Gnosticism represents an early Christian mystic tradition that flourished in Egypt and throughout the Middle East around 2,000 years ago. In this tradition, Jesus was perceived not just as a historical figure but as a revealer of divine truths and a guide towards enlightenment. Christianity, within this context, was viewed as a spiritual journey that allowed individuals to draw closer to God during their lifetime. The material world was interpreted as a battleground between the forces of good and evil, light and darkness.

The Gnostic Christian tradition migrated from Egypt to regions such as Syria and Israel, finding a home in monastic communities like Mount Sinai and Mar Saba. It took root in Armenia, and from there, it spread to the Balkans, giving rise to the significant Bogomil movement. This movement challenged the Balkan Peninsula from the 10th to the 14th centuries. Gnosticism then extended to Western Europe, notably emerging in Southern France as the Cathar heresy, which faced severe persecution by the Catholic Church.

Today, echoes of this tradition can be found in the Hesychasm meditation practices of Orthodox monks, as well as in the concept of Theosis, and within the Armenian, Coptic, and Syrian churches. The modern Gnostic movement, identified as the White Brotherhood, began in Bulgaria and later expanded to France in the 20th century, continuing the legacy of Gnostic spiritual exploration and enlightenment.