DAESOON JINRIHOE IN LIGHT OF ANTHONY F. C. WALLACE’S REVITALIZATION THEORY
DAESOON JINRIHOE IN LIGHT OF ANTHONY F. C. WALLACE’S REVITALIZATION THEORY

Summary/Abstract: Officially registered in 1969 in South Korea, Daesoon Jinrihoe (“The Fellowship of Daesoon Truth”, derived from Daesoon meaning “Great Itineration”) has experienced such rapid expansion that it is now the largest new religious movement in the country with as many as half a million to one million members (estimate given by the group). It runs several large temple complexes, hospitals, schools, a university and research facilities. It is the heir of a spiritual genealogy that began with Kang Jeungsan (1871–1909) held as the human incarnation of the Supreme Being, Gucheon Sangje. His revelation was transmitted through Jo Jeongsan (1895–1958) who, in turn, before dying bestowed his authority upon Dojeon Park Wudang (1917–1996). The purpose of the article is to try to understand why, out of the approximately one hundred groups that sprang from the same spiritual lineage, Daesoon Jinrihoe has been the most successful. How can we account for its gaining such influence on one of the world’s most diverse and dynamic religious scenes?

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