Bogomile

/ˈboʊɡəˌmaɪl/ noun

Definition

A member of a heretical Christian sect that emerged in medieval Bulgaria and spread throughout Eastern Europe, rejecting material wealth and the established church hierarchy.

Etymology

From Medieval Latin Bogomilus, named after the 10th-century Bulgarian priest Bogomil (from Slavic 'bogo' meaning god and 'mil' meaning beloved), who founded the movement. The sect emphasized spiritual purity and dualism, believing in a cosmic struggle between good and evil.

Kelly Says

The Bogomiles were so influential that they influenced the Cathars in France and inspired Church inquisitions centuries later—basically, one Bulgarian priest's ideas sparked religious upheaval across three continents!

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