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Oomoto
大本 (おおもと/おほもと)
TypeUniversal spiritual organization
ClassificationSectarian Shinto sect
Scripture
Spiritual leaderKurenai Deguchi (出口 紅)
Language
Headquarters
FounderNao Deguchi and Onisaburo Deguchi
Origin1892
Ayabe, Kyoto
Separated fromKonkokyo
Separations
Other nameŌmoto-kyō
Official websitewww.oomoto.or.jp
SloganUnu Dio, Unu Mondo, Unu Interlingvo[a]
Nao Deguchi, the foundress of Oomoto
Deguchi Onisaburo, the co-founder of Oomoto
Chōseiden (長生殿) in Ayabe

Oomoto (大本, Ōmoto; lit. "Great Source" or "Great Origin"),[1] also known as Oomoto-kyo (大本教, Ōmoto-kyō), is a religion founded in the 1890s by Deguchi Nao (1836–1918) and Deguchi Onisaburō (1871–1948). Oomoto is typically categorized as a Shinto-based Japanese new religion. The spiritual leaders of the movement have always been women within the Deguchi family,[2] along with Onisaburō as its founding seishi (spiritual teacher). Since 2001, the movement has been guided by its fifth leader, Kurenai Deguchi.[3]

Oomoto's administrative headquarters is in Kameoka, Kyoto (Onisaburo Deguchi's hometown), and its spiritual headquarters is in Ayabe, Kyoto (Nao Deguchi's hometown). Uniquely among Japanese religions, Oomoto makes extensive use of the constructed language Esperanto to promote itself as a world religion. Oomoto has historically engaged in extensive interfaith dialogue with religions such as the Baháʼí Faith, Christianity, and Islam, since a key tenet of Oomoto is that all religions come from the same source (in Japanese: bankyō dōkon (万教同根)).[4]

Oomoto was brutally suppressed by the Japanese government in 1921 and again in 1935, since the government perceived it to be a threat to its authority. After World War II, Oomoto was fully legalized as a registered religious organization. Various other religions have also been founded by former followers of Oomoto, most notably Seicho-No-Ie and the Church of World Messianity.[4]

History

[edit]

In 1892, Deguchi Nao, a housewife from the town of Ayabe, Kyoto Prefecture, declared that she had a "spirit dream" during the Japanese New Year. She became possessed (kamigakari) by Ushitora no Konjin (艮の金神) and started to transmit the kami's words. According to the official Oomoto biography of Deguchi, she came from a family which had long been in poverty, and had pawned nearly all of her possessions to feed her children and invalid husband. After 1895, and with a growing number of followers, Deguchi Nao briefly affiliated herself with the Konkōkyō religion until 1897, since she did not yet have government approval for her religious movement.[4]

In 1898, Deguchi Nao met Ueda Kisaburō, who had previous studies in kamigakari (spirit possession). In 1899, they established the Kinmeikai together, which became the Kinmei Reigakkai later in the same year. In 1900, Kisaburō married Nao's fifth daughter Sumiko and adopted the name Deguchi Onisaburō. Oomoto was thus established based on Nao's automatic writings (Ofudesaki) and Onisaburō's spiritual techniques.[4]

Since 1908, the group has taken diverse names — Dai Nihon Shūseikai (大日本修齋會), Taihonkyō (1913), and Kōdō Ōmoto (皇道大本) (1916). Later, the movement changed from Kōdō Ōmoto ("great origin of the imperial way") to just Ōmoto (大本, "great origin") and formed the Shōwa Seinenkai in 1929 and the Shōwa Shinseikai (昭和神聖会) in 1934.

Asano Wasaburō [ja], a teacher at Naval War College (海軍大学校, Kaigun Daigakkō), attracted various intellectuals and high-ranking military officials to the movement in 1916. By 1920, the group had their own newspaper, the Taishō nichinichi shinbun (大正日日新聞), and started to expand overseas. Much of its popularity derived from a method of inducing spirit possession called chinkon kishin (鎮魂帰神), which was most widely practiced from 1916 to 1921. Following a police crackdown, Onisaburō banned chinkon kishin in 1923.[5] Today, in present-day Oomoto, only the chinkon (鎮魂) aspect is practiced as a form of meditation, but not the kishin (帰神) aspect of spirit possession.[6]

News article covering the First Oomoto Incident in 1921
Photograph of site remains during the Second Oomoto Incident in 1935, published in the Asahi Graph

In March 1920, the Ōmoto-affiliated magazine Shinrei published an edition of The Protocols of the Elders of Zion in Japanese for the first time.[7]

Alarmed by the popularity of Oomoto, the Imperial Japanese government, which promoted kokutai, State Shinto, and reverence for the emperor, condemned the sect for worshipping Ookunitokotachi above Amaterasu, the sun goddess from whom the Emperor of Japan claimed descent.[8] This led to two major incidents when Oomoto was persecuted under the lèse-majesté law, the Newspaper Censorship Law [ja], and the Public Security Preservation Law of 1925. In 1921, the first Oomoto Incident (大本事件, Ōmoto jiken) resulted in the Oomoto headquarters being destroyed, and Onisaburo and a few of his followers were imprisoned.[4]

From 1925 until 1933, Oomoto maintained a mission in Paris. From there, missionaries travelled throughout Europe, spreading the word that Onisaburo Deguchi was a Messiah or Maitreya who would unify the world.

In 1924, retired naval captain Yutaro Yano and his associates within the Black Dragon Society invited Onisaburo to embark on a journey to Mongolia.[4] Onisaburo led a group of Oomoto disciples, including Aikido founder Morihei Ueshiba. They were captured by the forces of Chinese warlord Zhang Zuolin, but were released upon realizing they were Japanese nationals. After returning to Japan, Onisaburo established the secular organization Jinrui Aizenkai (人類愛善会),[9] also known as Universal Love and Brotherhood (ULBA), to promote universal brotherhood and world peace. Religious organizations from around the world, including the Baháʼí Faith, Cao Dai, Red Swastika Society, and Universal White Brotherhood, joined this movement.[4]

In 1935, the Second Oomoto Incident again left its headquarters in ruins and its leaders in prison. This incident was carried out far more intensively than the previous one in 1921, as the Japanese government sought to completely eradicate all traces of Oomoto shrines and materials.[4] Oomoto was effectively outlawed until the end of World War II. With the Second Oomoto Incident, Oomoto became the first religious organization to be prosecuted under the Public Security Preservation Law of 1925.

After World War II, Oomoto reappeared as Aizen-en (愛善苑), a movement dedicated to achieve world peace which was led by Onisaburo Deguchi's eldest grandson Yasuaki Deguchi (出口和明).[10][11] It was registered in 1946 under the Religious Corporations Ordinance. Yasuaki Deguchi considered Onisaburo rather than Nao to be the main founder of the religion, and thus used Onisaburo's Reikai Monogatari as its main scripture.[12]

In 1949, Oomoto joined the World Federalist Movement and the World Peace campaign.[citation needed] In 1952, the group returned to its older name, becoming the religious corporation Oomoto under the Religious Corporations Law.[13] Since then, Oomoto has opened various international branches, including Oomoto do Brasil (headquartered in Jandira, São Paulo, Brazil).[14]

Spiritual leadership

[edit]

Oomoto's spiritual leaders, all of whom belong to the Deguchi (出口) family, are:[15]

  • Main Founder (active 1892–1918): Nao Deguchi (出口なお; 1837–1918); also referred to as the Foundress (開祖, Kaiso)
  • Co-Founder (active 1898–1948): Onisaburo Deguchi (出口王仁三郎; 1871–1948); also referred to as the Holy Teacher (聖師, Seishi)
  • Second Spiritual Leader: Sumi Deguchi (出口すみ子; 1883–1952), Onisaburo's wife
  • Third Spiritual Leader: Naohi Deguchi (出口直日; 1902–1990), Onisaburo's eldest daughter
    • Alternate Spiritual Leader: Hidemaru Deguchi (出口日出麿) (1897–1991), husband of Naohi Deguchi
  • Fourth Spiritual Leader: Kiyoko Deguchi (出口聖子; 1935–2001), Naohi's third daughter
  • Fifth Spiritual Leader: Kurenai Deguchi (出口紅; 1956–present), Kiyoko's niece, who has served as Fifth Spiritual Leader of Oomoto since 29 April 2001

Oomoto's spiritual headquarters, called Baishō-en (梅松苑), is in Ayabe, Kyoto, due to its association with Nao Deguchi's founding of the religion in Ayabe. However, its administrative headquarters, called Ten'on-kyō (天恩郷), is in Kameoka, Kyoto.[16] Oomoto also has a mission center, called Tōkō-en (東光苑), in Taitō, Tokyo.

Scriptures

[edit]
See also: Onisaburo Deguchi § Selected works

The two main scriptures (basic kyōten 根本教典) used in Oomoto are:

  • Oomoto Shin'yu (大本神諭, 277 sections), composed during 1892–1918 (originally dictated by Nao Deguchi as the Ofudesaki; reinterpreted and edited by Onisaburo Deguchi to become the Oomoto Shin'yu)
  • Reikai Monogatari (霊界物語, 81 sections), composed during 1921–1934 (dictated by Onisaburo Deguchi)

Of the two, the Reikai Monogatari is by far the most commonly consulted and used scripture in present-day Oomoto.

Next in importance are two scriptures (kyōten 教典) composed by Onisaburo Deguchi during the first decade of the 20th century, namely Michi no Shiori (道の栞) (lit. 'Guide to the Way')[17] and Michi no Hikari (道の光) (lit. 'Light on the Way').[18]

There are also various other less commonly used texts, such as Izunome Shin'yu (伊都能売神諭, 37 volumes, composed during 1918–1919), and the Three Mirrors or San Kagami (三鏡, 844 chapters total) by Onisaburo Deguchi, which consists of the Water Mirror (水鏡, 249 chapters), Moon Mirror (月鏡, 212 chapters), and Jade Mirror (玉鏡, 383 chapters).[19]

Sacred sites

[edit]
The summit of Mount Hongu in Ayabe
The Cave of Onisaburo Deguchi on Mount Takakuma

Oomoto has numerous sacred sites, some of which are:[20][21]

Festivals

[edit]

Four major festivals (大祭, taisai) are held for each of the four seasons.[28]

  • Setsubun Grand Festival (節分大祭, Setsubun taisai), February 3, Ayabe
  • Spring Grand Festival (みろく大祭, Miroku taisai), May 5, Ayabe
  • Summer Grand Festival (瑞生大祭, Zuisei taisai), August 7 (traditionally the 12th day of 7th lunar month), Kameoka[29]
  • Autumn Grand Festival (開祖大祭, Kaiso taisai), or the Foundress' Festival, November 6, Ayabe

Art

[edit]

Oomoto and its adherents promote Japanese arts and culture, such as Noh theater, calligraphy, ceramics, and the tea ceremony.[30] According to Onisaburo Deguchi, "Art is the mother of religion" (芸術は宗教の母, geijutsu wa shūkyō no haha).[29] This perspective was also shared by Oomoto follower Mokichi Okada, who founded both the Church of World Messianity and the MOA Museum of Art in Atami.[4]

Use of Esperanto

[edit]
An inscribed stone in Kameoka with the official motto of Oomoto in Esperanto: Unu Dio, Unu Mondo, Unu Interlingvo ("One God, One World, One Language")
See also: Esperanto in Japan

The artificial language Esperanto plays a major role in the Oomoto religion. Starting from the early 1920s, the religion has published a large amount of literature in Esperanto. Onisaburo Deguchi reportedly introduced Esperanto back when he had interfaith dialogues with the Baháʼí Faith in 1921. Many Oomoto facilities in Kameoka, Kyoto have multilingual signs in Japanese and Esperanto. Today, Oomoto continues to publish numerous books, periodicals, pamphlets, and websites in Esperanto; some materials (translation of Japanese texts, etc.) are actually more extensive in Esperanto than in English.[31]

The creator of Esperanto, L. L. Zamenhof, is revered in Oomoto as a kami. The Oomoto affirmation of Zamenhof's enshrinement as a kami is stated, in Esperanto, as follows:

...[L]a spirito de Zamenhof eĉ nun daŭre agadas kiel misiisto de la anĝela regno; do, lia spirito estis apoteozita en la kapeleto Senrej-ŝa.[32]

The text above as translated into English is:

...[T]he spirit of Zamenhof even now continues to act as a missionary of the angelic kingdom; therefore, his spirit was deified in the Senrei-sha shrine.

Doctrine

[edit]

The Oomoto basic doctrine (大本教旨, Ōmoto kyōshi), also known as the shinjin itchi (神人一致), states that:[33]

God is the Spirit which pervades the entire universe,
and man is the focus of the workings of heaven and earth.
When God and man become one,
infinite power will become manifest.[34]

The original Japanese text of the Ōmoto kyōshi is:

神は万物普遍の霊にして (kami wa banbutsu fuhen no rei ni shite)
人は天地経綸の主体なり、 (hito wa tenchi keirin no shutai nari)
神人合一して (shinjin gōitsu shite)
茲に無限の権力を発揮す。 (koko ni mugen no kenryoku o hakki su)[35][36]

The fundamental ways to reach God are the called the Three Great Rules of Learning (三大学則, sandai gakusoku):[29]

  • Body of God should be known through observation of the truth of the universe. (天地の真象を観察して、真神の体を思考すべし, tenchi no shinshō o kansatsu shite, shinkami no karada o shikō subeshi)
  • Force of God should be known through the preciseness of motions of everything. (万有の運化の毫差なきを視て、真神の力を思考すべし, ban'yu no unka no naki o mite, shinkami no chikara o shikō subeshi)
  • Spirit of God should be known through recognition of souls of lives. (活物の心性を覚悟して真神の霊魂を思考すべし, katsumono no shinsei o kakugo shite shinkami no reikon o shikō subeshi)

The Four Teachings (四大綱領, shidai kōryō) are:[29]

  • Rites and governance following the Way of the kami (祭：惟神の大道, matsuri – kannagara no daidō)
  • Doctrine teaching the truth of heaven (教：天授の真理, oshie – tenju no shinri). Oshie (doctrine) is summarized in the 2018 book Oomoto no oshie (大本のおしえ).[37]
  • Traditional norms, following the Way of God and man (慣：天人道の常, narawashi – tenjindō no tsune)
  • Appropriate work (造：適宜の事務, nariwai – tekigi no jimu)

The Four Principles (四大主義, shidai shugi) are:[29]

  • Purity – purification of mind and body (清潔主義：心身修祓の大道, seiketsu shugi – shinshin shūbatsu no daidō)
  • Optimism – faith in the goodness of the Way of the Gods (楽天主義：天地惟神の大道, rakuten shugi – tenchi kannagara no taidō)
  • Progressivism – way of social improvement (進展主義：社会改善の大道, shinten shugi – shakai kaizen no daidō)
  • Unification – the reconciliation of all dichotomies (統一主義：上下一致の大道, tōitsu shugi – jōge itchi no daidō)

A core Oomoto teaching is:[29]

  • All religions spring from the same root (万教同根, bankyō dōkon) – This was first mentioned as 諸教同根 (shōkeu dōkon) in Chapter 6, Volume 23 of the Reikai Monogatari.[38] This phrase encapsulates Onisaburo Deguchi's view of Shinto as a universalist religion, rather than as an isolationist religious tradition indigenous to Japan.[39] In Seicho-No-Ie, a religion founded by Oomoto follower Masaharu Taniguchi, this is reworded as "All religions are one" (万教帰一, bankyō kītsu).

Beliefs and theology

[edit]

Oomoto is essentially a neo-Shinto religious movement. Oomoto doctrine has also integrated kokugaku teachings and modern ideas on world harmony and peace.

God

[edit]

In Oomoto, the one supreme God who created the universe is called Oomoto-sume-oomikami (Japanese: 大天主太神 or おおもとすめおおみかみ).[40] Oomoto means the "Great Origin", sume means "govern", and Oomikami means God. All kami are considered to be manifestations of this one God. In an account from the Reikai Monogatari, the universe began with the sudden advent of "ヽ", which is called "hochi". It then develops into "◉", called "su". This is the kotodama of "su" and is the great origin of God.

Kami

[edit]

Members of Oomoto believe in several kami (minor deities or spirits). The most important are Ushitora no Konjin (the kami of Nao Deguchi's initial divine possession in 1892), Ookunitokotachi, and Hitsujisaru. Various religious figures from other religions, or even notable non-religious figures, are recognized as kami – for example, the creator of Esperanto, L. L. Zamenhof.[32]

Cosmology

[edit]

Oomoto's goal is the realization of the world of Miroku or Miroku no yo (みろくの世) ("the world to come"), which means heaven in the real world. It is expressed in various ways, such as "from plum blossom to pine" (梅で開いて松で治める, ume de aite matsu de osameru) (mentioned at the beginning of the Oomoto Shin'yu), "purification of the world", "the opening of Amano-Iwato of the world", "the world of clear quartz", and so on.

Oomoto recognizes two realms, the physical world and the spiritual world (霊界, reikai), both of which are interconnected. In turn, the spiritual world consists of three parts:[29]

  • Heaven (高天原, Takama-no-hara) (lit. 'high plain of heaven')
  • Purgatory (天の八衢, Ame-no-yachimata) (lit. 'eight sections of heaven')
  • Underworld (根国, Ne-no-kuni) (lit. 'root country')

Nao Deguchi's prophecies stated that events which occur in Ayabe would also occur in Japan or throughout the world.[41][42] The Japanese government's suppression of Oomoto, consisting of the 1921 and 1935 Oomoto incidents, is considered to have been an omen of World War II and the consequent destruction of Japan.

Meal prayer

[edit]
A bilingual Esperanto-Japanese prayer in appreciation of food at the Oomoto headquarters' cafeteria in Kameoka, Kyoto

In Oomoto, a prayer is often recited before meals, after which "itadakimasu" is said. The prayer consists of three tanka poems (known in Japanese as the "Three-Poem Song" 三首のお歌) composed by Oomoto's second spiritual leader, Sumiko Deguchi (1883–1952). In 1976, Oomoto's third spiritual leader Naohi Deguchi adopted the prayer for use before meals. The prayer in Japanese, along with a literal English translation, is as follows.[43]

Japanese (original text) English (literal translation)

天（てん）の恩（おん）地（ち）のめぐみに生（うま）れたる
菜（な）乃（の）葉（は）一（いち）枚（まい）むだに捨（す）てまじ

一つぶの米（こめ）のなかにも三（さん）体（たい）の
神（みず）いますことを夢（ゆめ）な忘（わす）れそ

火（ひ）のご恩（おん）水（みず）のおめぐみ地（ち）の恩（おん）
これが天（てん）地（ち）の神（かみ）のみすがた

Let not a single leaf, born from the blessings of heaven and earth, be thrown away in vain.

Let us never forget that even in a single grain of rice are the Three Gods.

The blessings of fire, water, and earth: These are the forms of the gods of heaven and earth.

The official Esperanto and Portuguese translations of the prayer, which do not always follow the exact meaning of the Japanese original, are:[44]

Esperanto (official translation) Portuguese (official translation)

Nur senutila ne lasu eĉ peceton
legomfolian naskitan el favoro
de l'ĉielo kaj tero.

Favoron Dian forgesu ni neniam:
eĉ en rizero troviĝas
la Tri Dioj de l'ĉielo kaj tero.

De l'fajro, akvo kaj tero,
la favoroj kiuj nutras nin –
jen Di-figuro vera de l'ĉielo kaj tero.

Não devemos desprezar
nem mesmo uma folha,
pois tudo é criado pela graça de Deus.

Em nenhum momento devemos nos esquecer
que existe a graça de Deus,
mesmo num grão de arroz.

Deus se manifesta no Universo através
das graças concedidas pelo fogo,
pela água, pela terra.

Notable followers

[edit]

One of the more well-known followers of Oomoto was Morihei Ueshiba, a Japanese martial artist and the founder of Aikido. It is commonly thought that Ueshiba's increasing attachment to pacifism in later years and belief that Aikido should be an "art of peace" were inspired by his involvement with the sect. Oomoto priests oversee a ceremony in Ueshiba's honor every April 29 at the Aiki Shrine at Iwama.

Onisaburo Deguchi taught a type of meditation and spirit possesssion technique called chinkon kishin (鎮魂帰神) to some of his most devoted followers, many of whom went on to establish their own religions. They include:[45]

More recent Oomoto followers during the late 20th and 21st centuries include:

  • Alex Kerr, American writer and Japanologist, worked for the Oomoto Foundation for 20 years starting in 1977.[46]
  • Bill Roberts, American writer active at the Oomoto Foundation
  • Haruhisa Handa, founder of the religious organization World Mate
  • Yamantaka Eye, visual artist, DJ and member of avant musical group Boredoms

Oomoto-inspired religions

[edit]

Various religions have been inspired by Oomoto, many of which were founded by Oomoto followers familiar with chinkon kishin (鎮魂帰神) (lit. 'calming the soul and returning to the divine') as practiced in Oomoto.[29][47] Since Oomoto believes that "all religions come from the same root" (万教同根, bankyō dōkon), these other new religious movements are not seen as heretical, but are in fact even encouraged.

Many of these religions have meditation and divine healing practices derived from Oomoto's chinkon kishin (鎮魂帰神). They include:[48][49]

Various practices and teachings in Makoto no Michi are inspired by Oomoto, including similar spirit possession practices.[50] Makoto no Michi's sacred geography is derived from that of the Reikai Monogatari, in which Japan is viewed as a model (雛形, hinagata) of the world. Hokkaido is viewed as the equivalent of North America, Honshu as Eurasia, Shikoku as Australia, Kyushu as Africa, Taiwan as South America, and so on; these equivalences stem from their common mythical origins during the creation of the world.[51] The geographic equivalents of the main Japanese islands and Taiwan with the world's continents are identical in both Oomoto and Makoto no Michi.

Further reading

[edit]

Notes

[edit]

References

[edit]
[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia

Oomoto

View on Grokipedia
from Grokipedia

Oomoto (大本, Ōmoto), meaning "Great Origin," is a Japanese new religious movement founded in 1892 in Ayabe, , when Nao Deguchi (1836–1918), a poor farmer's widow, began receiving automatic writings from the spirit Ushitora no Konjin, proclaiming a divine mission to reconstruct the world into a paradise free of suffering.

Onisaburō Deguchi (1871–1948), originally named Kisaburō Ueda, joined as a disciple in 1898, married into the Deguchi family in 1900, and became the co-founder and dynamic leader who expanded Oomoto through prolific writings, artistic endeavors—including thousands of calligraphic works and pottery—and promotion of doctrines like bankyō dokon (all religious teachings are correct, originating from a single supreme deity). The religion integrates elements with spirit mediumship, emphasizing universal religious unity, daily purification rituals, and global harmony, while adopting in 1923 as the "language of heaven" to foster international understanding.
Under Onisaburō's influence, Oomoto grew rapidly to over 300,000 adherents by the mid-1920s, establishing a second headquarters at Kameoka and engaging in cultural and peace initiatives, but this expansion provoked government crackdowns: the First Oomoto Incident in 1921 involved arrests for alleged lèse-majesté and press violations, leading to Onisaburō's imprisonment and partial destruction of facilities, while the Second Incident in 1935 resulted in more brutal suppression, temple demolitions, and further arrests amid rising militarism. Despite these persecutions, which stemmed from perceptions of Oomoto's independence as a threat to authority, the group persisted postwar, maintaining about 170,000 members today and influencing figures like founder through its spiritual and martial emphases.

Origins and Early Development

Founding Revelations of Nao Deguchi

Deguchi Nao, born in December 1837 in Fukuchiyama, experienced the onset of divine possession on February 3, 1892, at the age of 55, following a series of vivid dreams that began around the Japanese lunar New Year. In these dreams, she encountered divine figures and her late husband, culminating in a trance-like state upon returning home at midnight, where she imperiously instructed her young daughters to relay a message to their sister Yoneko to light 36 candles and chant a holy . The possessing entity identified itself as Ushitora no Konjin, a asserting its role in reconstructing the world, which Nao initially doubted, suspecting deception by a or spirit. Physical manifestations of the possession included a heavy sensation in her body, forceful abdominal pressure, a masculine voice, and involuntary rocking movements, marking the start of ongoing spirit communications. Under divine command to take up a writing brush, Nao began despite her illiteracy, inscribing revelations in Japanese phonetic script that were later interpreted into by associates. Over the subsequent 27 years until her death on November 6, 1919, she produced approximately 200,000 pages—or equivalently 10,000 volumes of 20 pages each—of these writings, forming the foundational scriptures known as Ofudesaki. The core revelations emphasized the "Reconstruction of the Greater World" (Sekai Taiseikaihō), issuing prophecies of impending calamities, critiques of social ills, and visions of an eternal "Kingdom of Heaven on Earth" in the Age of , with positioned as central to divine restoration. Ushitora no Konjin portrayed itself as a primordial previously overlooked, tasked with harmonizing human affairs through these transmissions.

Integration of Onisaburo Deguchi

Kisaburō Ueda, born on February 21, 1871, in Anao, Kameoka, Kyoto Prefecture, encountered Nao Deguchi in autumn 1898 at a tea stall by the Ōi River after reading her Ofudesaki scriptures. Nao's daughter recognized him as the prophesied "man from the east," leading to his initial involvement in propagating Oomoto's teachings despite early skepticism. On , 1900, Ueda married Nao's youngest daughter, Sumiko Deguchi (1882–1952), and was adopted into the Deguchi family, assuming the name Onisaburō Deguchi. Nao conferred the name "Onisaburō" upon him, marking his formal integration as co-founder responsible for interpreting and disseminating her divine revelations—the "horizontal" aspect of Oomoto's doctrine, complementing Nao's vertical revelations. From 1900 onward, Onisaburō contributed to Oomoto's organizational foundations, fusing his background in spiritualism, , and esoteric practices with Nao's . He established early branches and, in 1916, received a divine declaration at Kamishima as the "savior of the world" and spirit of the , solidifying his spiritual authority. By , he began Oomoto Shin'yū, a seven-volume interpretation of Nao's scriptures, which expanded Oomoto's doctrinal framework and attracted followers. Following Nao's death on November 19, 1918, Onisaburō assumed full leadership, guiding Oomoto's growth while Sumiko served as the second spiritual leader. His integration transformed Oomoto from localized practices into a structured emphasizing universal salvation, , and social reform.

Initial Growth in Ayabe

Following Onisaburo Deguchi's marriage into the Deguchi family in 1900 and his subsequent return to Ayabe after periods of study and opposition, Oomoto transitioned from a small, informal group centered on Nao Deguchi's revelations to a more structured organization with dedicated facilities. Baisho-en was established in Ayabe as the primary center for religious worship and ceremonies, serving as the spiritual hub where the foundress had first been possessed by the deity Ushitora no Konjin in 1892. This development facilitated communal rituals and gatherings, drawing initial local adherents from the rural Ayabe community northwest of Kyoto. Onisaburo's leadership, solidified by the 1916 Kamishima event that confirmed his divine authority, spurred organizational efforts including the launch of Oomoto's first magazine in 1909 to disseminate Nao's Ofudesaki writings, though it ceased after four issues due to resistance. By 1917, following Nao's death in 1918, membership in the Ayabe-centered group had reached approximately 1,000, reflecting growth through family networks, local conversions, and Onisaburo's promotional activities. These efforts laid the groundwork for further expansion, with constructions like symbolic sacred sites in Ayabe symbolizing Oomoto's cosmological vision. The period marked a shift toward institutionalization, with tremendous increases in popularity attributed to Onisaburo's integration of elements and prophetic interpretations, attracting pilgrims and establishing Ayabe as Oomoto's enduring birthplace and ritual core before national scrutiny intensified.

Historical Trajectory

Rapid Expansion and Nationalist Tensions (1910s-1920s)

![Chōseiden worship hall, Ayabe][float-right] Under the leadership of Onisaburo Deguchi, Oomoto underwent rapid expansion beginning in the 1910s, transforming from a localized rural following of approximately 1,000 adherents to a nationwide movement claiming over 300,000 members by the early . Onisaburo employed innovative proselytization strategies, including the promotion of rituals, public lectures, and the integration of traditional arts such as poetry, theater, and , which appealed to intellectuals, artists, and diverse social strata amid Taishō-era and spiritual seeking. In 1916, the group rebranded as Kōdō Oomoto (Imperial Way Oomoto), emphasizing restoration of divine rule and alignment with imperial traditions to bolster legitimacy and attract followers loyal to the emperor system. Infrastructure development underscored this growth, with the purchase of the former Kameyama Castle site in Kameoka for a secondary and the construction of monumental structures in Ayabe, including the Chōseiden worship hall, symbolizing Oomoto's ambition and permanence. Publications played a key role, launching periodicals like Ayabe Shimbun and Shinrei-kai in to disseminate teachings, followed by the 1920 acquisition of the major daily Taishō Nichi-Nichi newspaper, enabling mass outreach and editorial influence. The 1919 establishment of the Kakushin-kai mission center in Tokyo further extended reach, drawing high-ranking officials and even imperial family affiliates, amplifying Oomoto's visibility in urban and elite circles. Nationalist tensions emerged as Oomoto's emphasis on Japan's divine mission intertwined with universalist and millenarian prophecies foretelling global upheaval and spiritual renewal, which authorities interpreted as subversive to state Shinto's monopoly and the emperor's centralized authority. Despite overt loyalty to imperial ideals, Onisaburo's reformist critiques of materialism and advocacy for international harmony clashed with rising militarism, prompting government suspicion and surveillance amid broader civil unrest, such as the 1920 May Day incidents. This independent growth, unchecked by official religious oversight, positioned Oomoto as a perceived threat to imperial stability, setting the stage for intensified scrutiny.

First Oomoto Incident and Suppression (1921)

On February 12, 1921, approximately 200 officers from the conducted a large-scale raid on the Oomoto headquarters in Ayabe, , as well as the homes of key leaders. The operation, ordered by the chief of public prosecution, targeted over 20 Oomoto-related sites amid concerns over the group's rapid growth to tens of thousands of adherents and its publications perceived as undermining state authority. Authorities cited violations of the Newspaper Law and lese majesty, specifically pointing to content in Oomoto's newspaper Shinrei Tsūshin and Onisaburo Deguchi's serialized Reikai Monogatari, which included prophecies and critiques interpreted as disrespectful to the emperor and critical of government policies. During the raid, police arrested several Oomoto executives, including Wasaburō Asano, on charges of lese majesty and Newspaper Law infractions; Onisaburo Deguchi, who was in editing the publication at the time, was apprehended shortly thereafter. Deguchi remained in detention for 126 days pending trial, during which Oomoto's shamanistic practices like chinkon kishin (spirit pacification rituals) were scrutinized as potential sources of social unrest. The government's actions reflected a broader pattern of suppressing new religions deemed incompatible with and imperial ideology, prioritizing national cohesion over in the Taishō era's shifting political landscape. The incident resulted in the effective suppression of Oomoto's public activities, with publications ceased and organizational operations severely restricted, though unlike the 1935 suppression, no widespread physical destruction of facilities occurred. Onisaburo Deguchi was eventually released following his trial, allowing for a partial revival, but the event underscored the Japanese state's use of legal mechanisms to curb millenarian movements advocating universal and esoteric cosmology over militaristic . This suppression, driven by official interpretations rather than empirical threats, highlighted institutional biases favoring imperial orthodoxy, as evidenced by the selective enforcement against Oomoto's non-violent teachings.

Interwar Revival and Second Suppression (1935)

Following the First Oomoto Incident of 1921, in which co-founder Onisaburo Deguchi was arrested on charges of lèse-majesté and violation of the press law, Oomoto experienced a period of reconstruction and renewed expansion. Deguchi was released on bail in June 1921 after 126 days in custody, allowing him to resume leadership activities, including dictating the extensive Reikai Monogatari scripture between 1921 and 1934. Despite the destruction of its Ayabe headquarters, the organization rebuilt facilities and established additional centers, such as in Kameoka, contributing to significant membership growth. By the early 1930s, Oomoto's followers numbered over one million, with estimates reaching up to three million at its peak, fueled by Onisaburo's charismatic propagation, artistic endeavors, and promotion of universalist ideals alongside patriotic initiatives like national defense exhibitions. This interwar revival, however, heightened tensions with the increasingly militaristic Japanese government, which viewed Oomoto's alternative cosmology, prophecies critiquing societal ills, and independent spiritual authority as challenges to and imperial orthodoxy. Onisaburo's teachings, emphasizing a divine mission to reconstruct the world under Ushitora no Konjin, were interpreted by authorities as seditious, potentially undermining the emperor's divine status and national unity policies. Oomoto's adoption of international elements, such as Esperanto promotion, contrasted with the era's , though it also incorporated pro-military stances to mitigate suspicions. The Second Oomoto Incident erupted on December 8, 1935, when several hundred armed police raided the Ayabe and Kameoka headquarters, arresting Onisaburo Deguchi and initiating mass detentions under the for alleged violations including lèse-majesté and plotting against the throne. Approximately 3,000 believers were arrested nationwide, with around 1,000 imprisoned, marking the largest religious suppression in modern Japanese history. Authorities demolished all Oomoto facilities using , confiscating property and effectively banning the group, with the crackdown lasting until post-World War II acquittals in 1945. This event reflected broader prewar efforts to consolidate state control over religion amid rising .

Post-War Reconstruction and Modern Adaptation

Following the acquittal in the courts that resolved the Second Oomoto Incident in 1945, Oomoto regained legal standing under Japan's post-war constitution, which enshrined freedom of religion. This enabled the organization to recommence activities after a decade of severe restrictions and property confiscations during the war years. In 1946, Oomoto relaunched under the name Aizen-en ("Garden of Love and Virtue"), a deliberate rebranding to emphasize pacifism and moral cultivation amid Japan's defeat and occupation. Onisaburō Deguchi, who had been released from imprisonment in 1942, oversaw the initial reconstruction efforts, including the return of seized holy sites in Ayabe and Kameoka by late 1945. Sumiko Deguchi, the second spiritual leader and Onisaburō's wife, who endured seven years of detention without trial from 1935 to 1942, contributed to stabilizing the group during this transitional phase. Onisaburō's death in 1948 marked the end of the founding era, shifting focus to institutional rebuilding and propagation. By 1952, Naohi Deguchi, daughter of Onisaburō and third spiritual leader, alongside her husband Hidemaru Deguchi, directed a revival centered on initiatives, including interfaith dialogues and cultural exchanges to adapt Oomoto's millenarian teachings to democratic . Membership expanded through these efforts, with renewed emphasis on arts, poetry festivals, and spiritual training programs that integrated traditional rituals with modern ethical outreach. Hidemaru's experiences, including wartime and , underscored the group's pivot toward non-militaristic propagation. In the late , Oomoto further adapted by establishing international branches and promoting universalist elements, such as usage in prayers and monuments to foster global unity. transitioned to Deguchi as fourth spiritual leader in 1990, culminating in the 1992 completion of Chōsei-den (Hall of Immortality) for the organization's centennial, symbolizing enduring cosmological renewal. Today, Oomoto maintains approximately 200,000 adherents, prioritizing environmental harmony, peace advocacy, and cultural preservation while navigating through online resources and youth engagement.

Leadership and Organizational Structure

Lineage of Spiritual Leaders

The spiritual leadership of Oomoto, referred to as Kyōshu-sama, has been maintained exclusively by women from the Deguchi family in a , emphasizing continuity of divine authority from the foundress. This lineage embodies the faith's core of female mediation for spiritual revelations, distinct from administrative roles often held by male relatives. Onisaburo Deguchi served as co-founder and doctrinal elaborator but was not designated a Kyōshu-sama. Nao Deguchi (1837–1918), the foundress, initiated the lineage through of the Ofudesaki scriptures starting December 26, 1892, channeling the deity Ushitora no Konjin. Her revelations laid Oomoto's foundational cosmology, and upon her death on November 19, 1918, leadership passed to her daughter Sumiko Deguchi (1883–1952), who became the second Kyōshu-sama. Sumiko, married to Onisaburo in 1900, focused on institutional stabilization amid early suppressions, overseeing reconstruction after the 1921 incident and promoting missionary work. Sumiko's eldest daughter, Naohi Deguchi (March 7, 1902–September 23, 1990), succeeded as third Kyōshu-sama following her mother's death on July 13, 1952. Naohi emphasized and global outreach, including adoption of an prayer in 1976 and fostering ties with Western spiritual movements; her husband, Hidemaru Deguchi, handled administrative duties. Upon Naohi's death, her third daughter Kiyoko Deguchi (1935–2001) was invested as fourth Kyōshu-sama on September 23, 1990, guiding post-war expansion and cultural initiatives like sacred gardens in Kameoka. Kiyoko prioritized harmony with traditions and environmental stewardship. Kiyoko's adopted daughter, Kurenai Deguchi (born 1956), acceded as fifth and current Kyōshu-sama on April 29, 2001, after Kiyoko's passing on August 24, 2001. Kurenai has advanced Oomoto's international presence through digital outreach and ecumenical efforts, while upholding core rituals amid Japan's secular trends. This succession reflects Oomoto's resilience, with each leader adapting revelations to contemporary challenges without altering foundational doctrines.
Spiritual LeaderTermKey Contributions
Nao Deguchi1892–1918Originated Ofudesaki revelations; established core worship.
Sumiko Deguchi1918–1952Institutional growth; navigated suppressions.
Naohi Deguchi1952–1990Global interfaith initiatives; integration.
Kiyoko Deguchi1990–2001Cultural and environmental projects.
Kurenai Deguchi2001–presentModern adaptation and outreach.

Administrative Roles and Deguchi Family Dynamics

Oomoto maintains a distinctive dual leadership structure separating spiritual authority from administrative functions, with the spiritual leader always a female descendant of foundress Nao Deguchi and the chief administrator a male figure who implements policies derived from spiritual guidance. This arrangement reflects revelations received by Nao Deguchi emphasizing matrilineal spiritual inheritance, ensuring continuity through the Deguchi female line while allowing administrative flexibility. The organization lacks a professional priesthood, relying instead on certified lay members for rituals, supported by approximately 200 paid staff primarily at the Kameoka headquarters, which handles educational and operational matters, distinct from the sacred Ayabe site. The Deguchi family's dynamics center on hereditary spiritual leadership passed matrilineally: Nao Deguchi (1837–1918) as first spiritual leader, succeeded by her daughter Sumiko Deguchi (1879–1952), who married co-founder Onisaburō Deguchi (née Ueda Kisaburō, 1871–1948) in 1900 and assumed the role upon Nao's death. Sumiko was followed by her daughter Naohi Deguchi (1909–1985) as third leader in 1952, then fourth leader Kiyoko Deguchi, and currently fifth leader Kurenai Deguchi (born 1956), Nao's great-great-granddaughter, appointed in 2001. This succession adheres to divine instructions privileging female Deguchi heirs for channeling Ushitora no Konjin, the central deity, while male family members often fill supportive roles, such as Onisaburō's early propagation and doctrinal systematization efforts. Administrative roles within the family have typically involved male relatives or adoptees, with Onisaburō Deguchi driving organizational expansion from the through arts, publishing, and missionary work until his imprisonment in the suppression. , figures like Uchimaru Deguchi (adopted son of Onisaburō) served as president and assistant to the spiritual leader, while Eiji Deguchi, husband of a later spiritual leader, acted as administrative head and rite master. The chief administrator, not restricted to the family, coordinates with volunteers across Oomoto's 58 local chapters and 182,613 registered followers, focusing on practical implementation of the spiritual leader's interpretations without doctrinal authority. Family interdynamics feature strategic adoptions and marriages to sustain lineage, as seen in Onisaburō's into the Deguchi and subsequent elevation through demonstrated spiritual with Nao, blending familial loyalty with merit-based influence in propagation. This structure mitigates potential conflicts by delineating spiritual purity (female-led) from worldly administration (male-led), fostering resilience amid historical suppressions, though it has occasionally strained under external pressures like the 1921 and 1935 incidents, where family members faced arrests. Overall, the Deguchi clan's centrality ensures doctrinal fidelity, with administrative roles enabling adaptation while deferring to spiritual primacy.

Current Leadership under Kurenai Deguchi

Kurenai Deguchi assumed the role of Fifth Spiritual Leader of Oomoto on April 29, 2001, following the death of her aunt, the Fourth Spiritual Leader Kiyoko Deguchi. Born in 1956 as Kurenai Hirose, she is a great-great-granddaughter of founder Nao Deguchi and was adopted into the Deguchi family, preserving the doctrinal requirement that spiritual leaders be unmarried female descendants of Nao. Before her ascension, Deguchi trained in traditional arts including chanting and tea ceremony instruction while working as a . Her selection, announced one week prior to Kiyoko's passing, reflects Oomoto's emphasis on direct lineage transmission for spiritual authority. Deguchi's leadership centers on channeling divine guidance through prayers, rituals, and public addresses, while overseeing administrative functions via the Deguchi family and appointed officials. She presides over key ceremonies, such as the Autumn Grand Festival and World Religious Forums, where she advocates for as a bulwark against violence and promotes . Under her tenure, Oomoto has sustained commitments to , environmental preservation, and revival of Japanese cultural practices like poetry recitation and arts festivals, integrating these with eschatological aims of constructing a "Heavenly Kingdom." The organization maintains 58 local chapters and reports 182,613 followers, focusing on ethical living and global outreach without proselytizing. As president of Jinrui Aizenkai, Oomoto's affiliated peace body, Deguchi extends leadership to international initiatives fostering spiritual unity and conflict resolution, hosting events that draw religious representatives worldwide. Her approach blends artistic expression—evident in her participation in tea ceremonies and dance—with pragmatic adaptation to contemporary issues, such as digital dissemination of teachings, while upholding core revelations from Ofudesaki. No major doctrinal shifts have occurred, prioritizing continuity amid Japan's secular trends.

Theological Foundations

Concept of the Divine and Ushitora no Konjin

In Oomoto theology, the divine is understood as a singular, omnipotent embodying the "Great Origin" (Ōmoto), the fundamental source of all creation, sustenance, and cosmic harmony, who permeates the universe and reveals truth through human mediums to guide spiritual reconstruction. This conception emphasizes a unified divine essence rather than fragmented , with all phenomena—natural, spiritual, and human—deriving from and returning to this origin, fostering a of interconnected where divine will drives ethical and societal renewal. Ushitora no Konjin, translating to the "Konjin of the Ox-Tiger Direction" (northeast), serves as the primary manifestation of this supreme God in Oomoto's foundational revelations, depicted as an ancient, righteous deity previously confined by malevolent forces but now liberated to enact divine judgment and restoration. This entity first manifested on January 25, 1892 (by the ), possessing the foundress Nao Deguchi during a moment of personal crisis, declaring itself as God and initiating the automatic writing of the Ofudesaki, Oomoto's core scripture comprising over 10,000 poems transmitted until 1918. Through Nao, Ushitora no Konjin proclaimed an intent to "reconstruct the world" by purging evil influences and realigning humanity with divine order, positioning itself as a parent-like protector against calamity while promising a successor—a "man from the east"—to interpret and propagate these truths, fulfilled in Onisaburo Deguchi's role from 1900 onward. Oomoto adherents view Ushitora no Konjin not merely as a directional earth spirit from folk traditions—associated with construction taboos and northeastern —but as the incarnate voice of the absolute divine, bridging ancient lore with eschatological . This elevation integrates 's animistic elements into a monotheistic framework, where prayers to Ushitora no Konjin invoke the unified , emphasizing protection from "evil spirits" and promotion of moral living, as evidenced in rituals invoking blessings for harmony and freedom from harm. Critics within traditional contexts have noted tensions, such as Oomoto's rejection of bean-throwing rites as persecutory toward Ushitora no Konjin, reflecting the deity's recast role as a suppressed yet triumphant savior figure central to Oomoto's causal narrative of divine intervention in human affairs.

Kami Worship and Shinto Integration

Oomoto's worship centers on kami, divine spirits inherent in nature and phenomena, aligning with Shinto's polytheistic framework while emphasizing their origin from a singular Supreme God. Ushitora no Konjin, the central kami who possessed founder Nao Deguchi in 1892, serves as the primary divine entity, transmitting revelations through automatic writing in the Ofudesaki. This kami, rooted in Onmyōdō traditions and associated with directional energies, particularly the northeast (ushitora), embodies reconstructive cosmic forces and aligns with other deities in Oomoto's cosmology. Shinto integration manifests in Oomoto through adapted rituals that maintain harmony with , such as the monthly Tsukinamisai ceremonies, which invoke conscious connection to divine presences in natural elements. Shrines like those at Ayabe and Kameoka enshrine representations, including sacred sites tied to Ushitora no Konjin, facilitating pilgrimages and offerings akin to practices. Oomoto distinguishes itself by viewing all as manifestations of the Supreme God, promoting unity across religious traditions while preserving Shinto's animistic reverence for localized spirits. This synthesis avoids strict orthodoxy, incorporating folk and esoteric elements; for instance, Ushitora no Konjin is depicted as a savior collaborating with figures like the Konohanasakuya-hime in world reconstruction myths. Rituals blend purification, prayer, and artistic expression, reflecting Shinto's ceremonial heritage but infused with Oomoto's eschatological urgency for spiritual renewal.

Cosmology, Reincarnation, and Eschatology

Oomoto's cosmology centers on a monotheistic supreme deity, Ushitora no Konjin, identified as the original creator and eternal spirit pervading the entire , from which all gods, phenomena, and existence originate. This divine entity, channeled through Nao Deguchi's Ofudesaki revelations beginning January 25, 1892, subordinates traditional figures like Ōmikami to a unified cosmic order, emphasizing the spirit's infinite presence in , , and humanity as the focal mechanism for creation. Humans, as microcosms of this spirit (ichirei), enable the manifestation of boundless creative power when aligned with the divine, reflecting a vitalistic view where the operates through harmonious interplay of spiritual essence and material form. The faith affirms as the soul's progressive return in human form to refine spiritual essence and fulfill cosmic purpose, distinct from animal transmigration. Onisaburō Deguchi exemplified this doctrine by claiming identities as reincarnations of Siddhartha Gautama, , and other luminaries, positioning himself as a vessel for accumulated wisdom across lifetimes to advance Oomoto's mission. Souls undergo cycles of rebirth tied to karmic alignment with the divine spirit, aiming for ultimate unification rather than perpetual wandering, with detailed scriptural depictions of the spiritual realm informing post-death transitions. Eschatologically, Oomoto envisions a millenarian shift from the degraded "age of beasts" (emono no yo), characterized by and strife, to a renewed "future world" (mirai no yo) of universal and heavenly order on . The Ofudesaki prophesies purifying cataclysms—echoing Nao Deguchi's visions of global destruction—followed by messianic reconstruction, with spiritual leaders like the Deguchi lineage guiding humanity's ethical realignment. Historical suppressions in and were interpreted as divinely ordained trials accelerating this renewal, underscoring Oomoto's role in fostering unity across religions and nations. This framework prioritizes proactive virtue and divine-human partnership to realize the "construction of the heavenly kingdom," adopting an implicit rather than sensational tone.

Practices and Rituals

Primary Scriptures: Ofudesaki and Revelations

The Ofudesaki, or "Tip of the Writing Brush," forms the core scripture of Oomoto, comprising automatic writings channeled through foundress Nao Deguchi by the deity Ushitora no Konjin beginning in 1893 and continuing until her death on January 19, 1918. These manuscripts total over 100,000 pages and include divine pronouncements on moral purification, prophecies of societal upheaval and renewal, and instructions for establishing a "Kingdom of Heaven" on through spiritual reconstruction. Nao, who was illiterate, produced the text via , with early entries dated to visions commencing on the of 1892. Published in condensed form as Oomoto Shin'yu (Divine Revelations of Oomoto), the Ofudesaki serves as the religion's doctrinal foundation, emphasizing in human suffering linked to spiritual impurities and the necessity of divine intervention for global harmony. Its content privileges direct divine commands over interpretive commentary, focusing on ethical living, rejection of , and the restoration of primordial unity. Complementing the Ofudesaki, the Revelations include Reikai Monogatari (Tales of the Spirit World), a expansive narrative scripture dictated primarily by co-founder Onisaburo Deguchi in collaboration with Nao's channeled guidance, spanning 81 volumes completed between 1912 and 1934. This work chronicles cosmic journeys, battles between savior deities like Kamususanowo and demonic forces symbolized as the serpent , and visions of reincarnation cycles intertwined with eschatological renewal. It integrates lore with apocalyptic themes, portraying human history as a spiritual drama culminating in universal salvation through Oomoto's mission. Together, these scriptures underscore Oomoto's emphasis on empirical spiritual causation and proactive divine agency in averting catastrophe.

Sacred Sites, Shrines, and Pilgrimages

Oomoto maintains two principal spiritual centers serving as sacred sites: Baisho-en in Ayabe and Ten'on-kyo in Kameoka, both within . Baisho-en, established in 1892 at the site of founder Nao Deguchi's initial divine possession, encompasses multiple worship halls clustered at the base of Mount Hongu, revered as the faith's core spiritual locus. Notable structures include Chosei-den, a grand hall exemplifying Oomoto's architectural integration of traditional and modern elements. These facilities host key rituals such as the Spring and Autumn Festivals, Grand Festival, and monthly ceremonies on the first Sunday. Mount Hongu itself functions as a shintaizan, embodying divine presence, with priestly ascents for ceremonies like bean-scattering rites conducted at its summit. Ten'on-kyo, constructed from 1919 on the ruins of Kameyama Castle and rebuilt after its destruction during state suppression, serves as the administrative hub while accommodating worship, including the Summer Grand Festival and weddings. Pilgrimages form integral observances, often led by the spiritual leader and involving sequential prayers at clusters. An annual rite on April 28 at , near Ayabe—site of Nao Deguchi's 1901 seclusion—features tea offerings (kencha) at summit and midway s, followed by prayers at base and nearby s, invoking kami Naohi. Similarly, mid-May services at Mount Hachibuse include kencha at village s and summit rocks, tied to post-1945 divine declarations by Onisaburo Deguchi. These mountain treks underscore Oomoto's emphasis on direct communion with sacred landscapes beyond formal headquarters.

Festivals, Ceremonies, and Daily Observances

Oomoto observes four grand seasonal festivals annually, each centered at its primary shrines in Ayabe or Kameoka, incorporating Shinto-derived rituals of purification, offerings, invocations, and symbolic feasts to invoke divine harmony and cosmic renewal. The Grand Festival on February 3 in Ayabe features the Oharai, or Great Purification Ritual, aimed at cleansing the nation and universe of impurities through communal rites performed late into the night. The Spring Grand Festival, held May 5 in Ayabe, aligns with traditional renewal themes, while the Summer Grand Festival on the 12th day of the seventh lunar month (typically August) includes the Zuisei Taisai, reviving ancient poem-chanting rites as offerings to . The Autumn Grand Festival on November 23 in Kameoka emphasizes gratitude and harvest invocation. Monthly observances, known as Tsukinamisai, occur at local branches and home altars, where adherents perform simplified ceremonies to maintain spiritual alignment and seek divine guidance for the coming period. These involve purification rites, offerings of rice, sake, and salt, and invocations to Ushitora no Konjin, the central deity, fostering communal bonds and personal devotion. Participants, often lay members trained as priests, recite prayers from the Ofudesaki and engage in meditative reflection. Daily practices emphasize twice-daily prayers at home shrines or during personal , reciting invocations to align with divine will and promote ethical living. These observances, integrated into routine life, include brief purification gestures and gratitude expressions before meals or work, reinforcing Oomoto's cosmology of continuous spiritual harmony without rigid clerical mediation. Ceremonies often incorporate traditional arts, such as sacred dances akin to , performed during festivals to entertain and honor , blending shamanic elements with communal joy.

Meal Prayers and Ethical Living

In Oomoto, adherents recite a specific prayer before meals to express gratitude for food and acknowledge its spiritual significance, often followed by the traditional Japanese expression "itadakimasu" signifying appreciation for the lives given in sustenance. This prayer, originally composed by Sumiko Deguchi, the wife of co-founder Onisaburo Deguchi, appears in bilingual Japanese-Esperanto form at Oomoto facilities, reflecting the religion's emphasis on universal accessibility and harmony with nature. The practice aligns with broader Shinto-influenced rituals of purification and offering, where food is viewed not merely as nourishment but as a conduit for divine energy, promoting mindfulness in consumption. Ethical living in Oomoto centers on cultivating , non-violence, and , rooted in the principle of Bankyo Dokon (all religions as one path), which encourages adherents to transcend and treat all beings as siblings under a singular divine source. Core tenets include abstaining from killing, extending loving-kindness to humans and creatures alike, and prioritizing moral integrity over force to foster , as articulated by Onisaburo Deguchi. Daily application involves twice-daily prayers, monthly home services, and integration of virtues like , , responsibility, and into interpersonal and environmental interactions. Oomoto promotes sustainable practices as ethical imperatives, such as interpreted as a spiritual safeguard against chemical dependency, with annual events dedicated to production like bean cultivation. These extend to interfaith , emphasizing , , and harmonious relationships without proselytizing, tested in programs across multiple countries. Adherents are urged to embody in aligning actions with divine principles of mutual trust and global unity, avoiding in favor of universal brotherhood.

Cultural and Intellectual Contributions

Artistic Expressions and Onisaburo's Works

Oomoto integrates traditional Japanese arts into its spiritual practices, viewing them as pathways to divine connection and . Onisaburo Deguchi, the co-founder, regarded as foundational to , stating that "art is the mother of religion; art gives birth to religion," and elaborated that the creator of the cosmos manifests through artistic expression. This philosophy permeates Oomoto's rituals, where , , and serve to invoke and promote ethical living, blending aesthetic creation with prayer and meditation. Onisaburo produced an extensive body of poetic works, composing thousands of waka and poems that encapsulate Oomoto's teachings on unity, peace, and cosmic order. Influenced by classical Japanese literature learned from his grandmother, a poet herself, he integrated poetry into festivals like Utamatsuri, where verses function dually as prayers and literary expressions. These poems, often calligraphed on large scrolls, emphasize themes of universal brotherhood and spiritual awakening, with Onisaburo's output exceeding 10,000 pieces by the mid-20th century. In , Onisaburo excelled in , producing monumental scrolls that combine script with spiritual invocation, as seen in works from the onward. He also created , notably "scintillating bowls" or tea bowls like Amatsuotome (height 81 mm, caliber 94 mm) and Ranman (height 79 mm, caliber 95 mm), which feature dynamic glazes symbolizing divine energy and were crafted as amateur yet spiritually potent vessels. These ceramics, displayed in Oomoto's art museum, reflect his belief in art's ritual utility, often used in tea ceremonies infused with prayer. Onisaburo's performative arts included sacred dances and music, drawing from Shinto traditions to enact myths and prophecies, such as those in the Reikai Monogatari narratives. He performed these in elaborate costumes, embodying deities like , the goddess of arts and eloquence, to ritually pacify and foster . Poetry, , and music thus formed core elements of Oomoto's ceremonies under his influence, extending arts beyond aesthetics into communal spiritual discipline.

Advocacy for Esperanto and Globalism

Under the leadership of Onisaburo Deguchi, Oomoto integrated into its teachings in 1923 as a tool for and , viewing the as essential for overcoming linguistic barriers to global harmony. Deguchi, intrigued by since 1913, formalized its adoption after studying it intensively from May 1922, establishing study groups and publishing Oomoto materials in the language to promote its use among adherents. This advocacy aligned with Oomoto's broader vision of , transforming the faith from insular toward , including the 1925 inauguration of the World Religious Federation aimed at uniting global faiths to prevent conflict and foster peace. Onisaburo emphasized 's role in realizing "One God, One World, One Interlanguage," a inscribed on the Esperanto Monument erected at Oomoto's Kameoka , symbolizing the pursuit of spiritual and cultural convergence beyond national boundaries. Oomoto's globalist ideals extended to and eschatological prophecies envisioning a new world order through divine intervention and human cooperation, critiquing and advocating ethical living to achieve universal brotherhood, though these positions contributed to state suspicions of subversion during Japan's imperial era. Adherents practiced daily prayers and communal activities to embody this internationalist ethos, reflecting Onisaburo's belief in transcending borders via shared spiritual bonds and rational language reform.

Influence on Martial Arts and Other Traditions

Oomoto's most notable influence on martial arts stems from the close relationship between co-founder Onisaburo Deguchi and , the founder of . Ueshiba encountered Oomoto in 1919 and relocated his family to the religion's Ayabe headquarters in 1920, remaining there until 1927 to teach martial techniques to adherents at Deguchi's encouragement. Deguchi recognized Ueshiba's proficiency in Daito-ryu Aiki-jujutsu and integrated it into Oomoto's practices as a form of spiritual training, emphasizing harmony (ai) and energy unification (ki) aligned with the faith's cosmology of divine reconciliation. This collaboration profoundly shaped 's philosophy, blending Ueshiba's combat skills with Oomoto's teachings on non-violent resolution and universal brotherhood, which Deguchi articulated through revelations promoting amid Japan's . In 1924, Deguchi assembled a group including Ueshiba for an expedition to , intended as a "spiritual soldier" advance to establish a utopian realm under divine rule; the mission's failure and capture by Chinese forces reinforced Ueshiba's shift toward as a defensive art for rather than . Oomoto's broader impact extended to viewing martial arts like alongside traditional disciplines—such as tea preparation and —as vehicles for spiritual cultivation, fusing Shinto ceremonialism with Zen-derived to foster ethical self-mastery among followers. This holistic approach influenced Oomoto's internal arts programs, which persist in promoting Budo (martial ways) as paths to enlightenment, though external dissemination waned after state suppressions in 1921 and 1935 disrupted direct lineages.

Controversies, Persecutions, and Criticisms

The First Oomoto Incident began on February 12, 1921, when approximately 200 police officers raided Oomoto's headquarters in Ayabe and the residences of its leaders, arresting co-founder Onisaburo Deguchi along with several followers on charges of lèse-majesté—insulting the emperor—and violations of the Newspaper Censorship Law. The government viewed Oomoto's rapid growth, millenarian prophecies, and critiques of as subversive to imperial authority, prompting the suppression amid rising . Legal proceedings extended until May 17, 1927, when the case against Deguchi was overturned, leading to his release after over six years of detention. The Second Oomoto Incident, initiated on December 8, 1935, marked a far more aggressive state intervention, with Onisaburo Deguchi, his wife Sumi Deguchi, and other leaders arrested under the 1925 Peace Preservation Law—the first application of this statute against a religious group—and charges of lèse-majesté and disturbing the peace. Military influence drove the demolition of Oomoto facilities, including the dynamiting of its major shrine in Kameoka and confiscation of lands, effectively dismantling the organization's infrastructure. Convictions followed, resulting in lengthy imprisonments; Onisaburo endured over six years in prison amid protracted trials that concluded as late as 1942. This suppression persisted until Japan's defeat in World War II, after which Oomoto was rehabilitated, highlighting the government's prioritization of ultranationalist ideology over religious pluralism.

Accusations of Subversion and Millenarianism

Japanese authorities accused Oomoto of subversion during its state-sponsored suppressions in 1921 and 1935, viewing the group's teachings and activities as threats to national order and . In the first incident, on February 12, 1921, co-founder Onisaburo Deguchi and several followers were arrested on charges of lèse-majesté and violation of newspaper regulations, primarily due to passages in the serialized spiritual text Reikai Monogatari interpreted as disrespectful to the . The government's case centered on Oomoto's rapid growth and publications that blended elements with critiques of societal corruption, which officials deemed seditious. The 1935 suppression escalated these accusations, with over 700 arrests under the for alleged violations including lèse-majesté and disruption of public order. Authorities targeted Oomoto's infrastructure, demolishing its Ayabe headquarters and confiscating assets, citing the religion's "dangerous ideology" that promoted universalism over state nationalism. Onisaburo Deguchi received a life sentence, later reduced, for writings and practices seen as undermining the divine imperial lineage and fostering dissent. Oomoto's advocacy for , , and interfaith harmony clashed with militaristic policies, amplifying perceptions of political . Oomoto's millenarian doctrines further fueled these charges, as its foundational scriptures prophesied an imminent apocalyptic transformation known as the "Day of Fire," heralding the destruction of the corrupt present world and the dawn of a spiritually renewed era with Ayabe as its epicenter. Revelations from founder Nao Deguchi in the Ofudesaki warned of global cataclysm followed by divine reconstruction, emphasizing humanity's role in purification amid warnings of beasts and devils dominating . Government prosecutors argued these eschatological visions incited unrest by implying the obsolescence of existing hierarchies, including the Emperor's sacred status, thus constituting a subversive challenge to the (national polity). Postwar reviews acknowledged the charges' vagueness, with lèse-majesté convictions dropped, suggesting motivations rooted in suppressing ideological rivals to orthodoxy.

Critiques of Ecumenism and Political Naivety

Critics of Oomoto's ecumenical approach, encapsulated in the doctrine of bankyō dōkon (all religions originate from one source), have argued that its syncretic blending of , , , and other traditions lacks doctrinal depth and fosters superficial unity rather than genuine theological integration. This has been portrayed as failing to reconcile sectarian differences, as evidenced by the dissolution of Oomoto-led efforts toward a world religious federation in the due to irreconcilable divergences among participants. Furthermore, some analyses contend that Oomoto's promotion of interfaith harmony masked underlying Japanese ethnic superiority, aligning subconsciously with imperial hierarchies rather than achieving impartial global equality, thereby undermining the sincerity of its peace advocacy. Oomoto's political engagements have drawn accusations of , particularly in Deguchi Onisaburō's 1924 expedition to , described by contemporaries and scholars as a "naïve foray" driven by a romantic, dreamlike vision of spiritual conquest and utopian establishment. The venture involved a small group attempting to forge alliances with local warlords like Chang Tso-lin for a messianic kingdom, but it misjudged volatile regional , resulting in Onisaburō's capture and near-execution by Chinese forces on October 1, 1924, before rescue by Japanese military intervention on October 6. This "harebrained attempt" not only risked participants' lives for personal reputational gain but also invited media and heightened state of Oomoto as subversive. Such missteps extended to Oomoto's broader anti-statist posture, including public ridicule of government and petitions through groups like Shōwa Shinseikai, which underestimated the risks in an era of rising . This naivety culminated in the 1935 suppression, where authorities demolished Oomoto's Ayabe headquarters on December 16, 1935, and imprisoned leaders for lèse-majesté and conspiracy, destroying facilities valued at millions of yen and affecting an estimated 2-3 million adherents. Critics, including state officials and press, viewed these actions as heretical challenges to imperial orthodoxy, arguing that Oomoto's rejection of official recognition—despite initial patriotic overtures—conflicted with its core saisei itchi (unity of religion and governance) ideal, exposing a failure to navigate power dynamics effectively.

Influence and Legacy

Notable Adherents and Cultural Impact

(1883–1969), founder of , maintained a close association with Oomoto beginning in the 1920s, serving as a instructor for its adherents and participating in the religion's missionary expedition to alongside Onisaburo Deguchi in 1924. This connection infused 's principles of harmony, non-violence, and spiritual unity with Oomoto's syncretic worldview, which emphasized universal peace and the reconciliation of diverse traditions. Ueshiba's adherence persisted despite Oomoto's suppressions, with him later heading a major branch of the organization in the 1930s. Oomoto's cultural influence extends to the preservation and promotion of traditional Japanese arts, exemplified by its establishment of the Oomoto School of Traditional Japanese Arts, which continues Onisaburo Deguchi's emphasis on practices like , ceramics, and theater as vehicles for spiritual expression. The religion's advocacy for as a tool for has fostered exchanges, including dedicated Esperanto programs and monuments at its facilities in Kameoka, reflecting its early 20th-century push for global unity amid Japan's militarism. Postwar, Oomoto's commitment to , , and interfaith initiatives has sustained its role in niche peace movements, though its peak membership of over two million in the 1930s waned after state persecutions.

Derivative Religions and Broader Movements

Oomoto's syncretic teachings and emphasis on spiritual purification, universal harmony, and messianic renewal have directly inspired the founding of several new Japanese religions by former adherents. Seichō no Ie (House of Growth), established on September 3, 1930, by Masaharu Taniguchi—a participant in Oomoto's early publishing activities—integrates Oomoto-derived concepts of divine mind power and positive confession to promote personal and global transformation, amassing over one million followers worldwide by emphasizing mental healing over ritualistic practices. The (Sekai Kyūsei-kyō), initiated in 1935 by , explicitly emerged from the Ōmoto lineage, adapting Oomoto's chinkon kishin (spirit pacification) rituals into its central practice of channeling divine light for purification and disease alleviation. Okada's group, renamed in 1957 after his death, positioned itself as fulfilling Oomoto's prophetic vision of a paradise through , , and spiritual intervention, influencing subsequent healing-focused movements. These derivatives have proliferated further: Seichō no Ie maintains doctrinal independence while echoing Oomoto's , and Messianity splintered into groups like Shinji Shumeikai (1970s), which refines for lay practice. The Mahikari movement, originating from Okada's disciples in the 1950s, disseminates a similar light-based system across splinter organizations such as (founded 1974) and World , extending Oomoto's causal emphasis on spiritual causation of illness into global proselytization efforts. Collectively, these offshoots represent Oomoto's broader impact on postwar , prioritizing empirical spiritual efficacy and utopian reform over state-aligned orthodoxy, though they diverge in institutional structure and messianic claims.

Contemporary Global Presence and Challenges

Oomoto's adherent base stands at approximately 170,000, predominantly in Japan, where it operates 58 local chapters, 657 substructures, and two principal spiritual centers: Baisho-en in Ayabe and Ten'on-kyo in Kameoka, both in Kyoto Prefecture. Internationally, the religion maintains a limited footprint, with one overseas headquarters in Brazil—its largest foreign branch, located near São Paulo—and 14 chapters across Asia and beyond, including in Mongolia, India, Nepal, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, Thailand, Philippines, Hong Kong, and South Korea. These outposts reflect Oomoto's historical missionary efforts but have not yielded significant membership expansion outside Japan. The organization's global engagement emphasizes , environmental initiatives, and advocacy for , often channeled through its International Department and promotion of as a unifying language—a tenet adopted in 1923 to transcend national barriers. Oomoto sponsors activities aligned with these goals, such as cooperation with bodies like the Universal Love and Brotherhood Association (ULBA), though physical growth abroad remains constrained by cultural and linguistic hurdles. Contemporary challenges include Japan's profound , where religious affiliation hovers below 20% for active practice and new movements struggle against nominal Shinto-Buddhist customs and disinterest among youth. Oomoto, as a minority new , encounters persistent societal wariness stemming from its unorthodox and millenarian elements, exacerbating difficulties in an aging with rates at 1.26 births per woman as of 2023. Geopolitically, its pacifist mission—rooted in opposition to and nuclear energy—clashes with global instability, including superpower rivalries that Oomoto views as precursors to broader conflict, complicating its vision of a "Heavenly Kingdom" amid economic pressures like trade policies and . Despite these, Oomoto persists through cultural preservation, such as traditional arts programs, to sustain relevance.

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