The Greek gnōsis means knowledge, understanding, or insight — particularly knowledge gained through experience or relationship, not merely factual information. It is distinguished from episteme (systematic knowledge) and sophia (wisdom).
Gnōsis is one of Paul's key theological terms, appearing frequently in his letters. The 'knowledge' that 'puffs up' while love 'builds up' (1 Corinthians 8:1) warns against intellectual pride divorced from love. Yet Paul also prays that believers would be filled with the gnōsis of God's will (Colossians 1:9) and speaks of the surpassing worth of knowing (gnosis) Christ Jesus his Lord (Philippians 3:8). Peter urges adding gnōsis to faith and virtue (2 Peter 1:5-6). True gnosis is not Gnostic — it does not elevate a spiritual elite above embodied, communal faith. Instead, it is the growing, relational, love-shaped knowledge of the God who has fully revealed Himself in Christ (Colossians 2:3: 'in whom are hidden all the treasures of wisdom and knowledge').