MESSALIANI

MESSALIANS. – An ascetic movement with erotic tendencies that arose in Syria. In Greek the Messalians are called Euchites; but Timothy, a presbyter of Constantinople, still knows for them the names Marcianists, Enthusiasts, Choreutes, Lampetians, Adelfians and Eustathians (from Eustathius of Sebaste: PG 86, 45 ff.). Other names might still be added, since the Messalians also have many connections with the Audiani and the Timotheans (mentioned by Mārūtā of Maipherqat). One cannot speak of a true sect, since it was rather an ascetic movement within the Syriac Church with erroneous spiritual doctrines.