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Misuses of the descriptor "Gnostic" as a replacement for another word. Generally used in empty rhetoric in an accusatory fashion.
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From the time of the early Heresiological rhetoric untill today, "Gnosis" has been claimed to merely be "secret knowledge." However, this is a blatant misuse of the term. The word to use is: Occult: Hidden from view; concealed. Available only to the initiate; secret. |
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The term "Gnostic" is often used as a descriptor for teachings or doctrines that are limited to an inner circle or group. The actual word you want is: Esoteric: Of philosophical doctrines, treatises, modes of speech, etc.: Designed for, or appropriate to, an inner circle of advanced or privileged disciples; communicated to, or intelligible by, the initiated exclusively. Hence of disciples: Belonging to the inner circle, admitted to the esoteric teaching. Opposed to Exoteric |
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The word "Gnostic" has seen a growing use to mean either "mind only," or "non-physical." This is not a proper use of the term nor is it useful as a descriptor if this is what you mean. Noetical: Purely intellectual; of or relating to the intellect. |
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