Abstract

The roots of charismatic doctrines go back to the distant past. Their basic ideas of direct spiritual communion with God, of so-called "spiritual enlightenment," were characteristic of ancient Montanism. Over time, these ideas and the cult associated with them passed through the doctrines of medieval hezichasts and religious entities such as Swans, convulsions, Quakers, Shekkers, Hristovers, Eunuchs, Scribes, and others. They are characterized by the belief that God, in the form of some invisible all-pervading spirit, can instill in any worthy person