The concept of Valentinian in Christianity
Valentinian is a term referring to a sect of early Christianity with diverse interpretations of Christian texts, notably relating to Jesus's baptism and death. In Gnosticism, the Valentinians are recognized for their unique theological perspectives, opposing traditional beliefs about Christ's two natures and delving into complex aeonology and cosmogony. This group, often deemed heretical, embodies teachings and ideologies that diverged from orthodox Christian doctrines, influencing broader Gnostic beliefs during a time of significant persecution and turmoil within the Church.
In German: Valentinian; In Finnish: Valentinian; In Swedish: Valentinian; In Spanish: Valentiniano; In Malay: Valentine; In Dutch: Valentiniaans; In French: Valentinien
The below excerpts are indicatory and do represent direct quotations or translations. It is your responsibility to fact check each reference.
Christian concept of 'Valentinian'
From: Ante-nicene Fathers
(1) This refers to a group, along with other Gnostics, who held certain beliefs about the origins of scripture and the roles of different entities, particularly regarding prophecies.[1] (2) The Valentinians are identified as a large group of heretics, comprised of many individuals who have abandoned the truth, and are characterized by their fondness for fables and lack of discipline.[2] (3) The Valentinians are a group whose system was not satisfactorily refuted by previous individuals because they were ignorant of their system, which is a recapitulation of all the heretics, and those who oppose them oppose all who are of an evil mind.[3] (4) This group is described as creeping forth during the season of persecution, when faith is greatly agitated and the Church is burning.[4] (5) Followers of a Gnostic sect that is considered to have deviated from true Christian teachings.[5]
From: Gospel of Thomas Commentary
(1) This is a scholar who provides an interpretation of the parable, offering a different perspective.[6]
From: A Dictionary of the Bible (Hastings)
(1) A sect of early Christianity that interpreted Christian texts in various ways, possibly influencing or reacting to the Gospel of Luke.[7] (2) A group within early Christianity that held specific beliefs about the timing of Jesus's baptism and death, indicating a one-year ministry.[8]
From: The Second Helvetic Confession
(1) We therefore detest all the heresies of Artemon, the Manichaeans, the this, of Cerdon, and the Marcionites, who deny that the Scriptures proceeded from the Holy Spirit; or did not accept some parts of them, or interpolated and corrupted them.[9]
Gnostic concept of 'Valentinian'
From: Fragments of a Faith Forgotten
(1) This refers to a group of people who, according to the text, may have arranged the twelve before the ten in their symbolism, and whose aeonology and cosmogony are discussed.[10] (2) Referring to a school of Gnostic thought associated with Valentinus, which is characterized by a specific interpretation of spiritual teachings.[11] (3) A group who opposed the belief of the two natures in Christ, asserting that there was only one nature.[12] (4) Another important school of Gnosticism alongside the followers of Saturninus and Basilides, known for their unique theological perspectives.[13]
From: The Gnostics and Their Remains
(1) These are the Greeks by education, really drawing their inspiration from Pythagoras and Plato, as stated in the provided text.[14]
The concept of Valentinian in local and regional sources
Valentinian refers to a historical figure who, after expulsion from Italy, sought refuge in the East, illustrating the complex political landscape involving Gratian, Valens, and the shifting power dynamics of the period.
From: Bede's Ecclesiastical History of England
(1) Gratian had long before reigned with his brother and his uncle Valens; Valentinian was later expelled from Italy and found refuge in the East.[15]