1. of or relating to Gnosticism, an ancient religious movement emphasizing secret knowledge (gnosis) as the path to salvation
Usage: often capitalized; historical/religious context
2. characterized by or based on esoteric or mystical knowledge
Usage: rare; literary

Examples

• The gnostical texts discovered at Nag Hammadi provided new insights into early Christian thought.
• Scholars debate the gnostical elements present in certain New Testament writings.
• The gnostical tradition emphasized direct experiential knowledge of the divine.
• Early Church fathers opposed gnostical interpretations of Christian doctrine.
• His gnostical approach to spirituality relied on hidden wisdom rather than public teaching.