Manichaeism
Pronunciation: /ˌmanɪˈkiːɪz(ə)m/
(also Manicheism)
Definition of Manichaeism
noun
- a dualistic religious system with Christian, Gnostic, and pagan elements, founded in Persia in the 3rd century by Manes (circa 216-circa 276) and based on a supposed primeval conflict between light and darkness. It was widespread in the Roman Empire and in Asia, and survived in eastern Turkestan (Xinjiang) until the 13th century.
Origin:
early 17th century: from late Latin Manichaeus (from the name Manes) + -ism
