Differences:

1. Hinduism - the universe is being continually destroyed and recreated; Gnosticism - the universe was created one time
2. Hinduism - does not have a single founder, later sects of Gnosticism were based on the teachings of Jesus, this does not apply to some later sects
3. Gnosticism - dualistic in nature of two co-divine forces, although there was also a monistic element. Some Hindu schools are dualistic, but some are non-dualistic.

Similarities:
1. The both believe in demi-gods, or gods under the most powerful God, or monadic entity
2. Early sects of Gnosticism were not based on a single founder
3. The believe in the preexistence of the soul and reincarnation
3. The are diverse systems of thought within each, which is probably why Gnosticism did not survive the unified onslaught of Christianity after the Council of Nicea
4. It is up to the individual to work towards spiritual realization and mastery of the teachings
5. Behavior tends toward the ascetic
Source(s):
http://www.near-death.com/experiences/origen06.html
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gnosticism
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hinduism


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