The Secret History of the Gnostics: Their Scriptures, Beliefs and Traditions

The Secret History of the Gnostics by Andrew Phillip Smith is a compelling exploration of Gnosticism, an ancient mystical movement within early Christianity that emphasizes direct, personal knowledge—gnosis—of the divine. The book acts as both a historical survey and a contemporary reflection on why Gnosticism continues to capture imaginations, particularly among those disillusioned with institutional religion.

Key Themes and Insights:

1. Origins and Mythology

Smith delves into the rich cosmology of the Gnostics, where a flawed or ignorant creator (the Demiurge) traps human souls in the material world, while a hidden, transcendent God represents true spiritual reality. This dualism—spirit vs. matter, knowledge vs. ignorance—is central to Gnostic belief and makes it distinctly different from orthodox Christianity.

2. Historical Arc

The book traces Gnosticism’s arc from early Christian sects in the 2nd century to medieval manifestations like the Cathars, and finally to modern remnants such as the Mandaeans. Along the way, it highlights how Gnostic teachings were suppressed, labeled heretical, and pushed to the margins of history by the rising orthodoxy of the Roman Church.

3. Literary and Cultural Resurgence

Gnosticism's modern appeal is well-illustrated through its influence on writers like Dan Brown (The Da Vinci Code) and Philip Pullman (His Dark Materials). Both authors echo Gnostic themes—secret knowledge, flawed deities, spiritual rebellion—which resonate strongly in today’s climate of skepticism toward traditional authority.

4. Gnosticism Today

Rather than existing only in ancient texts or small surviving sects, Smith shows how Gnostic ideas are woven into modern spirituality, New Age movements, and even political thought. Gnosticism’s focus on inner truth over dogma aligns well with today’s emphasis on personal spiritual autonomy.

5. A Modern Gnostic Manifesto

At its core, Smith’s book is not just about documenting history; it is a call to preserve and rediscover the Gnostic spirit. He urges those intrigued by its mysticism to understand its roots and not simply co-opt its aesthetics without honoring its depth.

Andrew Phillip Smith is a Welsh writer who has written books on Gnosticism, Cathars and Mandaeans.