Manichaeans

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The Manichaens are followers of the prophet Mani, who lived from 216-276 BC in Mesopotamia. Manichaens follow a dualistic religion that believes in salvation by a secret knowledge (Gnosticism). He was given patronage by Shapur I, a Sassassanian king, but then was imprisoned by Bahram I, Shapur's son and died in prison. Manichaens believe there are two separate forces (Light and Darkness) which at first were separate, then intermingled for a time, and now are to be separated again. In this worldview, Christ was sent to liberate the light within people. Manichaens practice asceticism until they die, at which point their light ascends to paradise. They were a significant religious competitor to Christianity during the 4th Century; even Augustine was a believer until his conversion to Christianity.