Exoteric knowledge is knowledge that is publicly available, in contrast with esoteric knowledge, which is kept from everyone except the initiated.

Among educated people, the word "esoteric" is widely known and used frequently. On the other hand, the word "exoteric" is relatively obscure, known only to those who scour dictionaries. Thus, the word "exoteric" is esoteric, and the word "esoteric" is exoteric.

The word traces to Greek roots meaning "outer."

See also esoteric.

External link

• Esoteric and Exoteric An article on the use of these terms in mystic and occult literature

Esotericism