Definition: "Phaenic" describes people who were not Christians in ancient times, but later converted to Christianity. Definition: "Phaenic" refers to a group that was not Christian in its earlier period or at all. It sometimes also includes individuals with some knowledge of Christianity but no spiritual connection to the faith or a commitment to it. They may have come from different backgrounds and practices, either as converts or as outsiders who came together for religious reasons. In ancient times, these individuals were known by various names such as "Phaenic," "Gentiles," "Cretans," or "Hellenists." Some sources describe them as wandering Jews living among the Gentiles in Israel.