Valentinianism is a Gnostic Christian sect that emerged in the 2nd century CE, founded by the theologian Valentinus. It emphasizes the importance of gnosis, or spiritual knowledge, as a means to achieve salvation. Valentinian teachings often include a complex cosmology involving a divine realm and various emanations, known as aeons, which represent different aspects of God. The sect was known for its dualistic view of the material and spiritual worlds, often portraying the material world as flawed or evil. Valentinianism also featured unique interpretations of Christian texts, including the Gospels, and promoted the idea of a personal relationship with the divine through inner knowledge.