A range of sects arising across Roman empire at same time as early Christianity.

Myths related to Seth, 3rd son of Adam, multiple “emanations” of divine including Sophia who sought to know the unknowable, unnameable. Creator god (demiurge) of old testament as flawed, material world as evil. Redemption through knowledge (gnosis).

Orthodox Christianity of bishops, presbyteries had to react to it (esp Valentinus) and define a creed and a canon of recognised gospels. John included but Philip, Thomas, Mary excluded. Chrysm (anointment) comes from gnostic ritual.