Gnostic literature refers to a collection of ancient texts that express the beliefs and teachings of Gnosticism, a religious movement that emerged in the early centuries of Christianity. These writings often emphasize personal spiritual knowledge, or gnosis, as the path to salvation, contrasting with orthodox beliefs that prioritize faith and doctrine. Key texts include the Gospel of Thomas and the Gospel of Mary, which present alternative views on Jesus and the nature of God. Many Gnostic texts were discovered in the Nag Hammadi library in 1945, shedding light on early Christian diversity. Gnosticism often portrays the material world as flawed or evil, created by a lesser deity known as the Demiurge. This perspective highlights a dualistic worldview, where spiritual enlightenment is sought to transcend the physical realm.