Manichaeism: An Ancient Faith Rediscovered

Not too long ago, most of what we knew about the Manichaeans - followers of the third-century religious visionary Mani - came from the pens of their many enemies. It was hard to understand how a religion that preached sexual abstinence and vegetarianism as a means to cope with a world ruled by Evil ever enjoyed any success. Yet at its height Manichaeism spread from Mesopotamia to China in the east and Spain in the west; in North Africa, it appealed to the young Augustine of Hippo. In this richly informative new study, Nicholas Baker-Brian digests new discoveries and the explosion of new thinking they have provoked into a solid introduction to a belief system that influenced religious thinking in Europe and Asia for a millennium. He is especially attentive to the connection between lost rituals and myths that for the first time allows readers to see Manichaeism as a comprehensive set of ideas and practices. His exemplary handling of sources and discussion of how to use them make this book as much a primer for students of antiquity as for students of religion.' Harold Drake, University of California, Santa Barbara, USA`In the studies of ancient religions and cultures few disciplines are more difficult to approach than Manichaeism. Its code of conduct, teachings and internal organisation have long puzzled scholars. Misconceptions, a biased historiographical heritage and a certain degree of sluggishness on the part of many modern scholars have contributed to a distorted image of Manichaeism. Nicholas Baker-Brian's book sets out to dispel such inaccuracies and work towards establishing a more coherent understanding of the topic, irrespective of the fragmentary and corrupt nature of many of the sources on Mani's life and teachings. In analyzing each text and testimony within its own historical context, Baker-Brian goes on to reveal the various literary and historical strategies that shaped the identity of Manichaeism. This is indeed a very much welcome contribution that successfully offers a concise, detailed and substantiated image of Mani and his doctrine.' Alberto Quiroga Puertas, The University of Granada, Spain