Encratite Christians were an ascetic group arising in the second century that abstained from marriage, wine, and meat. The name “Encratite” is derived from the Greek word enkrateo (to be in control of). They were gnostic Christians who re-interpreted the practice ascetic nudism of India’s gymnosophists for their nude Christian worship. 1 Seekers of Naked Truth Paul Levalley Clement of Alexandria referred to the Indian gymnosophists as the Encratites predecessors. 2 Christian Classics Ethereal Library – Encratites
The Encratites were a controversial group and were often criticized by other Christians. They were accused of being heretics and of teaching false doctrine. However, the Encratites were also popular with some who were attracted to their message of asceticism.
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