Document - Église Gnostique — Sophronius

Gnostic Church — Sophronius. Two instructions intended for associated members and for the Perfects or Cathars. No place or date (circa 1900). Two quarto pieces, of 2 and 4 pages, without cover. — Instruction for those who wish to become associated members. 2 pp. Exposé of the first four degrees of initiation: Borborianism, Codism, Nymphionism and Stratiotism. Doctrinal preparation, reception ceremonies, baptism by water and by smoke, confirmation, clothing and emblems of the initiates. — Instruction for associates who want to become Perfects or Cathars. 4 pp. Doctrinal and liturgical program: Plérôme and Éons, christology, origin of the world and of man, sacraments, morality and history of the Gnostic Church. Description of the fifth and sixth degrees, Phibionism and Zachæism, including baptisms of fire and wind and the consolamentum by the laying on of hands. The two texts bear the printed subscription of Sophronius, “Bishop-elect of the Diocese of Béziers, Coadjutor of His Holiness the Patriarch,” preceded by a ringed cross. Together they attest to the codification of the teachings and initiatory practices of the Gnostic Church, particularly its reference to Catharism. Parchment slightly browned, a few stains and foxing, transverse folds, small marginal tears and creased corners.

Estimate:£125.92

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