MANICHAEAN Meaning and
Definition
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Manichaean is an adjective derived from the noun Manichaeism, which refers to the ancient dualistic religious doctrine founded by the Persian prophet Mani in the 3rd century AD. The term Manichaean is commonly used to describe beliefs, ideas, or attitudes characterized by a rigid, simplistic dualism, particularly in reference to good versus evil.
In a broader sense, Manichaean is synonymous with dualism, which is an ancient philosophical concept that posits the universe as being fundamentally composed of two opposing forces or principles. It implies a moral, metaphysical, or ideological division based on extreme contrasts.
The term Manichaean can also be used in a metaphorical sense, outside of its religious connotation, to describe a binary division or worldview that oversimplifies complex issues by reducing them to stark choices between absolute opposites. It implies a stark black-and-white view of reality that does not acknowledge nuanced or complex shades of grey.
Manichaean thinking often involves the belief that the world is strictly divided between absolute good and absolute evil, and that these forces are in a constant struggle for dominance. This can lead to a rigid and uncompromising perspective, lacking in shades of gray or the recognition of complexity and ambiguity.
Common Misspellings for MANICHAEAN
Etymology of MANICHAEAN
The word "Manichaean" is derived from the name of Mani, the founder of the ancient dualistic religious system called Manichaeism. The term Manichaeism itself was developed in reference to Mani and his teachings. Mani was a religious philosopher and prophet who lived in the 3rd century CE, founding a distinct religious movement that blended elements from various Gnostic, Christian, and Persian beliefs. As his teachings became widespread, his followers came to be known as Manichaeans. Over time, the term "Manichaean" began to be used to describe anything related to or embodying the beliefs and principles of Manichaeism.
Similar spelling words for MANICHAEAN
- monogon,
- minqin,
- mannikin,
- oto-manguean,
- mongan,
- Pepto-mangan,
- mangyan,
- minkin,
- minigun,
- manokhin,
- Mangan,
- mangani,
- monhegan,
- manukyan,
- manyikeni,
- manganic acid,
- mooncoin,
- maunganui,
- manouchian,
- manican,
- manaccan,
- mingan,
- minganie,
- Manichean,
- mnguni,
- meneghini,
- mangano-,
- manqina,
- monokini,
- Cavan-Monaghan,
- mannequin,
- mingyuan,
- myingyan,
- MONCON,
- mangun,
- monacan,
- monguno,
- MANCAN,
- mangaon,
- mangan(o)-,
- Minikin,
- meneghin,
- monokine,
- mayangon,
- manyogana,
- menken,
- mnookin,
- Manichaeanism,
- mencken,
- mankini,
- mangane,
- Mangone,
- manneken,
- manikin,
- Manequin,
- mankin,
- maniquin,
- monaghan,
- monogony,
- mangana,
- maingain,
- mangano,
- monagan,
- manakin,
- mancona-bark.
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