Possession and Exorcism in Kōfuku no Kagaku

Abstract

Abstract Kōfuku no Kagaku (internationally known as Happy Science) is a major Japanese new religious movement with branches operating worldwide. A central theme in recent years has been the potential of possession by evil spirits. In this respect, Kōfuku no Kagaku offers a variety of exorcistic and apotropaic rituals. This chapter examines how spirit possession is understood in Kōfuku no Kagaku doctrine and delineates a broad range of practical measures offered to members to combat and ward off possession. In Kōfuku no Kagaku, exorcism functions as a power node of faith in practice. Moreover, it is intended to serve members as a compass for an ideal conduct of life.