What is Gnosis
Since Gnostic studies have progressed substantially in recent years, no one would make the naive mistake -as in the past- of attributing Gnostic teachings to an exclusive spiritual trend.
Although we certainly must take into account the Hellenistic, Eastern elements of any Gnostic system, and those from Persia, Mesopotamia, Syria, India, Palestine, Egypt, etc., we cannot ignore the Gnostic principles present in the Zapotecs, Mayans, Chibchas, Incas, Quechuas, and others in pre-Columbian America.
Frankly speaking, let's say that Gnosis is a very natural function of Consciousness; it is a 'philosophia perennis et universalis'.
Gnosticism is certainly the knowledge of the divine mysteries that enlightens and this is reserved for an elite.
The word Gnosticism conveys, in its grammatical structure, the idea related to systems or currents dedicated to the study of Gnosis.
Gnosticism involves a set of clear, coherent, and precise elements, verifiable through mystical, direct experience: the curse from a scientific and philosophical point of view; Adam and Eve from the Hebrew Genesis; original sin and the exit from Paradise; the mystery of the Nahua Lucifer; the death of the self; the creative powers; the essence of the 'Salvator Salvandus'; the sexual mysteries; the Inner Christ; the Fiery Serpent of our magical powers; the descent into hell; the return to Eden, and the gift of Mephistopheles.
Only the Gnostic doctrines that encompass the aforementioned ontological, theological, and anthropological foundations are part of authentic Gnosticism. Gnosticism is an inner, natural, and profound religious process.
It is authentic and profound esotericism that develops from moment to moment with very vivid mystical experiences, its own doctrine, and ritual.
It is an extraordinary doctrine that fundamentally adopts a mythical form and, at times, a mythological one.
It is ineffable and magical liturgy that provides vivid information to the superlative consciousness of the Being.
The innermost feeling of the person or the Being correlates with this knowledge.
The reason for the existence of the Being is the Being itself. Only the Being can know itself. The Being, therefore, knows itself through Gnosis.
The Being (when redeemed and knowing itself) is Autognosis. This last one, in itself, is GNOSIS.