Honbushin (Tenrikyo offshoot, Onishi Aijiro)
Tenrikyo schism founded in 1913 by Onishi Aijiro, who proclaimed himself the living Kanrodai (axis of the world). Famous for the construction of the kilometre-scale Honbushin shrine complex at Tondabayashi.
CLCI radar
BITE breakdown
0 — Tenrikyo schism centred on Onishi Aijiro's living-Kanrodai claim; substantial sacred-construction culture.
In context
Honbushin (literally 'Origin God-axis') broke from Tenrikyo when Onishi Aijiro declared himself the living embodiment of the Kanrodai pillar that Nakayama Miki had foretold. The movement is best known to outsiders for its monumental Tondabayashi temple complex, including the world's tallest pagoda when built. Several further internal splits (notably Honmichi, see separate entry, predates Honbushin in fact) and a separate Honmichi-derived Honbushin. Largely closed Japanese community.
Lifton's 8 criteria of thought reform
Robert Jay Lifton's 1961 framework, complementary to BITE. Criteria this group exhibits according to the cited sources.
- Milieu ControlRestricting communication and information so the group controls what members see, hear, and discuss.
- Sacred ScienceThe group's doctrine is presented as the absolute, unquestionable truth — beyond critique.
- Doctrine Over PersonPersonal experience or memory is overridden when it conflicts with the group's narrative.
- Mystical ManipulationEngineering experiences that appear spontaneous but are designed to demonstrate the group's higher purpose.
This profile is in progress — history, deeper BITE evidence and survivor voices are still being added. Contributions welcome via GitHub.
Timeline
- 1913Onishi Aijiro begins teaching the living-Kanrodai doctrine
- 1970s–80sTondabayashi temple complex constructed
Sources
- Helen Hardacre, 'Kurozumikyō and the New Religions of Japan' (1986)
- Trevor Astley academic work on Honmichi/Honbushin
We cite sources by name and outlet rather than fabricating links. Search the source title plus the group name to find the original.