An early Gnostic sect known centered around the idea of an androgynous Adam
Religion: Christianity
Denomination: Early Church
Founded: 2nd century CE
Location: Egypt, Greece, and other parts of the Mediterranean region
Other Names: Serpentarians
The Naassenes, a Gnostic sect known through early Christian critiques, particularly the “Refutation of All Heresies” attributed to Hippolytus of Rome, presented a blend of Christian, Jewish, and Hellenistic teachings. Their doctrine centered around a primary figure, the “First Man” or Adamas, representing an androgynous, pre-individualized existence, contrasted with later Gnostic sects’ more dualistic views. This figure, embodying both male and female aspects, symbolized the unity and source of all creation, drawing from the symbolic significance of the serpent and water in their teachings.
Their cosmology divided humanity into three classes: material (heathen), psychic (ordinary Christians), and spiritual (the Naassene elect), each associated with different levels of spiritual awareness and salvation. The sect emphasized the concept of gnosis, or divine knowledge, as the path to spiritual perfection, viewing Jesus as a key figure who unified these three natures and offered salvation through knowledge and spiritual rebirth. Central to their belief was the rejection of sexual reproduction as a means of spiritual liberation, advocating for a return to a primordial, androgynous state of being.
The Naassenes’ teachings were conveyed through allegorical interpretations of scripture, both Christian (notably the Gospels) and non-Christian texts, suggesting a complex interplay of mythological, philosophical, and theological elements. Their interpretation of biblical texts, especially Paul’s letters, aimed to reveal deeper, esoteric meanings, often focusing on themes of androgyny and spiritual ascension. The movement was condemned by orthodox Christian figures, but contributed to the rich landscape of early Christian mysticism, reflecting the diverse religious and philosophical currents of their time.
image via Wikimedia Commons
