Mandaeanism is a religion that originated in the Middle East. It is also known as Sabianism, Nasoraeanism, and John the Baptist's religion. Sabianism, which means followers of the Sabaean religion, is used to describe the followers of the religion based on the tradition of recognizing Sabaeanism as the root of their religious beliefs. Nasoraeanism refers to the city of Nasora where the Mandaean community had its major center in the past. John the Baptist's religion reflects the belief that the community is associated with John the Baptist as he is believed to be the founder of the religion. All these terms refer to the same religion with slight nuances.