Manicheism, based on the teachings and revelations of the third-century Persian mystic, Mani, was for over 1000 years one of the major religions, rivalling Christianity, Islam and Buddhism. Its widespread influence is found in Eastern and Western thought alike, from Tibetan Buddhism to the young Augustine of Hippo. Twentieth-century archaeology has restored to us a number of their books, often of great artistic beauty, in which the Manicheans embodied their knowledge. This book brings together some of the fragmented texts with a commentary that chronicles the new light now being thrown on the relationship between Mani"s "religion of light" and Christianity.