Gnosis

Part of speech: noun

Pronunciation: /ˈnəʊ.sɪs/

Definitions

1. A profound and often mystical understanding of reality and existence that is usually linked to spiritual wisdom and enlightenment
2. An advanced level of comprehension that relates to higher truth, often connected with religious or philosophical ideas
3. A deep and insightful awareness that pertains to spiritual knowledge and often transcends ordinary understanding of existence and reality

Etymology: The Greek word "gnōsis" was an ordinary term for knowledge, coming from the verb "gignōskein," "to know," which itself traces back to an ancient root meaning "to come to know" or "to recognize." In classical Greek it covered everything from practical expertise to plain acquaintance with a fact, and nothing about it was mystical. The spiritual sense developed much later, in the religious and philosophical currents of the early centuries of the Common Era. Writers in the Hellenistic world used "gnōsis" for a direct, saving insight into the divine and the true nature of the cosmos, as opposed to mere belief or learning. Groups later labelled "Gnostics" built whole systems of thought around this idea, which is why the English word carries that heavier, transcendent meaning today. English borrowed the Greek term directly, retaining its sense of inner, revelatory knowledge. The word is used mainly in discussions of religious history and mysticism.