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Definition:
Rosicrucianism is a mystical, religious reform movement which some believe developed in
Germany in the early 17th century. It was supposed to be based upon documents which purport
to describe the life of a Christian Rosenkreutz who supposedly lived from 1378 to 1484.
According to Rosicrucians, he had brought certain scientific and occult information with
him when he returned from his travels in the Far East.
As a result of what he had learned, he founded the order of the Rosenkreutz (Rosy Cross) which was designed to bring people together in a sort of brotherhood which transcended traditional religious divisions. Unfortunately, little evidence of their actual existence at the time can be found, but interest in them has grown over time and many modern groups try to claim Rosicrucian origins.
Rosicrucians had a great deal of influence with the King of Prussia during the late 18th century - so much so that they were able to convince him to issue the Edict Concerning Religion in 1788. This edict demanded strict orthodoxy on the part of all preachers throughout Prussia. the Edict of Censorship in December of the same year, something which prohibited Immanuel Kant from publishing on religious matters for a while.
Also Known As: Brothers of the Rosy Cross, Rosy-Cross Knights, Rosy-Cross Philosophers
Alternate Spellings: none
Common Misspellings: none
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