Esotericism Theorized: Major Trends and Approaches to the Study of Esotericism

Summary

The text argues that secrecy in religion is not merely about hiding information but functions as a social and cognitive mechanism that creates and maintains group identity, authority, and spiritual value. It examines how secret teachings, rituals, and texts in various religious traditions—particularly Gnostic and esoteric movements—serve to establish boundaries between insiders and outsiders, enhance the perceived power of knowledge, and foster transformative experiences among initiates. The argument suggests that secret religion is a dynamic practice of revelation and concealment that shapes religious communities and their claims to truth.

Study at a glance

Abstract

in: April D. DeConick (ed.), Religion: Secret Religion, MacMillan 2016, 155-170.