Mandaeism is a Gnostic religion that originated in the Middle East, primarily among the Mandaeans. It emphasizes the importance of water, rituals of purification, and the belief in a divine realm. Mandaeans view John the Baptist as a significant figure, considering him a prophet and a teacher of their faith. The religion has a dualistic worldview, distinguishing between the spiritual world of light and the material world of darkness. Mandaeism has its own sacred texts, including the Ginza Rba, which contains teachings and stories central to their beliefs. Today, Mandaeans primarily reside in Iraq and Iran.