Rejected Knowledge… Do you mean Esotericists are the Losers of History?
Zenodo (CERN European Organization for Nuclear Research) April 28, 2026 DOI: 10.5281/zenodo.19856490 via OpenAlex
Summary
The chapter examines the concept of gnosis within Western esotericism, arguing that it represents a form of intuitive or experiential knowledge distinct from rational or doctrinal belief. It traces how gnosis has been understood across various esoteric traditions, emphasizing its role as a transformative insight into the divine or ultimate reality. The text discusses the tension between gnosis and established religious orthodoxy, suggesting that claims to direct spiritual knowledge often challenge institutional authority. It concludes that gnosis remains a central but contested category in the study of esotericism, highlighting its significance for understanding alternative spiritual epistemologies.
Study at a glance
| Characteristics | Theoretical or philosophical paper Peer reviewed |
|---|---|
| Keywords | Inequality Work physics Term time Government linguistics Political science |
| Key finding | Gnosis in Western esotericism is a form of transformative, experiential knowledge that often conflicts with orthodox religious authority. |
Abstract
In: Wouter J. Hanegraaff, Peter J. Forshaw & Marco Pasi (eds.), Hermes Explains: Thirty Questions about Western Esotericism, Amsterdam University Press: Amsterdam 2019, 145-152.