Tenrikyo (Japanese new religion)
Japanese new religion founded by Nakayama Miki (1838) teaching faith in Tenri-Ō-no-Mikoto. Headquartered in Tenri City, Nara Prefecture. Practises distinctive sacred dance (Otefuri) and pilgrimage to the Jiba (sacred axis).
CLCI radar
BITE breakdown
0 — long-established Japanese new religion; relatively low control compared to NRMs.
In context
Tenrikyo is the largest of Japan's new religions, with substantial educational and humanitarian operations including Tenri University. Members make pilgrimage to the Jiba in Tenri City. Daily life regulation is light by NRM standards; tithing and educational expectations are present. The CLCI captures moderate-low patterns; many members live integrated mainstream lives.
History
Founded by Nakayama Miki in mid-19th-century rural Japan; now an established Japanese religion with substantial educational institutions.
Key control doctrines
- Nakayama Miki as Oyasama (parent god incarnate)
- Pilgrimage to the Jiba
- Otefuri sacred dance
Evidence by BITE axis
- Tithing and donations expected from active members
- Sacred dance (Otefuri) practice
- Pilgrimage expectations
- Tenrikyo theological materials are central
- Outside engagement broadly accepted
- Nakayama Miki's revelations as authoritative
- Universal salvation theology accommodates outside thinking
- Strong family-community emotional ties
- Mild social pressure to maintain Tenrikyo identity
Timeline
- 1838Nakayama Miki has her first revelation
- 1908Tenrikyo independence from Shinto state recognition
- ModernContinues as established Japanese religion
Sources
- Henry van Straelen, 'The Religion of Divine Wisdom' (1957)
- Tenrikyo Overseas Department publications
We cite sources by name and outlet rather than fabricating links. Search the source title plus the group name to find the original.