The Sethian Gnostics called the creator of the (physical) world Ialdabaoth. A name apparently derived from mystical Judaism but which in this case indicated an inferior status.
The name fitted the creator that they described, and was practically synonymous with the demiurge.
Ialdaboath, becoming arrogant in spirit, boasted himself over all those who were below him, and explained:
«I am the father, and God, and above me there is no one,»
His mother hearing him speak thus, cried out against him:
«Do not lie, Ialdabaoth, for the father of all, the primal Anthropos, is above you, and so is Anthropos, the son of Anthropos.»
Also, ialdabaoth is part of the liberation of alchemical transmutation. It represents the demiurge in the darkness of matter that now radiates brilliantly in its pristine state. A.G.H.
Source(s):
- Pagels, Elaine, The Gnostic Gospels, New York: Vintage Books, 1979, p. 123
- Riland, George, The New Steinerbooks Dictionary of Paranormal, New York, Warner Books, Inc., 1980, p. 136