Definition, Meaning & Synonyms

manichaean

adjective

/ˌmænɪˈkiːən/

Definition

Relating to Mani, an ancient philosopher and prophet who founded the Manichaean religion, which combines elements of various faiths.

Examples

The manichaean view of the universe highlights the battle between light and darkness.
Many ancient religions exhibited manichaean elements in their cosmologies.
His manichaean perspective simplified complex issues into black-and-white categories.

Meaning

The term ‘manichaean’ refers to dualistic beliefs that perceive the world in terms of opposing forces, often good versus evil, as expressed in the teachings of Manichaeism.