direct experience of the divine, individuals could achieve salvation and transcend the material world's limitations.
Ophitism gradually declined in influence during the later centuries of the Christian era as orthodox Christian teachings gained prominence. However, their ideas and practices continue to fascinate scholars and remain an intriguing aspect of early Christian Gnosticism.
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A sect in the second century, so called because they believed that the serpent which tempted Eve was Christ himself-also called Serpentinians.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
Common Misspellings for OPHITES
- opietes
- ofites
- opites
- ophite
- iphites
- kphites
- lphites
- pphites
- 0phites
- 9phites
- oohites
- olhites
- o-hites
- o0hites
- opgites
- opbites
- opjites
- opuites
- opyites
- ophutes
Etymology of OPHITES
The word "ophites" originates from the Greek term "ophites" (ὄφις), which means "snake". It is derived from the Greek word "ophein" (ὀφεῖν), meaning "to see", as snakes were closely associated with vision and perception in ancient Greek mythology. The word "ophites" is often used to refer to various snake-related concepts, such as snake worshippers or a type of gemstone resembling snake skin patterns.
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