Neo-Manichaeism
Neo-Manichaeism is a contemporary attempt to revive the ancient faith of Manichaeism. Because the true religion of Manichaeism has been extinct since as far back as the 13th century (though certain Manichaen beliefs persisted in China and in Europe through the Cathar and other dualistic religions), much of the ancient literature and knowledge of this faith has been lost.
Like the ancient faith, Neo-Manichean Churches believe in a dualism between a light force and a dark force. Some believers also state that the Judeo-Christian God of the Old Testament is actually the God of Evil.
In ancient times Manichaens were divided into two groups: The "Elect", who were clergy and the "Listeners" who were laymen. The Elect lived a life of self denial: they abstained from sex, would not eat from sunrise to sunset, prayed and avoided manual labor.
Modern day Manichaens do not generally follow the strict asceticism of the ancient Elects, but do allow those seeking such a life to practice it.
Like the ancient faith, Neo-Manichean believers revere both Christ and the Buddha, as well as Zardoz (Zarathustra).
The Order of Nazorean Essenes, also called the Manichaean Orthodox Church, is an Oregon based Church seeking to revive Manichaeism. It offers courses for laymen and clergy alike via the internet.
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