Mani, born in a Zoroastrian environment, claimed to be a prophet and founded Manichaeism. Unlike any other religion, he taught there are two co-eternal, co-equal gods — both all-powerful. No faith before or after has held this belief. The Greeks, Romans, Hindus — all believed in one supreme God above the rest. Only Manichaeism broke this universal pattern. | Yasir Qadhi

Manichaeism: The Forgotten Religion That Shaped the World Manichaeism, founded by the prophet Mani in the 3rd century, was a syncretic religion that blended elements of Christianity, Zoroastrianism, and Buddhism. This vibrant faith emphasized the struggle between light and darkness, teaching that the universe is a battleground for good and evil. Manichaeism spread rapidly across the Roman Empire, Persia, and into Asia, attracting followers through its universal message and accessible teachings.