| Carpocratians | |
|---|---|
| Καρποκρατιανοὶ | |
| Classification | Early Christianity |
| Scripture | New Testament |
| Theology | Gnosticism |
| Founder | Carpocrates of Alexandria |
| Origin | 2nd century AD Alexandria |
| Defunct | 6th century AD |
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The Carpocratians (Greek: Καρποκρατιανοὶ) was a Gnostic sect partially based on Platonism that was established in the 2nd century AD and existed until the 6th. It was named after Carpocrates of Alexandria, its founder, and gained its final form in the writings of his son, Epiphanes. Only fragmentary sources remain about their beliefs and practices, and proto-orthodox Christians of the time mischaracterised their theology to discredit them, accusing them of debauchery.