 Both flourished in the same period in Alexandria, in the same spiritual climate, sharing the goal of the soul escaping from the material realm through true understanding, and emphasizing personal knowledge of God.Both were part of the third pillar of Mediterranean culture; representing the balance between rationality and biblical faith along with the Cathars.Both groups saw the fundamental relationship between God and man was found through gnosis in a goal to "see" God and in some instances become one with God.