What is the Iraqi/Iranian sect known as Mandaean?

They are the people that we erroneously termed `The Marsh Arabs` during the Gulf Wars. Most have fled now, many to Europe and America.

They are a very secretive religious society, a true Mystery School. Inasmuch as the adherents are taught new Mysteries as they progress through the levels like the Freemasons in a way and they also have secret signs and handshakes too.

As well as John the Baptist they also revere Adam, Seth and many other Biblical characters, I think including Enoch and Noah. They have a strong Duallist Zoroastrian heritage, particularly from Zurvanism (itself a fascinating philosophy, a sect that honours time !) Which would suggest, I would guess, a Persian heritage.

I`m going to have to dig out a book or two now aren`t I ?

They still claim to follow the teachings of John, not Jesus, so they aren't Jews or Christians. Being a very small, minority sect, they are understandably not seeking publicity. (They are also, understandably, very big on baptism.)

I dunno.

I am a muslim.

I dunno.

I am a muslim.

I dunno.

I am a muslim.

I dunno.

I am a muslim.