Mandaeism
/ˌmæn.diːˈɪ.zəm/noun
The religion of the Mandaeans, a Gnostic tradition centered on baptism, cosmology, and the teachings of John the Baptist.
Did you know?Mandaeans traditionally regard John the Baptist as their chief prophetic teacher, and ritual immersion in flowing water remains central to their religious life.
Etymological Timeline
Proto-Semitic
Proto-Semitic
*y-d-ʿ
“To know or recognize; the reconstructed Semitic root associated with knowledge.”
Ancient Aramaic
Aramaic
mandaʿ / מַדַּע
“Knowledge, understanding, or learning.”
Late Antiquity
Mandaic
mandā
“Knowledge or gnosis; the root from which the Mandaean religious name developed.”
Late Antiquity–Early Medieval Period
Mandaic
Mandaia
“Mandaeans, commonly interpreted as people of knowledge or gnosis.”
19th Century
English
Mandaeanism
“An English designation for the religion of the Mandaeans.”
Modern English
English
Mandaeism
“The established modern form referring to the Mandaean religion.”